Table of contents for 22 - 2020 in Inside Soap UK

“There is endless drama to be mined in soap…” Only last week I was saying that it would be interesting to see what those clever bods at the soaps would come up with to keep bringing us new episodes in the world of social distancing. And this week, they’ve revealed some of their plans, as Emmerdale announces six new lockdown episodes, featuring sets of characters stuck, like the rest of us, together in their homes. This is something that is unique to soap, and one of the reasons I love them – the fact that you can just put two people in a room, set them talking, and make something as gripping as any car chase or a murder. The history these characters have, and the love the viewers carry…

As Karen prepares to say goodbye, and take Sharon’s son with her, this is an emotional week, as Lorraine Stanley – aka Karen – reveals… “Karen’s really bonded with Kayden – she named him, and so she sort of understands what Sharon is going through,” says the actress. “It would be bittersweet if she was to give him back, because Karen would want what’s best for Kayden, but at the same time, she’s built a bond up with him. It would be like losing her baby.” But whatever happens for Karen, star Lorraine has greatly enjoyed tackling the plot. “I’ve loved working with Tish [Dean, who plays Sharon],” she shares. “We always have a laugh, even when it’s sad or upsetting scenes. There’s lots of giggles and banter between us,…

Shaun is shockingly discovered to be alive this week, after being presumed dead for months when he was caught up in an avalanche! Claudia is waiting for her private jet, but is lost for words when she ends up face to face with her supposedly dead son! Shaun appears alive and well, despite being stranded on the side of a mountain for months. And as he relates his ordeal to his mum, Shaun reveals that he’s only just been rescued… “Shaun went missing after being caught up in an avalanche when he was climbing with pals in Switzerland,” our Ramsay Street spy reminds us. “And Shaun only survived as he took refuge in a mountainside cabin. Fortunately, there were enough canned goods inside the cabin to sustain Shaun and aid…

It’s a week of unmissable drama on the ‘classic’ cobbles, thanks to a seismic shift at the very centre of Weatherfield life. After a bitter showdown with Rita – who refuses to lend her the money to buy the Rovers – Bet decides to quit the business for good. And so she puts on her biggest fur coat and earrings, leaves her keys on the bar, and slides majestically out of Weatherfield like a galleon in full sail. The new landlord and lady of the Rovers are, of course, Jack and Vera – in one of the most unlikely but enjoyable plot twists of all time. In fact, the Duckworths are just as shocked as anyone to beat Jim and Liz to the punch – but how will Jack feel…

THE TEMPTATION OF HARRIET The vicar of Emmerdale left us all stunned after her out-of-hours service with dodgy DI Malone in the vestry this week – and our readers certainly had a lot to say about it… What I hate the most about Harriet is that she’s very quick to point out everybody else’s mistakes, but when she makes one herself, all she does is mope around and feel sorry for herself! Louise, Winchester That church in Emmerdale has seen a lot of action since Harriet became the vicar there – I don’t think there’s ever been so much drama in a religious bulding! Hopefully, that’s not what it’s like in other small parishes around England! Beth, Blackpool There’s going to be all sorts of trouble when Will finds out…

“I’ve learned so much from Steve McFadden [aka, Max’s screen dad, Phil]. Steve’s a very giving actor, his understanding of the process is phenomenal. He’s done some amazing work in the past. We bounce off each, and enjoy working together.” “My best mates in the cast are Jamie Borthwick [Jay] and Tony Clay [Callum] – we come as a trio, which is lovely! Tony is the person who I work with the most, whereas Jamie and I just hit it off right off the bat. He’s always making me laugh.” “ Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon, was definitely the person I was most in awe of when I first started. She has such a presence. She’s been at the top of her game for so long, and she’s created some…

Emmerdale heroines Rhona and Moira have racked up more drama between them than most soap characters experience in a lifetime – the majority of it revolving around men! So, it made for a refreshing change when they teamed up recently to go into business together at Butlers Farm – bringing some much-needed girl power back to the village… “It’s about time isn’t it?” laughs Rhona’s real-life alter ego, Zoe Henry, as she joins us on the phone while sat out in the garden with husband and co-star, Jeff Hordley – aka Cain – and their new cockapoo puppy, Ronald. “I do think that Moira and Rhona make a super-team – and I’m thrilled to think of them going up against Kim!” As with most good friends who enter into a…

The Parata family has certainly caused a stir since arriving in the Bay – and this week, Ari comes to blows with his younger brother, Tane! Newcomer Ethan Browne tells us why his alter ego has been cast out by the clan… Hi, Ethan! Can you tell us a bit about Tane? What’s he like? Tane is a very determined young man, he does his own thing and won’t let anyone tell him what to do – especially his older brother, Ari! However, he’s really kind and loving deep down. He puts on a tough guy persona, but in a way he’s very broken. Ari thinks that Tane is a bad influence on their nephew, Nikau. Do you agree? I can understand why he thinks that. Ari knows that Tane…

WIT AND WISDOM “Tracy Barlow! I mean, even her initials are a killer disease!” Eileen “Don’t push me. You don’t know what I’m capable of. I’m not a woman you want to mess with…” Tracy “I’ve always fancied Morocco. I think it’s the kidney getting homesick.” Tracy “She’s a cow, but she’s our cow.” Blanche THE KEY RELATIONSHIPS KEN & DEIRDRE Although Tracy’s dad is Ray Langton, when Deirdre married Ken he adopted her young daughter. He has thought of her as his own child ever since – not that she’s brought him much joy! While Ken often despairs at Tracy’s antics, Deirdre’s death brought them closer together, and they are now both back under the roof of No 1. AMY From their clever manipulation to their weary eyerolls, Tracy…

Many of us are delaying big celebrations because of Covid-19 – and that includes Emmerdale star Matthew Wolfenden (David). He celebrated his 40th birthday at home with his wife Charley Webb (Debbie) and their three sons, rather than going on an adults-only break as planned. But it looks as if he still had a brill day! Meanwhile, Corrie’s Alison King (Carla) has reportedly had to postpone her wedding to fiancé David Stuckley, which was due to take place in Greece. Boo!…

TAKE YOUR PICK 1955-1968, 1992-1999 The oldest gameshow to be revived, Take Your Pick started out on radio, before moving to the screen with the launch of ITV. Michael Miles hosted, followed by Des O’Connor in the 1990s. BULLSEYE 1981-1995 Jim Bowen presented this darts-themed quiz show for its entire 14-year run. Contestants were paired off with professional darts players for the chance to win glamorous prizes such as a 14” portable TV – or a consolation tankard. THE PRICE IS RIGHT 1984-2007 Leslie Crowther and Bruce Forsyth were among the hosts for this hugely popular show, as random members of the audience were invited to “Come on down” and put a price on the prizes on offer. STRIKE IT LUCKY 1986-1999 Later renamed Strike It Rich, this show helped…

EASTENDERS Pressure point! WILL GRAY CRACK AS MATTERS HOME AND AWAY ENGULF HIM? Gray was lauded as a hero by the residents of Albert Square after getting Whitney out of bail, but EastEnders viewers know what goes on behind closed doors. Next week, the pressure starts to get to the vile solicitor on two fronts, as his control of Chantelle reaches a new level, and a surprise in his work life leaves him reeling. What will Gray’s inner rage drive him to this time? CORRIE Carla’s shock! Enjoying her temporary role as queen of the Rovers, Carla seems to have a new lease of life after a troubled year – but will the arrival of a newcomer next week bring her crashing down to earth? EMMERDALE Home boys! Dingles may…

Great news, Dales fans – the soap is already back filming six brand-new episodes as part of a phased return to full production! With the show’s current three-nightly broadcast expected to run out soon – due to cast and crew being forced to down tools back in March – these new episodes will ensure that Emmerdale remains on air in June. Of course, stories won’t be able to pick up directly where they leave off. Instead, we’ll jump to sets of our favourite villagers in lockdown themselves – as they use the time to reflect on their recent dramas… “Resentments and past feuds resurface, old wounds are further exposed, relationships will be scrutinised, with doubts and insecurities laid bare,” explains an ITV spokesperson. “Some characters seize the chance that lockdown…

As Inside Soap gets word that the UK soaps are preparing to return to filming over the next few weeks, we talk to Neighbours producer Jason Herbison – the man in  charge of the only soap that hasn’t halted filming during the Covid-19 pandemic. He tells us how the Aussie soap is continuing production during these challenging and unprecedented times… Hi, Jason! What made you decide to carry on filming Neighbours while other productions shut down? We felt our scripts could be adapted to avoid intimacy, which not every show can do. Also, we benefit from having an enormous studio facility. We are able to divide up the production and spread people out, while containing everything to our site. What alterations have you had to make to the set to…

Gary spots Imran chatting to Rick’s daughter, Kelly, this week – and quickly urges her not to talk to the nosy lawyer again! It’s when Imran is in the café that Adam points out Kelly to Imran, explaining that she’s Rick Neelan’s daughter. While they observe the youngster, Adam also explains that Gary seems to be very protective over Kelly, and this really sparks Imran’s interest… “Imran is very intrigued by the fact that Rick’s daughter is suddenly on the Street,” says our Weatherfield source. “Not only that, but when Adam tells him about Gary’s interest in her, he’s even more curious. Imran approaches Kelly and wants to know how to get in touch with her dad, because he still believes that Rick is responsible for the factory collapse that…

Troubled Keegan makes a huge decision about his future this week, as he announces that he’s going to leave Walford with his mum! It’s been a rough few months for the poor lad, who’s found himself the subject of police harrassment, and as a result his marriage to Tiffany has been put under huge pressure. So when Keegan makes this life-changing decision, where does Tiff figure in his plans? “Keegan’s quite rightly upset at the way he’s been treated, but he’s letting his anger cloud his judgement right now,” says our Square insider. “Tiffany’s been his biggest supporter throughout all of this – however, Keegan reckons she couldn’t possibly understand what he’s going through. That may be the case, but she still wants to love and support him.” Keegan is…

The gaping chasm between Max and girlfriend Ruby widens this week, as he spots her flirting with former conquest, Martin! Max is already feeling put-out after learning from Jack that Ruby is buying No 43 – a fact that she’d failed to mention to her fella. So when he spots her and Martin looking cosy once again, Max realises he really needs to up his game… “Max knows that Ruby and Martin have already slept together once, and he doesn’t want it to happen again!” points out our Albert Square insider. “He’s already had to put up with Jack offering him relationship advice – the last thing Max wants is to admit that he actually needs it!” Wanting to prove himself to Ruby, Max decides to take Vinny to task…

GET THE LOOK I spotted this ages ago in EastEnders, but I can’t seem to find it. Where is the lovely skyline wallpaper in Mick and Linda’s front room from? Heather, Coulsdon This beautiful London skyline wallpaper is from the Linwood Art House Wallpaper Collection, and can be bought online at Wallpaper Direct! But be warned, it comes at London prices – a whopping £99 a roll! WHERE DID YOU GO? I’ve been loving the new story about Charity trying to get custody of Johnny in Emmerdale. Now she has to see Kirin, but I can’t remember why he left the village? May, Liverpool It’s no secret that Kirin didn’t take to fatherhood well. However, Kirin left the village to avoid jailtime after a  hit-and-run that resulted in him leaving…

If you’re a parent currently struggling to home-school your kids during lockdown, spare a thought for Neighbours star Madeleine West, aka Dee and Andrea, who has six of them to teach! “It’s not an easy task,” concedes the actress. “I really think I should be getting some kind of qualification from the education department! I don’t think it’s going to be coming any time soon, but, crikey, I’ve got more respect for teachers than I ever did before. “My kids are aged between five and 14, so there’s quite a lot of curriculum there to cover,” adds Madeleine, mum to five girls and a boy. “But we’ve been making a lot of time to get outside, trying to learn from nature. We get to the beach when we can, then…

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CASUALTY Connie Beauchamp.......... Amanda Mealing Rosa Cadenas......................... Jacey Sallés Faith Cadogan...................... Kirsty Mitchell Charlie Fairhead.............. Derek Thompson Noel Garcia.......................... Tony Marshall Ethan Hardy.................... George Rainsford David Hide................................ Jason Durr Jan Jenning............................... Di Botcher Dylan Keogh.......................... William Beck Fenisha Khatri........................ Olivia D’Lima Marty Kirkby................ Shaheen Jafargholi Jade Lovall.......................... Gabriella Leon Lev Malinowski........................... Uriel Emil Rash Masum........................... Neet Mohan Jacob Masters....................... Charles Venn Robyn Miller................ Amanda Henderson Will Noble................................. Jack Nolan CORONATION STREET Aadi Alahan...................... Zennon Ditchett Asha Alahan......................... Tanisha Gorey Dev Alahan........................ Jimmi Harkishin Izzy Armstrong............... Cherylee Houston Aggie Bailey......................... Lorna Laidlaw Eddison Bailey....... Trevor Michael Georges James Bailey..................... Nathan Graham Michael Bailey....................... Ryan Russell Adam Barlow...................... Sam Robertson Amy Barlow.......................... Elle Mulvaney Ken Barlow......................... William Roache Peter Barlow....................... Chris Gascoyne Sarah Barlow........................... Tina O’Brien Simon Barlow.............................. Alex Bain Leanne Battersby...................…

Hi, Eden! The showdown in the Woolie blows the situation apart – do you think there’s any future for Belle and Jamie now? Well, Belle’s very upset by Jamie taking Andrea’s word for things, as well as for what he said to her in the pub. Also, I think it’s all just very hard. Jamie has a wife, a child – and a mother who sticks her nose in and hates Belle! Belle wants commitment and a happy, healthy relationship. I don’t know if these two will ever balance out… What do Belle’s fellow Dingles have to say when they find out about this? Lydia is disappointed, which hurts Belle, while Sam is just saying the most unhelpful things. Zak is trying to help his daughter, yet can’t fathom why…

In other exciting news, Holby City is to return to its regular Tuesday night slot from 2 June. Following a six-week hiatus, the drama will pick up where it left off following Xavier Duval’s tragic death… “Cameron has a very guilty conscience after leaving his colleague to die,” shares our hospital source. “Will anyone twig that he was involved?” Meanwhile, Guy Self returns to the ward, accompanied by a former Holby patient – plus, Kian and Jac give into passion……

Read all about it! Congratulations are in order for former Emmerdale actress Samantha Giles, who played Bernice. The star has written her first children’s book, Rosemary And The Witches Of Pendle Hill, due to be published this summer. Well done, Sam! Heads up! Former EastEnders boss Dominic Treadwell-Collins has been in the wars. Dom – who masterminded plots such as Lucy Beale’s murder and the Carter clan’s arrival – ended up in A&E after an EastEnders BAFTA trophy fell on his head! Debbie on pause It’ll be a while before Debbie Dingle is back in the Dales. Charley Webb hopes to still be on leave when her son Bowie starts school in September. “I can’t imagine going back to work at the moment,” reveals the actress. Tony’s angels Walford’s Tony…

“I think Ruby Allen is the most underrated and underused character in Walford. If they are really looking for a new landlady of the Vic, then they should look no further. But she needs a man worthy of her, and currently on the Square there’s no one even close!” …says reader Carly “The Oliver story is all a bit grim, but it’s shown us how brilliant Simon Gregson and Jane Danson are together as Steve and Leanne. My wish for after lockdown is for them to discover Oliver’s illness was a false alarm, but stick together as a couple!” …pleads reader Anna “If the soaps are running short of episodes, why not compile some ‘blooper’ specials? They must have decades worth of mistakes and fluffs and funny bits on the…

“The way I see things is: we’re all on this planet together, so we may as well try and get on with it – maybe even have some fun.” Craig’s new self-help book ‘Just Get On With It’ will be in all good booksellers at Christmas. “Jean could have slung us some underwear. I’ve had to turn my drawers inside out.” There’s a mental image we’re going to have trouble shifting. “Ben’s never had hayfever in his life.” “How would you know? You were dead for most of it.” Face it, Kath – you’re never going to live that one down. “I know you’re not properly divorced yet, but I would like to propose…” We’re so here for ‘Mohna’. “It’s just my luck to survive cancer and get locked up…

“I’m so ready to get back to work now – I want to go and do headstands in the Mitchell living room!” chuckles EastEnders star Max Bowden, aka Ben, as we chat to him just days after it was announced that the soap is poised to resume filming soon. “I just cannot wait to return – even if it’s at a distance – just to see everyone and get back to making brilliant telly. Having this downtime makes me appreciate even more just how much I love work.” While we’ll have to wait to see any new material on our screens, there’s still plenty of drama to come before then. This week, viewers will see a special episode shot entirely from Ben’s point of view, as we learn what it’s…

Madeleine is no stranger to Neighbours’ socially distanced production model (as outlined by producer Jason Herbison on p16). Playing two characters for the past year means she films two shots which are stitched together to make one seamless scene. Although she tells us that – pre-Covid – she had a ‘fake’ Dee and Andrea to play opposite… “I’d always have a body double to play the other character,” reveals Madeleine. “So we would film it, then I’d change costume and shoot the reverse – it wasn’t just me talking to myself! It’s a stuntwoman with a wig on, and you never see her face. The technology is amazing. You wouldn’t believe the things that we can do!”…

Ayesha has found herself in some ludicrous situations from day dot,” laughs star Laura Rollins, who plays her, as she recalls the life and times of The Mill’s much-loved practice nurse. “On my first day of filming, she woke up in a skip after a raucous night out, and I don’t think I’ve stopped laughing about that day!” This week, however, there will likely be tears rather than laughter, as Ayesha stuns her colleagues with the shock announcement that she’s leaving. And after six years of playing her, Laura admits that she endured an emotional time, too. “There were speeches, cake and tears at my leaving do!” “I was in every scene of the day on my last day of filming, so didn’t have time to think about leaving initially,”…

Yes! When I was on [Aussie medical drama] All Saints about 25 years ago, she played a doctor. And we did a kids’ show called Play School. Actually, Justine doesn’t live very far away from me at the moment, and we have a lot of friends in common so we see each other all the time. When we do, I take a picture of us and send it to Ray, saying, “Here are your two daughters”! Every week, we put your questions to a star of the soaps. Look out for requests on our Facebook page, or email your questions to youask@insidesoap.co.uk, putting the actor’s name in the subject line. Our favourite question each week will win a £20 prize!…

The lockdown baby boom is real for our fave soap stars! Emmerdale’s Michelle Hardwick (Vanessa) was grinning from ear to ear as she showed off her blossoming baby bump, just weeks after announcing that she and wife Kate Brooks are expecting. Meanwhile, former Hollyoaks stars Emmett J Scanlan and Claire Cooper – aka Brendan Brady and Jacqui McQueen – shared the news that they’ll be hearing the patter of tiny feet this summer. Congrats, guys – but with soap genes like those, it might be a dramatic birth!…

BULLSEYE! “And when is the right time and place to face up to a racist?” demanded Corrie’s Ed, in the most powerful six minutes of soap we’ve seen in a long time. Actor Trevor Michael Georges delivered his Bistro monologue with such skill, leaving viewers – along with regulars in the Rovers – to consider their own behaviour. And respect to Lorna Laidlaw, so moving as Aggie as she convinced her husband to confront his own prejudices. The Leyla, Liam, Leanna triangle wins the award for Plots Wanging On Far Beyond Their Shelf Life Due To Episode Rationing. Sort it out like adults, the lot of you! Corrie’s lockdown production of The Lion King had all the sweeping majesty of the original. Seriously, that moment when you thought Cain was…