Home//Inside Soap UK/22-2024/In This Issue
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Welcome!“Drama queens are the heart and soul of soap!”The greatest soap plots have centred around strong women, and the dramas they face – whether it be a cheating fella who’s smashed their heart to smithereens; a child who’s grown up to be a right wrong’un, or an illness that’s left them fighting for their very survival. These drama queens are at the heart and soul of our soap operas: so to celebrate them, we’re bringing you a special collector’s edition, Inside Soap Icons! We’ll look at 50 of soap’s greatest heroines, ranging from legends such as Corrie’s Hilda Ogden and Bet Lynch, to modern-day drama magnets like Walford’s Lauren Branning and Hollyoaks’ Mercedes McQueen. Narrowing it down to 50 was quite a feat, and led to a few arguments! Find…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Arrested for MURDER!Toyah’s world comes crashing down this week, after the police come knocking on her door and arrest her for the murder of baby Rose!When Kit explains that the remains of a baby were found buried in North Cross Park, Toyah’s darkest secret looks set to be unearthed. Will she confront her emotional past and finally reveal the truth?“The most agonising moment of her life could now get Toyah banged up!” exclaims our Coronation Street insider. “It’s been a closely-guarded secret her whole life, but it’s about to become public knowledge. Can she find the courage to tell the police everything she went through?”Since revealing her heartbreaking loss to Nick and Leanne, after she feared Rose’s grave was being disturbed by true-crime trolls, Toyah’s found comfort in their support. After almost…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Separation ANXIETYHollyoaks has confirmed that its coercive control storyline involving Abe and Cleo will be a huge plot running throughout 2024, peaking in the summer.“We see how he separates Cleo from her family as they move into their own apartment, and Abe begins to use her past eating disorder to control her,” explains a spokesperson.Meanwhile, Chester chiefs are partnering with the UK government to help shine a light on controlling relationships, and show how bystanders can safely play a role in challenging abuse.Visit enough.campaign.gov.uk…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“Martha is a formidable woman!”Hi Sherrie! How did the role of Martha come about for you?I just got a phone call asking if I’d like to play her. I didn’t know much about her at first, but I was then sent the details of what she was like. I knew it would be very interesting to play with Jeremy Sheffield [soon to arrive as Patrick’s secret twin, Jeremy], who I adore.How would you describe Martha?She can be deceptive – there are several different sides to her. She may seem like a sweet old lady, but then you’ll see a very different side of her revealed. She’s a manipulative, controlling woman who can be quite formidable.How do we first meet her?You see Martha sneaking around everywhere. Then she phones Jeremy and says, “I’ve found Sienna.”…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Joel pops the question!Dee-Dee is rendered speechless this week, after Joel gets down on bended knee and asks her to be his wife!The surprise proposal comes about after Dee-Dee has a disastrous first meeting with her boyfriend’s parents, which prompts Joel to prove his commitment with the offer of marriage. But are they really ready to take such a big step?“Joel and Dee-Dee have been back together all of five minutes, and now he wants to make it forever!” exclaims our Weatherfield insider. “There’s no denying he’s smitten, but this seems rather a hasty decision – and possibly not made for the right reasons.”The couple’s love story hasn’t exactly got off to the best of starts. Dee-Dee previously dumped Joel after discovering he’d lied to her about the existence of his estranged wife,…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024You can say that again!1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Glenda’s lucky in love!Glenda is set for a hot new romance this week, when Michael pulls her in for a steamy smooch! Has she finally found the man of her dreams?As George goes about his business none the wiser that Glenda is set to sue him, he asks his little sister about her supposed plans to buy Little Big Shotz. The barmaid manages to throw together an evasive answer, but she later confesses to Michael that she hasn’t quite managed to tell George about her legal plans…“It must be a nightmare for Glenda to have this bubbling up inside!” speculates our Corrie spy. “But the guilt really kicks in when George reveals that he’s sending Eileen some cash for Jason’s medical insurance because his has run out. She’s forced to admit to herself…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Lessons in LOVE!DON’T... MAKE ANY DECISIONS WITHOUT TELLING YOUR WIFE FIRST! Like taking the rap for a murder you didn’t commit. Cain, we’re looking at you! Marlon would be wise to know that a happy wife equals a happy life.DO... STAND BY YOUR PARTNER, EVEN WHEN THEY’VE KILLED SOMEONE! Kim Tate risked losing hubby Will when she confessed to killing rapist Craig with her horse, but he didn’t bolt.DON’T... TALK TO SOMEONE ELSE WHEN YOU SHOULD BE TALKING TO YOUR PARTNER!Both Jimmy and Nicola have been guilty of this, but Angelica’s prison sentence has brought them closer together again.DO... KEEP THE SPARK ALIVE – EVEN IF YOU GET CAUGHT AT IT! Maybe Rhona and Marlon should follow Charity and Mack’s example and enjoy a roll around in the haystacks? There’s certainly enough…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Three’s a crowd!When Nick reveals he can’t get back to be Ashley’s best man at his upcoming wedding to Claire, the groom-to-be is left wondering who should be by his side on the big day – until a series of events unfold which could see the front of the altar looking more like a mosh pit than a bridal party…Fred assumes he’s a shoo-in as he’s just been relieved from his role walking Claire up the aisle by her mum, Yvonne. Tyrone, meanwhile, thinks he has the job after Fiz misconstrues a conversation she overhears – however, oblivious Ashley asks pal Martin to do the honours! Ashley has no doubts when it came to choosing his woman in Claire, but picking his fella could prove trickier…Elsewhere, there’s tragedy for Steve and Karen…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Request SPOTPARK LIFEThe useless parking attendant in Emmerdale who wound Billy up seemed vaguely familiar. Has he been in another soap recently?| Beverley, Poole No wonder you recognise him – actor Ian Gain also played Rufus, the underground fight organiser in EastEnders the other day, trying to get George to compete. He played a paramedic in Walford in 1998, too!DADDY DEVIn a recent episode of Coronation Street, Dev and Bernie talked about Dev’s other kids. How many does he have? I only know about the twins and Amber!| Lauren You’re right about Amber – best known for clashing with Sunita and coming between Sophie and Sian. But apart from Aadi and Asha, there’s also Dev’s eldest daughter, Shareen. She was discovered by Sunita, who was a bit disturbed by the fact…1 min
See Also
Baddies East Reunion Part Two and Three: The Finale by Ali Mia Unfiltered‘Baby Reindeer’ Stars Jessica Gunning and Nava Mau on Playing ‘Nuanced, Complicated’ Real People and Why Martha and Donny ‘Need Each Other’Transcript of #661 - TONY HAWK - HARLAND ... | Happy ScribeChrisean Rock seen in mug shot taken after extradition to OklahomaInside Soap UK|22-2024“Cindy doesn’t like to be turned down...”“Is the old Cindy back?” ponders Michelle Collins, when we quiz her about her character’s out and out seduction attempt on George this week. “Well, if she was, she wouldn’t be able to live on Albert Square! But I do think she’s up to her old tricks again...”Indeed she is, judging by this week’s episodes. And those tricks always centre around wanting what she can’t have. As soon as Cindy is settled, it seems she’s on the lookout for something that’s going to bring it all crashing down again. We saw it in the old days with Wicksy, then with David, affairs which left chaos in their wake. And now she’s at it again with ex-hubby George.As Michelle considers these observations – after returning to the Square in a blaze…4 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“This is Frankie’s chance to escape JJ’s abuse”Hollyoaks has never been afraid to tackle taboo topics, but JJ’s secret sexual abuse of twin sister Frankie is one of the most hard-hitting storylines in the soap’s history.Desperate to escape her twisted sibling, Frankie pins her hopes on winning a place at a dance school this week so she can leave the village. But when JJ learns what Frankie is planning, events take an even darker turn for the vulnerable teen.In her first ever interview discussing the controversial plot, actress Isabelle Smith – who plays Frankie – reveals the shocking drama ahead for her terrified alter ego…Hi, Isabelle! How is Frankie feeling about her dance school audition?Dancing is Frankie’s outlet, where she feels safe and happy, and she sees this opportunity to leave home and study as a way…4 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024The final COUNTDOWN!Doctors takes a summer holiday after this week to make room in the schedules for sporting events including Wimbledon, the Euros and the Olympics. So what’s in store in the autumn, ahead of the grand finale later in the year?“There’s a potential new partner at the Mill, Dr Graham Elton,” teases Kia. “He arrives this week and Scarlett does not care for him from the off! He tries to make a few jokes, which just fall flat, and is not particularly tolerant. Graham is a big part of what happens after the summer; there’s a lot to come with him. And Scarlett is rarely wrong when it comes to her first impressions…”…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024My soap scrapbookLaila MorseBORN 1 August 1945IN Dorking, SurreyFamily tiesLaila was raised in south London with her sister Jackie and brother Gary Oldman, who would go on to be a TV and film star. Born Maureen Oldman, her stage name was suggested by actress Isabella Rossellini, who was dating Gary at the time. ‘Laila Morse’ being an anagram of ‘mia sorella’ – ‘my sister’ in Italian.Late starterLaila’s first acting role came when she was 51, after Gary cast her in his film Nil By Mouth. The film won a BAFTA and Laila was nominated for Most Promising New Talent in another award. Originally, Laila was reluctant to take part. “You’re frightened you’re not good enough,” she said at the time.Big Mo, big breakLaila won the role of ‘Big Mo’ Harris in EastEnders,…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“This story is teeming with love!”“It’s not a typical love story, but it’s a love story nonetheless,” explains Daf James, the writer behind this new three-part drama series starring Sion Daniel Young (Deceit) as singer and artist extraordinaire Gabriel, and Fra Fee (Cabaret) as his partner Andy. “And, as well as being about gay adoption, it’s a show about parents and children, so I think it’s a universal story because we’ve all been children to somebody. But it’s a celebration of love in all its manifest forms – with music!”Inside TV joins Daf, Sion and Fra for a chat about the series – set in Wales, with a cast including Elizabeth Berrington, Sharon D Clarke and Mali Ann Rees. Here, Fra and Sion tell us more…Hello, both! What first attracted you to the roles of…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024My TellyHEAVEN! ...with Sonny WalkerWith gripping thriller The Gathering available to stream in its entirety via Channel 4 On Demand, Sonny Walker – who stars in the six-parter as talented free runner Adam – leaps in to tell us his favourite TV shows…What have you enjoyed watching on TV most recently?The Gentleman and The Beautiful Game, both on Netflix. They are absolutely brilliant. The Beautiful Game in particular raises issues that aren’t really spoken about, and it stars Michael Ward, whose career I’ve watched develop over many years. Watching him in something like that has been great.How about comedy?My favourites are Plebs, Ladhood, Ideal, This Country, Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps, Friday Night Dinner… A lot of them involve working-class characters who I feel are relatable.What did you watch growing…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024HOT stuff!We’re heading back to Mallorca with Maya Jama to meet the babes and bros competing to leave Love Island 2024 happily coupled up – and a whopping £50,000 richer. Among this year’s Villa residents is make-up artist Samantha from Liverpool, who’s looking to the south for her love match…“I’m ready to settle down, and Love Island is an amazing opportunity to meet someone that isn’t from my area,” she declares. “I love a co*ckney boy, so I’m hoping there’s one in there for me…”On which note, could east London model Ayo fit the bill?“I do prefer to be indoors chilling with that person I can do stuff with,” he shares. “I don’t really like being outside too much – it’s not fun!”Hmm, doesn’t sound like Ayo will be making the…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Heart of the matterTHE HOSPITAL: LIFE ON THE LINE Channel 5 9PMIn this new series, we meet the cardiac team at the pioneering NHS Golden Jubilee Hopsital, Clydebank. With heart disease currently killing one person every three minutes, their work has never been more crucial. Tonight’s opener introduces Andy, 54, whose only hope is a transplant – meaning an agonising wait for him and partner Shabana.“The idea of your heart being removed from your chest and another heart placed in is terrifying,’ he admits in the ep. “For me, it’s the ultimate operation.”There are testing times too for Rebecca, who was born with a heart defect, as her breathlessness raises concerns. We’ll also see how patient care continues, as we meet Steve 13 years on from his own transplant.CANAL BOAT DIARIES Yesterday 7PMWe’re…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Up to the taskTASKMASTERCLASS Channel 4 9PMOver the past nine years we’ve laughed through – and sometimes scratched our heads at – a whopping 17 series (plus several specials) of TV’s daftest challenge show, which has spawned more than a dozen international spin-offs. So it’s high time that the Taskmaster himself Greg Davies and his dutiful assistant ‘Little’ Alex Horne take a step back to muse over their much-loved gigglefest in this new series, in which they’ll tackle the crucial question: is there actually any point to the tasks on the comedy game show? To help them answer that perplexing poser, they’ll trawl through classic tasks featuring the likes of comics Guz Khan, Ed Gamble, Jo Brand, Paul Chowdhry and Morgana Robinson.HAPPY CAMPERS: THE CARAVAN PARK Channel 5 8PMWe’re off to Cornwall and…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Matty FRAMED for stabbing Samson!First with the week’s HOTTEST headlinesEmmerdale village is left rocked by a shock stabbing this week, when an altercation with transphobic bullies leaves innocent Matty with Samson’s blood on his hands!Threatened by aggression and slurs from Samson and his evil new friend Josh, Matty tries to keep the peace. However, when a violent tussle breaks out, Samson lands on a knife – and Matty is left to take all of the blame…“Samson is bleeding – and Matty’s in complete shock!” gasps Ash Palmisciano, who plays the stunned newlywed. “It’s a total accident; it happens so fast and Matty is completely bewildered – it’s totally out of character.”Trouble brewingUnaware that his life is about to change dramatically, Matty starts the week hoping for a pay rise from Jai so he and…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024LEANNE’S MYSTERY LOVE!Leanne sends shockwaves through her family this week – when Toyah suspects she has a secret man! Worried her sister has cosied up to cult leader Rowan, Toyah demands answers…When Simon leaves to join his dad Peter on his yacht (see p38), emotional Leanne waves him goodbye, feeling lonelier than ever. With her family at loggerheads, she turns to her laptop. Soon she’s talking to someone, telling them how she wishes she could be with them. But who’s at the other end?Later, Leanne’s caught out by Toyah as she confesses her love to the mystery person on her computer. Leanne denies it’s Rowan, but Nick catches them holding hands. Will brainwashed Leanne be able to explain herself?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024THE GLOVES ARE OFF!Laura-Jayne snoops behind the soap headlines…The rise of a new Emmerdale super-bitch will pave the way for a thrilling summer and beyond, as Ruby aims to succeed where her husband Caleb failed – in bringing down Kim Tate!Jaws hit the floor as a secret meeting between Ruby and Rose revealed the two women in cahoots, after Caleb’s scheming missus deliberately installed Will’s ex-wife at Home Farm to drive a wedge between him and Kim.However, Dales legend Claire King, who plays Emmerdale’s chief bad girl, tells us that she reckons her alter ego won’t go down without a fight…“Kim will go to the ends of the earth to hold on to Will and the life they’ve built together,” asserts Claire, talking exclusively to Inside Soap. “She genuinely loves Will, respects him…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024STOP PRESS!Drama magnets!Ex-Corrie starChris Gascoyne(Peter Barlow) is joining the cast of upcoming Channel 5 drama The Feud with soap and Strictly star, Jill Halfpenny, and Rupert Penry-Jones to hit our screens next year.Walford reunited!Meanwhile, a brand-new festive Bollywood movie – Christmas Karma – will see Walford’s Danny Dyer (Mick) share the screen with former co-star Nitin Gantra (Masood Ahmed) and Tracy-Ann Oberman (Chrissie Watts). A fab line-up!Stranger danger!A Home and Away preview has revealed that a shock mass shooting will rock the Bay. Several characters will be forced to flee for their lives when a mystery gunman opens fire on the beach, as Alf calls for help……1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Will Nish rumble Suki’s plotting?Suki and Vinny pledge to reclaim the Panesar empire this week – however, suspicious Nish and Ravi are soon onto them!The family were rocked by Nish’s bombshell that he’s terminally ill, though Suki sees it as an opportunity to get her hands on what she believes is rightfully hers, with the help of youngest son Vinny. Yet after Vinny does a complete 180 by swearing his allegiance to his father, Ravi smells a rat – and begins to question if Vinny’s apparent change of heart is all part of a bigger plan…“Vinny’s doting-son act has made Ravi wonder if he has a hidden agenda,” shares our EastEnders insider. “He’s gone from being firmly Team Suki and hating Nish’s guts to welcoming him back with open arms. It makes no sense…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Carla’s betrayal revealed!As Corrie viewers continue to reel from the truth of what really happened to missing Lauren, the Weatherfield locals remain none the wiser this week.But the Barlow family are hit with a fresh bombshell when they discover Bobby and Carla’s lies were to blame for Daniel being the prime suspect in Lauren’s murder…“It all kicks off when Dee-Dee lets slip to Adam that Bobby faked a witness statement to try to get imprisoned Roy off the hook,” shares our Corrie spy. “Adam can’t believe what he’s hearing, particularly when Dee-Dee confirms that Carla was in on it, too!”Unable to keep the discovery to himself, Adam waits until all the Barlow clan are gathered in the Rovers before publicly outing Bobby and Carla’s big secret. Daniel, in particular, is sickened to…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Reiss wants Bianca gone!Reiss reaches the end of his tether with Bianca this week – and tells Sonia she needs to leave Walford! Will she have the heart to kick her own sister out?Since their uncomfortable first meeting, Bianca has made it pretty clear she doesn’t think much of Sonia’s bumbling boyfriend, and it would be fair to say Bianca isn’t Reiss’ cup of tea, either. He’s kept the peace for Sonia’s sake, but when Bianca pushes him too far, the normally mild-mannered accountant snaps…“Bianca opens her big gob and hurls a load of abuse at Reiss!” reveals our EastEnders insider. “We’re not talking a couple of cheeky digs: this is a vicious verbal assault and it cuts deep. Reiss is so offended he orders Sonia to give Bianca her marching orders.”Reiss’ week…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Abi’s nightmare worsens!Poor Abi receives even more distressing news this week, when she learns that the police are completely stumped by her deepfake case!After Abi confides in Kevin that an online troll has reposted one of the lurid videos, Craig visits the garage and breaks the news that the police are no nearer to finding the culprit. And her despair only deepens further when he suggests that she hires a lawyer – then two lads drop by and hurl vulgar comments in her direction!“Abi is living in hell at the moment,” sighs our cobbles insider. “She’s desperate to find out who’s behind this vile crime – but the police don’t have the slightest clue! It’s lucky Nina hears about it though, as she mentions the online management company that Dev found when…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Cash saves Stevie’s life!It’s Cash to the rescue this week, when he saves Stevie from the clutches of a man believed to be her crazed stalker!Alarm bells are ringing for the former cop when Stevie goes live on social media to announce she’s attending a red carpet event for her new movie. Cash checks out the venue and is horrified by the lack of security in place – meaning anyone, including Stevie’s stalker, could just walk in…He warns Stevie of the potential dangers and convinces her to rehire him as her bodyguard. Cash’s instincts prove to be spot on, and while Stevie greets a swarm of eager fans wanting an autograph, a figure suddenly bursts from the crowd and lunges towards her!Quick-thinking Cash intervenes and chases the assailant to an empty car park,…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024AGONY for Alfie!The BIG stories from a week of timeless drama…There’s heartbreak this week, as Alfie reels from the news that his beloved Nana has an inoperable brain condition and doesn’t have long to live.At first, he’s not sure Nana understands what’s going on, so he gently explains the realities to her. But when they then reminisce and she mentions she was once a film star, Alfie really begins to wonder what’s going through her head – until he clicks that she once featured in a government information film about rationing!Alfie being Alfie knows someone who knows someone who manages to track down the film. But as he proudly arranges a screening for Nana, she asks him to turn it off. Seems Nana doesn’t want to loiter in the past, she wants…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024SOAPBOXRUBY RUBY RUBY RUBY!I cheered when we discovered it was Ruby who ran over Ethan in Emmerdale! She’s finally becoming a proper soap baddie. After all the potential when she arrived, I worried she was going soft. I’m glad the producers slammed the brakes on that idea… unlike Ruby!| Becky, OtleyBIG SPENDERCorrie’s Gary should have saved the £10k from the factory sale to pay for Liam’s private therapy. But instead, he’s spent all of it to stop Sarah being blackmailed and threatened by Nathan! Maria will be shot of him when she finds out. That money could have been so useful for her son’s help.| Louise, Newcastle He’s not winning any Husband Of The Year awards. I wonder if there’s an affair on the cards...SLATERS ASSEMBLEI can’t tell you how…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“I’m pleased that Simon is getting a happy ending!”“At six years old, you don’t realise the enormity of joining one of the longest-running shows in the world and being part of the family that was in the first episode in 1960!” laughs Alex Bain about his memories of arriving on Coronation Street back in 2008 as Simon Barlow, son of Peter and grandson of Street legend, Ken.Simon turned up in Weatherfield a confused and nervous youngster, having lost his mum and finding himself suddenly back with his estranged dad.The character’s exit this week will once again see him reuniting with Peter, as Simon joins him sailing the high seas. But what a journey he’s had in between – as 22-year-old Alex reveals while he looks back at 16 years of the Barlow boy…Hi Alex! You’ve been Simon for…5 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024BOREHAMWOOD TO HOLLYWOOD!The news that Michelle Collins is starring in not one, but two upcoming films kicked off rumours that her days as Cindy Beale are numbered.The actress features in new movie Stephen as a tough loan shark, and also takes the lead role in Self Storage, based on the real-life story of a woman who lived in a storage unit for nine months during the Covid lockdowns.However, she has assured fans the film roles are something she fits in during her “spare time”, and she’s not planning on flying off to LA any time soon. “I’m still very much in EastEnders,” confirms Michelle. Phew!…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024SWAPPING ROLESFrankie is a fascinating character, but Isabelle reveals there’s another villager she’d love to have a go at…“When Dilly had her psychotic episode, that would’ve been an amazing thing to play – but I would never have done it as much justice as Emma Johnsey-Smith, who plays her,” she reveals. “She’s incredible, such an authentic actor. There’s a nice group of girls I’m friends with in the cast including Emma, Ellie Henry [aka Freya], Anya Lawrence [Vicky] and Iz Hesketh [Kitty]. I can’t see Frankie and Dilly being friends, though, they’d probably end up fighting!”PHOTOS: INSTAGRAM/HENRY_ELLIE; IS.ABELLESMITH…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“As a father, Jacob’s story makes me emotional”Casualty star Charles Venn makes no bones about the strain his character is under at the moment, as Jacob works gruelling shifts as a paramedic, while raising his baby grandson, Carter. “He’s got bags under his eyes as big as Sainsbury’s!” the actor, himself a dad of four and grandad of two, laughs. But there are few jokes for Jacob this week, as the creche he relies on express their concerns about Carter, who was abandoned by Jacob’s son Blake outside the emergency ward.As Charles joins us for a chat about Jacob’s situation, he tells us he hopes that the doting grandaddy can find the work/life balance he needs…Hi, Charles! Jacob’s grandad duties were foisted upon him rather suddenly – how did you feel when you found out?I was surprised,…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Channique Sterling-BrownCORRIE’S DEE-DEE1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Finding NEVERLAND!“The performance pieces in the show give you more information about the characters and move the story forward,” shares Daf. “Music is the most direct art form – it speaks directly to people’s hearts.”Consequently, Neverland – the place Gabriel and Andy first met – is where some of the series’ most poignant and beautiful scenes play out.“It was unbelievably fun filming on the Neverland set – we all wished it was real!” declares Fra. “It provides a fantastical musical element of the story – and gives it a haze of magic.”“Singing and performance are such an important part of Gabe’s character, and we didn’t want to get that element wrong,” adds Sion. “I’d not sung for at least a decade, so there was a slightly manic crash course as I…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“It’s a moment I won’t ever forget!”As the 17th series of BGT reaches its climax on Saturday, a record-breaking eight (!) Golden Buzzer acts are currently vying for their place in the grand final via the live semis. While hosts Ant and Dec and judge Alesha Dixon stuck to the ‘one each’ rule, this run saw Simon, Amanda and Bruno dish out two apiece!It remains to be seen which of the semi-final acts will make it to the live final, with £250,000 and a spot at this year’s Royal Variety Performance at stake. Inside TV caught up with some of 2024’s Golden acts to find out what being buzzed straight to the semis meant to them…Hi, all! How did it feel when you got the Golden Buzzer?Sydnie Christmas I was shocked! I was so grateful for…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Never forgetD-DAY: HOUR BY HOUR Channel 4 8PMAs the nation looks back at D-Day across the coming week, 80 years on from that historic day, this new documentary shows an alternative view of the events of 6 June 1944. That was of course when The Allies launched a daring invasion of Nazi-occupied France, in a bold move to win WWII. Incredible archive – including material unseen and unheard until now – allows us to explore the intense preparations carried out by soldiers, sailors and civilians on England’s south coast, before the troops set off to do battle on the beaches of Normandy. The operation would prove to be the turning point of the conflict in Europe, and this gripping film takes a forensic look at how that momentous day came together.THE…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Green partyINTO THE AMAZON WITH ROBSON GREEN Channel 5 9PMAs the Geordie adventurer ends his Amazon odyssey, there’s a new experience for the keen angler. Robson has fished worldwide, but will swapping his rod for a bow and arrow prove a challenge? At a floating village, Robson finds out how the region’s worst drought in 120 years is affecting residents, before witnessing the local pink dolphins. Finally there’s a visit to an indigenous tribe, who treat Robson to a feast, paint his body with ink, and adorn him with feathers ready for a bop…“I used to be able to dance – my dad was a champion ballroom dancer,” Robson tells us. “Sadly, the genes weren’t passed on to me. I just look like an old fella who’s struggling to move!”EXTRAORDINARY ITV2…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024WHO’S WHO?CASUALTYRida Amaan ....................... Sarah SeggariFaith Cadogan .................... Kirsty MitchellIain Dean .................... Michael StevensonTeddy Gowan .......................... Milo ClarkeTariq Hussein .................. Manpreet BachuJan Jenning ..............................Di BotcherDylan Keogh......................... William BeckRash Masum .......................... Neet MohanJacob Masters ..................... Charles VennCam Mickelthwaite ............. Barney WalshStevie Nash ........................ Elinor LawlessNgozi Okoye ......................... Adesuwa OniPatrick Olney ....................... Jamie GloverNicole Piper ................... Sammy T DobsonJodie Whyte ............................. Anna ChellCORONATION STREETGav Adetiba ..........................Noah OlaoyeSabrina Adetiba .................. Luana SantosAadi Alahan ........................Adam HussainAsha Alahan ....................... Tanisha GoreyDev Alahan ......................Jimmi HarkishinIzzy Armstrong ..............Cherylee HoustonEd Bailey ...............Trevor Michael GeorgesDee-Dee Bailey..... Channique Sterling-BrownMichael Bailey ...................... Ryan RussellRonnie Bailey ....................... Vinta MorganAdam Barlow ................ Samuel RobertsonAmy Barlow ......................... Elle MulvaneyCarla Barlow ............................ Alison KingKen Barlow ........................William RoacheSarah Barlow ..........................Tina O’BrienSimon Barlow ............................. Alex BainLeanne Battersby .................. Jane DansonToyah Battersby .................. Georgia TaylorSam Blakeman ..................... Jude RiordanChesney…6 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024ACTION MAN!It’s safe to say that Matty and Amy’s honeymoon period is officially over as they’re about to face their biggest challenge to date. In the aftermath of Samson’s stabbing, Matty’s future is looking bleak…But despite his character’s suffering, actor Ash is champing at the bit to be given a storyline that throws Matty’s life into chaos – especially if it means working with a fight co-ordinator!“I’m over the moon to do a story that’s a bit gritty!” grins the star. “I can get my teeth into it. It’s really topical because we feature a bit of transphobia, but it was exciting to get to do something with action.“We had a fight director who choregraphed the altercation to make it look as real as possible,” he adds. “We discussed how Matty…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Cindy dumps Ian for George?Cindy finds the perfect excuse to get closer to ex-hubby George this week – as she makes it clear she wants him and not devoted Ian!After she learns that her daughter Anna has been mugged, Cindy goes straight round to the Vic to check on her, while also using the opportunity to flirt up a storm with George! And soon, after a blazing row with Ian, she’s in full seduction mode as she dresses to the nines, intent on winning back her man…“Cindy thinks, ‘I’ll go round there, I’ll manipulate him, and it’ll be really easy’ – but she’s not thinking things through at all,” explains Michelle Collins, who plays the notorious schemer. “She’s really emotional about it. Cindy never thinks about the consequences of her actions.”Cindy’s efforts to get…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024PAUL’S FINAL VOW?Poignant scenes due to air in Corrie appear to show Paul and Billy renewing their wedding vows – before tragedy inevitably strikes.“The pair tied the knot last year in a civil partnership ceremony at the Bistro, before Paul surprised Billy with a secret church service,” recalls our Weatherfield insider. “But with Paul’s MND becoming trickier to manage, they’re determined to make the most of every second. Renewing their vows means a lot to them both.”Stars Daniel Brocklebank and Peter Ash, who play Billy and Paul, were spotted filming touching scenes on location for an episode to air later this year. Paul is full of happy memories as he admires his wedding ring, but how much longer is his happiness with Billy set to last?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Sienna confronts her evil granny!Sienna receives a frightening and nasty shock this week, when she discovers somebody has drugged her!The bombshell coincides with the arrival of the mysterious Martha, who Sienna has absolutely no idea is her late dad Patrick’s mother – and her long-lost grandmother!“Quite rightly, Sienna doesn’t trust anyone, and Martha is no exception!” reveals Anna Passey, who plays Sienna. “She appears right out of nowhere and seems very interested in Sienna. Although Sherrie Hewson, who plays Martha, is a tremendous new addition to the team, we feel so lucky to have her here!”Waking up on the Love Boat after celebrating its sale, which she hopes will continue to fund her twins’ private education, groggy Sienna is suspicious to find bloodstains on her arm, with no memory of how they got there.…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024SUKI LEGS IT!Eagled-eyed EastEnders viewers will notice Suki hobbling around on crutches on screen this week – after actress Balvinder Sopal suffered a real-life injury!Fans were first alerted to Balvinder’s poorly leg after she recently posed for photos on the BAFTAs red carpet sporting crutches and a moon boot, albeit sparkly ones befitting of the occasion. Now it looks as though the injury will be written into Suki’s storylines, judging from this week’s pictures. But how will they explain away the crutches in the show?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Will Jane betray Mike?Smooth-talking Victor Stone has just one family member left to win over this week – his ex-wife Jane! And with fiancé Mike thousands of miles away, Jane is doing her best to stay away from her charming ex…But now she knows Vic is dying and righting his wrongs, will Jane be drawn back into his orbit and cheat on her sweetheart Mike?“Jane’s flustered by this new version of Victor!” exclaims our Neighbours insider. “Seeing him making amends with the kids is swoon-worthy. She can’t help but wonder what could have been. But as Vic leans in to kiss Jane’s hand, Mike’s daughter Sam watches on…”After Victor’s blundering efforts to fix his kids’ love lives, Nicolette and Byron warn him to stop interfering. However, both his children come to realise something…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Maya ghosts Harvey!Harvey fears his new friendship with Maya is finished this week, after she ghosts him with no explanation.Her decision to go incommunicado leaves the cabbie feeling upset and confused, wondering what he might have done wrong…“One minute Harvey’s having a brilliant time getting to know Maya, and the next she’s disappeared without a trace,” declares our Walford insider. “It’s all a bit of a mystery!”Lonely Harvey has been in need of a buddy ever since Mitch’s departure and Rocky’s imprisonment. And he genuinely believed he’d found one after hitting it off with Maya. Both avid Spurs supporters, the pair bonded over their love of the game, and Maya sweetly surprised Harvey with a vintage football programme.As the week begins, Harvey realises he’s mislaid Maya’s phone number so asks Tommy if…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Please forgive me!Haz and Mackenzie’s relationship hits another bump in the road this week when she lashes out at his interfering sister, Amira!As Amira repeatedly gets in between the smitten pair, Haz tries to play the peacemaker. He admits to Mackenzie that his sister can be annoying, but he wants to try to repair his family relationships.However, when Mackenzie discovers Amira has cut her out of Haz’s legal defence she goes ballistic and retaliates – telling Amira what Haz said about her! Upset, Amira storms out and makes a decision: she’s leaving Erinsborough…After Mackenzie’s harsh words there’s tension between her and Haz, while Amira books her flight home. Mackenzie makes a sincere apology to Amira and after some self-reflection, the two finally reach an understanding. Can Haz forgive his girlfriend and get…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Sam’s little problem!The Dingles are concerned when Sam arrives home from Norfolk and avoids questions about his girlfriend, Alice.All becomes clear when the woman in question later arrives to give the Dingles some news – she’s pregnant. Turns out Sam is terrified of being a dad, and like many men in times of crisis, decided to run away and ignore the whole thing.Soon, Zak is offering a father-to-son pep talk, but when that doesn’t do the trick, Cain takes a less gentle approach – and his harsh words finally shake some sense into Sam. Soon Sam and Alice announce they are not only back together, but they are moving back to Emmerdale. Don’t you just love a happy ending? Which we are sure is absolutely what this pair are going to have.…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024The BIG DEBATE!WALFORD WEDDING CARNAGE!With her happy ever after in sight, Whitney’s world was shattered when she learnt Zack had cheated with Lauren! And you lot couldn’t get enough of the chaos right before they said “I do”…Oh poor Whitney! So much for her fairy-tale ending. I can’t believe she’s had another failed wedding – maybe this will put her off for good. What a mad few days for her, a birth, a wedding and a brutal breakup. No wonder she wants to say goodbye to the Square!| Sue, WhitbySoap weddings are always a good watch. But what’s even better? A wedding punch-up! Whitney hitting Lauren with the bouquet was priceless. She really went for her! The reactions from the wedding guests were hilarious too. It’s up there with one of the…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024BAIN on his life!“The biggest one for me was Simon physically abusing Leanne. I think it was the one that had the most impact. It was incredible to be able to work with Jane, and I was proud to be able to highlight an issue that not many people talk about. I had lots of people telling me that they had gone through the same thing, even people that I know.”“The storyline of Simon being bullied resonated with me because I was bullied when I was younger. I was a boy and I was a ballet dancer, and kids can be very cruel and naive. I did a scene in the Bistro where Simon had been put in a dress and had make-up on, and I understood the emotion Simon felt because I’ve…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Self Portrait Manpreet Sharma“Manpreet was first introduced as a love interest for Rishi, and early on there was an idea she would cheat on him with his son, Jai! Originally she was meant to be a bit of a gold digger and a temptress, but I’m glad they didn’t go down that route as it gave the character more longevity.“Also, Chris Bisson [aka Jai] and I played brother and sister in Corrie 25 years ago, so I was a bit concerned at the thought of our characters having an affair!”“Charles is Manpreet’s hero, and definitely the love of her life. They first met when she was in a very unhappy marriage with an abusive husband. People were rooting for them to get back together once they reconnected in the village, and they got…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024“I don’t think Scarlett would make a good detective!”Dastardly deeds are unfolding at a posh country house this week, as a series of crimes are investigated among a wealthy clan – and it seems everybody has something to hide!No, it’s not another Agatha Christie adaptation: it’s a special two-parter of Doctors in which Dr Al indulges his love of true crime by dragging colleagues Scarlett and Jimmi into the latest edition of his amateur-sleuth podcast! Will he solve the murky mystery? And how has he convinced surly Scarlett to even be there in the first place?Inside Soap favourite Kia Pegg, who plays the mardy receptionist, tells us all about swapping The Mill for the manor…Hi, Kia! How does Al get Scarlett involved in this murder mystery?She doesn’t want to be there, but Al offers her £500 to drive…4 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024My LITTLE STAR!Inside Soap often hears actors praise their costars, but few gush as much as Charles does about the little boy who plays his screen grandson, Carter.“Oh man, I’ve been blessed in the past to work with babies and it’s beautiful, but the baby who plays Carter is the best baby – and I’m not the only one that says it, everybody on set has!” he coos.“He barely cries, he performs on cue. If he’s being carried by someone else now, he’s looking and turning to see me, looking for his screen grandad! It’s so cute. He’s a natural and he’s literally showing us all how it’s done.”…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024BEAUTY BOX1 Cantu Deep Treatment MasqueStrengthen hair with this shea butter-infused treatment, and give hair cuticles a healthier and shinier look.2 Crème of Nature Pure Honey Curl Defining CreamFormulated with a blend of honey, natural coconut oil, shea butter and avocado oil for a frizz-free finish for up to 72 hours.3 Only Curls Deep Hydration Hair MaskWith nourishing and strengthening ingredients, this rich treatment feeds your hair with moisture and protein.4 Aussie Bouncy Curls Butter Hair MaskPamper thirsty curls with this deeply conditioning mask infused with jojoba, coconut and macadamia nut oils.…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024The spying gameCrime-solving Catholic nun Sister Boniface is back for a third series, the first ep of which – Never Too Deadly to Die – is an affectionate Bond pastiche. As parachutists are spotted descending over Great Slaughter, DI Sam Gillespie (Max Brown) races to investigate.Turns out it’s all part of screen tests being held for the next actor set to portray Jonas Best, the British agent from the film franchise written by spy turned author Lincoln Leigh Varsey (Denis Lawson). But when one of the actors collapses and dies during the screen tests, Sister Boniface (Lorna Watson) must use her forensic skills to determine the murder weapon, motive and, of course, ‘whodunnit?’. Inside TV had a lovely chat with Lorna to find out more…“There’s death by scorpion, which is I think…3 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Drama queenAfter Candice Carty-Williams’ novel Queenie came out in 2019, the tale of a young British-Jamaican woman’s struggles with life, love and fitting in became an award-winning bestseller. Now, Queenie has made it to our television screens, with Dionne Brown – recently seen in Apple TV+’s Criminal Record – heading up a cast that also includes Sally Phillips, former EastEnder Tilly Keeper and Mandy’s Michelle Greenidge.The story starts as 25-year-old Queenie Jenkins is left stunned when her long-term boyfriend Tom (Big Boys’ Jon Pointing) announces that he thinks they need a break. And when it looks as if Tom’s in no hurry to reconcile, Queenie vows to numb her loneliness, meeting new men as a distraction. But when the partying stops feeling like fun, Queenie’s demons start to catch up with…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Out of the BlueHELEN MIRREN REMEMBERS… BBC4 10PMDennis Potter’s 1979 Blue Remembered Hills became one of the most famous Play For Today broadcasts ever. Adult actors, such as Benidorm’s Janine Duvitski and EastEnders’ Michael Elphick, play seven-year-olds spending a sunny day in the Forest of Dean. Explaining the idea, the revered writer said: “It is not the adult world writ small; childhood is the adult world writ large.”The TV play’s cast also included Helen Mirren, who – in this on-and-off series of recollections – looks back on how the cast prepared for their roles, and how playing children affected the group. Dame Helen also reveals why the landmark piece remains one of the projects of which she is most proud.I KISSED A GIRL: THE REUNION BBC3 9.50PMStraight after the drama of the final,…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Out in the coldALASKA DAILY Alibi 9PMTom McCarthy, who won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for the 2015 movie Spotlight, is to thank for this new small-screen drama. It stars fellow Oscar-winner Hilary Swank (Boys Don’t Cry and Million Dollar Baby) as Eileen Fitzgerald, a reporter who leaves her high-profile life in New York under a cloud, exiling herself to Anchorage, Alaska, to work on a daily newspaper. But will she find the personal and professional redemption she’s seeking?“The circ*mstances that bring Eileen to Alaska are seen as quite unfortunate,” reckons Hilary. “But as the story starts to unfold, I think we realise that in the scheme of things, everything happens for a reason. It just hasn’t been revealed yet…”NICK KNOWLES IN SOUTH AMERICA Channel 5 7PMNick’s nicked off on yet another…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Sofa so goodCELEBRITY GOGGLEBOX Channel 4 10.10PMIt’s time to see what some of Britain’s top TV stars make of the shows we’re all watching, as Celebrity Gogglebox returns for a welcome new series tonight. We’ll be catching up with some old favourites, as the line-up includes the Dyers – Danny and Dani – Rylan and his mum Linda, Zoe Ball and son Woody, and good pals Fearne Cotton and Gok Wan. Thankfully for Stephen Mangan, who’s on with lookalike sister Anita (if you ignore the pink hair), The Fortune Hotel will be over by then, otherwise that could have been a bit cringe! Meanwhile, dancing brothers Ashley and Jordan Banjo will need to budge up, as their Diversity pal Perri Kiely joins them for a night on the sofa.MY SON JEFFREY: THE…2 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024Next issue...CORRIEBarlow at a low!EVEN STREET LEGENDS SOMETIMES NEED A BIT OF HELP…For over six decades, Ken Barlow has been walking the cobbles of Coronation Street and supping in the Rovers Return (just a half mind, nothing too crazy for our Ken!) But next week, could time be catching up with the Street’s Peter Pan as an incident sees his nearest and dearest rally around him? Proud Ken could find it difficult to accept the fact that the time may have come where he needs to ask for some help…EMMERDALEVin in the bin?It seems Vinny’s love life may be on the up next week! But while it’s understandably taken time to move on from Liv, just as things seem to be happening, a friend’s good intentions could end up backfiring terribly…EASTENDERSDaddy…1 min
Inside Soap UK|22-2024HITS & MISSES!BULLSEYE!This week’s Bullseye was spoilt for choice following a wedding bombshell, hideous sex scandal and a shocking hit-and-run – yet it was a young boy’s staunch defence of a spring lamb’s salvation that pipped the rest of soap to the post. Young Isaac’s total adoration for Minty – followed by Kim’s heartfelt search and rescue – was Emmerdale at its finest. Baaa–eautiful!It’s a bit of a risk inviting people to your wedding under the pretence of a pub lunch. What if they wake up and can’t be bothered? Or a decent guest pops up on Loose Women?Never mind upstaging the bride; Felix’s suit deserved a place in the EastEnders credits!Corrie Lesson Of The Week: Don’t get distinctive tattoos such as a dragon on the leg. It could save yer dignity!Imagine…2 min
