MSN TV Blog: A Slice Of Soap: Blog

EastEnders Axe For Yolande - Hooray!

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:31:06 GMT

Hello and welcome to Wednesday's edition of A Slice Of Soap.

Hot on the heels of Mickey and Keith Miller, EastEnders' Yolande Trueman is also facing the axe. Angela Wynter, the actress that plays her, is reportedly disappointed by the decision to write her out of the show. She says producers told her that after five years in Walford, they had simply run out of storylines for her. I am so not surprised.

The truth is that Yolande is just the latest in a long line of really badly-written EastEnders characters. The only reason she's lasted so long is because Rudolph Walker is so good as Patrick Trueman - and Yolande's married to him. So they just let her drift along with not very much to do or, if they gave her anything to do, it was rubbish (remember when Charlie Slater's humbugs got attached to Yolande's bum? Yawn). Yolande could drain the life from a party after it's had the life drained from it. I can understand why the writers couldn't be bothered to write for her anymore because Yolande fits into the same category as the Millers...deadwood. That's all she is and it's time for her to go. I'm so glad that we won't have to listen to her grating accent much longer.

Yolande first arrived in the Square in 2003, following a holiday romance with Patrick Trueman - the couple subsequently wed. Arguably her most memorably storyline came when she discovered her husband had been cheating on her with Pat Evans (shudder), although she subsequently forgave him.

When I read that Angela believes her character has become a 'part of the fabric of EastEnders', and has struck a chord with viewers because she is believable, I had to laugh. She'll barely be remembered in a year's time - 'member I told you.

On a related note, James Sutton is calling it a day on Hollyoaks. The actor, who plays John Paul McQueen, is moving on to other projects. His last scenes will air in September. He'll definitely be missed. So who's next for the soap revolving door? Watch this space...

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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EastEnders' Max On The Warpath

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:17:54 GMT

Hello and welcome to another edition of A Slice Of Soap. If, like me, you've been mourning Gus Watch, you'll know that I've been trying to come up with a replacement. I've finally decided what the new 'Friday Fun' feature will be. Join me this Friday and you'll see what it is. But there's only one Gus Watch... Let's find out what's going on in soap-land this week.

EastEnders w/e July 4

Why is it that American child actors are so much better than British ones? The little girl that plays the obnoxious Bernadette at Abi's party set my teeth on edge - she needs more acting lessons. Back to the action and Max's return seems to have ushered in some more comebacks. Shirley looks forward to Peggy's return as she knows it will mean a bonus. Bradley is back with Stacey but she doesn't seem totally sure. Is she happy?

Bianca and the kids seem to have a mystery benefactor. Mickey decides to leave the Square - will Keith join him? We all know the answer to that one... Peggy walks in on Shirley and Vinnie (still not convinced about Bobby Davro yet). Sean 'Shout!' Slater is back but Stacey is worried about what he's done as he's covered in blood. Max decides to take back what's his when he moves back into the house, under the same roof as Tanya and the kids. Tanya is starting to worry – her relationship with Jack is moving too fast. Unfortunately, it's not the end of the Mitchell Sisters yet as Ronnie gets a shock when she calls round to see Jack and learns the truth...

Also on EastEnders this week:
Max is depressed Jack has taken his place
Sean Slater is on the war path
Little Mo may have a new lodger

Emmerdale w/e July 4

The rumour mill has gone into overdrive about which soap stars will feature in the next Dancing On Ice. One of the names being touted is Emmerdale's Roxanne Pallett - she is leaving the show after all. Other names being mentioned? EastEnders' Joe Swash (the departing Mickey Miller) and Corrie's Matthew Crompton (the boring bookie). We shall see...This week in Emmerdale, more baby swap nonsense. At the baby signing class, the instructor refers to Mel and Greg as Arthur's parents and Mel fails to correct him – happily going along with the gaffe. But Greg is furious. Marlon prepares to contact Phil at the Malt to take him up on his job offer. Doug takes drastic measures to stir Laurel's maternal feelings towards her son.

Jamie is still annoyed with Louise for upsetting Viv and urges her to apologise. Chas tells Katie that she'll be in no fit state to carry out her big plans to take the baby from Gray after giving birth. Katie realises that she's right so what does the sneaky surrogate have up her sleeve? Lexi asks Donald for another chance and eventually he agrees, but only on a trial basis. Back at the office, Lexi shows how hard she's been working on the RSVP list for the event. Later she cattily remarks to Carl how much Donald's blowing on the day but Carl tells her to mind her own business.

Also on Emmerdale this week:
Donald suggests a round of golf to Rodney and Carl
Bob and Viv call the family around for lunch
Gennie worries that she'll never be accepted as a Dingle

Coronation Street w/e July 4

So Liam Connor is going to be killed off? You'd have to be living on Mars not to know that by now. The only question is who's going to do it? Well it's obviously going to be somebody expendable so my money's Carla's Tony (yawn) or boring bookie Dan (double yawn)...we shall see. On to the action and there'll be a new barmaid in the Rovers to look at. Vernon is excited about going to view the bar with Liz, but she's not very enthusiastic. In the meantime, Michelle is a barmaid down and, ironically, offers the job to Becky. Yikes! Sally and Claire continue their silly feud (yawn). Carla and Tony discuss putting the two businesses under one roof and agree that they need more floor space. He's got his eye on removing one or two obstacles – namely Rita and Norris and also, Kevin. Rita considers Tony's offer - much to the dismay of Norris.

Claire and Ashley pack their bags (if only it was for good!). But with number 13 still not in a fit state to live in, where will they go? Eileen gains one new house guest but loses two others when an excited Sean and Marcus move in together. Becky takes great delight in telling everyone that she's back with Jason but Roy disapproves and a massive row ensues; they end up saying some very hurtful things to each other.

Also on Coronation Street this week:
Michelle is feeling embarrassed about her attack on Leanne
Tony has a go at Sean when he spots him skiving
Matters come to a head between Liz and Vernon

Hollyoaks w/e July 4

Did you cry? Did you? I don't need to explain any further - you all know what I'm referring to. Did the tears roll down? Wasn't it a really sad moment? And it's not quite over because Max lies dead in O.B.'s arms. Steph and Tom struggle to come to terms with what's just happened. Somebody's got to go to the wedding reception at The Dog and tell the guests the bad news; Steph asks O.B. to do it...Max's death prompts John Paul to attempt a reconciliation with his mother. Niall saves Tina from being mugged by a desperate Fletch. He's inconsolable at having killed Max and at Steph's cutting rejection of him. A grateful Tina tells him about her baby plans, but he snaps and attacks her.

Tony is struggling to come to terms with Max's death, leaving Jacqui unsure how to act around him. Steph, totally distraught and clearly in shock, refuses to take off her wedding dress or leave the flat. O.B. tries to comfort her but he is also devastated. An excited Kieron and John Paul pack their bags to leave Hollyoaks, but they're stopped in their tracks when they get the news about Tina. Tina is still in a coma following the premature delivery of her baby and in her absence Jacqui and Tony assume the child to be theirs. Nige finds Sasha outside the Dog and approaches her with some heroin. Tina and Dom struggle to cope with heartrending news.

Also on Hollyoaks this week:
Justin is looking forward to his new job as a repossession bailiff
Fletch escapes the village
Kris and Elliot are tired of living in squalor

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Tissues Ready! Hollyoaks' Max Bows Out

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:44:23 GMT

Hello and welcome to today's edition of A Slice of Soap. It's a sad day for fans of Hollywoodoaks (as I've dubbed the soap - cos it's the one with all the beautiful people). Actor Matt Littler, who played Max Cunningham, is leaving after 11 years. Max lost his father Gordon and stepmother Helen in a car crash while in his early twenties, and - along with help from best friend OB (played by Darren Jeffries) - was forced to raise their son Tom, alone.

The surrogate dads soon became two of the show's most popular characters, and when they announced their departure, the producers were keen to give them both a great finale. In February, OB left the fictional borough of Hollyoaks in Chester to be with his screen-girlfriend Summer, who had just landed the part of Maria in The Sound of Music in London (confusingly in real life as well as in soap land), and now it's Max's turn to leave.

Speculation about the manner of his departure has been rife over the last month or so and leaks to various publications and forums hasn't exactly made it difficult to guess Max's fate.

I don't think I'm sharing any state secrets here when I say that it's not going to be a happy ending, despite a seemingly happy occasion. Matt Littler said: "Max and Steph are going to get married and OB is going to be the best man. I think that's the highest point of happiness in Max's life. After the wedding he nips off to the flat to grab a wedding present for Steph and on the way back sees Tom playing in the middle of the road. At the same time Niall is revving his car so Max starts to run towards Tom to get him out the way. As Max sets off, so does Niall, not realising that he's driving towards Tom at 70 mph. Max manages to push Tom out the way, but Max is not so lucky." This dramatic scene is bound to shock viewers, and Matt reveals: "There's no chance of a comeback. I think it's important to end the story properly."

Is it just me? Am I the only person wishing that soaps wouldn't play this 'leaking spoilers' game? Imagine how much more powerful Max's departure would be if the viewer had absolutely no idea what was going to happen? Take the imminent departure of Corrie hunk Liam Connor. Actor Rob James-Collier is on his way but instead of wondering what's going to happen to his character, we're left to wonder who's going to do the dirty deed because the big secret's been leaked. And the treatment isn't restricted to humans - even dogs get it. You'd have to be living on Mars not to know that Wellard's gonna shuffle off this mortal coil soon. What am I saying? Martian's probably know too....

Ms Bubbles
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Emmerdale Star Leaving The Soap

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:43:41 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. News that may come as a bit of a surprise is that Emmerdale star Roxanne Pallett is to quit the rural soap later this year.

The actress, who plays battered wife Jo Sugden, is understood to be leaving in about six months. Emmerdale bosses said they could not confirm the move but series producer Anita Turner said: "Roxanne has given a fantastic performance and it will be an eventful six months for Jo." Roxanne joined Emmerdale in 2005 as fiery biker Jo Stiles - back then she was all sexy bombshell type. She was definitely brought into Emmerdale to stir things up.
As if living up to that image, she got into a love triangle with Andy and Katie Sugden (catfight!). Jo and Andy eventually got married while he was serving a prison sentence for a fire that killed his stepmother Sarah Sugden. Her current storyline involves her being the victim of domestic violence at the hands of her troubled husband. Apparently, she's been wanting to leave for some time now, but was persuaded by Emmerdale producers to stay. Well now she's finally going and she'll get a huge exit.

Roxanne Pallett becomes the latest soap star to leave looking for opportunities on the West End stage and beyond. Will she make it elsewhere? Or will we see her turn up in The Bill?

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Goodbye To Hollyoaks' Max Cunningham

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:15:29 GMT

Hello and welcome to another edition of A Slice Of Soap. It's another big week for our most popular 'continuing dramas' so let's find out what the writers have in store...

Hollyoaks w/e June 27

In the soap with the beautiful people, it's time to stock up on your tissues as we say goodbye to Max Cunningham (played by departing actor Matt Littler). I'm not going to reveal more than that, even though there's been leaks to the tabloid press and soap mags and posts on forums about Max's fate. To the action and Sasha and Fletch are so desperate for drugs, they mug Cindy. Lauren tells Newt that she knows the truth about the bombs and the stolen money.

Newt tries to reassure her that Eli has gone for good. Myra rummages in John Paul's room and finds an empty pack of condoms. Skint and desperate for a fix, Sasha agrees to Nige's indecent proposal. Ste and Amy arrive home to see Sasha and a half dressed Nige coming out of a bedroom. Ste throws them out and Amy is outraged that Sasha has put her daughter at risk...Everything starts to go wrong for Steph as her big day approaches. John Paul thinks that Kieron's job is getting in the way. O.B. returns (yes! The double act are back together). He tries to persuade Max to leave England and join him and Summer in New York. Myra makes a shocking discovery about John Paul and Kieron. Will she keep the secret? Jacqui is angry when Mandy returns to Il Gnosh. However, it's Tina who gets the wrong end of the stick. Will fate deal Steph yet another cruel blow on her wedding day?

Also on Hollyoaks this week:
Danny's upset about being dumped for sleeping with Mercedes
Justin starts his new job as a debt collector
Kieron makes an announcement that shocks John Paul

Coronation Street w/e June 27

Warning: there's loads of yawnsome Tony and Carla and Ashley and Clurrrrrrr stuff this week. Yawn. Tick, tock Corrie fans as it's countdown to the departure of Rob James Collier. Maybe there'll be a long lost Connor brought in so that Carla has someone else to sleep with. Anyway, Liam is bored stuck at home with only Ozzy for company (well, at least he's livelier than bland Maria). Chaos reigns at number 4 as the Websters and the Peacocks battle for space. Yawn. Michelle suspects Steve is hiding something; Carla's convinced he's been unfaithful (takes one to know one). A terrified Becky is relieved when Lloyd makes up a cock and bull story about Steve blowing five grand in the casino. More Ashley and Clurrrrrr rubbish. Yawn. Rosie insults Sinbad/Jerry and a catfight ensues with Terrible Teresa. Can I just say that Terrible Teresa (Cilla Battersby-Brown mark II, but much, much lower) has improved the Mortons? I'm actually hoping they get a reprieve now - but the Boring Bookies still have to go.

It's the morning after the wild party of the night before; David and Tina survey the wreckage of the house - not quite sure how to break the news to Ted and Audrey. Meanwhile Sally and Kevin are still furious with Terrible Teresa for her attack on Rosie. Michelle is convinced Steve cheated on her with Leanne. As the day goes on she gets more and more angry until she finally sees red and erupts.

Also on Coronation Street this week:
Audrey is furious with Ted for forging David's reference
David and Tina have a party
It's Jason's birthday; he's surprised to get a card from Becky

EastEnders w/e June 27

So Mad May came back, did her Fatal Attraction bit and now she's gone. And unless the EastEnders writers are planning a dafter comeback from the dead than Dirty Den's, we can assume she's gone for good. So it's back to business and Jean gets ready for her dinner date – but she's forgotten her medication. Jack tells Tanya he's serious about her and Abi gets a surprise for her birthday. It's also Morgan's birthday but Bianca is skint. Dot and Bradley are at Tanya's after the explosion, but Dot is concerned about Clare. Denise has her first customer – but doesn't want him.

Max gets a great welcome from his kids but Tanya reels; it's like seeing a ghost. She rushes from the room feeling sick. Bradley confesses his feelings for Stacey. Ted comes to see Jean – but Stacey isn't too pleased. Denise bonds with Lucas' son. Someone settles Bianca's restaurant bill – but who? Max begs Tanya to have him back. Well he would, wouldn't he? Bradley and Stacey are locked in together - leading to some revelations. Oh my goodness, that's such a cliché! It's been done to death. Oh whatever. Anyway, Bradley opens up but does Stacey feel the same way? Tanya lets slip that Jack is her new man and Max reacts badly.

Also on EastEnders this week:
Denise and Masood fight for a job
Bianca, Ricky, Pat and the kids go for dinner
The Millers are packed into the Masood's house

Emmerdale w/e June 27

Remember Lisa Riley? She made a name for herself playing feisty Mandy Dingle. If you're wondering what she's up to, the curvy actress is currently starring at the Blackpool Grand in sassy play The Naked Truth and part of her performance involves pole dancing. Yes - you read that right. Pole dancing. Someone else who's on a slippery pole is Val (get your minds out of the gutter!); besieged by money problems, she realises that desperate measures are called for. Pollard is forced to tell his workers that the factory will have to close. He makes an off the cuff remark to Sam that it would have been better if the factory had just gone up in smoke. The words are taken literally and...up in smoke it goes.

A fire officer informs Val and Pollard that the electric heater could've started the fire. There's a mix-up over the pub of the year contest. Marlon turns on Val and a war of words ensues. At Mulberry Cottage, Mel asks Ashley's permission to take Arthur to a baby signing class. Feeling terrible, Sam offers to help Pollard rebuild the factory but he insists he's helped enough. As he drowns his sorrows in the pub, he blames Val for getting him involved with the Kings in the first place.

Also on Emmerdale this week:
Gennie and Eli battle to offload the smoothie maker
Ashley and Laurel take Gabby to the psychologist
Jake and Jasmine continue their flirtation

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Vote For Corrie's Best Barmaid

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:10:53 GMT

Hello and welcome to today's edition of A Slice Of Soap.

Coronation Street fans are probably united in their love of Becky Grainger (played by Katherine Kelly). She arrived on't cobbles as the scuzzy 'mate' of Kelly Crabtree's (and then landed her in trouble with the police). At first, she was nothing more than a plot device. But then, the writers got busy and her character was fleshed out and Becky's now become an essential part of the action. Funnily enough, a similar thing happened with Sean Tully (played by Antony Cotton). He was only there to be a mate to newly-gay Todd Grimshaw when he first popped on't scene.

As if to confirm Becky's increased status, she's now going to get the seal of approval - it's the one that says you're somebody on't Street....Becky's going to become a Rovers Return barmaid! But not just any barmaid - she's the 50th! In celebration, Coronation Street fans can vote for the Rovers Return's best barmaid. Viewers can log on to itv.com/soaps to vote from their favourite pint puller from Monday.

There will also be a special picture gallery of some of the most memorable barmaids. Corrie will celebrate bar staff from leopard-print and gold draped Bet Lynch right up to today's Michelle Connor (played by Kym Marsh).

Katherine Kelly said: "50th barmaid in the Rovers is very exciting. We've been working on Becky's look, cos she's always got to get it a bit wrong. So we're thinking maybe a bit of Amy Winehouse-style eyeliner. I think she's going to adore Liz McDonald. Liz is her idol - she'll want to be Liz." Well for me, there's only one winner and it's brassy tart-with-a-heart Bet Lynch. I remember watching a clip on that compilation show that Matthew Kelly voices on TV and Bet had borrowed a dress from (queen) landlady of the Rovers, Annie Walker. She came into the pub wearing the really revealing dress; all her flesh showing. "Bet!" Annie said aghast. "You've got it on backwards!" Ha, ha, ha!

Ms Bubbles
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Goodbye To A Corrie Legend

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:51:27 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. It's fair to say that fans of Coronation Street probably won't be surprised about this. It looks like Bill Tarmey, aka Corrie legend Jack Duckworth, is on his way out.

According to the News Of The World, the popular actor has signed just a one-year contract which will run out in 2009 - but the deal will allow him to clock up 30 years on the soap. Apparently, he wants to reach the milestone of three decades in Corrie, which is a huge achievement. A friend told the News Of The World: "Bill's not getting any younger and wants to enjoy retirement. He's got a place in Tenerife and is looking forward to being out there."

Bill Tarmey's future on the soap has been the subject of debate since Liz Dawn - who played on-screen wife Vera Duckworth - left the show. When you've got an established and much-loved double act and one of them leaves, it's always difficult for the other one. What do you do with them when they can no longer be what they were? And in Jack's case, that was a hen-pecked husband.

Coronation Street has been here before - it was the same thing in reverse when Bernard Youens (who played Stan Ogden) died. Screen wife Jean Alexander (the legendary Hilda Ogden) struggled on alone for a couple of years, but it was never the same without her other half to bounce off of.

I still say that the Corrie writers should get Lloyd the taxi driver together with Kelly Crabtree and make them the new Duckworths. To make it more contemporary, she could be the woman who wants a WAG lifestyle (nice house, designer labels etc), forever nagging Lloyd for not giving it to her....

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Explosive End For EastEnders' Millers

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:12:10 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. It's time to look forward to all the juiciness that's coming up in soap-land...

EastEnders w/e June 20

Typical EastEnders. They bring back 'Mad May' and then do stupidness with her. Not that what they did with her before was believable or rational. Now it's all about to get very Fatal Attraction (not that it wasn't before) but instead of Michael 'saggy bottom' Douglas, it's a baby that's provided the trigger into madness. She's there for one reason and one reason only - to cause an 'explosive' end for one of the Millers...but which one's gonna get it?

Anyway to the action and Jack begins to become suspicious of what has happened between Max and Tanya. Jase has some bad news for Dawn, and things take a turn for the worst as she gets an unexpected visitor for Summer's birthday. Abi is missing, and so is Jane. May attacks Dawn and her lifestyle, saying she isn't worthy of Summer. Meanwhile, Christian comes to the Beale's to apologise. The Square is rocked when there is an explosion; the Miller's house goes up in flames – but who's inside? Keith gets off his sofa and puts his life at risk.

Also on EastEnders this week:
The Best of British celebrations are in full swing
Lucy and Olly continue to get caught in the act
Zainab is distraught as old memories are aroused

Coronation Street w/e June 20

The clock is ticking....can you hear it? We all know that it's only a matter of time before Michelle finds out about Steve's sordid night with Becky. Oh dear. For the moment, she's getting tired of hearing about his attempt to apologise to Harry. Becky is uneasy around Michelle. Mel is stunned when Lloyd confesses that he's Finlay's dad. She demands he tell Jerry but how the convalescent react to this bombshell? There's more yawn-inducing rubbish with Carla and Tony and the sale of the factory - who cares! It's Carla and Liam's duvet action that's more interesting. Vernon is suspicious about Liz.

Ted surprises David by giving him a new reference which is infinitely more glowing than the one Audrey had given him. A stunned Audrey has no idea what Ted has done. Elsewhere Vernon is unhappy that Liz wasn't more jealous about a runner at the recording studio who was flirting with him... It's the day of the Webster's and Peacock's house swap but as they settle into their new homes, disaster strikes.

Also on Coronation Street this week:
Ken has been invited to a university reunion
The factory girls are pleased to have Liam back
Tina finds a job for David

Hollyoaks w/e June 20

Hollywoodoaks fans will be pleased to see some familiar faces returning in the coming weeks. Mandy Richardson (played by actress Sarah Dunn) and OB (actor Darren Jeffries) are back for the on-off marriage of Steph and Max. OB tries to convince best-mate Max to quit England and move to New York with him and Summer. Can't wait! Until then, here's what's going on now...Frankie is still devastated at Jake's confession to murder.

Newt blames Warren for Frankie's misery and is determined to have his revenge. Mercedes challenges Darren to bed Hannah in return for a night in her own company. Fletch asks Sasha to leave Hollyoaks and come to London with him. Hannah confronts Darren over his scam with Mercedes. Lauren can't understand why Newt won't stand up to Eli. Newt orders Eli to return some stolen money but Eli disappears. Hannah is shocked when she sees the state of a downtrodden Fletch. Tom is concerned that Max and Steph will never get back together. Newt is desperate to put an end to Eli's reign of terror once and for all.

Also on Hollyoaks this week:
Louise is visibly shaken by a smoke bomb going off
Danny wakes up with Mercedes in his bed
Newt catches Eli stealing the takings from The Dog

Emmerdale w/e June 20

To say Emmerdale's Mel Doland has had an emotional few months is something of an understatement. She's had to come terms with the fact her child, who was swapped at birth, died while in the care of Ashley and Laurel. Meanwhile, those of us that watch both Emmerdale and Corrie have had to come to terms with the fact that both soaps have made hard work of their baby swap stories. I never want to watch another one ever again. This week, Jasmine watches teary-eyed as Miles leaves for France alone. David is quietly impressed with Nicola. Viv is furious with her legal aid solicitor. David publicly dumps Sharon and Ross stuns Donna with a confession. Pollard's in a tight spot; will he finally reveal the truth about his tax problems to his wife? Rodney is concerned for his granddaughter when he hears Gabby hasn't been sleeping.

Val vetoes a business deal and Pollard is left a broken man. Will the newlyweds survive the first crisis of their marriage? Gennie offers to test her mettle as a Dingle when Eli needs volunteers to sell some cheap liquor. Donna is thrilled with Marlon's success on television and equally cheered when things return to normal with Ross. As Ross and Paddy head out for a night on the pull, will his feelings for Donna get in the way?

Also on Emmerdale this week:
A catfight breaks out between Nicola and Sharon
Jasmine returns to work with Val quizzing her about Miles
Marlon's television debut is ruined

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Emmerdale Star Says No Reality TV

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:29:23 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. Reality TV show bosses are always trying to bag the biggest names for their shows and half the time, they end up with some ex soap stars too. However, they can forget about knocking at the door of Emmerdale star Alex Carter.

The actor, who plays Jamie Hope in ITV1's rural drama, has admitted he has no plans to follow in the footsteps of Letitia Dean, Sid Owen or Dean Gaffney and take part in a reality TV show. Speaking to Teletext, the actor said flatly: "I wouldn't do Dancing On Ice or Strictly Come Dancing - I'd rather put my limbs through a blender."

However, he admitted that he could be persuaded if his career takes a downturn, saying: "Well if I was out of work, I'd probably jump at the opportunity!" Alex, that's the whole point of reality shows! Who goes on them if they're at the top of their game? If you're wondering where you've seen him before, he also used to star in Hollyoaks, playing Lee Hunter. All these people who say 'never'. Don't they know the golden rule is never say never? I bet Alex Carter ends up on some reality show now; he's jinxed himself!

Ms Bubbles
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Ex-EastEnder Heads To The Bill?

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:28:57 GMT

Ever get the feeling that The Bill is just a retirement home for ex-soap stars? Well, guess what? Former EastEnder Shaun Williamson is apparently set to guest star on the show too.

It seems the actor will play gang leader Dave Monks, who comes under scrutiny during an international drugs smuggling investigation. The actor told The Sun: "I had forgotten about the long days and how hard the actors and crew work on a continuing drama. But everyone has been fantastic to work with." Shaun Williamson, who won legions of devotees as inept Albert Square car dealer Barry Evans, went on: "I am really chuffed with the character and storyline I have been given. Playing a villain is something I want to do more of!" He will reportedly appear on the show in August.

He joins a list of ex soap stars that includes ex-EastEnders actors Todd Carty, Roberta Taylor and Russell Floyd, Family Affairs' Beth Cordingley, Pal Aron, formerly of Casualty and Coronation Street's Ciaran Griffiths and Jane Danson. He may have starred in EastEnders between 1994 and 2003, but I loved him as 'Barry From EastEnders' in Ricky Gervais' hit sitcom Extras. Where will he go after The Bill though...Hollywoodoaks?

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Family Woes For EastEnders' Denise

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 07:49:26 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap. It's Monday and that means it's time to look forward to what the writers are treating us to this week. Let's get to it.

EastEnders w/e June 13

How good is it to have Diane Parish back as Denise Wicks? I really like her as an actress and I think that Denise is a totally convincing character too. The poor thing has returned to find her family in a sorry state. What's she going to do about it? An excited Dawn organises an engagement party – but who will baby-sit? Charlie meets a new woman and Lucy introduces her new love interest too. Jase and Dawn plan to let Jenny baby-sit for them - will they realise who she is in time?

To everyone's surprise, Ian allows Olly to move in with them. Chelsea and Denise attempt to settle their differences and Chelsea tries to make amends for her previous bad behaviour. Squeal Beale is terrified Olly and Lucy will take things to the next level and Jase finds May in a bit of a predicament. The singles night at the Vic is a disaster. May makes an emotional visit to her long lost child. Bradley's job prospects finally seem to be improving. Lucy manages to manipulate Christian into letting her use his flat - but is she as innocent as she claims to be?

Also on EastEnders this week:
Chelsea’s stash is discovered
Maggie gets her claws into a reluctant Bradley
Friday 13th proves unlucky for some

Hollyoaks w/e June 13

Lots of news regarding Hollywoodoaks. Guy Burnet, last seen on the telly kissing the latest batch of wannabe models in Britain's Next Top Model, will reprise his role as Craig Dean for a new E4 late night version of Hollyoaks, currently entitled Late Night Hollyoaks (very imaginative name - not!). The powers that be hope the new hour-long format will give them greater scope to explore the characters. The special episodes will be begin filming in September and transmit in November. So to this week and Amy is frightened to tell Ste the truth about the pregnancy.

Rhys feels like an outsider in his own home. Niall is furious that Steph has chosen Max over him, but Max's sister Cindy plans to scupper any reconciliation between them. Zoe prepares to take a pregnancy test. Rhys is angry when Neville employs Gilly to manage his new property. Tina collapses in agony, leaving Dominic and Jacqui worried. Frankie is appalled that Nancy is working at The Loft after everything she did to Jake. Ravi turns down a repeat of his passionate encounter with Mercedes. And Newt is worried when Eli comes up with a plan to get revenge on Warren and Louise.

Also on Hollyoaks this week:
The Ashworths do a good deed but it blows up in their faces
Fletch ends up homeless and hungry
Jacqui kicks Tony out

Coronation Street w/e June 13

No Monday Corrie thanks to the footy. What a disgrace! I could understand if any of the home nations were involved - but we're not! Anyway, Steve does a lot of thinking in his prison cell and, believe it or not, the boring feud with the boring bookie continues when he visits Dan in hospital. Steve has a row with Michelle and while comforting an equally lovelorn Becky - they end up kissing. Oh no! Gail considers going to visit Sarah in Milan.
It's the morning after and Steve is stranded at Roy's. Becky is also feeling guilty and confides in Lloyd. Carla is on edge knowing that Liam is coming home with Maria. Lloyd continues to hand over money to Teresa (is it me or is she Cilla Battersby-Brown, Mark II?) for Finlay. He suggests playing a more active role in Finlay's life but Teresa threatens him with the CSA.

Tina is worried about David's meeting with her dad; she tries to tell him how to act but David isn't too impressed with being told what to do. Eventually he agrees to play it her way. A relieved Tina introduces the two men in her life – will they hit it off? Tom Kerrigan arrives to help Carla with her computer problems and wheelchair bound Tony is less than impressed with how well they get on. Elsewhere Sally is annoyed when Claire books Roger to help modernise the house.

Also on Coronation Street this week:
The neighbours rally round after Sinbad/Jerry
A desperate Steve tries to hide the truth from Michelle
Gail's dad promises to keep an eye on Tina and David

Emmerdale w/e June 13

The 5000th episode of the rural soap was pleasantly daft, silly, dramatic and funny, wasn't it? The worst thing about it was the appearance of celebrity chef Antony Worrall Thompson. I've never been a big fan of his (I prefer Gordon Ramsay) so it's a pity he didn't end up permanently stuck in the mud somewhere. Anyway, here's what's going on this week. If you're not a fan of the babyswap story, be warned that it gets a lot of airtime (yawn). Diane organises a birthday party for Sarah, but is unable to convince Debbie to attend. Ashley and Doug are worried that Laurel's ignoring the baby. Greg tells Mel that he's found a buyer for the house; is she ready to leave Arthur and the village behind?

Nicola is annoyed when Sharon and David turn up at the Woolpack together. Scarlett packs to spend six weeks in Canada with Carrie. Over at Butlers, Andy acknowledges that he was a little hard on Sam, but insists that they can't afford to keep anyone on. Elsewhere, struggling to find somewhere to keep Beau, Nicola's forced to leave him at home, against Rodney's express wishes. Ashley decides on a family outing; Laurel is pleased to see Gabby so happy, but can't bring herself to get close to Arthur.

Also on Emmerdale this week:
Jake starts his trial in the pub kitchen
Is Ashley fighting a losing battle with Laurel?
Andy demands that Jo sack Sam

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks

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
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Hollywood Movie For Ex Corrie Star

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:12:04 GMT

Hello and welcome to A Slice Of Soap.

It's been a very busy time for some former soap stars. Now we're hearing that Emmerdale and Coronation Street veteran Matthew Marsden has apparently landed a part in upcoming movie sequel Transformers 2.

The actor will be playing Graham, a member of British Special Forces, according to Empire magazine. The film is a follow-up to the 2007 Transformers film - which raked in millions worldwide - and it seems it will reunite its stars Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox and John Turturro.

Michael Bay is apparently back in the director's chair. The film starts shooting soon and is expected to be released next year.

Midlands-born Matthew made his soap debut as Emmerdale's Daniel Weir back in 1995 (he was rather upper crust but that didn't stop him getting someone pregnant). He then played mechanic Chris Collins in Coronation Street (he was the one everybody fancied). He's been carving out an impressive movie career for himself since he left soapland in 1998. He's been in Resident Evil: Extinction, appeared alongside Sylvester Stallone in John Rambo, was in Ridley Scott's Black Hawk Down and also featured in Michael Caine vehicle Shiner.

He's done what the likes of Rob Kazinsky (Sean Slater in EastEnders) and Rupert Hill (Corrie's Jamie Baldwin) would love to do. It's a big leap from a UK soap - even if it's just to bit parts in Hollywood movies (I mean, Matthew Marsden's hardly a household name, is he?).

You may have noticed ex EastEnder Sean Maguire (Aidan Brosnan in Enders) recently in dumb movie Meet The Spartans. He's been in Los Angeles for eight years now and he still hasn't had a hit TV show yet (every single one that he's been in has been cancelled eventually) or graced the cover of one of the premier US magazines (unlike ex EastEnder and ex Bionic Woman Michelle Ryan). But the point is this, he's out there. And knowing that a couple of soapsters have made the jump from UK soaps seems to inspire others to try it and as long as Americans are happy to see British actors on their screens, that trend won't stop. Got to admit though, I can't see Rupert Hill making it out there - he could barely act when he was in Coronation Street! I look forward to being proven wrong. In the meantime, so many US stars are coming over here to do panto, I'd really like to see a few of them in our soaps. Can you imagine Patrick Duffy (Dallas' Bobby Ewing) as Michelle Fowler's other half in the (hugely unlikely) event of a return for the Enders favourite? That would be funny!

Official Sites
Coronation Street
Emmerdale
EastEnders
Hollyoaks
That's it for now. Join me on Monday 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.

Ms Bubbles
MSN's Eye On Soaps
Don't miss a trick - Add MSN Reality TV Agent to your IM contacts

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