EastEnders fans disappointed with new-look Lucy Beale
EastEnders fans have reacted negatively to the news that a new actress will be taking up the role of Lucy Beale in the BBC1 soap.It was only announced yesterday that Hetti Bywater would be replacing Melissa Suffield in the role of Ian Beale's daughter Lucy on EastEnders, but soap fans have already made their feelings about the new girl on the block clear.Apparently fed up of EastEnders bosses replacing existing actors with new faces, some fans have expressed disappointment that Lucy is returning with a dramatic new look.'This is what they did with Ben and that turned out to be rubbish!' complained one fan on Twitter, referring to the switch in actors playing Phil Mitchell's son Ben.Another viewer tweeted: 'I hate it when they do this!! It's so confusing and it takes me ages to get used to the new person.'But while many complained that the change would not be believable, it was clear that Hetti had won over at least one EastEnders fan.One male Twitter user wrote: 'They've recast Lucy Beale and made her FIT #eastenders'.Lucy will be re-introduced to Albert Square when she turns up unannounced to Walford icon Pat Evans' funeral, which will take place next week.Bywater said of her new role: 'I'm really excited to be joining such an iconic show as EastEnders, especially becoming part of the Beale household.'I'm looking forward to finding out what's in store for Lucy and seeing what she's going to get up to when she returns to Walford.'
Parish loves festive soap rivalry
EastEnders star Diane Parish has revealed that she loves the competition between the soaps at Christmas.The actress, who plays Denise Fox in the BBC drama, described a dose of competitiveness during the festive period as "fun"."It wouldn't be any fun if there wasn't a competition, and it's great," she told BBC Breakfast.Diane's alter-ego gets embroiled in the ongoing storyline about Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) as she teams up with Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) to rescue abused Zainab Masood (Nina Wadia) in upcoming episodes."That's fantastic, because we get to move around the Square and be involved in all of the characters' different situations. The fact that Denise is a very good friend of Zainab's, that kicks her into another mode," she explained."It's usually Denise that's on the wrong side of the trouble! But this time, she sort of comes to the rescue a little bit with Zainab. And then by Christmas, she starts having her problems again!"The 42-year-old continued: "There's so many different textures to this show and so many different ways to be involved. And being involved in Christmas is very, very exciting. It's going to be a great one, actually."Diane hopes EastEnders will fare well in the Yuletide race: "I hope people do tune in. You'll be missing out if you don't! It's a fantastic couple of episodes we've got this Christmas, and the run-up to Christmas."
EastEnders: Mystic Mo Harris makes her 2012 predictions!
As part of their brilliant Advent Calendar series on the show’s official website, EastEnders bosses have teasingly – via Mystic Mo! – made a few predictions for what lies ahead in 2012…And Mystic Mo promises that all the events she predicts will in fact happen, but the tease comes in not knowing who they’re going to happen to!Played of course by Laila Morse – who is the big sister of Hollywood star Gary Oldman, and who appeared in Gary’s iconic Film, Nil by Mouth as Janet – Mo isn’t famed for her integrity, but let’s see what she predicts.Click ‘Read more’ to find out as well as my guesses for what the predictions might pertain to…Heartbreak happens for one mother hen when her-hen pecked hubby strays from the nest.Could this be Ricky’s affair with Mandy?? Sinister secrets that may mar her marriage are discovered by a worried wife.Blimey… that could be anyone!A protective patriarch puts himself in danger to save his offspring.Maybe this refers to Masood wading into the B&B fire to save Tam?The man in the moon will be left lonely when his lady makes a mercy mission.I would say the “man in the moon” has to refer to Alfie, while the “lady” must then be Kat. Brotherly love will be put to the test when one sibling commits a cardinal sin.The “brotherly love” prediction could be either the Branning brothers or the Moon brothers? A heart will be broken when a beautiful babe chooses her beau to be. Again, could be anyone, but maybe relates to Whitney or Lauren. A tall, dark stranger will turn one brassy broad’s life upside down. Not a Scooby what this might be about…
Nerves will be frayed when one man gets battered in a battle for his affections. Again, could be anyone. Lusty letters cause conflict for two rowing relatives. Could this apply to Rose Branning and her sister Dot? The former being the likely recipient of “lusty letters” that is! Fireworks fly for two likely lads leaving them in hot water with the big bad wolf. I would guess the Moon reference could also apply to Tyler and Anthony Moon – vis à vis a lupine reference – in the “big bad wolf” prediction.
Nerves will be frayed when one man gets battered in a battle for his affections. Again, could be anyone. Lusty letters cause conflict for two rowing relatives. Could this apply to Rose Branning and her sister Dot? The former being the likely recipient of “lusty letters” that is! Fireworks fly for two likely lads leaving them in hot water with the big bad wolf. I would guess the Moon reference could also apply to Tyler and Anthony Moon – vis à vis a lupine reference – in the “big bad wolf” prediction.
EastEnders star June Brown MBE to release her autobiography
It’s been reported today that EastEnders legend June Brown – who of course plays Dot Cotton – is to pen her autobiography next year.The book is expected to go on sale in 2013, and will be produced by publishing house Simon & Schuster.Carly Cook, a representative of the publishers, told Digital Spy, “June has undoubtedly lived a full and fascinating life.“She is one of the few national treasures left not to have done her autobiography. And she has more to say than most.“As big celebrity non-fiction prospects stand for 2013, June Brown’s story is a proper one, the life of someone who is hugely respected and much loved.“Although best known for her brilliant portrayal of Dot Branning, she is seen as an institution – an outstanding TV and stage actress whose appeal is far-reaching and ageless.”And as Ms Cook says, 84 year old June will certainly have a good tale to tell, which, were it a drama, would be typical of an EastEnders storyline…According to June’s Wiki page, she’s had more than her fair share of sadness – just as her character Dot has – in that two of her siblings died while young, and her husband, John Garley, committed suicide in 1957.June later married actor Robert Arnold, who starred in iconic police drama Dixon of Dock Green.The couple had six children, but June’s second daughter was born prematurely at 28 weeks, and tragically died after 16 days.June and Robert were together for forty-five years, parting only when he died in 2003 of Lewy Body dementia.With regard to her career, it’s been an illustrious one, boasting appearances in not only EastEnders of course, but also Doctor Who, Corrie, The Bill and The Sweeney, to name but a few.
Eastenders with an ethos of high achievement
ONE school that does not appear in The Herald's league table of the top 50 in Scotland is St Andrew's Secondary in Glasgow's east end.The school serves around 1600 pupils from a wide catchment area that includes Barlanark, Carntyne, Cranhill, Easterhouse, Greenfield, Parkhead, Ruchazie and Shettleston.According to the latest figures, a quarter of the school's pupils are on free school meals, but it outperforms many similar schools in Scotland. This year, 7% of its pupils achieved five or more Highers, while 21% secured three or more. Schools deemed to be its closest comparators in terms of deprivation have an average of 1% getting five or more Highers, with just 8% getting three or more.New headteacher Gerry Lyons, who took over the running of the school just a few months ago, is quick to pay tribute to his predecessor Bruce Malone. "The school punches above its weight and has consistently done so under the headship of Bruce Malone, who has just retired," he said."At the heart of the school's high level of achievement is the very strong ethos in every classroom and every corridor that we have the highest possible expectation for every young person here. "We don't settle for second best for them."This is about the staff going above and beyond what you would expect, with every teacher and support worker knowing we need to go above and beyond."Mr Lyons said two key elements of exam success were an extensive study support programme for S4 and S5 pupils running on most evenings throughout the year, and close pupil tracking."Some teachers target certain topics or certain young people who are in most need of the study support, while others will give support to all pupils, but every subject department takes part," he said.
David Jason: EastEnders needs a Del Boy
Veteran actor David Jason has hit out at EastEnders, branding it 'dreary' - and urged producers to introduce a Del Boy style character to cheer things up a bit.Speaking to the Sunday Mirror David - who returns to screens soon in
The Royal Bodyguard, his first new sitcom for over 20 years - said that the show could do with some genuine comedy performers, and that the real East End was more light hearted than Albert Square."I'd like to do something there to cheer it up," he said. "In times of recession lives are a bit dreary so they don't want EastEnders where they keep slitting each other's throats."What intrigues me is that there are funny people in the real East End. It's famous for it."There'd be blokes dressing up as women as a lark, but EastEnders seems blind to the fact that they enjoy a laugh," David added. "There should be a cheery chappie on there."
The Royal Bodyguard, his first new sitcom for over 20 years - said that the show could do with some genuine comedy performers, and that the real East End was more light hearted than Albert Square."I'd like to do something there to cheer it up," he said. "In times of recession lives are a bit dreary so they don't want EastEnders where they keep slitting each other's throats."What intrigues me is that there are funny people in the real East End. It's famous for it."There'd be blokes dressing up as women as a lark, but EastEnders seems blind to the fact that they enjoy a laugh," David added. "There should be a cheery chappie on there."
Nitin Ganatra 'excited' by EastEnders fire stunts
EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has said he was like an excited child when it came to filming stunt scenes for the soap's Christmas special. The actor, who plays Masood Ahmed, will play a major part in this year's seasonal storylines as he has a dangerous confrontation with wife Zainab's villainous ex Yusef.And although plot details remain top secret, fire is set to sweep through the bed and breakfast on Boxing Day - scenes in which Nitin was
involved."I was walking through it and standing in it! I was like a little kid - I got really excited," he told Inside Soap magazine."There were certain points where they'd bring in a stuntman. But most of the time we did it on our won, which was great."However Nitin admitted that there were moments when the filming became a little scary."There were some quite dangerous scenes that we filmed," he revealed. "Before we started I was like 'Oh it'll be fine', but once I was in the thick of things, I thought 'Hmmm it's really hot in here'."
involved."I was walking through it and standing in it! I was like a little kid - I got really excited," he told Inside Soap magazine."There were certain points where they'd bring in a stuntman. But most of the time we did it on our won, which was great."However Nitin admitted that there were moments when the filming became a little scary."There were some quite dangerous scenes that we filmed," he revealed. "Before we started I was like 'Oh it'll be fine', but once I was in the thick of things, I thought 'Hmmm it's really hot in here'."
EastEnders: Drug taking Mandy puts Bianca and Ricky's marriage at risk
Banged up for attacking bad boy Connor and off screen for the best part of a year, there’s no mistaking Bianca Butcher’s dulcet tones when her husband returns from Dubai and visits her in prison on Thursday.“Rickaaay!” she shrieks across the visiting room. “Look at your tan! It’s like Peter Andre. If I wasn’t in this goldfish bowl, I’d jump over there and give yer a right old snog. You look well fit.”After being on maternity leave, this is the superb Patsy Palmer’s return to Enders, albeit for only two explosive scenes as she’s reunited with Ricky – still played by Sid Owen – who’s spent five months working abroad. But instead of making his fortune, he was arrested for “indecency”, sacked, fined and deported.With Fat Pat in danger of having the house repossessed and the family needing money for Christmas, Ricky feels like a failure. And his “hot-headed nutter” of a gobby wife isn’t too impressed either.“I hate you!” she yells. “And d’yer know what? The new Ricky Butcher is just as much of a muppet as the old one! An’ I wanna divorce!” At least he gets some comfort from his old flame Mandy. And in scenes that will undoubtedly be controversial, the pair of them take drugs and have a rave in a potting shed on the allotments. Unfortunately, Ricky’s taken ill and rushed to hospital.“A larf?” he snaps at Mandy. “You nearly killed me. An’ some stuck-up nurse thinks I’m Britain’s oldest raver.”But returning to the shed later and kissing, it’s not plants they end up bedding. Uh-oh.
EastEnders: Cry for help
Beale The Squeal might hold the record for the shortest marriage in Soapland – two minutes and 32 seconds to Mel – but Zainab is going to come a close second.For on Friday, exactly a week after becoming Dr Death Yusef’s wife, Zainab realises that she has “made a terrible mistake”. And how does she find this out? Well, first off she has an undignified slanging match with ex-husband Masood and his new girlfriend Jane in the street after Yusef reveals they are leaving for Pakistan in two weeks and taking son Kamil with them.Brutally dragging Zainab home, a furious Yusef then shows he’s an abusive control freak by knocking her to floor as this story becomes darker and more sinister by the week.“You made me hit you,” evil Yusef tells his trembling wife. “If you raise your hand to me again, Zainab, I will take Kamil and I will get rid of him myself.”She may decide to run away, but how far will she get?
EastEnders Pat to have final fling
EastEnders Pat Evans is reportedly set to have a final fling before she leaves Albert Square forever.The four-times-married widow is set to die of a heart attack on Christmas Day as actress Pam St Clement bows out of the soap after 25 years.But Pat is set to rekindle her romance with Patrick Trueman just before she dies, according to The Sun, and share a Christmas kiss with him under her mistletoe.Pat and Patrick (Rudolph Walker) have had an affair before, when she worked for him and the car lot.Patrick will reportedly help Pat out with her money problems in the run up to Christmas, and they will celebrate the festive season together.Pat's funeral scenes have already been filmed and saw the return of actor Michael French and Nick Berry, who played her sons David and Simon Wicks.Soap bosses have promised a moving send-off for the Albert Square legend.
Eastenders December 12 - 16
Shirley's stalker search has a shock outcome in Eastenders this week when a discovery in Heather's handbag leads Shirley to believe Heather is the culprit.Shirley accuses her of sending the letters to Phil but Heather doesn't know what Shirley is talking about. Jack and Andrew get involved when they hear Shirley shouting at Heather. Roxy then points out that Jack was watching Shirley accuse Heather and "lapping it up". Phil decides Jack must be guilty after all and makes a phone call, watch out Jack!.Meanwhile at the Brannings Max is trying to get ready for Christmas but an ill looking Tanya worries that this will be her last?Meanwhile, there's a positive atmosphere at Pat's house as Ricky is due to arrive home. Pat is close to losing her house after defaulting on her loan payments, so she hopes Ricky's bonus money will be enough to salvage the situation - but Pat can instantly see from the look on Ricky's face that he is not going to be able to get them out of trouble. . Ricky realises that he'll have to tell Bianca what has happened, so he goes to visit her in prison. Bianca is pleased to see him but she's soon furious when Ricky explains that he has come home with less money than he went away with. As the pair argue, Bianca tells Ricky that she hates him and wants him to leave.Later, Ricky spends the afternoon reminiscing with Mandy, will Ricky be able
to resist temptation?Elsewhere Yusef steps up his control of Zainab and confiscates her mobile phone, when he suggests giving Kamil to Masood Zainab is stunned but when Yusef points out that Kamil will only ever be an outcast to him, Zainab loses her temper and slaps him. Yusef retaliates and slaps her back. Later, as Zainab looks at her marked face shie makes the decision to run away but will Zainab get free from Yusef?
to resist temptation?Elsewhere Yusef steps up his control of Zainab and confiscates her mobile phone, when he suggests giving Kamil to Masood Zainab is stunned but when Yusef points out that Kamil will only ever be an outcast to him, Zainab loses her temper and slaps him. Yusef retaliates and slaps her back. Later, as Zainab looks at her marked face shie makes the decision to run away but will Zainab get free from Yusef?
EastEnders: Denise Fox gets a shocking present on Christmas Day, and my new
stalker theory!
News from Walford way today includes the revelation that on Christmas Day, Denise Fox (Diane Parish) will receive a shocking gift from an unknown source…And after I’ve told you about that, I’ll tell you who I now suspect may be Phil’s stalker!But first, on Christmas morning, Denise finds a gift under her tree, and when she opens it, she’s puzzled to find that it’s a USB stick.Intrigued as to what’s on it, Denise and her sister Kim (Tameka Empson) hurriedly boot up the computer, and listen in horrified silence as Phil Mitchell’s (Steve McFadden) voice booms out, confessing to having sold Kevin Wicks (Phil Daniels) the car that he died in following a crash.Denise and Kevin were of course living together at the time of his death, and she was left devastated at her loss.Click ‘Read more’ for a reminder of the moment Kevin died, with Phil’s girlfriend Shirley (Linda Henry) at his side…
EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra praises “spectacular” B&B blaze scenes, and Pat Evans’ last kiss
EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has told Inside Soap that the forthcoming scenes in which a fire decimates the B&B – and kills at least one person – are “spectacular”.As fans of the show will know, Doctor Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) will die in the inferno, while Tamwar Masood (Himesh Patel) is to be left horribly disfigured by burns.It’s also expected that Masood – who is of course Nitin’s character – and Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) will be injured in the fire, which is started deliberately.Nitin said of the fire scenes, “It was really exciting to do. There’s a lot of action and it’s spectacular…“It takes place on Boxing Day and there are lots of twists and turns. What happens next is amazing.“I was walking through [the fire] and standing in it! I was like a little kid – I got really excited.“There were certain points where they’d bring in a stuntman. But most of the time we did it on our own, which was great.”And of course another yuletide tragedy in waiting is the death of Pat Evans (Pam St Clement) but as this picture shows, during her last days, she finds comfort in the warmth of Patrick Trueman’ friendship, and it’s with him that Pat has her last kiss under the mistletoe.The Sun reports that Pat and Patrick grow close once again – they used to be
an item – when she confides her financial worries to him, and he tries to sort them out for her.But of course, Pat’s days are numbered, and the cast have already filmed her funeral, which is said to be “incredibly sad.”A show insider told the paper, “Pat and Patrick become close over the festivities but before anything can really happen between them it is too late.”
an item – when she confides her financial worries to him, and he tries to sort them out for her.But of course, Pat’s days are numbered, and the cast have already filmed her funeral, which is said to be “incredibly sad.”A show insider told the paper, “Pat and Patrick become close over the festivities but before anything can really happen between them it is too late.”
'EastEnders' star teases Kim, Denise Christmas shock
EastEnders star Tameka Empson has revealed that the Fox sisters will stand up to Phil Mitchell after they receive incriminating evidence against him on Christmas Day.Kim and Denise (Diane Parish) are left stunned over the festive season when they are sent a USB stick which contains a recording of Phil confessing to his role in the death of Kevin Wicks.The USB stick is placed in a mysterious package which ends up under Denise's Christmas tree - seemingly the latest stunt pulled by Phil's stalker.Empson, who plays Kim, told Inside Soap: "When all the information about Kevin Wicks and Phil blows up, it comes out of nowhere for the Fox girls. Kevin's death was way before Kim's time, so she's bewildered by the whole thing. They wonder why someone would tell them about such a thing on Christmas Day."However, she continued: "Kim knows no fear. It might be Phil, but she's not afraid to take him on. The Mitchells think that they're the big guns in the Square - but as far as Kim's concerned, the Fox family are the same."They might not have the same numbers as the Mitchells, but they won't shy away from a fight."Empson added that she gets on much better with Steve McFadden, who plays Phil, once the cameras stop rolling."He's such a great actor because he's not like his character Phil at all," she said. "He's so lovely."
EastEnders airs Denise's shock over Kevin on December 25 at 9pm on BBC One.
EastEnders airs Denise's shock over Kevin on December 25 at 9pm on BBC One.
'EastEnders' fire scenes are spectacular, says Nitin Ganatra
EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has praised the soap's B&B fire storyline, promising that there are shocks ahead in "spectacular" scenes. EastEnders fans will see the building set ablaze this Boxing Day as the show brings its Yusef Khan storyline to an explosive climax.Yusef(Ace Bhatti) has ripped the Masood family apart in recent months as he has tried to win back his ex-wife Zainab (Nina Wadia). The upcoming fire is expected to tie in with the evil doctor's ongoing revenge scheme.Ganatra, who plays Masood Ahmed, told Inside Soap of the fire plot: "It was really exciting to do. There's a lot of action and it's spectacular. It takes place on Boxing Day and there are lots of twists and turns. What happens next is amazing."Discussing the filming of the episode, he continued: "I was walking through [the fire] and standing in it! I was like a little kid - I got really excited. There were certain points where they'd bring in a stuntman. But most of the time we did it on our own, which was great."Ganatra added that he is thrilled to see the Masood family at the centre of EastEnders' big Christmas storyline."I feel honoured and excited," he explained. "We got such great feedback from the New Year's Day episode we did withZainab finding out about Syed and Christian, and people still talk to us about that. "So to be told we were headlining Christmashad a real effect on us. We want to do the best we possibly can."
EastEnders continues tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One
EastEnders continues tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One
Ex-EastEnders Hannah Waterman looks great at a post-baby size eight
HANNAH Waterman shows off her size eight figure — just months after having a baby. The former EastEnders star, 36, gave birth to son Jack in June and has worked hard at slimming down. Hannah fell pregnant with new love Huw Higginson, 47, in April after splitting from her husband — ex-Albert Square star Ricky Groves — following three years of marriage in January 2010. She said: "I want to say, loud and clear, it is not easy losing weight after
you've had a baby! All those celebs who say they lost weight 'running around
after their kids' – it's a lie!"Hannah got together with former The Bill actor Huw in June last year after a friendship of ten years and the pregnancy took them both by surprise. 'Too thin' ... Hannah Waterman's 2009 DVD"We knew we wanted a baby, we just didn't expect it to happen so quickly," she said at the time.Her pregnancy was not without difficulties though. At 24 weeks Hannah was rushed to hospital in Sydney, Australia, and was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.The condition now means that she has to inject insulin five times a day or
her body shuts down and she could fall into a coma. Speaking about her weight-loss, the actress has admitted that she was too thin when she released her fitness DVD in 2009 when she was a tiny size six."I weigh 8st 7lbs now and I'm a size 8, but I'd still like to lose another half a stone. I know 8st is my ideal weight. I was 7st when I did my DVD, but I felt too skinny." Closer magazine ... out now She added: "I'm still body-conscious, but I'm proud of what I've achieved."
her body shuts down and she could fall into a coma. Speaking about her weight-loss, the actress has admitted that she was too thin when she released her fitness DVD in 2009 when she was a tiny size six."I weigh 8st 7lbs now and I'm a size 8, but I'd still like to lose another half a stone. I know 8st is my ideal weight. I was 7st when I did my DVD, but I felt too skinny." Closer magazine ... out now She added: "I'm still body-conscious, but I'm proud of what I've achieved."
EastEnders saves the life of a mother of two after car crashes into her
home
Soap fan Lucie Flowers has claimed she owes her life to EastEnders after a car smashed into her Caerphilly home.Lucie Flowers heard the soap’s theme tune and rushed downstairs to watch.Moments later, a Renault Mégane ploughed into her home in Caerphilly, South Wales – ripping down her bedroom and the rest of her two-storey extension.Miss Flowers was with her sons Michael, 16, and Liam ,11 when the incident occurred.'We heard a big bang and then a rumble, and I thought it was an earthquake as the whole house shook,' the mother told Wales Online.'My son screamed that the roof was falling in and my first thought was the ceiling had collapsed.'We could see the woman in the road through where the house used to be, I grabbed the boys and went outside. There were people everywhere.‘If it wasn’t for EastEnders, I’d have been in that room,’ the 38-year-old said.One female pedestrian suffered minor injuries when she was struck by the car. Two people in the car were also treated for knocks.
'EastEnders': Bianca and Ricky's huge argument - Spoiler Pictures
EastEnders favourites Ricky and Bianca Butcher come face-to-face for the first time in months next week - but soon end up in an explosive argument. When Ricky (Sid Owen) returns home from Dubai, Pat (Pam St Clement) and the rest of the family believe that it couldn't come at a better time as they're about to lose the house and need his financial help.However, Ricky soon drops a bombshell on his loved ones as he reveals that he lost all of his money while working abroad and has now returned with less than he went away with.Feeling like a failure, Ricky realises that he'll have to tell Bianca the truth, so he heads out to visit her at the prison.Bianca (Patsy Palmer) is thrilled to see Ricky, but her joy soon turns to horror as she hears about Pat's financial mess and the trouble her husband got in while he was away.As Bianca rants at Ricky over his carelessness, he fires back by reminding her of the turmoil she has caused for the family by landing herself in prison.Furious over Ricky's words, Bianca screams that she hates him and orders him to leave. Can the couple get back on track or are they on the rocks?
EastEnders airs these scenes on Thursday, December 15 at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders airs these scenes on Thursday, December 15 at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders: Phil Mitchell's mystery stalker to be revealed at Christmas
Phil – who has been portrayed by Steve McFadden since 1990 – looks likely to be left in the dark at Christmas about who has been sending him cryptic messages in the post, but viewers will find out who the culprit is.A source told Inside Soap magazine: 'Fans will finally discover who's been harassing Phil for all this time. That's not to say that Phil himself learns the terrible truth though. The situation may well rumble on into the new year.'But things are set to get even worse for Phil over the festive period when the mystery person sends Denise Fox – who is played by Diane Parish – a memory stick that contains a recording of the businessman claiming he was responsible for killing her husband Kevin Wicks (Phil Daniels).The insider added: 'Obviously poor Denise is in complete shock. So she goes out into the square and smashes up Phil's motor. He's livid when he sees the damage and demands to know who put her up to it.'A number of characters are under suspicion to be the mystery stalker including Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd), Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) and Jack Branning (Scott Maslen), while Denise and Ben Mitchell (Joshua Pascoe) have recently been added as suspects.
Britons 'spend year watching soaps'
The average Briton spends almost a year of their life watching soap operas, a survey showed.Nearly 33.9 million people said they watch at least one soap episode a week and on average people spend 143 minutes catching up with their favourite shows, according to the Dalepak research.That equates to 336 days spent in front of the TV over the course of an average lifetime.The survey also asked people about their favourite villains, families and soap storylines.Coronation Street serial killer Richard Hillman (16%) was voted top soap villain ahead of EastEnders' Dirty Den (15%) and Nick Cotton (13%).Coronation Street's the Duckworths were voted the best soap family with 22% of the vote, followed by the EastEnders Mitchell clan.The best plot ever was won by EastEnders with its 2001 Phil Mitchell murder mystery storyline, which landed 15% of the vote.Anne Claypole, marketing manager for Dalepak, said: "We Brits love nothing more than to watch our favourite soaps, they are part of our cultural make-up and we love them because of that."However, it is extraordinary to think that on average we spend a year of our lives sat in front of the television watching our favourite soaps."The survey was of 2,000 adults nationwide and was conducted online in September by OnePoll
'EastEnders': Masood is shocked by Zainab's plans
EastEnders' Masood Ahmed receives a shock in Thursday night's episode as he learns that Zainab and Yusef are planning to move to Pakistan.Although Zainab (Nina Wadia) lets her ex-partner know that she is about to marry Yusef (Ace Bhatti), she neglects to mention their plans to leave the country - so Masood only hears what's going on when Denise mentions it.Masood (Nitin Ganatra) is stunned by the news and immediately tells Denise (Diane Parish) that he doesn't want Zainab to take Kamil away.Meanwhile, Zainab and Yusef's family are concerned over their plans to tie the knot that day. Will the wedding go ahead?
EastEnders airs these scenes on Thursday night at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders airs these scenes on Thursday night at 7.30pm on BBC One.
David Cameron reveals he is EastEnders and Spooks fan
He may have the most important job in the country, but it seems that when it comes to TV, David Cameron has slightly less serious tastes, citing Ab Fab, EastEnders and Modern Family as being his top TV picks.The PM spoke to the Radio Times about his favourite TV programmes and revealed - perhaps surprisingly - that he preferred EastEnders to The Archers and Coronation Street, admitting: 'But I'm of the Dirty Den generation'.Cameron added that he preferred Ab Fab to Outnumbered and Frozen Planet to Top Gear, but said his TV turn-offs were ' Alan Sugar for adults. SpongeBob Squarepants for children.'He also spoke about his ideal Christmas viewing, saying: 'We always check out what's on TV...watching James Bond on Christmas Day was a ritual when I was small and it's beginning to become one for my children too.'And yes, the television's on at three on the dot for the Queen's speech.'I'd have a Spooks reunion episode with all the old characters back from the dead: Adam Carter, Ros Myers, Ruth Evershed.'Then one of those great costume dramas like Jane Eyre or Bleak House, then a film - Goldfinger or The Sound of Music, which I still love watching.'Asked what Christmas is like in the Cameron household, he added: 'We take Christmas very seriously in our house, especially the decoration of the tree.'Sam won't let me anywhere near it - in fact one year she made me remove the lights I'd strung up and start again.'
'EastEnders' B&B fire: First look
It's no secret that EastEnders will bring its Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) storyline to a climax with a fire at the B&B this Christmas - and the BBC has now offered a sneak peek at the blaze.
EastEnders star Patsy Palmer tells of her agony over lost baby
EASTENDERS star Patsy Palmer has revealed how she almost slumped into depression after a recent miscarriage.The actress, 39, who returns as Bianca Butcher this month, got pregnant just months after giving birth to her fourth child Bertie.She discovered she had lost the baby after a nine-week scan in October, shortly before filming her TV comeback.Patsy tells Hello! magazine: “It shook us all. We’d got used to the idea of having another one in the family.”Her mum was first to spot the signs of her depression. “She said the light had gone out of my eyes,” says Patsy."I told myself to be grateful for what I’ve got – four amazing children. I know how lucky I am. My family are the light of my life.”She also reveals she and husband Richard Merkell are to renew their wedding vows next August.
- Full interview in the latest edition of Hello! out now.
- Full interview in the latest edition of Hello! out now.
EastEnders new bad boy Derek - the long-lost villainous brother
There’s been a shock addition to the cast of characters in EastEnders.A “rough diamond”, with a reputation for being a bit handy with his, er, hands, but a ladies’ man as well despite being a thug (and a racist) – but he loves his family, so that’s alright.He’s the sort of bloke who has a lock-up full of “moody” merchandise, always wears a suit – even indoors – and never takes his shoes off at home.Derek his name is, Derek Branning, and, honestly, he’s not at all like Dirty Den, Johnny Allen, Steve Owen, Jack, Max or Whispering David Essex.Derek is the latest in a long line of characters here to save the series.There’s nothing EastEnders likes more than a long-lost relative that no one has ever mentioned before – even their own family (especially their own family).The fact that neither Jack or Max visited their bruvver in prison has not stopped him being welcomed back into the bosom of the Branning family.Derek is thoroughly unpleasant: a pig’s head in Brylcreem. He looks so much like one of the Krays he’s practically walking round with a cardboard cut out of Mad Frankie Fraser.
“I’ve never seen any man frighten you,” Roxy told Pat – and admittedly it is usually the other way round.“There is a REASON Derek was banged up!” Michael Moon reminded Jack – without actually telling us what that reason was.Obviously, Derek’s arrival has, like so many hard men before him, necessitated having a war with the Mitchells.Jack, for instance, has taken his baby Amy off her muvver Roxy.“You know the rules,” Carol said. “There’s an exclusion zone” – yeah, like the Falklands.The feud has given Phil the chance to reprise his glory days and do what he does best – smash up cardboard scenery with a baseball bat. Phil has been receiving anonymous letters issuing menacing threats such as: WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN – possibly from Denise and Zainab’s book club pressurising him to read Lionel Shriver’s 2003 best-seller.No wonder Phil, who believes reading is for wimps, is cracking up. He’s started hearing voices and it surely won’t be long before he’s back on the crack.Still, at least we know where we are with characters/caricatures like Phil and Derek.The way the scriptwriters have asked us to accept that Zainab has become a drug-addled divorcee planning to elope to Pakistan with Yusef, the man whose mere presence terrified her only months ago, is ridiculous even by their standards.This week, they even suggested that she and the evil doctor were hip-hop heads, brought together by Grandmaster Flash. (No, seriously).So Zainab and Masood – Walford’s steadiest, most convincing couple – are finally over.“Does that even make any sense?” he asked. “Did anything with us?” Zainab wondered. Not really.This week saw a number of characters telling a number of other characters what we viewers had all been thinking for several weeks.Lauren told Rainie she was “weird”, while Abbey not unreasonably dismissed Billy’s bonkers suggestion that she pass herself off as Lola to Lola’s new social worker as “well weird”.As for the perennially irritating Alfie Moon, Janine interrupted his interminable babbling, begging him: “Can you just PLEASE turn down the Alfie factor? I’m just so not in the mood.”Of course, the fact the writers seem to see how awful the characters are doesn’t mean they’ll get any better.Derek the Menace has got his work cut out.
“I’ve never seen any man frighten you,” Roxy told Pat – and admittedly it is usually the other way round.“There is a REASON Derek was banged up!” Michael Moon reminded Jack – without actually telling us what that reason was.Obviously, Derek’s arrival has, like so many hard men before him, necessitated having a war with the Mitchells.Jack, for instance, has taken his baby Amy off her muvver Roxy.“You know the rules,” Carol said. “There’s an exclusion zone” – yeah, like the Falklands.The feud has given Phil the chance to reprise his glory days and do what he does best – smash up cardboard scenery with a baseball bat. Phil has been receiving anonymous letters issuing menacing threats such as: WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN – possibly from Denise and Zainab’s book club pressurising him to read Lionel Shriver’s 2003 best-seller.No wonder Phil, who believes reading is for wimps, is cracking up. He’s started hearing voices and it surely won’t be long before he’s back on the crack.Still, at least we know where we are with characters/caricatures like Phil and Derek.The way the scriptwriters have asked us to accept that Zainab has become a drug-addled divorcee planning to elope to Pakistan with Yusef, the man whose mere presence terrified her only months ago, is ridiculous even by their standards.This week, they even suggested that she and the evil doctor were hip-hop heads, brought together by Grandmaster Flash. (No, seriously).So Zainab and Masood – Walford’s steadiest, most convincing couple – are finally over.“Does that even make any sense?” he asked. “Did anything with us?” Zainab wondered. Not really.This week saw a number of characters telling a number of other characters what we viewers had all been thinking for several weeks.Lauren told Rainie she was “weird”, while Abbey not unreasonably dismissed Billy’s bonkers suggestion that she pass herself off as Lola to Lola’s new social worker as “well weird”.As for the perennially irritating Alfie Moon, Janine interrupted his interminable babbling, begging him: “Can you just PLEASE turn down the Alfie factor? I’m just so not in the mood.”Of course, the fact the writers seem to see how awful the characters are doesn’t mean they’ll get any better.Derek the Menace has got his work cut out.
Tony Discipline: I ran my own fish stall before EastEnders and I still smell of fish!
Tony is having a great time playing lloveable Tyler MoonBefore he got his big break on EastEnders as Tyler Moon, Tony Discipline, 22, knew his stuff about seafood.'I was a porter at Billingsgate Fish Market in London from 11pm 'til 11am,' he tells us. 'It was hard, but I loved it. 'I worked with Joey Essex - he's a great bloke. 'After that I started my own fish stall. 'I worked as an extra to make a bit of money and fell in love with it, so I decided to try my luck at being an actor. 'I still smell of fish, though!'Read the full interview with Tony Discipline and see our amazing EastEnders photo shoot in Now magazine dated 5 December 2011 - out now!
Ice queens: Soap rivals Kym Marsh, Charlie Brooks and Natalie Anderson come
together for Christmas photoshoot
They're known for their fiery tempers in their on-screen roles in EastEnders, Emmerdale and Coronation Street.So its quite a surprise to see Charlie Brooks, Natalie Anderson and Kym Marsh cooling things down to play ice queens in a new photoshoot.But it appears when it comes to Christmas, the three women have put the rivalry we're used to seeing at the Soap Awards to one side for the festive shoot with Hello! magazine.Mother-of-three Marsh,who plays feisty widow Michelle Connor, shows off her post-baby figure in a strapless white number, while EastEnders bad girl Brooks - who plays Janine Butcher - glitters in a blue floor-length number. And finally, relative soap newcomer Anderson, who plays brassy barmaid Alicia Gallagher in Emmerdale, wears an icy mermaid-style gown.Draped in couture, the three women look a world away from their soap personas as they pose to launch Hello! magazine's first ever Christmas TV and Entertainment guide.Former Hear'say singer Marsh admits she is looking forward to an extra special Christmas with her eight-month-old daughter Polly.Last year, she feared she may spend Christmas on hospital after being ordered by doctors to remain in bed during her pregnancy.She tells Hello!: 'There was a question over whether they would even let me out on Christmas Day.'(This year) there will be tinsel, baubles, and everything imaginable - not that she will have a clue what’s going on.'But there will be sadness that Marsh and fiancé Jamie Lomas's son Archie won't be with them, after he died momentsafter his birth in February 2009.She said: 'We are always thinking about him and particularly at Christmas time, his birthday and when all the family is together. He is always with me....my little boy.'This year, mother-of-one Brooks, 30, will be taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.She enthused: 'I’ve watched some of my EastEnders’ cast mates do Strictly and I just think it’s such an amazing opportunity to learn the dances from the professionals. I’ve always looked quite longingly at the show.'And 30-year-old Anderson, who joined Emmerdale in August 2010. is keeping her fingers crossed for another white Christmas.She said: 'I was beside myself last year as it was a white Christmas in Leeds. Oh my God, it was PERFECT! I love love love Christmas. For me it starts as soon as bonfirenight is over. The tree always goes up in my house on December 1st.'
Eastenders star Patsy Palmer on miscarriage trauma
EastEnders star Patsy Palmer has revealed she recently suffered a miscarriage but her family helped her pull through the trauma.The actress - who returns to Walford as Bianca Butcher this month - became pregnant just months after giving birth to her fourth child.She told the new edition of Hello! that the whole family was shaken by the loss, which was revealed as she went for a scan and shortly before she filmed her comeback.“It was a shock to be pregnant so soon after having our baby Bertie. At first I was excited but, deep down, I felt fearful that I wasn’t physically strong enough,” she said.“Then, at my nine-week scan in October, they told me I’d lost the baby. We don’t know why. But it shook us all.“We’d got used to the idea of having another one in the family. I even joked that I’d be like the old woman in the shoe who had so many children she didn’t know what to do. It was especially sad for the kids.”She managed to cope with the loss with the aid of those around her, but she did fear that she was slumping into depression.“My mum recognised the symptoms. She said the light had gone out of my eyes,” Palmer said.“I’ve suffered with depression before. I told myself to be brave and to be grateful for what I’ve got - four amazing children. I know how lucky I am. My family are the light of my life.”She and her family are about to celebrate the first birthday of fourth child Bertie - who was born seven weeks prematurely - this month. The tot was in hospital for several weeks following his birth.“Bertie has brought so much joy to the family. We’re all looking forward to celebrating his first Christmas at home,” she said.Palmer also told the magazine that she and husband Richard Merkell are to renew their marriage vows. They married with a modest ceremony in August 2000.“I believe in marriage and everything it stands for but looking back I believe we should have thought about our vows a bit more,”She tells this week’s issue of Hello! magazine. “Rich and I are soul-mates and it feels so right for us to take our vows again.”Returning to working with a child less than a year old has been tough, she said.“He’s my little mate so it’s been a bit of a wrench. This whole working mum
thing really scrambles my brain,” Palmer said.“I totally understand how other mums struggle with this. In the end you feel guilty whatever you do.”The full interview is in the latest edition of Hello! which is out now.
thing really scrambles my brain,” Palmer said.“I totally understand how other mums struggle with this. In the end you feel guilty whatever you do.”The full interview is in the latest edition of Hello! which is out now.
EASTENDERS: TIPSY LAUREN A PECKS MANIAC
SEX kitten Lauren Branning kisses Tyler Moon under the mistletoe – as her best friend, his former flame Whitney Dean, looks away in disgust.Randy Lauren, who has gone off the rails following her mum Tanya Jessop’s cancer diagnosis, tries to scam drinks out of Tyler and his brother Anthony.But Tyler quickly realises what she’s up to and has no problem telling her to buy her own drinks.To his surprise she counters by telling him that by refusing to buy her a drink he’s won a prize – a kiss under the mistletoe.And, as our picture shows, he’s more than happy to accept his “winnings” and the pair enjoy this sizzling smooch.An EastEnders insider said: “Whitney’s relationship with Tyler never really got started. He pursued her and even though she really liked him she couldn’t take things any further with him. “But seeing Lauren kissing him stirs up some old feelings for Whitney and she is quite jealous of their kiss.“Lauren is completely out of control at the moment. She’s not coming to terms with everything her mum is going through and is hitting the bottle."She is desperate to take her mind off it all and is turning to drink and also to boys.“Tyler just happens to be in the right place at the right time. He’s not complaining as Lauren is a good-looking girl but his brother and Whitney don’t see the funny side at all.”An EastEnders insider said "Lauren is completely out of control at the moment. She’s not coming to terms with everything her mum is going through and is hitting the bottle"
EastEnders spoilers from December 5
YUSEF must have been taking lessons from Derren Brown, because he’s a master in mind manipulation. He finally admits to Zainab that he started the fire that nearly killed her when they were married, yet her response is to agree to become his wife again. Eh?He persuades her that everything that happened in the past is her fault and she should be grateful that he’s willing to put up with her.She agrees to marry him the next day and the Imam comes to the house for the simple ceremony. But just as it starts, Denise turns up and tries to talk Zainab out of it.Phil suspects Lola of being his mystery stalker and shakes her so hard that she falls and hits her head, putting her baby at risk.But social services won’t be happy when her grandfather Billy is arrested for handling Phil’s stolen goods.
New romance for Lola and Fat Boy?
EastEnders star Danielle Harold thinks her character Lola Pearce could find love with Arthur "Fatboy" Chubb.The teen star told Inside Soap she gets on well with Ricky Norwood, who plays Fatboy and would love to work with him more. She added he could be the best potential love interest for Lola in Albert Square.Danielle said: "That's a very hard question because Lola's not one for relationships."I know Fatboy is a bit old for Lola, but they both have similar attitudes, as they're really streetwise. I actually think they'd bounce off each other quite well if they did get together."But the soap star insists she is nothing like the scruffy, moody teen she plays on screen, and would like to give Lola a makeover.She said: "I'd take her to a beauty salon to get her hair done and sort out her roots."I'd love to do that for myself, because I have to grow them out for Lola."Danielle revealed: "Sometimes the make-up team have to paint my roots in if they're not clear enough, but it is much easier for everyone if I just leave them to grow out. I'm pretty much Lola all the time as a result of that!"
SPOILER ALERT: Bianca's back! EastEnders' most famous redhead returns to Albert Square after jail stint...but what's happened to her eye?
Christmas Day in Walford isn't normally the happiest of days, but one EastEnders family will be excited about
it.The family of Bianca Butcher have been miserable since she was sent to prison earlier this year, but they're set
to be reunited with her a few days before the festive date.In an episode set to be screened on December 22, viewers will see the mother-of-four arrive back in Albert Square - but she doesn't look her usual self as she's sporting a dodgy black eye.The family are getting in the Christmas spirit at a festive concert, when the redhead - played by Patsy Palmer - makes a surprise return.Her stepdaughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) - who has found Bianca's absence particularly difficult - is feeling quite upset and as a result forgets her lines whilst singing.But just at the moment, Bianca stops the festivities and greets her family. At first they're over the moon to see her with her mother Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson) and her grandmother Pat Evans (Pam St Clement) watching as she embraces her son, Liam.But their joy soon turns to shock when they see a painful looking bruise on Bianca's left eye.The scatty character obviously has a lot of explaining to do, but before that she enjoys a lingering kiss with her husband, Ricky - who is played by Sid Owen. And it seems that the happy reunion won't last for long as on Christmas Day, Walford are set to lose a legendary resident in the form of Bianca's grandmother, Pat.The fiery female is going to say her goodbyes after learning that she has a cancer and then suffering from a fatal heart attack.But this isn't the only drama that Bianca will face in the coming months as in the New Year, the father of her youngest child, Morgan , will arrive in Albert Square.Devon Higgs - played by Chucky Venn
- is tracked down by Whitney, because she's fed up of seeing Bianca struggle, but he isn't aware that he has a son at first. 'Ray is determined to be a part of Morgan's life and he heads to Walford,' said the BBC.'Although Bianca isn't keen on having him around, Ray soon turns heads with the other ladies in Albert Square.'The Christmas Day drama and the fact that Walford residents never start a New Year with a clean slate is of course what fans expect of the soap, but for the first year ever it may not be the most popular programme on the small screen this Christmas.It's rumoured that ITV's festive slice of hit drama Downton Abbey could beat the soap in the ratings war after teaser images of the two-hour special have excited fans.'Downton fever has gripped the nation, said Alex Donohue of Ladbrokes. 'If it breaks the record we'll be surviving on rations.'
it.The family of Bianca Butcher have been miserable since she was sent to prison earlier this year, but they're set
to be reunited with her a few days before the festive date.In an episode set to be screened on December 22, viewers will see the mother-of-four arrive back in Albert Square - but she doesn't look her usual self as she's sporting a dodgy black eye.The family are getting in the Christmas spirit at a festive concert, when the redhead - played by Patsy Palmer - makes a surprise return.Her stepdaughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) - who has found Bianca's absence particularly difficult - is feeling quite upset and as a result forgets her lines whilst singing.But just at the moment, Bianca stops the festivities and greets her family. At first they're over the moon to see her with her mother Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson) and her grandmother Pat Evans (Pam St Clement) watching as she embraces her son, Liam.But their joy soon turns to shock when they see a painful looking bruise on Bianca's left eye.The scatty character obviously has a lot of explaining to do, but before that she enjoys a lingering kiss with her husband, Ricky - who is played by Sid Owen. And it seems that the happy reunion won't last for long as on Christmas Day, Walford are set to lose a legendary resident in the form of Bianca's grandmother, Pat.The fiery female is going to say her goodbyes after learning that she has a cancer and then suffering from a fatal heart attack.But this isn't the only drama that Bianca will face in the coming months as in the New Year, the father of her youngest child, Morgan , will arrive in Albert Square.Devon Higgs - played by Chucky Venn
- is tracked down by Whitney, because she's fed up of seeing Bianca struggle, but he isn't aware that he has a son at first. 'Ray is determined to be a part of Morgan's life and he heads to Walford,' said the BBC.'Although Bianca isn't keen on having him around, Ray soon turns heads with the other ladies in Albert Square.'The Christmas Day drama and the fact that Walford residents never start a New Year with a clean slate is of course what fans expect of the soap, but for the first year ever it may not be the most popular programme on the small screen this Christmas.It's rumoured that ITV's festive slice of hit drama Downton Abbey could beat the soap in the ratings war after teaser images of the two-hour special have excited fans.'Downton fever has gripped the nation, said Alex Donohue of Ladbrokes. 'If it breaks the record we'll be surviving on rations.'
WHEN BURNING PASSION TURNS TO ARSON
Where do they find these solicitors in the East End? The last one of any note was Phil’s man, the bow-tied Marcus, who ended up ripping him off. This week, Roxy was being represented by Jimmy, a man smoking an electronic cigarette and being about as convincing as Rumpole of the Bailey at a WeightWatchers meeting. Still, with the level of criminal activity on the up, he may have a lot more work coming his way.On Tuesday, the cops arrive in force, yet again, this time at Phil’s house, where they are searching for stolen property. They find nothing either there or at the Arches, but on Thursday Phil and Billy bury dodgy goods in the allotment, unaware that they are being watched (anyone ever thought of actually buying their Christmas presents – I know that paying for things is a bit of a novelty in Walford, but it might be less stressful).Phil is determined to find out who has been harassing him, and after a blackmail attempt that leads back to Lola, Phil’s anger results in the young girl lying unconscious at the bottom of Billy’s stairs.
Danielle Harold cleaning toilets before landing Eastenders role
The star who plays Lola Pearce, luck completely changed Eastenders actress, Lola Pearce admits that she did not always have a glamorous job and that it was with the help of Jamie Oliver’s documentary that she had a chance of a career change.Lola revealed to Now magazine: “I did a documentary called Jamie Oliver's Dream School and it made me realise that acting was what I wanted to do, so I decided to go for it.”"I actually got the part of Lola Pearce at my first audition which was amazing - especially as I was just waitressing and working at a furniture company making tea and cleaning the toilets!"The 19-year-old star added: “I still went in for my last day there.“I was like: ‘Yes, this is the last toilet I'll ever be scrubbing!’”Danielle was a victim of abuse by cyber bullies after appearing on the documentary as a pupil.Before rising to fame she previously said: “Some of the things people are saying is just disgusting.“One person said that at birth we should have all been dragged out by a coat hanger. It's horrible.”
EastEnders announce their Advent Calendar, and more stalker suspects revealed!
The bosses of EastEnders are treating fans to a very special Advent Calendar, which has just begun with a behind-the-scenes video of Ricky Norwood – who of course plays Fatboy Chubb – getting his groove firmly on.Filmed by Himesh Patel, who of course plays Tamwar Masood, the video, is going to be followed by a new treat each day, right up to Christmas.Also on the show’s website today, there are new suspects in the Who’s Stalking Phil? storyline, and a one of them in particularly surprising…Phil’s sort-of adopted son Jay Mitchell (Jamie Borthwick) is now on the list of suspects, because as we’ll see in forthcoming episodes, he’s sick of being Phil’s whipping boy when things are going wrong.And he’s not afraid of Phil (Steve McFadden) in the slightest!
EastEnders: Nina Wadia explains why Zainab Masood says she’ll marry Yusef Khan
In forthcoming episodes of EastEnders, we’ll see Yusef Khan’ (Ace Bhatti) sinister secret finally come out…He was the one who started a fire and trapped Zainab Masood (Nina Wadia) in a house in Pakistan
years ago.She had long suspected it was him, but he had previously denied it, claming instead that he’d tried to rescue her. However, when his cousin Tariq (Antony Bunsee) turns up in Walford, he threatens to make it public knowledge that the fire was down to Yusef.Yusef offers Tariq a worthless bribe to keep quiet, saying he can have the Argee Bargee after he and Zainab are married, but when Tariq learns it actually belongs to Afia (Meryl Fernandes) and Tam (Himesh Patel) he reveals the truth to a horrified Afia…She immediately confronts her father, and, disgusted by his actions, she tells him he must own up to Zainab.However, when he does so, he says that his domineering family made him do it, and as Yusef and Zainab talk, she actually ends up feeling sorry for him!And what’s more, she agrees to marry him, so he happily and hastily makes the arrangements.However, Zainab’s friend Denise Fox (Diane Parish) tries to put a stop to the wedding, begging Zainab to think about what she’s doing.But will her plea fall on deaf ears? Well, that remains to be seen, but speaking to Inside Soap, Nina said, “He tells Zainab that he was forced to start the fire by his family.“Yusef goes on to explain that he knew it was wrong the minute he lit the match, and that he ran into the house to save her.“And by the end of this conversation, she finds herself saying to him, ‘Let’s get married’ – regardless!“Obviously, it was something I struggled to get my head around. But being burnt in that fire is what they both have in common – and that experience connects them so deeply.“She recognises that he made a mistake but also decides that the whole thing was probably her fault, because she walked out on their marriage.”And as to whether Zainab will take any notice of Denise, Nina said, “It doesn’t look like Zainab’s going to listen.“But as Denise leaves, it’s clear she’s torn about what to do.”We get to find out whether Zainab marries Yusef next week, but I sooo hope she doesn’t!What do you reckon? Will she finally come to her senses before it’s too late? Or is she so deluded and so under Yusef’s control, that she’ll end up in a hellish marriage to him?
Christmas battle as ITV's Downton Abbey goes up against BBC's EastEnders
BBC bosses switched their Christmas Day schedule last night - pitting ratings banker EastEnders against ITV juggernaut Downton Abbey.Insiders claim the last-minute rethink shows the Beeb are "running scared"
amid fears their usual festive dominance is under threat.A new David Jason comedy called The Royal Bodyguard - initially to be shown at 9.30pm on Christmas Day - has now been shifted to Boxing Day.And in a move which will annoy many soap fans, EastEnders has been put in a later 9pm slot - going head-to-head with the first hour of Downton.But the two-hour Downton special is still widely tipped to top the ratings despite also clashing with a one-off return of Absolutely Fabulous.And with Coronation Street on an hour before Downton, many households could be glued to ITV this Christmas Day - a move which would normally be unthinkable.A source said: "ITV bosses knew they had Downton up their sleeve as a secret weapon and they are pulling out all the stops with a two-hour show."The BBC have been chopping and changing right up until the deadline."And although David Jason used to be a ratings banker for them in Only Fools And Horses, he has been moved to Boxing Day to protect his new show from clashing with the established brand of Downton."It looks like being the biggest Christmas Day ratings battle for decades."The BBC were running scared and changed their whole schedule just hours before the deadline."Last year, the BBC had eight of the top 10 shows.EastEnders drew the biggest audience of 11.4million.
EastEnders star Samantha Womack to join Britain's Got Talent?
Samantha Womack is reportedly in talks to join the Britain's Got Talent judging panel.The former EastEnders actress is been suggested as a replacement for Michael McIntyre, who announced he would not be returning for the next series.The actress is reportedly one of a number of stars in talks for the role who has made it to the final shortlist.Others being considered are former X Factor judge Dannii Minogue and comic David Walliams.
A source told The Sun: "Samantha is brilliant and the bosses love her. "She's hugely popular as ten million people watched her every week on EastEnders and she's got a fair old mouth on her. "She's not afraid to call a spade a spade but she also has a down-to-earth approach that producers think will encourage acts. We don't just want the judges to slag people off."Womack first found fame in 1991, when she represented the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest.
A source told The Sun: "Samantha is brilliant and the bosses love her. "She's hugely popular as ten million people watched her every week on EastEnders and she's got a fair old mouth on her. "She's not afraid to call a spade a spade but she also has a down-to-earth approach that producers think will encourage acts. We don't just want the judges to slag people off."Womack first found fame in 1991, when she represented the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest.
EastEnders stars scrub up well
THE EastEnders cast look a long way from Albert Square after getting glammed up in ballgowns and tuxedos. Actress Danielle Harold, 19 — who plays tearaway teen Lola Pearce — donned a floor-length white dress while Shona McGarty, 20, looked stunning in a pale gown that was gathered in the centre. Shona — Whitney Dean in the BBC1 soap — revealed that fans have sent her some very unusual gifts. In a photoshoot for Now mag, she said: "Someone once sent me a Black & Decker drill. I've no idea why."Hunk Matt Lapinskas, who plays Anthony Moon, looked dapper in a tux. The 24-year-old revealed he also was not safe from odd requests — but takes it all in his stride. He said: "I get marriage proposals and people wanting my babies, but nothing really bizarre."Tony Discipline, 22, who plays Tyler Moon, added: "Matt and I did the Radio 1 Teen Choice Awards and had 10,000 people screaming at us. It was mental."Meanwhile, Jacqueline Jossa, 19 — who plays Tanya and Max Branning's Tearaway daughter Lauren — told how she has not quite got the hang of dressing up for events yet. She said: "The day before the Soap Awards I got spray tan and then tried on my dress. When I took it off I realised I'd covered the back of it in fake tan! I still wore it though."
Strictly not healthy! EastEnders' Charlie Brooks sneaks in a cigarette during rehearsals for Come Dancing Christmas special
Training for Strictly Come Dancing requires a lot of hard work and discipline.But as she prepares to star in a one-off Christmas special of the BBC talent show, EastEnders star Charlie Brooks decided to let off some steam, literally, with a crafty cigarette break during rehearsals.However, her dance partner Vincent Simone, who was also enjoying his own nicotine stick, wasn't ready to let Charlie take a break, grabbing her while she was mid-smoke for a whirl around outside the dance studios.And the pair certainly appeared to be getting on well ahead of the festive special, laughing and joking as they showed off their best moves for waiting photographers.Dressed in a pair of fringed red leggings with a loose grey jumper, Charlie teamed her casual workout look with a pair of heels - essential for getting to grips with ballroom dancing for the show.Charlie, who plays Janine in the BBC soap, is just one of the stars set to be appearing on the Strictly special. She will be joined by Su Pollard, Blue singer Simon Webbe, former Coronation Street actress Debra Stephenson and former boxer Barry McGuigan on the show.Talking about appearing on the programme Charlie, who is mother to three-year-old daughter Kiki, said: 'I'm a massive fan and there's no way my daughter would have let me turn down this opportunity to be on the show!'And Webbe - no stranger to dance routines thanks to his years in bestselling boy band Blue - added: 'Strictly Come Dancing is one of my mum's favourite shows.'It's always nice to learn something new, the dancing part of my brain is dormant and I want to wake it up. I also want to wear something tight and sparkly!'The Christmas special will see the five competing celebrities show their talents in a variety of routines before the judges vote for the winner.Last year's special was won by John Barrowman and dance partner Kristina Rihanoff.
EastEnders hardman has had his Phil of cops
EASTENDERS hardman Phil Mitchell's nightmare begins next week when he's arrested in a dawn raid.The police turn up with a search warrant in the early hours of the morning in scenes to be aired next Tuesday.Phil, played by Steve McFadden, is currently hiding a case of stolen watches.He breathes a sigh of relief when the cops turn up nothing but panics when they say they will apply for warrants for his pub the Queen Vic, the garage at the Arches and nightclub R&R.A source said: "At first Phil is really worried but then he becomes angry about the sudden police attention."He knows he's got an enemy out there and he vows to finally root them out."Sounds like someone is trying to Mitch him up!
'EastEnders': Derek tries to fix things with Carol - Spoiler Picture
EastEnders' Derek Branning launches a charm offensive with Carol next week as he tries to reassert himself as the head of the family.Carol (Lindsey Coulson) has given her brother a frosty reception since his recent return to the Square, but she begins to warm towards Derek in an upcoming episode when he stands up for her as she argues with Shirley (Linda Henry).Keen for a heart-to-heart, Derek (Jamie Foreman) takes Carol off for an ice
cream and he soon tries to get his sister to open up by expressing sympathy over Billie's death.Although a sceptical Carol doesn't think that Derek has changed his racist ways, he assures her that he regrets many of his actions from years gone by.Finally willing to give Derek a chance, Carol brings him back to the house to continue their chat - but a furious Pat (Pam St Clement) makes it clear that he's not welcome and kicks him out.Despite the setback, it seems that Derek may have repaired his relationship with Carol. Does he now have the family on side?EastEnders airs these scenes on Friday, December 9 at 8pm on BBC One.
cream and he soon tries to get his sister to open up by expressing sympathy over Billie's death.Although a sceptical Carol doesn't think that Derek has changed his racist ways, he assures her that he regrets many of his actions from years gone by.Finally willing to give Derek a chance, Carol brings him back to the house to continue their chat - but a furious Pat (Pam St Clement) makes it clear that he's not welcome and kicks him out.Despite the setback, it seems that Derek may have repaired his relationship with Carol. Does he now have the family on side?EastEnders airs these scenes on Friday, December 9 at 8pm on BBC One.
EastEnders Actress To Land Britain's Got Talent Judging Job?
The Britain's Got Talent judging panel could soon be getting a touch of the east end following the reports that EastEnders actress,Samantha Womack has been approached to become a judge on the talent show when it returns in the new year.It is thought that the actress, who is on a hiatus from the soap where she played Ronnie Branning, has held "secret talks" with the show's bosses.A source revealed to The Sun: "Samantha is brilliant and the bosses love her. She's hugely popular as 10 million people watched her every week on EastEnders - and she's got a fair old mouth on her."She's not afraid to call a spade a spade, but she also has a down-to-earth approach that producers think will encourage acts. We don't just want the judges to slag people off."The news of Sam's possible new job as a judge comes after reports suggested that Dannii Minogue will return to the reality TV show judging panel on BGT.However, according to the source, Dannii's return isn't as set in stone as it was first thought They said: "Dannii didn't even make the long list. She's only got a chance if Simon Cowell steps in and gives her the job."Would you like to see Sam on the panel?
EastEnders star switches on Broadway centre lights
EASTENDERS actor Marc Elliot heralded the arrival of the festive period by turning on the Christmas tree lights in Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre on Thursday.The soap star, who plays Syed Masood, donated part of his appearance fee to Ealing Mencap, the centre’s charity of the year.After pressing the plunger he stayed to give autographs and pose for photos.About 300 shoppers enjoyed entertainment laid on by the Ealing Street Dance Academy and Questors Theatre. And three special Christmas lights designed by children in a competition earlier this year were also unveiled.Stuart Hill, Centre Manager of Ealing Broadway, said: “We're thrilled with the turn out for the lights switch-on. It was a real pleasure to welcome Marc to the centre and to give up and coming stars the chance to perform. I hope everyone enjoyed the evening.”On Saturday two Christmas trees with a difference will appear in the shopping centre.We do not want to give too much away but the lively trees just might have a mind of their own.
POTD: 'EastEnders' Roxy hears the truth about Derek
EASTENDERS star Nina Wadia is in serious need of a break – but she’s not going to get it just yet.The actress is at the heart of the soap’s explosive Christmas plot and is dealing with the release of feature film Four, which she produced alongside her husband. She is a mum of two and is the first to admit, it hasn’t been easy.She said: “My work is like buses, it all comes at the same time. The film has been in process for the last two-and-a-half years.“It was a long-term project but it happened to come out in October during my busiest filming period at work. They have been very supportive.“It was very hard work and my husband took the brunt of it because I was near to collapse at one point with the amount of work coming along.“But it is just very exciting to actually be someone who can say we’ve made a film.”IN EastEnders, Nina is also banking on being somebody who makes a difference as her latest storyline, which has been brewing for months, gathers pace.Her character, Zainab Masood, has been falling prey to her former husband, doctor Yusef Khan’s deadly plans to avenge his disgrace.He’s steadily manipulated her, helped break up her marriage to Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) and worn down her confidence.Events take a violent turn this week when he slaps her.Dark, gritty and issue-led, it’s classic EastEnders and things will only get worse from here on in with a dramatic and fiery finale set to light up Christmas.Filming it has been emotionally and physically draining for both Nina and co-star Ace Bhatti, who plays Yusef.She said: “It’s been reasonably traumatic. It’s taking its toll on me psychologically but we wanted to make it as realistic as possible and you do take a few knocks and bruises.“Usually, if I am doing scenes I am not comfortable with, like a kissing scene, I always make sure I am laughing before I do it because I can’t take it seriously.“This kind of stuff, you can’t really do that. You can’t lighten the mood before it because it is such a dark subject you can’t make fun of. In that respect it is hard."We have a lovely stunt co-ordinator, who is excellent, and he makes sure that everything is being done as properly as it can be.“But once the word ‘action’ is said on set, the adrenaline kicks in for the actors and you end up hurting each other without realising you are doing it.“I would rather it was that way and the end product look as good as it does than it look fake.“Strangely, after the first strike we did, I didn’t talk to Ace for the rest of the day. “He rang me and said ‘are you alright?’ I didn’t realise I had done that. That’s just a pretend slap, what must it be like if it happens for real?”Nina was already well-versed in domestic abuse. She researched a previous role at the Roshni refuge in Birmingham, which offers support for Asian women and children suffering from abuse, and remains a patron.She said: “As it happened, years ago I was in a movie called Flight, in which I played a pregnant mother of two who was in a refuge and had run away from an abusive husband, so I already had the experience from that.“A couple of women I researched with were actually Scottish and the stories I came away with have stayed with me to this day because they were very horrific.“I ended up being patron just as a way of putting my name to something and helping in some way.”The actress, 42, who shot to fame in comedy Goodness Gracious Me, has relied on her childhood friends to lift her and her own children, Tia, seven, and Aidan, three.She said: “My children are a great balance for me. When I get home, they just put a smile on my face because I have to be up for them and I have to leave everything behind and just, you know, concentrate on being a mum for them.“I rely on my good friends who I went to school with in Hong Kong who I have known since I was 11. I talked things through a lot with them.”When the finale of her Walford woes goes out on Christmas Day, Nina will be thousands of miles away in Canada visiting the family of her husband, composer Raiomond Mirza.She said: “I don’t want to be here when Christmas hits, if you will excuse the pun.”In the meantime, her thoughts are closer to home with Four being screened in Scotland for the first time next week.The film, which stars Sean Pertwee, Kierston Wareing, Craig Conway and Scots star Martin Compston, is a darkly comic thriller about a man who hires a detective to kidnap his wife’s lover. But events are not quite what they seem.She said: “It is being screened in Scotland next week and then we are going to release it on DVD in February and March.“It’s very exciting. My husband and myself have had a production company for a few years now.“He wanted to do music for a movie. We thought we would get a project together and we really got so lucky with our cast and next thing we knew we were making a film. All of a sudden it was happening.“You meet so many people in this business who say they are making a film, and you go, are you really though?“It’s nice to have a calling card and I am very proud. I think it is done really well. It is a real labour of love. We call it our third child.”Four received its London premiere at Leicester Square and Nina was grateful for the support of her co-stars and crew from EastEnders.And, despite being exhausted by the whole process, she is already planning a follow-up to the film.She said: “The amount of actors and my executive producer and crew that turned up to support us at Leicester Square when we had a premiere was amazing.“We got lucky in that a couple of distributors came to see the premiere and they liked it so much they are actually putting their name to our next project, so it will get proper funding.“My husband is already on track with that. I will have to take a back seat with the producing of the next film. I definitely need a break.”
POTD: 'EastEnders' Roxy hears the truth about Derek
EastEnders' Roxy Mitchell considers fighting dirty in her attempts to win daughter Amy back in tonight's episode of the soap.When Roxy (Rita Simons) meets her solicitor, he tells her that they need to discredit Jack and the Brannings if they're to have any hope of beating them in the custody case.Roxy fears that she doesn't have anything damning enough, but she is later intrigued when she spots Derek behaving menacingly towards Pat (Pam St Clement) on the Square.Heading over to Pat's, Roxy starts asking questions and is
shocked when she hears about Derek's history of violence. Will Roxy risk the
wrath of Derek (Jamie Foreman) by bringing up his unsavoury past in court?
Eastenders star faces jail over £47,000 child maintenance debts
New Eastenders star Jamie Foreman is being as much of a bad boy in real life as his character Derek Branning in the show.The actor is facing a possible jail sentence over an unpaid child maintenance bill of over £47,000 that have not been paid to the mothers of his two children.Foreman currently owes former Eastender Carol Harrison almost £16,000 for their son Alfie, as well as a further £1300 to his 22 year old son Louis, who’s mother’s identity is unknown. As well as the outstanding payments, he also has a further debt of £30,000.The 53 year old actor, who made his Albert Square debut this week, was told that he would need to use his Eastenders fees to pay off the debts that are outstanding, and has already agreed to double his current £25 a week payment.Foreman’s legal team explained that he fell behind with payments after declaring himself bankrupt in 2008, and it is only recently that his financial circumstance have changed for the better.
EastEnders: Indecent proposal
Eastenders Eastenders Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri BBC1 Back after an absence from our screens so that new arrival Derek Branning can try and lay claim to the titleof the Most Evil Man In Walford, Yusef is on fine, malicious form.And on Tuesday he has cause for celebration. Divorce papers for the Masoods arrive and he has plans for him, Zainab and Kamil to move to Pakistan.With a mixture of intimidation, lies and outright violence, he seems to have Zainab under his outright violence, he seems to have Zainab under er his is wicked spell. Or does he? At first, she declines to return to where he once tried to murder her - even if she is yet to discover it was him and not his family.And it's only when she sees ex-husband Masood kissing Jane that she does something crazy - she accepts Yusef's proposal of marriage. But as he celebrates his birthday on Friday, he has to resort to bribery to stop Tariq telling his family about the engagement. And daughter Afia finds out a big secret.kissing Jane that sh something crazy - ac accepts Yusef's pro of of marriage. But as ce celebrates his birth Fr Friday, he has to r bribery to stop Ta telling his family ab engagement. An daughter Afia out a big se This is to end This isn't going to end well.
EastEnder Phil facing two murder charges
It is reported that EastEnders tough guy Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) will be accused of two murders in an upcoming storyline on the soap.The Sun reports that police will look to charge Phil with the murder of his former fiancée Stella Crawford (Sophie Thompson), who jumped to her death after a wedding day altercation with him.The paper says the case is reopened after Phil is arrested for the killing of Kevin Wicks (Phil Daniels).A source said: "The police have always been interested in Phil and with his chequered history his many ghosts from his past are coming back to haunt him."It's been a long time since Phil thought about Stella so when the police bring her up he's not at all happy. He didn't murder her but it's not looking good for him."There's a lot of trouble ahead for Phil as the cops are desperate to lock him up and throw away the key."
EastEnders: Dead man stalking
Eastenders Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri BBC1He may have the skill of Babe Ruth when it comes to cracking skulls with a baseball bat, but hardman Phil is being turned into a nervous wreck as he's stalked by a dead man - or at least an unseen enemy.With girlfriend Surly Shirley feeding his paranoia, Rainie's the prime suspect. But the messages keep coming and someone else is now in the frame.Phil receives another text claiming, "I know you killed Kevin", maybe a reference not to the homeless man who died in the car lot fire he started 17 years ago, but Kevin Wicks, who was killed in one of Phil's death-trap motors in 2007.And he suspects that Jack Branning maybe responsible, especially when an old tape of Phil confessing to Kevin's death is mysteriously stolen from Jack's flat.But could it be a lady closer to home? Kevin's ex-wife... Shirley? Uh-oh.
EastEnders auction boost for Beacon
Pat Butcher's famous gold earrings could help to raise thousands of pounds at an auction to support a Brighton charity for people with HIV. The earrings, worn by the EastEnders character, will be sold to the highest bidder during the Sussex Beacon's Christmas variety show, Tinsel and Tights, on December 7.The variety show is raising funds for the Sussex Beacon, which provides outpatient and inpatient services to people with HIV in Brighton. The fundraising show will be held at Sallis Benney Theatre, at the Grand Parade, in Brighton from 7.45pm with tickets priced from £8.50. Alongside the EastEnders auction, the evening, hosted by David Raven, who will appear as Maisie Trolette, will also feature performances from Pooh La May, Tammy Twinkle, Jason Lee and The Sugar Lumps.Sussex Beacon fundraising and communications manager Juley Ayres, said: "This is going to be a great night with plenty of hilarity and fun, which the auction will only add to. We are so lucky to have some very special EastEnders memorabilia donated to help to raise funds for our Beacon Appeal. "As always we are so grateful to all the wonderful artists for giving their time and talent to support the Beacon." All proceeds from the evening will go directly to the Sussex Beacon Appeal, which aims to raise the £150,000 needed to keep the inpatient unit open.Tickets can be purchased at Sussex Beacon charity shops in St James's Street, Brighton and George Street, Hove, and at www.sussexbeacon.org.uk.
IS PHIL MITCHELL THE BEST-PAID CELEB IN PANTO THIS YEAR?
EASTENDERS hardman Steve McFadden is getting a whopping £200,000 for appearing in panto.It puts him at the head of a list of stars making theatre pay this Christmas.The actor, who plays Phil Mitchell, tops the earning stakes ahead of his ex-EastEnders colleague Larry Lamb, who is getting £150,000 for playing baddie Abanazar in Aladdin.Jedward will also pocket £150,000 each to star in their own panto. John and Edward Grimes, both 20, are starring in Jedward And The Beanstalk in Dublin, which they have spent almost a year promoting.David Hasselhoff, 59, is getting £125,000 but has managed to negotiate an extra deal that will see the Bristol Hippodrome pay for a luxury hotel where he and girlfriend Hayley Roberts, 31, can stay. His Baywatch co-star Pamela Anderson, 44, is also being paid £125,000 for taking the stage as the Genie in Aladdin.The babe made her panto debut two years ago and has been back each year since.A panto insider said: “Steve is one of the soap world’s most well-known villains. He’s a massive audience puller and this is reflected in his fee. The soap’s bosses were happy to let him take time out to do the panto. “He was the one everyone wanted this year as he really does get bums on seats. Everyone knows who Phil Mitchell is and EastEnders is one of the biggest shows on TV, so to have him star in your panto is massive.“He’s a great villain on TV so you can imagine what he’s like in front of a live audience – everyone loves him.“They really don’t get better than him when it comes to playing the typical pantomime baddie.”But while Steve, 52, will be quids in playing the dastardly Captain Hook in Peter Pan, his panto co-star Harry Derbidge, 17, who stars in The Only Way Is Essex, is getting only £15,000.And he’s not alone at the bottom of the panto ladder. Richard and Judy’s daughter Chloe Madeley, 23, is capitalising on her Dancing On Ice fame by taking to the stage as Beauty in Beauty And The Beast. But as her stint on the ITV1 show was almost a year ago she has seen her star fall and is being paid only £10,000.X Factor star Ray Quinn, 23, will get £30,000 for playing Prince Charming in Cinderella while former pop star Gareth Gates, 27, will receive £40,000 for the lead role in Aladdin. And once he finishes on Strictly, acid-tongued judge Craig Revel Horwood, 46, will be getting paid £50,000 for dressing up as the Wicked Queen in Cinderella.The source added: “In panto terms £10,000 isn’t a lot of money but when you consider that it’s only a month’s work it’s not bad at all. "The top earners really can’t refuse the big- money offers. If the offer comes in they’ll do everything in their power to juggle other work commitments. “It’s a very lucrative job to get and if your star is rising or you’re a household name then you can get big bucks.“Larry Lamb is known for his role in EastEnders as well as Gavin And Stacey but he’s been around for years and appeals to all ages. “He’s another massive crowd puller and knows how to play a real baddie. When putting on pantos it really is all about what celebrity you can get.“Tickets can cost anything up to £40 per person so it’s a huge business."The bigger the star the more they can charge.”
Doctor Who's Matt Smith and Karen Gillan in star-studded BBC Christmas trailer
Doctor Who star Matt Smith plays Twister with a Cyberman and Tess Daly puckers up to kiss Lenny Henry under the mistletoe in the BBC's new Christmas trailer.
Scroll down to watch the video Stars including Sir Bruce Forsyth, Gary Lineker, Len Goodman, Alex Jones and Anne Robinson all feature in the video wearing Christmas jumpers.They take it in turns to sing a line from the song Consider Yourself from the West End musical Oliver!Gregg Wallace, John Bishop, Gary Lineker, Len Goodman and Lee Mack Sir Bruce Forsyth and comic Michael McIntyre The 1min 20 sec video starts with Sir David Jason leaning against a cosy fireplace before he is joined by Graham Norton on the piano.Sir Bruce Forsyth wrestles a cracker with comic Michael McIntyre while the One Show's Alex Jones dances around the house to the song.The trailer ends with all the BBC stars outside in a winter wonderland singing around Graham Norton on the piano.The quality of programmes on all channels should make this Christmas a real TV cracker says Daily Mirror's TV editor Nicola Methven who takes a look at what the BBC has to offer.Great Expectations.Gillian Anderson looks spectacular as Miss Havisham, with Ray Winstone as Magwitch, and Douglas Booth as Pip in this fabulous new version of the Dickens classic.The three-part BBC1 series has been written by Sarah Phelps, who was behind Oliver Twist in 2007.And Winstone, right, says: "Great Expectations is my favourite novel and I'm really excited." So are we, Ray.Absolutely Fabulous.All the old faves are back for these BBC1 specials in which Eddy ends up playing a big part in the London Olympics.Jennifer Saunders says: "Like a good bottle of champagne we hope we've got better with time."The Gruffalo's Child. James Corden plays the Mouse, Rob Brydon voices the Snake and Robbie Coltrane is the Gruffalo in this notto-be-missed for the under-5s BBC1 follow-up to the hugely popular The Gruffalo which aired two years ago.This time the Gruffalo's Child goes to find the scary Mouse and meets Fox, Owl and Snake on the way.The BorrowersNational treasures Victoria Wood and Stephen Fry head the cast of this lovely BBC1 version of Mary Norton's tale.Fry said: "I read the script and thought it was delightful and I had a funny part."Doctor Who.The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe will find our favourite Time Lord alongside comic Bill Bailey and Outnumbered's Claire Skinner in a setting reminiscent of Narnia.Claire plays a widowed mum whose family is evacuated to Dorset during the Second World War.The mysterious caretaker of their house turns out to be the Doctor, played by Matt Smith, left, and he will treat the family to a Christmas they'll never forget. This BBC1 belter is truly magical.Strictly Come DancingThe stars lining up this year include East-Enders' Charlie Brooks, Blue's Simon Webbe, Hi-de-Hi! fave Su Pollard and comic Debra Stephenson.Hosts Brucie and Tess Daly will watch as Mirror columnist Barry McGuigan also takes to the floor on BBC1. The ex-boxer says: "I've always considered myself to have two left feet."Jim'll Fix It.Almost 20 years after it ended, the programme makes a one-off return as a tribute to host Sir Jimmy Savile who died last month.Shane Richie, right, fixes it on BBC1 for a new generation.The Bleak Old Shop of Stuff.This Dickensian spoof series on BBC2 kicks off with a Christmas special starring Stephen Fry, Robert Webb, David Mitchell and Johnny Vegas.EastEndersThe festive cheer won't last long in EastEnders as evil Dr Yusef Khan wreaks havoc. Fans of the BBC1 soap will also be saying a sad farewell to Pat Evans.On ITV1 Becky and Tracy battle for Steve's affections in Corrie, and in Emmerdale teenager Amy must decide what to do with her baby.
Scroll down to watch the video Stars including Sir Bruce Forsyth, Gary Lineker, Len Goodman, Alex Jones and Anne Robinson all feature in the video wearing Christmas jumpers.They take it in turns to sing a line from the song Consider Yourself from the West End musical Oliver!Gregg Wallace, John Bishop, Gary Lineker, Len Goodman and Lee Mack Sir Bruce Forsyth and comic Michael McIntyre The 1min 20 sec video starts with Sir David Jason leaning against a cosy fireplace before he is joined by Graham Norton on the piano.Sir Bruce Forsyth wrestles a cracker with comic Michael McIntyre while the One Show's Alex Jones dances around the house to the song.The trailer ends with all the BBC stars outside in a winter wonderland singing around Graham Norton on the piano.The quality of programmes on all channels should make this Christmas a real TV cracker says Daily Mirror's TV editor Nicola Methven who takes a look at what the BBC has to offer.Great Expectations.Gillian Anderson looks spectacular as Miss Havisham, with Ray Winstone as Magwitch, and Douglas Booth as Pip in this fabulous new version of the Dickens classic.The three-part BBC1 series has been written by Sarah Phelps, who was behind Oliver Twist in 2007.And Winstone, right, says: "Great Expectations is my favourite novel and I'm really excited." So are we, Ray.Absolutely Fabulous.All the old faves are back for these BBC1 specials in which Eddy ends up playing a big part in the London Olympics.Jennifer Saunders says: "Like a good bottle of champagne we hope we've got better with time."The Gruffalo's Child. James Corden plays the Mouse, Rob Brydon voices the Snake and Robbie Coltrane is the Gruffalo in this notto-be-missed for the under-5s BBC1 follow-up to the hugely popular The Gruffalo which aired two years ago.This time the Gruffalo's Child goes to find the scary Mouse and meets Fox, Owl and Snake on the way.The BorrowersNational treasures Victoria Wood and Stephen Fry head the cast of this lovely BBC1 version of Mary Norton's tale.Fry said: "I read the script and thought it was delightful and I had a funny part."Doctor Who.The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe will find our favourite Time Lord alongside comic Bill Bailey and Outnumbered's Claire Skinner in a setting reminiscent of Narnia.Claire plays a widowed mum whose family is evacuated to Dorset during the Second World War.The mysterious caretaker of their house turns out to be the Doctor, played by Matt Smith, left, and he will treat the family to a Christmas they'll never forget. This BBC1 belter is truly magical.Strictly Come DancingThe stars lining up this year include East-Enders' Charlie Brooks, Blue's Simon Webbe, Hi-de-Hi! fave Su Pollard and comic Debra Stephenson.Hosts Brucie and Tess Daly will watch as Mirror columnist Barry McGuigan also takes to the floor on BBC1. The ex-boxer says: "I've always considered myself to have two left feet."Jim'll Fix It.Almost 20 years after it ended, the programme makes a one-off return as a tribute to host Sir Jimmy Savile who died last month.Shane Richie, right, fixes it on BBC1 for a new generation.The Bleak Old Shop of Stuff.This Dickensian spoof series on BBC2 kicks off with a Christmas special starring Stephen Fry, Robert Webb, David Mitchell and Johnny Vegas.EastEndersThe festive cheer won't last long in EastEnders as evil Dr Yusef Khan wreaks havoc. Fans of the BBC1 soap will also be saying a sad farewell to Pat Evans.On ITV1 Becky and Tracy battle for Steve's affections in Corrie, and in Emmerdale teenager Amy must decide what to do with her baby.
EastEnders bad boy Jamie Foreman tells court he'll pay £47k child support
NEW EastEnders star Jamie Foreman yesterday promised a court he will pay off £47,000 he owes in child maintenance.Foreman, 53, who made his first appearance as bad boy Derek Branning on Thursday, ran up the arrears in a four-year period in which he was declared bankrupt.He has been repaying the cash at £50 a week but he told magistrates in Bromley, Kent, yesterday he would be able to increase that to £100 because of his soap salary.He also agreed he would pay extra lump sums if his income increased again in the future.The actor - son of the reallife former East End villain Freddie Foreman - owes money for his sons Louis, now 22, and Alfie, 20.He was ordered yesterday to pay £15,750 owed for Alfie to his ex-wife Carol Harrison, who previously appeared in EastEnders as Louise, the mum of barmaid Tiffany.He was also ordered to pay £1340 for Louis's support between 2006 and 2008. The identity of Louis's mother was not revealed in court.The Child Support Agency, who took the court action, said the amounts are in addition to an existing debt of £30,000, meaning he owes more than £47,000 in total.The magistrates heard that Foreman has signed a six-month contract with the BBC.But his lawyer said he did not know if his character has a long-term future in the soap and he was therefore unsure of his long-term income.Crispin Hayhoe, for the CSA, said: "Mr Foreman's financial affairs have been in something of a mess."But his career is on an up at the moment and his income circumstances have changed significantly."This is a matter in which the court has previously said Mr Foreman has been culpably neglectful."Magistrates' chairman Ivor Barwin agreed to wait until April for another hearing to assess his financial position.He told the actor: "Your career is going to be in the public eye."So if you were to turn up here in April not having made additional payments, the court would be able to say, 'Hang on, this guy has been doing pretty good recently' and that would count against you."
Phil Mitchell on EastEnders murder rap
Cops try to pin the death of ex-fiancée Stella Crawford on him. They re-open old cases after Phil — played by Steve McFadden — is arrested for the killing of car-lot manager Kevin Wicks. Stella — played by Sophie Thompson — leapt to her death on their wedding day in 2007 after a roof-top exchange with Phil. Phil is left staring at a double murder charge in the gripping storyline, which is currently being filmed. It puts Queen Vic and R&R owner Phil at the centre of all the action from Christmas Day well into 2012. Death leap ... Sophie Thompson as Stella Crawford. An insider said: "The police have always been interested in Phil and with his chequered history his many ghosts from his past are coming back to haunt him. "It's been a long time since Phil thought about Stella so when the police bring her up he's not at all happy. He didn't murder her but it's not looking good for him."The insider added: "On paper Stella was a harmless spinster but, as everyone knows, she was a deranged loony who abused Phil's son Ben. There's a lot of trouble ahead for Phil as the cops are desperate to lock him up and throw away the key."In 2005 Phil, who first appeared in the soap in 1990, was cleared of armed robbery after his brother Grant paid off witnesses.
EastEnders: can the Brannings match up to the Square's finest families?
Max, Lauren, Abi and Tanya have been in the spotlight this week – but are they in the same league as the Fowlers or the Beales?
It's been a busy week for the Brannings on Albert Square. Max has come back into the fold, along with his malevolently pudding-faced newcomer brother Derek, and the entire family's story has been developed in new and unexpected ways. So far we've discovered that Lauren is a bit promiscuous, Abi is a shoplifter who might be but probably isn't pregnant, Tanya is a great deal rattier than anybody knew and that Max is some kind of prawny-looking superhero. But, most importantly, Branning Week has existed to reinforce the idea that the family is an absolute keystone of Albert Square.There aren't many EastEnders families that could shoulder an entire week of episodes like this. The Johnsons certainly couldn't, at least not since Lucas transformed into a murderous biblical lunatic and the children left home. Now only Denise and Kim remain, which would leave viewers with several days of downtrodden relationship gripes and discordant B&B-based comedy yelping.The Masoods are currently in the middle of a plot so crushingly depressing that a week of shows about them would probably cause suicide rates to spike all over the country. The Beales feel like a spent force and there are now so many disparate Moons floating about that you couldn't dedicate a week to them without mailing out a series of complex flipcharts beforehand.The message of this week has been that the Brannings have now asserted
themselves as EastEnders immortals. All the palaver of the past – the affairs, the shootings, the inexplicably being buried alive – has all paid off. They are now up there with the Mitchells and the golden dynasties of Albert Square past.They're up there with the Fowlers – the Christmas Club-stealing, frying pan-belting, trumpeter-marrying family who lasted from the show's birth up until dear old Pauline fell down dead in the middle of the square on Christmas Day 2006. They're up there with the Beales, back when the Beales were a force to be reckoned with and Lou Beale was a juddering ball of matriarchal ferocity, Kathy lurched from disaster to disaster and Pete just stood around shouting about plums all the time.Even the Butchers managed to have their day in the sun – back when the family consisted of pre-Heartbeat Nick Berry, pre-Good Thing Going Sid Owen and post-Runaround Mike Reid. The family is now a shadow of its former self, and will be weakened further by the departure of Pam St Clement as Pat this Christmas. Then the true Butcher bloodline will merely consist of Charlie Brooks as Janine and tragically post-Good Thing Going Sid Owen as Ricky.Maybe that's why Branning Week has happened now. With the death of Pat just around the corner, EastEnders needs to bolster its roster of heavyweights. So has Branning Week convinced you that they're worth this promotion, or would you have preferred a week dedicated to another set of characters? And which EastEnders families will they never match?
It's been a busy week for the Brannings on Albert Square. Max has come back into the fold, along with his malevolently pudding-faced newcomer brother Derek, and the entire family's story has been developed in new and unexpected ways. So far we've discovered that Lauren is a bit promiscuous, Abi is a shoplifter who might be but probably isn't pregnant, Tanya is a great deal rattier than anybody knew and that Max is some kind of prawny-looking superhero. But, most importantly, Branning Week has existed to reinforce the idea that the family is an absolute keystone of Albert Square.There aren't many EastEnders families that could shoulder an entire week of episodes like this. The Johnsons certainly couldn't, at least not since Lucas transformed into a murderous biblical lunatic and the children left home. Now only Denise and Kim remain, which would leave viewers with several days of downtrodden relationship gripes and discordant B&B-based comedy yelping.The Masoods are currently in the middle of a plot so crushingly depressing that a week of shows about them would probably cause suicide rates to spike all over the country. The Beales feel like a spent force and there are now so many disparate Moons floating about that you couldn't dedicate a week to them without mailing out a series of complex flipcharts beforehand.The message of this week has been that the Brannings have now asserted
themselves as EastEnders immortals. All the palaver of the past – the affairs, the shootings, the inexplicably being buried alive – has all paid off. They are now up there with the Mitchells and the golden dynasties of Albert Square past.They're up there with the Fowlers – the Christmas Club-stealing, frying pan-belting, trumpeter-marrying family who lasted from the show's birth up until dear old Pauline fell down dead in the middle of the square on Christmas Day 2006. They're up there with the Beales, back when the Beales were a force to be reckoned with and Lou Beale was a juddering ball of matriarchal ferocity, Kathy lurched from disaster to disaster and Pete just stood around shouting about plums all the time.Even the Butchers managed to have their day in the sun – back when the family consisted of pre-Heartbeat Nick Berry, pre-Good Thing Going Sid Owen and post-Runaround Mike Reid. The family is now a shadow of its former self, and will be weakened further by the departure of Pam St Clement as Pat this Christmas. Then the true Butcher bloodline will merely consist of Charlie Brooks as Janine and tragically post-Good Thing Going Sid Owen as Ricky.Maybe that's why Branning Week has happened now. With the death of Pat just around the corner, EastEnders needs to bolster its roster of heavyweights. So has Branning Week convinced you that they're worth this promotion, or would you have preferred a week dedicated to another set of characters? And which EastEnders families will they never match?
Ex-EastEnders actress 'duped out of £18k by fake property dealer'
A FORMER EastEnders actress was duped out of £18,000 by a fake property dealer, a court has heard.Angela Wynter, 57, who played Yolande Trueman in the BBC soap for five years, claims she was conned by Paul Wheeler.The actress met him through a friend in 2007 and he offered to help her buy property to let for her children’s future.But he allegedly spent her £30,000 deposit on private school fees for his own three children. Wheeler, 52, of Stratford-upon-Avon, Warks, later repaid just £12,000.Ms Wynter told jurors: “He said he was helping me out of community spirit. I went along with it because he was such a big wheeler dealer.”Wheeler denies taking part in a fraudulent business and conning £400,000 out of seven people, as he claims to also be a victim.The trial, at Leicester crown court, continues.
EastEnders auction boost for Beacon
Pat Butcher's famous gold earrings could help to raise thousands of pounds at an auction to support a Brighton charity for people with HIV.
The earrings, worn by the EastEnders character, will be sold to the highest bidder during the Sussex Beacon's Christmas variety show, Tinsel and Tights, on December 7.The variety show is raising funds for the Sussex Beacon, which provides outpatient and inpatient services to people with HIV in Brighton. The fundraising show will be held at Sallis Benney Theatre, at the Grand Parade, in Brighton from 7.45pm with tickets priced from £8.50. Alongside the EastEnders auction, the evening, hosted by David Raven, who will appear as Maisie Trolette, will also feature performances from Pooh La May, Tammy Twinkle, Jason Lee and The Sugar Lumps.Sussex Beacon fundraising and communications manager Juley Ayres, said: "This is going to be a great night with plenty of hilarity and fun, which the auction will only add to. We are so lucky to have some very special EastEnders memorabilia donated to help to raise funds for our Beacon Appeal. "As always we are so grateful to all the wonderful artists for giving their time and talent to support the Beacon." All proceeds from the evening will go directly to the Sussex Beacon Appeal, which aims to raise the £150,000 needed to keep the inpatient unit open.Tickets can be purchased at Sussex Beacon charity shops in St James's Street, Brighton and George Street, Hove, and at www.sussexbeacon.org.uk.
The earrings, worn by the EastEnders character, will be sold to the highest bidder during the Sussex Beacon's Christmas variety show, Tinsel and Tights, on December 7.The variety show is raising funds for the Sussex Beacon, which provides outpatient and inpatient services to people with HIV in Brighton. The fundraising show will be held at Sallis Benney Theatre, at the Grand Parade, in Brighton from 7.45pm with tickets priced from £8.50. Alongside the EastEnders auction, the evening, hosted by David Raven, who will appear as Maisie Trolette, will also feature performances from Pooh La May, Tammy Twinkle, Jason Lee and The Sugar Lumps.Sussex Beacon fundraising and communications manager Juley Ayres, said: "This is going to be a great night with plenty of hilarity and fun, which the auction will only add to. We are so lucky to have some very special EastEnders memorabilia donated to help to raise funds for our Beacon Appeal. "As always we are so grateful to all the wonderful artists for giving their time and talent to support the Beacon." All proceeds from the evening will go directly to the Sussex Beacon Appeal, which aims to raise the £150,000 needed to keep the inpatient unit open.Tickets can be purchased at Sussex Beacon charity shops in St James's Street, Brighton and George Street, Hove, and at www.sussexbeacon.org.uk.
Eastenders November 28 - December 02
Sensing that there is something dodgy about Derek, Roxy visits Pat to find out more about him. Pat soon provides what Roxy needs when she reveals Derek's history of violence. She immediately storms around to the boxing gym and threatens Derek and Jack with what she knows. However, she quickly realises that Derek isn't a man to be messed with.Later when Michael bumps into Derek at the boxing ring it's clear that he is scared of the eldest Branningbrother.Elsewhere Phil receives another mysterious text message which warns, "I know you killed Kevin". Panicking, Phil and Shirley visit Jack and demand the old recording of Phil's confession that he killed Kevin Wicks. When Jack goes to look for it, he discovers that it has been stolen - along with a file containing details of Phil's past misdeeds! Elsewhere Zainab is hurt when she spots Masood and Jane kissing across the Square and tells Yusef that she wants to go to Pakistan with him and later in the week Yusef proposes but not everyone is happy about the engagement, especially Tariq - who arrives back on the square when he hears the news.
Going up West: EastEnders stars ditch the Queen Vic for a night on the tiles
It’s a far cry from the nuts and stale beer served in the Queen Vic.EastEnders stars past and present went up west last night for night of fine dining in Mayfair.And despite leaving the show more than a year ago EastEnders
legend Barbara Windsor still looked like she was the Queen of the evening as she partied with Jo Joyner who plays Tanya Jessop and Zoe Lucker, who played Vanessa Gold in the soap.Lucker, 37, has ditched her irrational character Vanessa's trademark starched white suits and bleached blond helmet bob in exchange for a tiger print coat and classic french twirl hairstyle.Whereas Joyner, 32, looked a hundred times better than her character who is battling cervical cancer.And it seems Windsor's relationship with husband Scott Mitchell is going from strength to strength after the veteran actress, 74, decided to stop playing fiery landlord Peggy to spend more time with Mitchell, who is 26 years her junior.Viewers last night saw Tanya's ex-husband Max Branning return to the show.And it seems unlike his co-stars for actor Jake Wood life really does imitate art as his outfit could have been plucked from Max's wardrobe.This week Eastenders bosses have promised viewers some explosive storylines revolving around the Brannings.And Joyner said there will be a shift in Tanya and Max's relationship.She told TV Times: 'Tanya and Max's
relationship has always been based on her having to be sexy and attractive, to keep him on his toes. 'Now she's in a situation where she
hasn't got the energy or the ability to be like that, so the terms of their reunion are utterly different.The actress said that she is keen to stress the importance of early detection after researching Tanya's illness.Joyner said: 'The thing about cervical cancer is that the earlier it's diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. No woman enjoys having a smear test but undergoing cancer treatment is a lot worse.'
legend Barbara Windsor still looked like she was the Queen of the evening as she partied with Jo Joyner who plays Tanya Jessop and Zoe Lucker, who played Vanessa Gold in the soap.Lucker, 37, has ditched her irrational character Vanessa's trademark starched white suits and bleached blond helmet bob in exchange for a tiger print coat and classic french twirl hairstyle.Whereas Joyner, 32, looked a hundred times better than her character who is battling cervical cancer.And it seems Windsor's relationship with husband Scott Mitchell is going from strength to strength after the veteran actress, 74, decided to stop playing fiery landlord Peggy to spend more time with Mitchell, who is 26 years her junior.Viewers last night saw Tanya's ex-husband Max Branning return to the show.And it seems unlike his co-stars for actor Jake Wood life really does imitate art as his outfit could have been plucked from Max's wardrobe.This week Eastenders bosses have promised viewers some explosive storylines revolving around the Brannings.And Joyner said there will be a shift in Tanya and Max's relationship.She told TV Times: 'Tanya and Max's
relationship has always been based on her having to be sexy and attractive, to keep him on his toes. 'Now she's in a situation where she
hasn't got the energy or the ability to be like that, so the terms of their reunion are utterly different.The actress said that she is keen to stress the importance of early detection after researching Tanya's illness.Joyner said: 'The thing about cervical cancer is that the earlier it's diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. No woman enjoys having a smear test but undergoing cancer treatment is a lot worse.'
'EastEnders' star Jamie Foreman: 'I want viewers to like Derek'
EastEnders' new recruit Jamie Foreman has revealed that he is trying to inject some of his own traits into his portrayal of Derek Branning.The actor was cast as fearsome Derek earlier this year and his first scenes will air on tonight's episode of the soap.Speaking on Daybreak this morning, Foreman hinted that he does not want the Brannings' eldest brother to be all bad."I have played a lot of those kind of characters before, but I try to bring something different to each one of them," he explained. "I think when you hit a show like this, you want to hit the floor running and you want to make him warm and make the audience take to him as quickly as possible. "So you keep him a little bit close to yourself. Not necessarily all the nasty things he does, but the mannerisms, the way he is, the way he moves, that kind of thing."Foreman also said that he is fitting in well on the set of EastEnders."It's brilliant. I've walked onto the show with all these guys who are so fantastic. I've just slid in like I've been there all my life," he commented. "It's been fantastic fun. And it's a character who you can do anything you want with - I love those! It's very easy work."Asked whether he will watch his first episode tonight, he replied: "They've got me in the last scene of the day at work today, so I don't know if I'm going to get home in time for it! But all the family are there watching it, so that'll be lovely."
Ex-EastEnders star Martine McCutcheon piles on the pounds.. so she can film
'dramatic' new weight loss DVD
THERE seemed to be more of curvy Martine McCutcheon than ever as she posed on the red carpet last week.
But if the ex-EastEnder was dismayed at piling on the pounds, being quids in should soon cheer her up. It seems Martine has just landed a six-figure deal to launch a fitness DVD.In fact, the 35-year-old is even being encouraged to scoff her favourite foods before starting the strict weight loss regime, so it will look "as dramatic as possible".
With offers flooding in from at least three firms, Martine - the face of Activia yoghurt makers Danone - has been advised to "eat what she likes" and go up a further dress size until the fitness kick starts ahead of her wedding next
year.The Love Actually star is also likely to be offered a big money deal for magazine coverage of her marriage to Brit singer-songwriter Jack McManus.Last night, a pal said: "Martine and Jack are blissfully content and have been spending a lot of time together chilling on the sofa, basically eating what they want."Martine didn't set out to put on weight and feels as though she went to bed slim one night and, three months later, woke up huge."But now she is back in the limelight, it's been made clear that a lucrative fitness DVD offer is on the cards."With her wedding to Jack next summer, she has also had a few concrete offers to launch a bridal slimming DVD."Since filming the 2003 hit Love Actually, Martine's career has stalled.But it's understood she is working on material for a new album and is in talks to return to the West End.
But if the ex-EastEnder was dismayed at piling on the pounds, being quids in should soon cheer her up. It seems Martine has just landed a six-figure deal to launch a fitness DVD.In fact, the 35-year-old is even being encouraged to scoff her favourite foods before starting the strict weight loss regime, so it will look "as dramatic as possible".
With offers flooding in from at least three firms, Martine - the face of Activia yoghurt makers Danone - has been advised to "eat what she likes" and go up a further dress size until the fitness kick starts ahead of her wedding next
year.The Love Actually star is also likely to be offered a big money deal for magazine coverage of her marriage to Brit singer-songwriter Jack McManus.Last night, a pal said: "Martine and Jack are blissfully content and have been spending a lot of time together chilling on the sofa, basically eating what they want."Martine didn't set out to put on weight and feels as though she went to bed slim one night and, three months later, woke up huge."But now she is back in the limelight, it's been made clear that a lucrative fitness DVD offer is on the cards."With her wedding to Jack next summer, she has also had a few concrete offers to launch a bridal slimming DVD."Since filming the 2003 hit Love Actually, Martine's career has stalled.But it's understood she is working on material for a new album and is in talks to return to the West End.
EastEnders' actress to join chorus
EastEnders' favourite June Brown is to perform on stage with Brighton Gay Men's Chorus for a Christmas concert.The actress, best known for playing Dot Cotton, will join the charity for its Pull A Cracker Christmas show at the Brighton Dome on December 11. Ms Brown said: "I'm really looking forward to joining the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus for their Christmas show. I can't think of a better way to kickstart the festive season while raising money for such worthy charities as the Chorus and the Sussex Beacon."The chorus hopes that by sharing music with the public it can brighten people's lives, challenge prejudices and raise awareness of community issues.Award-winning comedian Zoe Lyons, who will be compering the show, said: "I am totally delighted to be part of the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus show at the dome, particularly as it is helping to raise funds for Sussex Beacon who provide such vital services for men and women living with HIV/AIDS. By coming to Pull a Cracker the audience will not only be getting right into the Yule time swing but also contributing towards another great cause this Christmas."
Other special guests are cabaret artiste Lorraine Bowen and vocalist Jodie Spencer. The chorus will perform fun and festive favourites including classics like I Will Survive, O Holy Night and what the group describes as "arguably the campest version" of The 12 Days Of Christmas
Other special guests are cabaret artiste Lorraine Bowen and vocalist Jodie Spencer. The chorus will perform fun and festive favourites including classics like I Will Survive, O Holy Night and what the group describes as "arguably the campest version" of The 12 Days Of Christmas
Su Pollard, Charlie Brooks and Simon Webbe for Strictly Christmas special
Pollard will take to the floor with Nancy Dell'Ollio's former partner Anton Du Beke, while Charlie Brooks has been partnered with former Strictly winner Vincent Simone.Also joining them for the Christmas special is former world featherweight boxing champion Barry McGuigan and actress and impressionist Debra Stephenson, with Debra saying: 'I'm a really big fan of Strictly Come Dancing. I'm very excited to be on the Christmas special and I can’t wait to get my dancing shoes on!'Su Pollard is confident of wowing the judges with her 'utter exuberance and prowess', while EastEnders star Brooks said her daughter would never have allowed her to turn down a place on the show.Blue star Simon is doing it for his mum but admits he is keen to wear some of the spangly outfits, explaining: 'Strictly Come Dancing is one of my mum's favourite shows. It's always nice to learn something new, the dancing part of my brain is dormant and I want to wake it up. I also want to wear something tight and sparkly!'The five celebrities and their partners will perform a variety of routines during the Christmas special, with the studio audience and the judges voting for who they want to be crowned 2011 Christmas champion
'EastEnders' Tanya, Max relationship divides fans, says Jo Joyner
EastEnders star Jo Joyner has said that fans of the soap are divided over whether her character Tanya Jessop should reunite with ex-husband Max.Tanya ended an affair with Max back in the summer after she suffered a health scare. Since then, she has been battling cervical cancer with only her daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) aware of what she is going through.However, Max (Jake Wood) returns to Albert Square later this week and is keen to support Tanya when he hears about her condition.Joyner told TV Times of the storyline: "Tanya and Max's relationship has always been based on her having to be sexy and attractive, to keep him on his toes. Now she's in a situation where she hasn't got the energy or the ability to be like that, so the terms of their reunion are utterly different."Them being back together is like Marmite. Some people hate the idea, others love it."The actress said that she is keen to stress the importance of early detection after researching Tanya's illness.Joyner said: "The thing about cervical cancer is that the earlier it's diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. No woman enjoys having a smear test but undergoing cancer treatment is a lot worse. The NHS provides women with regular smears and that's something we should all make the most of."
EastEnders's "Silent Tracey" speaks out
It’s the quiet ones you have to watch, and no character who quietly goes about their business in Soapland is more watchable than EastEnders barmaid, Tracey. Technically the soap’s longest-serving female character, Tracey keeps her counsel in a way utterly alien to most characters in Walford. This may be why she’s known – and indeed has attracted a cult following on Facebook – as Silent Tracey.Except, of course, Tracey hasn’t been entirely silent. “I’ve had lines since the beginning,” says Jane Slaughter, who plays her, in her Elstree dressing room between takes. “It’s just that those lines are few and far between.”True, Tracey does break her silence occasionally. After she pronounced last year on the virtues of a Vic curry night, Roxy exclaimed, undoubtedly to viewers’ delight, “I think that’s the most I’ve ever heard you say.”Though a woman of few words, Tracey at least says something. There are plenty enriching the fabric of soap who say nothing at all – extras, or supporting artists, who mutely accept change from shopkeepers or silently sup pints as raucous regulars rage mere feet away.Tracey’s words are so rare and prized that a clip of her talking became a huge hit on YouTube.Slaughter, clearly, has a character. “A small character, but a character nonetheless,” she says. “For a couple of hours Tracey was even a favourite at the bookie’s for Who Killed Archie!“If I was slogging away in the background, I might feel differently, but as it is, I couldn’t be happier. I’ve always had enough to keep me interested, but it’s not all-consuming.” Enthusiasm is evident in her voice (her voice!), for Slaughter still enjoys working on EastEnders despite the dramatic changes the show has undergone over the years – not least the speed at which it’s produced.“In the early days, we had rehearsals, technical run-throughs and then run-throughs for the producer,” she says. “Doing four episodes a week now [up from the original two], that way of working simply isn’t possible.”It would take a foolish producer to axe Tracey now, but what of Slaughter’s own road less travelled? Does she yearn for the limelight? After all, she was a successful child actress, appearing in the 1975 BBC version of Ballet Shoes as Petrova Fossil. (Slaughter went to the Elmhurst Ballet and Drama in Surrey, which Jenny Agutter and Hermione Norris also attended.“As a child, I was lucky and worked continually. Then I got in to my late teens and I lost my way. I wanted to play it safe, didn’t want to be brave, and never made that leap to adult actress.”Even so, Slaughter remained on the radar of Julia Smith, EastEnders’ co-creator and its first, famously fierce, producer. “I had given up acting and moved to Devon when the EastEnders job came up.“When I went to see Julia about it, she said, ‘I’m glad you’re here as I think this is going to run.’ I thought, ‘Good. I might get a year’s work out of it...’” Twenty-seven years later, Slaughter even gets recognised in the street. “A staggering amount! I’m so bowled over by the affection people have for Tracey. My mother thinks it’s hilarious. She says, ‘Silent Tracey! If only people knew how much you talked!’”
'EastEnders' star Jamie Foreman "proud" of Walford role
EastEnders' new recruit Jamie Foreman has revealed that he will be "proud" to have the soap on his CV.The actor was cast in the part of Derek Branning back in the summer and will start appearing on the show later this week.Foreman is best known for his film career, having appeared in Layer Cake, Gangster No.1 and Sleepy Hollow among others.Reflecting on his decision to join Albert Square, Foreman told Hot TV: "If I did a movie and it got 8 million viewers, it'd be a box office smash. This show gets it four nights a week and once on Sunday, there you go."Its pedigree speaks for itself and it's been going for a lot of years now, and it's going to go on for a lot of years. I'd be very proud to have that on my CV."Asked what viewers can expect from Derek, he replied: "He's a habitual criminal. He's just come back from prison recently from doing a rather lumpy sentence of ten years for armed robbery."He added: "He hasn't changed, he's always been the same."
Eastenders pregnancy twist for Christmas?
It is reported that Eastenders schemer Janine Butcher will discover that she is pregnant in a forthcoming storyline.
According to the Daily Star Sunday newspaper, the Walford business woman played by Charlie Brooks, will learn that she is expecting her boyfriend Michael Moon's baby in a Christmas plot twist.The reports state that Janine is initially apprehensive over the idea of motherhood, but Michael (Shepherd) urges her to keep the baby.Michael is already dad to baby Tommy Moon, but the child is being raised by mum Kat (Wallace) and stepfather Alfie (Richie).When asked about the alleged twist an EastEnders spokesperson said: "We do not comment on future storylines as we don't want to ruin it for our viewers."
According to the Daily Star Sunday newspaper, the Walford business woman played by Charlie Brooks, will learn that she is expecting her boyfriend Michael Moon's baby in a Christmas plot twist.The reports state that Janine is initially apprehensive over the idea of motherhood, but Michael (Shepherd) urges her to keep the baby.Michael is already dad to baby Tommy Moon, but the child is being raised by mum Kat (Wallace) and stepfather Alfie (Richie).When asked about the alleged twist an EastEnders spokesperson said: "We do not comment on future storylines as we don't want to ruin it for our viewers."
Happy ending for Walford's Heather
EastEnders producer Brian Kirkwood has promised a happy ending for Heather Trott.The cleaner - played by Cheryl Fergison - is due to leave the soap at the beginning of next year and Brian revealed to Inside Soap magazine she will find love with Rose's son Andrew, played by Ricky Grover.He revealed: "Andrew Cotton - Rose's loveable son who we first met during the trip to Southend in the summer - is coming back to Albert Square to woo Heather."The pair are a match made in heaven - but that's all I'm going to say for the time being!" Meanwhile, Brian hinted Sharon Rickman, played by Letitia Dean, could be returning to the Square.He said: "My answer whenever this particular question came up always used to be that Ronnie Branning filled the role of 'quivery-lipped blonde' in Albert
Square."But Ronnie has gone now, hasn't she?"
Square."But Ronnie has gone now, hasn't she?"
Hetti joins EastEnders
A TEENAGER from Eastbourne has landed a starring role in the hit BBC soap EastEnders.Hetti Bywater is to play a regular role as wild child Lucy Beale.The 17-year-old, who has already started filming as the young character, is the latest actor to play the role of the daughter of Walford businessman Ian Beale. She replaces Melissa Suffield who played the role from 2004 to 2010. Her casting was meant to remain a secret, until she was snapped filming a funeral scene.Hetti has been attending the Theatre Workshop Stage School in Eastbourne since she was 11-years-old.Theatre Workshop director Lora Munro said Hetti’s introduction to the school and training she has received there has helped her find previous roles in other BBC dramas such as Casualty and Doctors.Lora said, “We are thrilled for Hetti. She has always been one of my most hard- working and gifted students. “It’s been exciting watching Hetti grow and develop as an actress and person over the years and she is now receiving the success she deserves. “How proud I am is beyond words.”Hetti’s character Lucy is due to return to the square after spending some time in Devon, and will be coming back to Walford after hearing some sad news.Lucy Beale, the daughter of Cindy Beale, will return to our screens as a spoilt but ultimately insecure teen.
EastEnders spoilers from November 21
WATCH out, Max is back – and he’s brought yet another Branning with him.They are beginning to rival the Moons in number, and with the arrival of bad boy Derek, they’re more intimidating.Derek may not have a scary name, but he is played by scary actor Jamie Foreman, who always plays hard men and is the son of a real gangster.Max returns at Jack’s request, to ‘sort out’ Tanya who has gone off the rails. After the death of her friend Siobhan, she’s been drowning her sorrows and behaving erratically – understandably when she thinks she’s dying of cancer too, and has stopped her treatment, but no-one knows that.It’s affecting her family, as Abi is caught shoplifting and then Cora finds a pregnancy test in her bag.So Jack contacts Max, who has been staying with their eldest brother Derek. He drops by, expecting to dispense a few harsh words then leave. His caring response is to tell Tanya that if she doesn’t buck up her ideas, he will take the girls away.Their row is interrupted by Derek, who’s been in prison for armed robbery and who nobody is pleased to see. Tanya ends up slapping Lauren and pushing Max out of the house, which is when Lauren blurts out her mum’s cancer secret. It doesn’t look like Max can leave again now.Meanwhile, there’s lots more angst about. Lola becomes the latest Albert Square teen to get pregnant, but who’s the daddy? Not Ben, surely?Dot is unimpressed when Rose sleeps with Patrick, while Shirley accuses Rainie of stalking Phil.
EastEnders: Chavtastic Lola tells granddad Billy she's preggers
After a succession of gormless and charmless teenagers in Walford, Lola has been a chavtastic burst of energy as Billy’s granddaughter.But for a girl who’s proved a match for big-hearted Pops, is street-smart enough to scam Roxy, and can run wheeler-dealer rings round the Moon boys Alfie, Tyler and Anthony, how come she has made such a catastrophic error of judgment?“I’ll get my own place, then a whole load of benefits,” she defiantly tells
Billy when he tries to persuade her to go to school rather than work at the chippie. “They’ll give me what I want. I’m gunna ’ave a baby. I’m pregnant… I’m keeping it. I’ve nevah had anyfing of my own.” “I’ll buy you a goldfish, then,” Billy tells her a little belatedly.It’s a wonderfully played partnership between Perry Fenwick as Pops and newcomer Danielle Harold as the mouthy and spirited 15-year-old blonde.There is, of course, the predictable mystery of who’s the daddy, with gay Ben, dim Tyler and wideboy Jay all in the frame during the course of the week. Knowing opportunist Lola, she’ll have already opened a book on it.
Billy when he tries to persuade her to go to school rather than work at the chippie. “They’ll give me what I want. I’m gunna ’ave a baby. I’m pregnant… I’m keeping it. I’ve nevah had anyfing of my own.” “I’ll buy you a goldfish, then,” Billy tells her a little belatedly.It’s a wonderfully played partnership between Perry Fenwick as Pops and newcomer Danielle Harold as the mouthy and spirited 15-year-old blonde.There is, of course, the predictable mystery of who’s the daddy, with gay Ben, dim Tyler and wideboy Jay all in the frame during the course of the week. Knowing opportunist Lola, she’ll have already opened a book on it.
EastEnders: As Tanya and her family go into meltdown, her ex Max returns with
big bruvver Derek to save her
Of course it’s all about pedigree, isn’t it? And when the soap bosses picked up the phone to Thugs Are Us, they couldn’t have picked a better actor than Jamie Foreman to play the biggest, baddest Branning bruvver, Derek. Well, assuming Ray Winstone was washing his hair.The son of a notorious enforcer for the Kray twins in real life – aka Brown Bread Fred – Jamie is also a veteran of such movies as Layer Cake, Gangster No 1 and Nil By Mouth.
With his greased-back hair and oily charm, Derek exudes old-school menace and is the greatest threat to public health in Albert Square since Surly Shirley started to cook rancid fry-ups with a topping of fag ash in the caff. Yes, that scary.Released after a 10-year stretch, Derek is by little bruvver Max’s side when he returns to Walford after three months to find his ex-wife Tanya and his girls on the verge of a complete meltdown. Tanya is refusing treatment for cancer, her mum Cora and sister Rainie have moved in with her, daughter Lauren is sleeping around, and Abi has turned to shoplifting.“Look at the state of you,” Max sneers at Tanya as he walks in on a domestic between all the women. “You’ve let yourself go, haven’t yer?”Nice to see you too, mate.With five nights of blistering episodes, this is EastEnders back on superlative form. Jo Joyner is magnificent as distressed Tanya, Jake Wood excellent as the caring Max when he discovers Tanya is so poorly, and Jamie’s superb as Derek frightens the pants off Fat Pat and his sister Carol.“I ain’t goin’ nowhere,” Derek vows as he embraces Carol and his other bruvver Jack on Friday. “Not till Max is sorted. I’ve got a responsibility as the eldest… The Brannings together again at last, eh? Be like old times.”
With his greased-back hair and oily charm, Derek exudes old-school menace and is the greatest threat to public health in Albert Square since Surly Shirley started to cook rancid fry-ups with a topping of fag ash in the caff. Yes, that scary.Released after a 10-year stretch, Derek is by little bruvver Max’s side when he returns to Walford after three months to find his ex-wife Tanya and his girls on the verge of a complete meltdown. Tanya is refusing treatment for cancer, her mum Cora and sister Rainie have moved in with her, daughter Lauren is sleeping around, and Abi has turned to shoplifting.“Look at the state of you,” Max sneers at Tanya as he walks in on a domestic between all the women. “You’ve let yourself go, haven’t yer?”Nice to see you too, mate.With five nights of blistering episodes, this is EastEnders back on superlative form. Jo Joyner is magnificent as distressed Tanya, Jake Wood excellent as the caring Max when he discovers Tanya is so poorly, and Jamie’s superb as Derek frightens the pants off Fat Pat and his sister Carol.“I ain’t goin’ nowhere,” Derek vows as he embraces Carol and his other bruvver Jack on Friday. “Not till Max is sorted. I’ve got a responsibility as the eldest… The Brannings together again at last, eh? Be like old times.”
Your essential guide to Children in Need 2011
That bear with the bandaged eye is back, meaning it’s the Beeb’s annual bonanza to raise money for the disadvantaged young. Proceedings kick off with The One Show, as Alex Jones gives an update on tin-rattling activity from around Britain and co-host Matt Baker attempts to finish his arduous 484-mile rickshaw journey from Edinburgh to London. Then it’s into the glitzy telethon, hosted by Terry Wogan, Fearne Cotton, Tess Daly and Alesha Dixon live from Television Centre. Over the seven-hour marathon, musical guests include JLS, Westlife, Susan Boyle and Gary Barlow leading an urban supergroup on official charity single Teardrop. Moving appeal films are made by Kylie Minogue, Daniel Craig and Cheryl Cole.The highlights, however, are the one-off sketches and specials. These include the now traditional sneak peek at the Doctor Who Christmas special, Lord Sugar entering the Dragons’ Den, the Outnumbered kids turning their hand to music, the cast of EastEnders doing an impression of Queen, Gareth Malone leading a 3,000-strong choir on a live nationwide link-up and four female newsreaders facing a Strictly Come Dancing challenge. Michael Hogan
EastEnders star faces assault trial
Actor Tony Discipline, 22 - Tyler Moon in EastEnders - was today committed for trial accused of breaking a 21-year-old man's jaw and attacking the man's cousin in a fight outside Merah nightclub in Fitzrovia in May. Discipline, of Belvedere, denies grievous bodily harm and common assault. He was bailed to appear at Southwark crown court on December 23.
Medcalf loved being Walford witch
Kim Medcalf has revealed she still gets approached by EastEnders fans who remember her as Sam Mitchell.The 37-year-old actress - currently starring in West End musical Crazy For You - took on the soap role, originally played by Daniella Westbrook, for three years in 2002.Kim told Inside Soap magazine: "I'm still completely amazed that people know me from the show!"The public often want to talk about Sam. I left six years ago, so it always surprises me that people might still remember me from that. But I suppose that's the power of EastEnders, isn't it?"She added: "My favourite moments on the show were all to do with the scenes
involving Tracy-Ann Oberman [Chrissie Watts] and Michelle Ryan [Zoe Slater]
during the infamous Dirty Den murder plot."We worked extremely long hours when that storyline was happening, but we all giggled our way through it. The three of us were the witches of Walford - and we loved every second of it!"
Former Eastenders' Actress Natalie Cassidy Needs To Be Arrested
Which ever way we look at it, we can't find one single good thing to say about former Eastenders' actress Natalie Cassidy's choice of attire at the Curves Couture Models Of Diversity show.Attending the show, which celebrates a woman's curves, in Notting Hill, Natalie, decided that the dominatrix mermaid look was the look to go for...Well Natalie, we've got news for you...IT WASN'T!And to make the dress look even worse, Natalie, accessoried with chunky gold jewellery that included earnings, bracelet and a necklace.Despite doing well to maintain a UK size 10 figure after yo-yo-ing from a size 8 to 16, the star failed to show off her hard work with this monstrosity of a dress.
Anita searches for Strictly strength
IT may have been 23 years since Anita Dobson called time on pulling pints in Walford. But the Strictly star seemed to be right at home when she returned to the EastEnders' set with dance partner Robin Windsor. The beaming actress - who played Eastenders' shaggy-permed Angie Watts for many years - headed back to the Queen Vic as she prepared for this week's show.Perhaps the 62-year-old red-head took Robin Windsor to E20 to recapture the tough spirit of her screen persona. She was in the bottom two on Sunday despite receiving her highest score to date of 33 after dancing the Argentine Tango.
Eastenders Billy to carry Olympic torch
Billy, who is portrayed by actor Perry Fenwick, will be granted his long-term wish when he runs the torch through fictional Albert Square on July 23 next year, just before the Olympic opening ceremony on July 27.Fenwick told The Mirror: "When we first discussed the storyline, my initial thought was that I'll now have to get fit. "While this may be a fictional one-off for Billy Mitchell, it's a real once in a lifetime opportunity for me and I am thrilled that Walford and Albert Square will be part of this amazing event."Billy and fellow EastEnder character Fatboy (Ricky Norwood) were both initially in the running for the torchbearer role, but Fenwick won the opportunity.London 2012 chairman Lord Sebastian Coe said: "The announcement is a great addition to the Olympic torch relay route. I'm sure the people of Walford will now start planning their celebrations to welcome the flame to Albert Square."
Eastenders bosses fuel stalker mystery
Last night, EastEnders fans saw Phil (Steve McFadden) left rattled as he received strange photographs relating to the 1994 car lot fire, which he started deliberately in an insurance scam with Frank Butcher. Unbeknown to both of them, a homeless man was sleeping inside at the time, and died in the blaze.EastEnders chiefs have now fuelled the mystery of who is sending the photographs by naming Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) and Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd) as two possible suspects, with special videos offering an insight into why they may want revenge against Phil.More suspects will be named on the website as the storyline continues in upcoming episodes.
EastEnders: Lucy Beale to be recast for January return
NEWCOMER will play Lucy Beale when the character returns to EastEnders in January.
Melissa Suffield, 18, who played Lucy for six years, was axed by soap bosses last year following reports of unruly behaviour.The character was then written out of the Square, but she will make a comeback – with Hetti Bywater, 17, landing the part.She said: “I’m really excited to be joining such an iconic show as EastEnders and becoming part of the Beale household. I’m looking forward to find out what’s in store for Lucy.”Having been living in Devon for a year and a half, Lucy returns to Walford expecting to be the only girl in dad Ian’s life and is surprised to learn of his relationship with Mandy.A soap source said: “Lucy is less than impressed in Ian’s choice of partner, she is not about to make life easy for the couple."
Melissa Suffield, 18, who played Lucy for six years, was axed by soap bosses last year following reports of unruly behaviour.The character was then written out of the Square, but she will make a comeback – with Hetti Bywater, 17, landing the part.She said: “I’m really excited to be joining such an iconic show as EastEnders and becoming part of the Beale household. I’m looking forward to find out what’s in store for Lucy.”Having been living in Devon for a year and a half, Lucy returns to Walford expecting to be the only girl in dad Ian’s life and is surprised to learn of his relationship with Mandy.A soap source said: “Lucy is less than impressed in Ian’s choice of partner, she is not about to make life easy for the couple."
EastEnders' Bianca gets "shock of her life"
Warning: spoiler alert!
Ray, the father of Bianca's son Morgan (Devon Higgs), will be played by actor Chucky Venn, and the character will arrive in Albert Square, having been previously unaware that he had a son.He will make his debut in January 2012.The BBC says: "Fed up with seeing Bianca struggle financially, Whitney (Shona McGarty) thinks it is time Morgan's father contributed to his upbringing and unbeknownst to Bianca she tracks him down and arranges to meet him. "Ray hasn't seen Bianca for years and they didn't part on good terms so he goes to meet Whitney as he also has matters with Bianca that are unresolved."However, Ray gets the shock of his life when Whitney tells him all about Morgan, and she soon realises that Ray knew nothing about his son."Ray is determined to be a part of Morgan's life and he heads to Walford. Although Bianca isn't keen on having him around, Ray soon turns heads with the other ladies in Albert Square."Venn, who appeared in such films as The Bourne Ultimatum and The Dark Knight, said of his new job: "I have had the pleasure of working on many great productions with fantastic artistes such as Morgan Freeman and I have to say working on EastEnders feels like it is up there with the best of them."
Ray, the father of Bianca's son Morgan (Devon Higgs), will be played by actor Chucky Venn, and the character will arrive in Albert Square, having been previously unaware that he had a son.He will make his debut in January 2012.The BBC says: "Fed up with seeing Bianca struggle financially, Whitney (Shona McGarty) thinks it is time Morgan's father contributed to his upbringing and unbeknownst to Bianca she tracks him down and arranges to meet him. "Ray hasn't seen Bianca for years and they didn't part on good terms so he goes to meet Whitney as he also has matters with Bianca that are unresolved."However, Ray gets the shock of his life when Whitney tells him all about Morgan, and she soon realises that Ray knew nothing about his son."Ray is determined to be a part of Morgan's life and he heads to Walford. Although Bianca isn't keen on having him around, Ray soon turns heads with the other ladies in Albert Square."Venn, who appeared in such films as The Bourne Ultimatum and The Dark Knight, said of his new job: "I have had the pleasure of working on many great productions with fantastic artistes such as Morgan Freeman and I have to say working on EastEnders feels like it is up there with the best of them."
EastEnders heart-throb to turn on Crawley festive lights
SOAP fans are in for a treat as a little bird has told the Observer that EastEnders heart-throb Jack Branning will be turning on the Christmas lights at County Mall.Jack – better known as actor Scott Maslen – is expected to be at the Mall today (November 17) for the big turn-on at 7pm.Festive entertainment with a Peter Pan theme will start at 5pm, with Lost Boy jugglers, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook, face painters and a special visit from Father Christmas himself who will be meeting and greeting all the good little boys and girls of Sussex.From 6pm DJ Chris Oxlade will be on the wheels of steel playing all those Christmas classics as well as offering prizes, store discounts and giveaways to get people you in the party mood.At 6.40pm, Chris will fulfill the dream of a lifetime when he interviews Father Christmas before the arrival of the evening’s special guest who will switch on the Charity Tree and officially launch Christmas!Money raised this year will go to The Springboard Project, Age UK and The Army Benevolent Fund.Nicola Stevens, marketing manager at County Mall, said: “We cannot confirm or deny rumours circulating on the identity of the celebrity switching on the lights of the County Mall Christmas Tree, but the whole event this year is bigger and better than ever before with more chances to win prizes and to get discounts in stores throughout County Mall.”
Room for another Branning? Max and Jack's bad boy brother Derek moves to Albert Square
With the Mitchell family rapidly shrinking following the departure of matriarch Peggy, the Branning family have become one of the dominant clans in Albert Square.And the complicated family are set to get even bigger when Max, Jack and Carol's bad boy older brother Derek becomes the latest new addition to EastEnders.Actor Jamie Foreman, 53, joins the cast as ex-con Derek next week and it won't be long before he's making his presence known to his new neighbours And playing a bad boy shouldn't come too hard to Foreman, as he's the real-life son of Freddie 'Brown Bread Fred' Foreman, a former gangster associate of the notorious Krays brothers.Jamie, 53, said: 'I am hugely excited to be joining such an iconic show. EastEnders is full of fantastic actors so it is a role I couldn't refuse. The Brannings are such a great family to be joining and I am extremely interested to see how Derek is going to fit in. Jamie has been acting since the Seventies, with roles in Nil By Mouth, Layer Cake and Law & Order UK.EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood said: 'Loyal EastEnders viewers may know that the fearsome Derek Branning, eldest son of Jim, has been a shadowy presence looming over the rest of the family for years.'So it's a real coup to sign Jamie Foreman to play the biggest, baddest Branning brother.'Jamie has an incredible acting pedigree, having starred in some of the best British movies of recent times, and we can't wait for him to bring his unique talents to Walford.' Derek was previously played by Terrence Beesley, who appeared in several episodes of the soap in the mid-Nineties.A racist character, he had huge issues with younger sister Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson) marrying now ex-husband Alan Jackson because he was black.
'EastEnders' names two stalker suspects
EastEnders bosses have added a dedicated 'Stalker' section to the soap's official website to tie in with the launch of Phil Mitchell's new storyline.Last night, EastEnders fans saw Phil (Steve McFadden) left rattled as he received strange photographs relating to the 1994 car lot fire, which he started deliberately in an insurance scam with Frank Butcher. Unbeknown to both of them, a homeless man was sleeping inside at the time, and died in the blaze.EastEnders chiefs have now fuelled the mystery of who is sending the photographs by naming Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) and Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd) as two possible suspects, with special videos offering an insight into why they may want revenge against Phil.More suspects will be named on the website as the storyline continues in upcoming episodes.
Lucy Beale is returning to Walford
Actress Hetti Bywater is taking over the role, which was previously played by Melissa Suffield.The character will be back on screen in the new year.Lucy has been living in Devon for over a year but, missing home, she decides to return when she hears some sad news.Arriving back in Walford, Lucy is unimpressed when she learns of her dad Ian's new relationship with Mandy Salter, and she will not make life easy for him as she goes head to head with Mandy.Speaking of her casting, Bywater is quoted by the BBC website as saying: "I'm really excited to be joining such an iconic show as EastEnders, especially becoming part of the Beale household. I'm looking forward to finding out what's in store for Lucy and seeing what she's going to get up to when she returns to Walford."Bywater has previously had roles in Casualty and Doctors
'EastEnders' Lola shares shock news with Billy - Spoiler Picture
EastEnders' Billy Mitchell receives a shock next week when his rebellious granddaughter Lola Pearce announces that she is pregnant.Billy (Perry Fenwick) begins to worry about Lola when the school informs him that she has been missing lessons, and viewers later discover that the teen tearaway is hiding a secret as she clutches a pregnancy test out of his sight.After the test gives a positive result, Lola (Danielle Harold) soon shares the news with Billy - explaining that she doesn't plan on returning to school as she's expecting a baby.Lola goes on to boast about how she'll be given a flat of her own, but a stunned Billy insists that it won't be so simple.As the shock sinks in, Billy is determined to find out who the father is, but Lola isn't giving anything away - insisting that it doesn't matter as they can raise the baby themselves.When Billy convinces Pat (Pam St Clement) to give Lola some advice, the Albert Square matriarch suggests that an abortion could be her best option. However, Lola stands firm - she's keeping the baby and she'll be a good mother. Will she stick with her decision?Lola shares her big news with Billy on Tuesday, November 22 at 7.30pm on BBC One.
'EastEnders' stalker mystery: Phil confronts Janine
EastEnders hardman Phil Mitchell has a showdown with Janine in tonight's episode after deciding that she must be his mystery tormentor.When Phil (Steve McFadden) receives another strange envelope containing a newspaper cutting about the 1994 car lot fire, he decides that Janine must be responsible and his suspicions are fuelled when he sees her leaving the café with a journalist.Phil soon breaks into Janine's office, but when he doesn't find anything, he waits for her to arrive back and then accuses her of being the culprit. However, Janine (Charlie Brooks) seems genuine as she protests that she knows nothing about Phil's latest problem. Is she telling the truth?EastEnders airs these scenes tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Christmas showdown for EastEnders' Yusuf
Warning: spoiler alert!
The Daily Star reports that in the coming weeks Yusef will beat love interest Zainab (Nina Wadia) and kidnap her baby Kamil in a bid to control her.At Christmas, Yusef will try to murder Zainab's husband Masood (Nitin Ganatra).The paper says that Yusef and Tamwar (Himesh Patel), Zainab's other son, will be trapped in the B&B when it goes on fire.A show source said: "Yusef is seriously unhinged. He really is Doctor Evil and probably the worst villain we have had on the Square. There is no limit to what he is capable of."Zainab has been under his spell for months and it's only going to get worse. Christmas will turn into a nightmare for her. She's already lost her husband thanks to Yusef and now she could lose her son too."
The Daily Star reports that in the coming weeks Yusef will beat love interest Zainab (Nina Wadia) and kidnap her baby Kamil in a bid to control her.At Christmas, Yusef will try to murder Zainab's husband Masood (Nitin Ganatra).The paper says that Yusef and Tamwar (Himesh Patel), Zainab's other son, will be trapped in the B&B when it goes on fire.A show source said: "Yusef is seriously unhinged. He really is Doctor Evil and probably the worst villain we have had on the Square. There is no limit to what he is capable of."Zainab has been under his spell for months and it's only going to get worse. Christmas will turn into a nightmare for her. She's already lost her husband thanks to Yusef and now she could lose her son too."
EastEnders' Pat Evans to get horse-drawn hearse in funeral send-off
The coffin of the hard-nosed matriarch – who has been portrayed by Pam St Clement, 69, for 25 years – will be taken away to its final resting place on the carriage, which will be covered in flowers, including one set that spells out 'Pat'.The battleaxe is set to die of cancer in one of the BBC1 soap's Christmas storylines, which will see her sons David Wicks (Michael French) and Simon Wicks (Nick Berry) return to the programme to see off their mum.But EastEnders bosses are thought to have filmed another two possible exits for Pat, who could succumb to a heart attack, or a fire that is set to rip through Albert Square.A source explained: 'When bosses built a special set for a huge fire in the Square everyone thought that was definitely how Pat was going to go.'But now there is talk of a second person dying in the flames. And the two other options can be added in at the last minute. There are even gaps in the scripts being given to cast members so the news can't leak out.'The whole place is buzzing with what is going to happen.'
Eastenders star leaves character behind and heads for Pacific success
AFTER four years of playing unlucky Ronnie Mitchell in BBC soap Eastenders Samantha Womack tells the Gazette how much she is enjoying the new challenge of South Pacific.Later this month the UK tour of Rodger and Hammerstein’s South Pacific arrives at the Bristol Hippodrome for a two-week run.Samantha Womack makes her return to the stage, after several years in television, taking on the role of Nellie Forbush.The Lincoln Theatre production of the musical stormed the Tony Awards during its two-year stint on Broadway and the British tour, still under the watchful eye of Bartlett Sher, is continuing its success with many venues sold out.Speaking to the Gazette Samantha said the opportunity to work with Bartlett Sher on such a well-known show was too good to turn down.She said: "I knew Bartlett shows very well and I was interested when I heard he was coming over to direct the cast here, and the Barbican is very prestigious so it was all of these contributing factors."South Pacific is set during World War II on a Pacific island where the U.S. military become involved with the local community. A trailblazer of its time, the musical confidently explores the issue of racial prejudice."Honestly my memory of South Pacific had not been quite so accurate. I do remember there was turmoil but not quite as much as we are playing. This production is more gritty then all I’ve seen," said Samantha.She added: "One or two weeks into rehearsals I was thinking oh my goodness."Nellie is a very different character. The way she accesses her emotions are very different. It is quite exhausting."With songs such as Some Enchanted Evening, I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair and There is Nothin' Like a Dame, Samantha admits she felt the pressure taking on such a familiar show but is enjoying the challenge.She said: "We’ve had to put on extra shows because we’ve been sold out everywhere, which is incredible."It’s hard work but you have to look after yourself and you have to be disciplined."For my character she is the glue that binds the scenes together. She’s very vocal she says a lot and sings a lot."
EastEnders crews film famous funeral scenes for Pat Butcher at St James' Church,
Bushey
BBC film crews descended on Bushey this weekend as stars of EastEnders turned out to shoot funeral scenes for one of the soap-opera’s longest standing characters.Pat Butcher, played by veteran actress Pam St Clement since 1986, is due to be killed off in the popular British show.Trailers filled the car park of the Bushey Golf and Country Club as filming took place in High Street and at St James’ Church for the long-running television drama on Saturday and today (Monday).Famous characters Bianca Jackson, played by Patsy Palmer, Rickie Fowler, played by Sid Owen, and Janine Butcher, played by Charlie Brooks, were among those featuring in the scenes. Staff at a nearby restaurant reported large crowds of fans and on-lookers gathered outside the historic village church on Saturday trying to glimpse the soap stars.Hayley Gibbs, owner of a nearby beauty salon, said: "It was really nice, the high street seemed really busy all day Saturday."It didn't disrupt anything too much and i think it is a good thing for the area - it is quite exciting."A BBC spokesperson declined to comment on the nature of the filming but it is thought the programme’s directors shot at least three possible endings to avoid any storyline leaks.
EastEnders bosses defend gay plot
EastEnders bosses have defended their portrayal of homosexual issues after George Michael slammed their storylines as "insulting" to the gay community.The gay singer tweeted after last night's episode, which saw Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) storming around to Christian Clarke's (John Partridge) home with a baseball bat after he was falsely accused of molesting schoolboy Ben Mitchell (Joshua Pascoe)."It's official... George Michael has had enough of EastEnders... Gay people deserve better than the BBC's pathetic attempts to 'represent' us", he wrote."Message to gay kids in Britain. The East End of London is one of the best places on earth to be a modern gay man or couple. The relationship between Sayed [sic] and Christian is the most insulting piece of b****** on British television right now." He continued: "Insulting to the gay community, insulting to the Muslim community, and in the meantime, terrifying every gay child that is struggling to come to terms with their sexuality, and the prospect of coming out to their family, whatever their religion. So far, Christian has been beaten up three times that I can remember, and is now accused of child molestation."An EastEnders spokesperson said: "EastEnders reflects a wide range of issues. All soap characters face their own trials and tribulations in order to create drama, however EastEnders viewers will know that this is a story about Phil Mitchell who while struggling with his own relationship with his son, will do anything to protect him."
EastEnders: Kat tells Alfie that she has cheated on him again
When it comes to sorting out other people’s relationships, then big-hearted Alfie is undoubtedly the best agony uncle in Walford.Having given his new best mate Beale The Squeal some much needed advice, he even offers Tyler guidance on how to deal with the girls.“That’s like Audley Harrison telling Muhammad Ali how to box,” the cocky lad scoffs.What a shame, then, that somebody wasn’t watching over Kat and Alfie’s own troubled marriage. Even though he’s playing happy families with Tommy and ‘adopted’ Shenice, you suspect the omens aren’t good.
“You know what I reckon? They’ll be the best days of our lives,” Alfie tells Kat about growing old together.“I can see it now. Me in me West Ham slippers, smokin’ a pipe… You wandering around in your leopard skin support tights on a Zimmer frame. We’ll be old and wrinkly, but we won’t care. Because we’ll have each other.”Perhaps not. For soap’s best-loved couple are yet again on the rocks. And Kat reveals to a shocked Alfie, “I cheated on you. I’ve been with someone else… We dun it in the alley by the R&R like animals.”As always, Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie are excellent as the doomed couple as she tells him about her one-off with flash Mark.“Let’s face it,” Kat admits, “it could have been any Tom, Dick or Harry. Cos that’s what I am. A dirty little girl. That’s what I’ve always been. And that’s what I’ll aways be.“I’m giving you a get-out-of-jail-free card,” she sobs. “Take it. Throw me
out.”This time he just might…
“You know what I reckon? They’ll be the best days of our lives,” Alfie tells Kat about growing old together.“I can see it now. Me in me West Ham slippers, smokin’ a pipe… You wandering around in your leopard skin support tights on a Zimmer frame. We’ll be old and wrinkly, but we won’t care. Because we’ll have each other.”Perhaps not. For soap’s best-loved couple are yet again on the rocks. And Kat reveals to a shocked Alfie, “I cheated on you. I’ve been with someone else… We dun it in the alley by the R&R like animals.”As always, Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie are excellent as the doomed couple as she tells him about her one-off with flash Mark.“Let’s face it,” Kat admits, “it could have been any Tom, Dick or Harry. Cos that’s what I am. A dirty little girl. That’s what I’ve always been. And that’s what I’ll aways be.“I’m giving you a get-out-of-jail-free card,” she sobs. “Take it. Throw me
out.”This time he just might…
Eastenders exit for Heather revealed
Actress Cheryl Fergison will bid farewell to Albert Square next year in dramatic fashion. Warning: SPOILER ALERT!
After four years as a Walford resisdent Heather Trott will put her last wash on in the laundrette before she is murdered it has been revealed.A shock twist is planned for the George Michael fanatic who will see her life change for the better before it is cruelly snatched away. An insider at the soap said: "Things seem to be going brilliantly for a while. She has a new man in her life and there is even talk of marriage."But things soon take a dramatic turn for the worse and Heather ends up being killed in cold blood."They continued: "Her exit will stun the Square and everyone is looking over their shoulder wondering who is responsible. Even when the killer emerges there will be repercussions for years ahead." However Fergison admitted to The Mirror that she would prefer a lighter send-off, saying: "I'd like it to involve George Michael. He could take her on tour. "She's had four years of struggles so it might be nice. I don't mind, though - a big weepy would be interesting."
After four years as a Walford resisdent Heather Trott will put her last wash on in the laundrette before she is murdered it has been revealed.A shock twist is planned for the George Michael fanatic who will see her life change for the better before it is cruelly snatched away. An insider at the soap said: "Things seem to be going brilliantly for a while. She has a new man in her life and there is even talk of marriage."But things soon take a dramatic turn for the worse and Heather ends up being killed in cold blood."They continued: "Her exit will stun the Square and everyone is looking over their shoulder wondering who is responsible. Even when the killer emerges there will be repercussions for years ahead." However Fergison admitted to The Mirror that she would prefer a lighter send-off, saying: "I'd like it to involve George Michael. He could take her on tour. "She's had four years of struggles so it might be nice. I don't mind, though - a big weepy would be interesting."
EastEnders: Tamwar Masood to be badly disfigured in Christmas Day blaze
EASTENDERS bosses are planning one of their most shocking Christmas Day storylines ever – when Indian restaurant owner Tamwar Masood gets badly disfigured in a blaze.Tamwar, played by 21-year-old Himesh Patel, faces plastic surgery after getting caught up in the fire.His wife Afia vows to stand by him, but his battle to cope with his injuries puts pressure on their marriage.A source said: “Tamwar is lucky to be alive after the fire. He escapes but suffers serious scars to his face and it causes depression.“For the actor it is going to be a huge challenge with a new look.”Details of the Christmas Day shocker come as Pat Evans this week filmed three endings to her exit from the BBC1 soap.Pat, played by Pam St Clement, 69, will either be killed in the house fire, suffer a fatal heart attack or die of cancer
Eastenders November 12 - 18
Phil is perturbed to receive a series of anonymous items through the post, one of which induces a degree of panic. Determined to discover their source, he confronts Janine, who subsequently visits Pat in search of some answers.Pat reveals a secret to Janine. She in turn is shocked when Pat reveals a secret that she has been keeping for many years. Pat tells Janine the full story behind the car lot fire all those years ago, explaining that Frank set up the plan as an insurance job and Phil set the car lot alight.Meanwhile, Kat continues to feel guilty about her one-night stand with delivery man Mark a few weeks ago. Alfie can see that Kat is unhappy and encourages her to go for a night out with Kim to cheer herself up. However, when Kat gets home, the guilt finally becomes too much to bear and she tells him the truth about how she has been unfaithful to him. How will Alfie react?Elsewhere, Tyler does his best to make things right between Jodie and Poppy and Afia and Tamwar are concerned about Zainab and Yusef's relationship and how it may be frowned upon in the Muslim community as they've already been married. However, when Afia raises her concerns with Yusef, he says that only Allah can judge them.