Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. Coronation Street's assistant producer has been hinting at the forthcoming plotlines in the soap. Speaking to Digital Spy, Gavin Blyth first dealt with the issue of actress Julia Haworth's upcoming maternity leave, saying: "It would be all too easy to contrive a storyline to split Ashley and Claire up - but that isn't the case. After the trying time of last year, they are stronger than ever. But a disastrous house swap with Sally and Kevin could see them seeking sanctuary in the coming months... It's a very traditional, fun Coronation Street story with families and friends soon turning foes."
OK. It's no secret that I find Ashley and Clurrrrrrrrrrr about as interesting as a blank piece of white paper or watching grass grow and I really wouldn't miss them if they weren't around, but don't you think Corrie are onto a loser from the beginning if hyping storylines around Ashley and Clurrrrrrrr is the best they've got to offer? I'd love to have been in that production meeting and I imagine it went something like this:
Corrie bod 1: "Someone's got to talk to the press about Ashley and Claire."
Corrie bod 2: "It's not my turn. I did the hyping for the 'dramatic' baby swap storyline."
Corrie bod 3: "Well don't look at me. I did the press for the 'dynamic' father/son bookies - Harry and Dan Mason."
Corrie bod 4: "Well don't look at me. I did the press for the 'dynamic' Morton family...what's Gavin done lately?"
The press release I have goes on to say: "As for Vernon and Harry's double departure, viewers wondering who's going to be keeping landlady Liz warm at night could be in for a treat, thanks to a complex love-triangle."
Oh whoopie-do! A 'complex' love-triangle with the town bike, the boring bookie and the failed musician. Hardly Steve/Karen/Tracy, is it?
Gavin Blyth himself states: "There's still plenty of time before Harry goes anywhere, so anything could happen. Though the spectre of Clarissa - Harry's ex - is looming large, so it may not be straightforward for Liz. It's fair to say that Clarissa isn't necessarily finished with Harry yet and the idea of another woman trying to snare him won't go down well. Liz may just find herself an archenemy before she finds herself another man."
I love Coronation Street, but come on guys! You can do better than this surely.....or can't you anymore?
That's it for now. Join me on Monday for a full preview of your favourite soaps. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
Hello and welcome to another Slice Of Soap. So what are we making of Coronation Street's Carla/Liam/Maria love triangle?
Personally, I don't think it's as strong as the Steve/Karen/Tracy one, but that's because Maria's a pretty ineffectual character. Don't get me wrong, she's nice and everything, but triangles work better when the one in the middle is caught between two dominant personalities. Liam's capitulation was as inevitable as EastEnders winning Best Soap at the British Soap Awards.
Why? Cos Maria's such a wet blanket compared to Carla; no prizes for guessing who's more likely to steam up the sheets! No wonder he didn't stop sniffing after her (dog in heat - that's what comes to mind). It's such a shame that Rob James Collier, voted Sexiest Male at the British Soap Awards, is bowing out. Hope he returns!
Anyway itv.com is offering Corrie fans the exclusive opportunity to watch scheming Carla finally get her man. The sexual tension between the pair has been growing and the tragic stillbirth has sent Liam into Carla's arms. He's caught (by mobile phone!) in a passionate clinch by Street minx Rosie Webster. She records the whole thing on her mobile – but what will she do with it? My guess is, learn some new moves - the little tramp! I say that in the nicest way possible....The episode airs this Friday, but for everyone who can't wait to see the steamy meeting, watch Rosie's video at www.itv.com/coronationstreet.
Crossroads Fans - Where Are You?
Who remembers Crossroads? My mum loved that soap! It was about a Midlands hotel run by owner Meg Mortimer (Noele Gordon). Critics slated it for its storylines and wobbly plywood sets, but it was a huge hit. Everyone loved Paul Henry as bumbling Benny, the handyman who loved 'Miss Diane' from a distance and Noele Gordon was the most popular soap star of her day. Anyway, the earliest surviving episode has been found and will get an exclusive airing on itv.com this Friday, with the chance to buy it on DVD the week after. The 1965 episode was in an unmarked tin in the old ATV archive, which now resides in west London. They thought most of the episodes from the decade had been lost forever cos they used to tape over every episode after it was broadcast. But eagle-eyed archivists spotted the 'lost episode' and fans will be able to watch it online from Friday morning at www.itv.com/crossroads.
My mum insists that Crossroads didn't deserve all the stick it got from the critics. However, the mockery led to comedienne Victoria Wood's spoof soap Acorn Antiques which mercilessly parodied the wobbly scenery, fluffed lines and transparent scripts. For all the derision, Crossroads maintained high ratings and a loyal audience throughout its original 1964-1988 run. If you think you've got a lost episode of Crossroads, itv.com want to hear from you. They are interested in any recordings of episodes broadcast before 1982 - on videotape or could even on reels of film! If you think you've got any episodes, drop the team a line at lost.crossroads@itv.com.
That's it for now. Join me on Friday for more soap news and gossip. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. Here we go....
EastEnders w/e May 16
Some EastEnders fans went wild over Aaron Sidwell and I must admit, I never could see it. I didn't think he was all that hot and I don't rate his acting skills either. In short, I'm glad Steven Beale has left Albert Square because his character went downhill and became totally unbelievable. So what's happening in the post-Steven, post-Gus era? Well, Roxy's got a date with the dishy doctor but her day is full of surprises, some more welcome than others. It's Lucy's first day back at school, but Ian's the one having trouble adjusting.
Jane is pleased when Ian invites Christian back into their lives (oh no!). Liam's struggling at school, but Ricky's got high hopes for him and Bianca. Roxy's pregnant and keeps her secret from Ronnie. Wellard goes missing, but when he's found he's not made welcome. Heather's attempts at domestic goddess fall somewhat short when her and Shirley find themselves arrested after a boozy night out. Shirley and Heather are behind bars and both come to some life changing decisions. Shabnam and Zainab share an emotional moment when they question themselves, their relationship, their roles and their futures and Ronnie learns some devastating news.
Also on EastEnders this week: Zainab panics because Uncle Imzamam is coming to visit Christian causes chaos when he takes over Roxy's shift at The Vic Dot and Tanya discover they have something in common.
Emmerdale w/e May 16
Oooooh did you see the news about Matthew Wolfenden who plays David Metcalfe? The People alleges that he's been playing away from home with Charley Webb, better known as Debbie Dingle. I don't know how much truth there is in this story (an Emmerdale spokesperson refused to comment), but I'll be watching the show very closely in the coming days. On to the action and Bob worries for Viv when she starts having nightmares about Freddie. Shadrach is surprised to find Gennie and Brenda at the door. Katie is disappointed when Jonny sides with Perdy and says he can't go to the engagement party. Bob is arrested for breaking and entering. Paddy shocks Nicola by saying her services at the vets are no longer required. Ashley and Laurel venture out into the village but immediately regret it as they begin to attract knowing looks from other villagers.
On the morning of the hearing, Ashley fails to convince Laurel to attend. Instead, she bumps into Greg and spends the morning with him looking through pictures of Daniel. Ashley remains cold with Laurel following her revelation the previous day. After confiding in her dad about the kiss with Greg, Laurel is upset when he takes Ashley's side. Meanwhile, Ashley goes looking for Greg but Edna persuades him to discuss his problems in church. Edna talks about her own experiences with Peter and warns Ashley not to abandon Arthur. Greg's concerns grow when he speaks to Mel's mother. Pearl is sick of being harassed about the cruise, but Lily is undaunted. Pearl shows Rodney her list of possible candidates and they discuss pros and cons.
Also on Emmerdale this week: The Dingles persuade Brenda and Gennie to stay for dinner. Nicola is unimpressed on her 30th birthday Donna and Ross agree to help Viv
Coronation Street w/e May 16 Liam fans will be happy as it's a Liam-intensive week on Corrie. Despite their previous closeness at the funeral, there is still clear distance between Liam and Maria. There's a triangle developing between Fiz, Julie and Kirk, but it's comic relief compared to the Liam/Maria/Carla triangle. Gail gets ready to meet her father Ted. Maria tells Carla that her marriage is over. Torn between the two women in his life Liam has a decision to make; does he go to Maria or go to bed with Carla? Gail is in shock over her father's announcement that he is gay. Later, when Audrey meets up with them, Gail can't resist dropping the bombshell news. Becky and Jason have their first row and it's the morning after for Liam. Maria tells him she wants them to register the baby's death so they set off together.
Tina's mother Anna barges into Gail's home, demanding to know what Tina is playing at. Liz is missing Vernon. Rosie sees a clinch between Carla and Liam, but the whole thing is on camera. Maria opens up to Marcus - she's missing Liam. Paul is feeling down about the thought of going to prison (yawn). Deirdre begins to notice Liz's affections for Harry (yawn). David is surprised when Gail arrives at visiting time with Ted in tow. Harry invites Liz out for a drink but she refuses (yawn), while Carla gives Rosie a designer bag in a bid to buy her silence.
Also on Coronation Street this week: Audrey's new temp stylist is a young lady named Natasha Tina announces that she is moving into David's room Leanne lands a job behind the bar at the Rovers
Hollyoaks w/e May 16
It's no secret now that Hollyoaks actor Matt Littler has quit after more than ten years of playing mild-mannered Max Cunningham. He first appeared way back in 1997, but he'll bow out in July in a shock dramatic exit surrounding his character Max's wedding to Steph Dean. O.B will make a fleeting appearance - no surprise there. After all, Max and O.B. are the reigning champions of the British Soap Awards' Best On-Screen partnership gong. Talking of Max, his relationship with Steph hits rock-bottom as they clash over money issues. Warren finds out that Louise has been in a fight and is desperate to get her out of prison. He makes Darren an offer he thinks he can't refuse, but it seems even Darren isn't that desperate. Danny realises that he and Neville will never see eye-to-eye, but a loved-up Hannah insists she'll never let it come between them.
Justin promises to back Frankie's application for custody of Charlie if Jake confesses to murdering Sean. Niall persuades Steph to let him practice on her for the styling competition, but can't find the right time to tell her how he feels. John Paul and Kieron head back to Niall's flat for a night of passion, but as they get carried away, things take an unexpected twist. Darren worries that Jack is getting worse and Warren realises that Louise has changed; he is not sure it's for the better. Frankie is adamant that Jake is innocent and is determined to get to the bottom of his "confession".
Also on Hollyoaks this week: Jake will have to spend the rest of his life in hospital Warren refuses to give Darren the money until he is ready Elliot can't forgive Sarah for ridiculing him with Professor Kiddle
That's it for now. Join me on Wednesday for more soap news and gossip. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
Hello and welcome to today's edition of A Slice Of Soap.
According to the Daily Star, EastEnders bosses are apparently on the lookout for more hot male characters (ones with a body like the pic below, perhaps?). This is down to departures that has seen the likes of Matt Di Angelo (Deano Wicks) and, errrr, Mohammed George (who played our hero Gus Smith) leave. In addition, they're losing Aaron Sidwell (daft pantomime villain Steven Beale), Rob Kazinsky (Sean 'Shout!' Slater) and, eeeee, Joe Swash (Mickey Miller).
Had to laugh when I read the Press Association write-up about this: "Joe, who plays Walford's resident dodgy dealer Mickey Miller, is the latest in a long line of attractive males to quit Albert Square..." I'd call Joe Swash's Mickey a lot of things (beginning with useless), but "attractive male" isn't really one of them. EastEnders executive producer Diederick Santer told the Daily Star: "It does mean we need a new 20-something fella. I'd like to see a new Wicksy style man arrive in Walford. A real charmer but a bit of a rogue at the same time. "It's a real shame to see Rob go, I would love him to stay and of course we will always welcome him back. He will go out in spectacular style."
It's a bit ironic that they're looking for a 'hot new man' because the best characters, the ones that fans still talk about to this day, weren't exactly what I'd call hot, stunning conventional lookers: the likes of Dirty Den, Grant Mitchell and even Alfie Moon are brilliant, charismatic characters but you'd never call them sex symbols. Anyway, it will be interesting to see who they come up with. Let's just hope that whoever it is, they make them a great deal more realistic than rent-a-villain Steven Beale.
First Friday without Gus Watch and I'm thinking of a replacement. I've had a suggestion for Dev Watch, which I'm considering. If you've got any ideas or preferences, let me know.
That's it for now. Join me on Monday for a preview of all the week's soaps. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me. Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
MSN's reality TV blogger is taking some time off so we're looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Big Brother fan to keep MSN users up to date with the latest news and gossip.
The successful candidate's duties will involve: Posting up-to-date Big Brother news and gossip Writing live blog entries, complete with opinion and reaction, as the daily highlights show airs on Channel 4 Detailing Big Brother spoilers, and recaps Reporting on the content of sister shows (Big Brother's Little Brother, Big Brother's Big Mouth, Diary Room Uncut etc) Conforming to MSN's editorial style
The successful candidate will have: Good writing skills, including a grasp of grammar and the ability to proof and sub-edit your own copy An informed opinion A sense of humour Initiative
This is not an office-based role; you must have the ability to work from home (i.e. computer with suitably fast internet connection) as most of the work will be out of office hours. Previous writing experience would be advantageous, but is not essential. To apply candidates must write a short piece about Big Brother contestant Shanessa's time on the show, in no more than 200 words.
Applications, complete with name, age, contact details and occupation, should be sent to: msnukTV@hotmail.co.uk with the subject heading of Big Brother Blogger. The position will last at least four weeks from the first week of June, but there may be a possibility of more projects. Please bear in mind the level of commitment this show will demand before applying. Applications submitted without the required sample piece will not be considered and only the successful candidate will be contacted. The deadline is May 22, 2008 and applications will not be accepted after that date.
Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. I'd like to live in Albert Square or t'cobbles of Coronation Street. If only because youth violence only seems to happen there once a year.
Remember EastEnders' 'E20 gang'? The group of idiots Jay fell in with that terrorised Dot? They were about as realistic as a Sharon Osbourne threat to quit The X Factor. Did the wannabe gangsters walk off the set of Grange Hill by accident? Talk about mega-rubbish! I bet real thugs were laughing into their 2L bottles of cheap knock-off cider when they saw that. Clearly, the EastEnders writers are as useless writing convincingly about youth culture as they are writing convincingly about ethnic minority characters. Anyway, I couldn't help suppressing an inward groan when I read that Coronation Street are about to have a go.
Possible spoiler ahead: Teenage gangs are reportedly set to hit the streets of Weatherfield, according to the Sun. Norris (played by Malcolm Hebden) and the Kabin will be targeted as the gang go on their crime spree (in a little back street?). A source told the paper: "The writers want to reflect the growing problem of gang crime in our cities." The Kabin isn't the only Weatherfield business on the gang's radar; Roy's Rolls is also hit and that sparks a dramatic chain of events that sees Sinbad/Jerry (actor Michael Starke) hospitalised. He chases the gang but suffers a heart attack during the pursuit (well that I can believe). The insider apparently added: "The storyline will bring the Mortons back into the frame." Yawn. What's the point when we all know that they're going? This all sounds like desperate, desperate stuff.
Years ago, Coronation Street was character-driven, not plot-driven. Circumstances came out of the lives of the characters and that's what made it all so good and believable. Now the soap is going to extremes and getting it all wrong; remember when they announced the terrible baby swap storyline? We all said it wouldn't work and that's what this feels like. EastEnders went wrong by jumping on the bandwagon, contriving a storyline of convenience, rushing it, hiring the most unconvincing gangsters ever and then making them do things you just know no real gang would do (Dandy Dan's gang in Bugsy Malone had more menace). I hope Coronation Street doesn't make the same mistake but I won't hold my breath. However, I do think new London Mayor Boris Johnson should ask EastEnders writers for advice about dealing with gangs cos the E20 gang ain't been seen since.
That's it for now. Join me on Friday for more soap news and gossip. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
It's the week after the British Soap Awards and although Corrie picked up a couple of gongs, I'm sure the people behind the soap will be very disappointed with the pickings at recent award ceremonies. Terrible storylines (baby swap) and bad casting decisions (kebab family, Sinbad/Jerry excepted) has cost them dear. The old soap needs to improve but it's not going in the right direction with this credit crunch/house swap Ashley and Clurrrrrrr storyline. Booooooorrrrrring.
Liam and Maria finally discuss the funeral details and a name for their baby. Their grief brings them together, although Maria is gutted to see Carla hug Liam.
Gail is determined to get to the bottom of her mum's meetings with Ted Paige. Fiz and Julie are still battling it out to be the one who works out whatever it is that is troubling Chesney. Gail is surprised by a visit from Tina who tells her that she has been to see David.
It's the day of the baby's funeral and Maria insists she won't attend. Will she change her mind? Carla is alone with her thoughts as Liam grieves.
Also on Coronation Street this week: Clurrrrrrrrrr is dellighted that Ashley agrees to the house swap The funeral of baby Connor is an emotional time for everyone Gail and Ted make plans to meet up
Emmerdale w/e May 9
At the British Soap Awards, Emmerdale took away a couple of awards - literally. They got Best Single Episode (for 'Heartbreak' which saw the sad and tragic cot death of baby Daniel) and producer Tim Fee got a Special Achievement Award. So what's happening in the Dales this week? Well, Mel gets a call to say that someone will visit later to discuss Greg's DNA results. Fearing the worst, she decides to flee the village with Arthur. Has Val discovered the identity of Pollard's blackmailer? Hilary is gutted when Laurel says that she can't find it in herself to want Arthur in her life. Gennie and her mother Brenda witness a drunken Shadrach being led home by Lisa and Zak. Will Gennie introduce her adoptive mother to a drunken Shadrach or will she snub the Dingles?
In the Woolpack, Nicola jumps at the chance to cover for Chas at the vets whilst she's on holiday. Will Paddy be pleased to hear that Chas has agreed to give Nicola her job? Donna tells Viv that there is still no news on Freddie and Viv is distraught. She creates a wanted poster with a photo fit of Freddie on. Will her poster only lead the villagers to cast doubt on her further?
Also on Emmerdale this week: There's a catfight between Val and Rosalind Hilary tells Laurel that she is going to have to leave the village Nicola jumps at the chance to cover for Chas
EastEnders w/e May 9
Quick! Get ready to boo and hiss as pantomime villain Steven Beale unravels. I'm sorry, but what planet are the writers on? Steven Beale gets more and more ridiculous. He's not a character - he's a caricature. In a face-off with Corrie's 'Damien' David, the villain on't cobbles would win every time because he's better written. Anyway, the big questions this week are: what lengths will Steven go to in order to keep Lucy away from Ian? Will Phil find out about Ben's dancing exam? Can Bianca ever find another job in Walford? Oh, it's a must-see week on EastEnders - I can tell. And what's up with Pat? Will she recover after the accident? Turns out, her leg is seriously broken. Elsewhere, in the café, hapless Arnold declares his undying love for minx Clare, who is only interested in him for his money.
Sinister things are about to go on in Pat's A & E cubicle (get ready to boo and hiss at pantomime villain Steven Beale!). It seems that Steven has slunk in. He calmly closes the curtains around him and takes off Pat's oxygen mask...Ian finally realises what's happened to Lucy. At The Vic Roxy's acting oddly (this is news?). Peggy tries to reassure Ben that real men do dance. Will cheating Clare get her comeuppance where Arnold is concerned? And, where will Roxy's unwanted hospital examination lead? Well, as sources inside EastEnders have already let the cat out of the bag, you don't need to be a genius to figure it out.
Also on EastEnders this week: Bianca and Ricky are concerned about Pat's welfare Clare has tricked Bradley into a very dodgy visit Can the Miller’s stand up to Sean Slater?
Hollyoaks w/e May 9
Well, well, well! Although EastEnders walked away with Best Soap at the British Soap Awards, for me, the real story was how brilliantly Hollywoodoaks did. They took home a great haul of gongs and it's fair to say that this soap has finally come of age. This week, it's time to shake Amy as she decides to go along with Ste's plan to pretend that Leah has recovered from leukaemia. Jacqui and Dom remain uncomfortable in each other's company. Darren tries to cheer up Jack by thinking of inventive ways to make some more money. The village is in shock as a terrible truth finally emerges.
Steph is determined to prove that she's the best mother in the world. Myra encourages Niall and Kieron to compete in the quiz night at the Dog. Aware of his dad's money problems Darren tricks the punters into spending more money than necessary. John Paul tells Kris that he can't stop thinking about Kieron. Darren is upset to see his dad in such a state and vows to help him. Jacqui isn't happy to see Tina and Dom reading a baby book. Steph's portfolio goes missing. Amy feels a pariah at school and Russ insists that he can't protect her anymore.
Also on Hollyoaks this week: Max presents Steph with a fab portfolio of pictures Nancy prepares for Charlie's homecoming Newt and Lauren skip school
That's it for now. Join me on Wednesday for more soap news and gossip. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap! It's the Bank Holiday weekend and, in a special edition, we're bringing you news and reaction from The British Soap Awards 2008. Held on Saturday, ITV1 will air the ceremony this Wednesday (don't ask me why they're doing so days later when we'll all know the results).
As expected, EastEnders walked away with the big prize of Best Soap. However, it was Hollyoaks, the show we've jokingly dubbed 'Hollywoodoaks' (cos it's the soap with all the beautiful people) that led the way, scooping six gongs. The Channel 4 drama claimed Best Actor and Actress awards, as well as prizes for Sexiest Female, Best Exit and Spectacular Scene Of The Year award. Hollywoodoaks has finally come of age.
Coronation Street weighed in with five awards, including a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement award for Liz Dawn, the legendary Vera Duckworth. She first appeared in the soap in 1974 and bowed out this year due to illness. Accepting her award, she said: "I wish I was young again, I could do it all over again. It's only when you leave that you realise what a lovely life you've had. It's been fantastic." She paid tribute to her co-star Bill Tarmey who plays husband Jack in the show. "I won the Lottery when I got Bill," she said. "We've worked so hard together and he's a lovely man."
So Hollyoaks is finally getting the recognition it deserves; it's tackled some serious subjects such as anorexia, incest and drug addiction and it is hugely popular with youngsters. I'm pleased that Corrie's Maggie Jones, who plays monster mother-in-law Blanche Hunt, got the Best Comedy Performance because she's brilliant. If it hadn't been her, I would've liked Katherine Kelly (Becky in Corrie) to get it. If she stays for a few years, she'll become a Corrie legend - you heard it here first. Best Exit rightfully went to Hollyoaks for Clare Cunningham's cunning departure (loved the look to camera!) and there could only be one winner as far as Best Villain is concerned - for his excellent performance as 'Damien' David Platt, Corrie's Jack Shepherd took home his latest award. It won't be his last...
Full list of winners and pictures from the night here: are you happy with the results? Unhappy? Think your favourite soap was robbed? Leave a comment...
British Soap Awards - Winners Best British Soap - EastEnders Best Actor - Chris Fountain (Hollyoaks' Justin Burton) Best Actress - Emma Rigby (Hollyoaks' Hannah Ashworth) Sexiest Male - Rob James-Collier (Corrie's Liam Connor) Sexiest Female - Roxanne McKee (Hollyoaks' Louise Summers) Best Newcomer - Michelle Keegan (Corrie's Tina McIntyre) Best Exit - Gemma Bissix (Hollyoaks' Clare Cunningham) Best Comedy Performance - Maggie Jones (Corrie's Blanche Hunt) Best Partnership - Matt Littler and Darren Jon Jeffries (Hollyoaks' Max and O.B.) Best Dramatic Performance - Jo Joyner (EastEnders' Tanya Branning) Best Young Dramatic Performance - Jamie Borthwick (EastEnders' Jay Brown) Best Villain - Jack P. Shepherd (Corrie's David Platt) Most Spectacular Scene - Hollyoaks for Clare and Katy drive off a cliff Best Storyline - Max Branning's affair with Stacey (EastEnders) Best Single Episode - "Heartbreak" (Emmerdale) Special Achievement Award - Tim Fee (a line producer in Emmerdale) Lifetime Achievement Award - Liz Dawn (Vera Duckworth in Coronation Street)
That's it for now. Join me on Tuesday for a preview of all the week's soaps. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
As some of our best-loved TV stars prepare for the British Soap Awards 2008, we look at some of the top soap storylines from the past year.
:: EastEnders
Viewers couldn't get enough of the happenings in Walford over Christmas when the affair saga came to a dramatic head. The show got one of the highest ratings for 2007, when more than 13 million viewers switched on to watch Bradley Branning (Charlie Clements) find out his wife Stacey (Lacey Turner) had been cheating on him with his father Max. Lauren gave Bradley a DVD of his wedding, which showed Stacey and Max kissing. The Branning and Slater families watched in horror before Bradley hit his dad.
:: Emmerdale
Over on ITV1, Emmerdale provided a tearjerker with Ashley (John Middleton) and Laurel's (Charlotte Bellamy) little son Daniel dying. It also tackled a difficult issue with the domestic abuse drama involving Jo Stiles (Roxanne Pallett) and Andy Sugden (Kelvin Fletcher).
:: Coronation Street
There wasn't a dry eye in the house when Vera Duckworth died, and actress Liz Dawn left the soap after 34 years. But probably the most gripping Weatherfield storyline has involved David Platt's (Jack P Shepherd) evil ways. We all gasped when he threw his mum Gail (Helen Worth) down the stairs because he was mad at her involvement in his girlfriend Tina's (Michelle Keegan) abortion.
:: Hollyoaks
The only soap to have two nominations for Best Storyline at this year's British Soap Awards - for Hannah's anorexia and John Paul and Craig's affair.
JP (James Sutton) and Craig (Guy Burnet) had long been best pals, and it was only after Craig became jealous of JP's relationship with Spike that he realised his true feelings. The pair snuck around behind Craig's girlfriend's back and eventually Craig had to confront his sexuality, but ended up hurting JP in the process.
The show and actress Emma Rigby have been praised for the way they have handled character Hannah Ashworth's anorexia.
:: Doctors
The newest of the soaps, which launched on BBC One in 2000, kept us on the edge of our seats this year with its car crash plot. When Nick (Michael McKell) won a place to train as a police surgeon, he went drinking to celebrate. George (Stirling Gallacher) drove him home and in Nick's drunken state he admitted he fancied her, which messed up her concentration. The car went smashing into a tip and Nick was left paralysed in hospital, whilst George had to confront her guilt.
Gus Watch
The national grid came to a complete stand still last night as millions of viewers tuned in to watch Mohammed George's last scenes on EastEnders. Fans of Walford road sweeper Gus Smith are said to be inconsolable over the departure of Albert Square's most celebrated character; he was here, he was there, he was everywhere (he wasn't...but you get my drift).
Meanwhile actor Rob Kazinsky, who plays Sean 'Shout!' Slater, has gone into hiding after receiving death threats from die-hard Gus fans. Here are some of their comments (or at least, what we imagine they might've said if we'd asked them for their views):
"We're just glad that Gus made it out of Albert Square in one piece...there'll never be another character like Gus Smith! He's irreplaceable! EastEnders fans will never forget....who are we talking about again?"
"That final moment when he dumped the bag of drugs in front of Sean 'Shout!' Slater...that took real guts man! He's such a hero - he could win a world war on his own. He's so brave!"
"I will no more watch EastEnders without Gus Smith...we love him. He's big celebrity back home in Ukraine!"
"Gus Smith for Mayor!"
"Gus Smith for President!"
"Gus Smith for Fight-A-Hoodie week!"
Mohammed George, aka Gus Smith, you've really kept us entertained here on A Slice Of Soap (it's just pity that wasn't always the case on EastEnders) we salute you and wish you every success in your acting career (really...we do!). Now that Gus Watch is no more - I will think of a replacement. Unless you've got any ideas?
That's it for now. Join me on Sunday for reaction to the British Soap Awards 2008 and on Tuesday for a full preview of all the week's action in the soaps. Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Hey guys, it's that time of the year again! The stars of our favourite soaps will be putting on their glad rags for the annual British Soap Awards. This year it's the 10th anniversary so you know it's gonna be special. Who's gonna come away as top dog (Best Soap) this year? My money's on 'Enders - yet again. Take a look at the list of nominees below. Who gets your vote? I'll be giving my reaction to the awards on Sunday...
:: Sexiest male
Coronation Street - Rob James Collier (Liam Connor), Ryan Thomas (Jason Grimshaw), Gray O'Brien (Tony Gordon)
Doctors - Matthew Chambers (Dr Daniel Granger), Matt Kennard (Nurse Archie Hallam), Michael McKell (Dr Nick West)
EastEnders - Robert Kazinsky (Sean Slater), Stephen Lord (Jase Dyer), Scott Maslen (Jack Branning)
Emmerdale - Tom Lister (Carl King), Joseph Gilgun (Eli Dingle), Matthew Wolfenden (David Metcalfe)
Hollyoaks - Ricky Whittle (Calvin Valentine), Jamie Lomas (Warren Fox), James Sutton (John Paul McQueen)
:: Sexiest female
Coronation Street - Samia Smith (Maria Sutherland), Kym Ryder (Michelle Connor), Alison King (Carla Connor)
Doctors - Elizabeth Bower (Dr Melody Bell), Donnaleigh Bailey (Nurse Michelle Corrigan), Stirling Gallacher (Dr George Woodson)
That's it for now. Join me on Friday for more soap news and gossip and a Gus Goodbye! Got a comment about your favourite soap, this blog or anything else? Share it with me.
Ms Bubbles MSN's Eye On Soaps Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts
Hello and welcome to another week in A Slice Of Soap. Big news in soapland as some of Corrie's deadweights are finally going. If you're a regular here, you'll know that I'm dead against Corrie's older actors getting dumped. A while ago, I listed theCorrie characters that should go - guess what? The Corrie producers have listened! Goodbye to the kebab family (sorry to see you go Sinbad/Jerry), Vernon and the boring bookies - hooray! More on this soon. Here's what's going on this week in the soaps.
Coronation Street w/e May 2
Liam is horrified when he wakes up on Carla's sofa. Marcus is concerned about Maria's baby and events take a devastating turn. Poor Maria. Over at the cafe, Roy's furious with Becky for staying out all night and not telling him. Molly and Tyrone are concerned about Jack's health after Paul's shocking news. The manure really hits the fan when the police step up their investigation. Audrey is nervous at the thought of meeting Ted. Paul tells Jack, Molly and Tyrone that he's been charged and will be up in court.
He's convinced he'll go down. Tyrone can't hide how pleased he is but Jack wants to pay for a better solicitor. All alone with her grief, Maria breaks down. Vernon is excited about the cruise trip, but is gutted when Liz tells him that she can't go. Elsewhere Claire is confused when her debit card is refused and calls the bank to investigate.
Also on Coronation Street: Janice is furious with Leanne Bill is concerned about Audrey's strange behaviour Clurrrrrrrrrr's confused when her debit card is refused
Emmerdale w/e May 2
They're really pulling out all the stops to celebrate the 5,000th episode of the old rural soap which airs in June. Loads of treats are planned including the return of former regular Sharon Lambert, played by Victoria Hawkins. She will be seen trying to make amends with half-brother Paul (Mathew Bose) and mother Val (Charlie Hardwick) prior to her wedding to Eric Pollard (Chris Chittell). Yeah, good to see her again - but there's only one woman I want back on Emmerdale: superbitch Kim Tate! So to the action and TJ is sent home ill from playgroup. Terry and Jamie are fuming when Environmental Health suggest that Jo's cheese may have caused the E. coli. Gray is horrified to find Perdy living in a shabby bedsit. Katie is suspicious and argues with Gray over his whereabouts. The Kings and the Dingles lock horns again - this time, over manure. Hilary offers to baby-sit Arthur but does a runner. Matthew tells Zak to keep a log of the hours he works or else face the sack. Elsewhere, Gray shocks Katie.
Also on Emmerdale: Lily inspires Belle to begin selling organic manure Laurel and Ashley argue over Arthur's parentage Matthew's car gets covered in his own manure
EastEnders w/e May 2
The Stacey/Steven/Christian thing rumbles on this week. For the life of me, I can't get into it. For my money, this is a really contrived storyline. Oh! Let's make Ian's tormentor Steven. Oh! let's make him a nutjob. Oh! Let's make Steven confused about his sexuality. Oh! Let's make Steven snog his step-uncle (ewwwww!). It's called bad writing....Anyway, Steven's still chasing Stacey...or is he chasing Christian? Yuck. Sean is on a mission and has Gus in his sights. Roxy is consumed with guil
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