Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) was on borrowed time after attacking Victoria’s rapist Lee in Emmerdale, but tonight his world came crashing down when he learned that Lee had died in hospital — which meant that he could end up facing a murder charge. As a result, he and husband Aaron (Danny Miller) decided to go on the run together before the police could catch up with Robert.

When Robert learned that Victoria (Isabel Hodgins) had been raped, he decided to seek revenge on behalf of his sister. As a result, he went to great lengths to antagonise Lee, and things got out of hand several months back when he picked up a shovel and hit the rapist on the back of the head. Robert was charged with a GBH with intent and, as he’s facing a stretch in prison, he’s been making the most of what time he has left with Aaron.

However, things went from bad to worse tonight, as an emotional Victoria headed round to her brother’s house to inform him that Lee had died. Robert was stunned, and didn’t know how best to proceed. However, it was Liv (Isobel Steele) who provided them with an answer, when she suggested that both him and Aaron go on the run.

Robert was clear that he didn’t want Aaron to have to face life on the run, but he had no choice in the matter, as Aaron had already made up his mind.

Later, Aaron informed Chas (Lucy Pargeter) of his plan and, while she was adamant that he was making a mistake, he was determined to stand by his husband.

As the episode drew to a conclusion, an emotional Victoria bid farewell to Robert, as both he and Aaron exited their home. They said one final emotional farewell to their nearest and dearest before getting into the car and driving off.

The question is: will the pair manage to evade the law?

With Lee having died as a result of the injuries Robert inflicted on him, the police will no doubt come calling real soon, and when they realise he’s gone, it’s likely that they’ll pull out all the stops to locate him.

What’s more, a recent trailer showed both Aaron and Robert hiding — seemingly from a police car— so they’re not out of the woods just yet.

Emmerdale continues on Tuesday 15th October at 7pm on ITV.

Rainie Branning (Tanya Franks) has been struggling to cope with her addiction to drugs in EastEnders, but her actions spiralled out of control in tonight’s episode, as she sought revenge on Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) for the part she played in getting her addicted again in the first place. 

Kathy grew concerned about Rainie being left in charge of Abi during last week’s episodes, and thus she discussed her drug habit with Max (Jake Wood), who wasted little time in making it clear that — as long as Rainie’s addicted to drugs — she will continue to put drugs above everything else.

Determined to find out if there was any truth in what Max had to say, she came up with an idea, and thus removed a packet of drugs from her bag and left them on the table nearby Rainie — prompting her to make a choice between the drugs or Abi.

Stuart (Ricky Champ) was livid when he got wind of what Kathy had done, and thus he threatened to stop her from seeing Abi. Meanwhile, Rainie — determined to prove herself to Kathy — deposited the drugs down the kitchen sink in front of the Beale matriarch. However, unbeknown to both Kathy and Stuart, Rainie hadn’t gotten rid of all of the drugs — as she decided to keep some for herself.

Tonight, Kathy was regretful over what she did and — determined to prevent anyone else from finding out — she agreed to allow Rainie to take Abi to the park unsupervised.

Meanwhile, with Rainie behaving odd, Stuart questioned whether or not he truly trusted her, and thus he opened up to Bex (Jasmine Armfield) about his fears. However, Bex simply insisted that he give Rainie the benefit of the doubt — and he ultimately agreed to do so.

With a happier outlook, Stuart set off to find Rainie, but — upon locating her — he was left devastated when he found her, as she was about to take drugs while in charge of baby Abi.

Stuart berated her, and threw her drugs into the nearby grass — leaving Rainie incredibly upset. Afterwards, Stuart prompted her to make a choice between Abi and the drugs but Rainie seemingly chose the drugs, as she got down on her hands and knees and searched for them.

Later, a muddied Rainy got into a verbal altercation with Martin (James Bye), but Martin proceeded to tell her to sort herself out. Upon reflection, that’s exactly what Rainie set about doing.

Afterwards, Rainie paid Kathy a visit and proceeded to blame her for everything that’s transpired, before confirming what Max said by reiterating that drugs will come before anything and anyone when you’re an addict.

The police arrived on Kathy’s doorstep, and Kathy was incredibly confused as a result, as they informed her they were here to follow up after receiving a report of an assault. Rainie didn’t seem perturbed by their arrival, and it came to light that she knew exactly why they were there. Before long, she brutally attacked Kathy, which led to her getting arrested.

Upon hearing an irate Rainie kicking and screaming as the police officers dragged her out of the Beale household, Stuart headed over to see what was going on — but Rainie made it clear that she was intent on getting herself sorted out, before telling him that she loves him, and that he’d be better off if he let her go.

Is this the end for Stuart and Rainie?

What’s more, have we seen the last of Rainie?

EastEnders continues on Thursday 17th October at 8pm on BBC One.

Ric Griffin (Hugh Quarshie) faces a stark and terrible choice: treat his brain tumour with drugs and sit at home fading away, unable to work, eventually being confined to bed – or take the high-risk surgery offered by Max McGerry (Jo Martin), an operation that’s never been successfully tried on a human being and which could leave him either dead or severely impaired. ‘See how many words you can string together once she’s done with you,’ as Serena (Catherine Russell) put it, with gut-wrenching honesty.

At the end of tonight’s episode Ric’s mind was made up. He would go for the surgery. ‘I’m choosing life,’ he told Serena, because ‘if I can’t be a surgeon, what is the reason for my existence?’ Whether he survives the procedure is unclear at this point. All we know for sure is that the autumn trailer didn’t end well, with Ric’s heart stopping during surgery as an anguished Serena tried to keep him alive.

The trailer also features some characters who might be memories, visions, hallucinations or angels. They’re the ghosts that Ric spoke of at the end of this episode, the ‘ghosts that still haunt me.’ For a few moments we were inside Ric’s mind, hearing him think about Leo: ‘I should have realised something was wrong.’ He also thought about Diane: ‘I wasn’t there when she needed me the most.’ But who are Diane and Leo, the ghosts who still haunt Ric after so many years?

Leo Griffin was Ric’s son. Played by Junior Laniyan in 2002-3 and Daon Broni in 2004, Leo was a promising medical student whom Ric thought would go on to a great career as a CT surgeon. Leo and Ric had a turbulent relationship and when Leo died of a heroin overdose in series 10 Ric reproached himself for not being more involved in his son’s life. It’s something that has been a deep source of regret to him ever since.

Diane Lloyd (Patricia Potter) worked at Holby City from 2002 to 2007 and right from the beginning she had a connection with Ric Griffin – it was revealed she was his ex-girlfriend. The relationship between them was on-and-off for the whole time she was in the show, although both of them had other relationships. Diane was even married to obstetrician Owen Davis, but in a special episode set in Ghana she and Ric rekindled their feelings for each other. Their relationship finally ended when Ric introduced Diane to his fiancée Thandie.

Diane’s life took a downward spiral and she was killed when her car was hit by a train, in an incident that was ruled as suicide. Following this, Thandie accused Ric of still being in love with Diane and he didn’t deny it. Ric went to say goodbye to Diane in the chapel of rest in a scene which Hugh Quarshie recently described as the saddest moment he’s had to film in his long Holby career.

So it’s clear that the deaths of these two important people in his life have always troubled Ric and as he reflects on his own mortality they’re very much in his thoughts. But will their appearance mean forgiveness and peace for him – or does it mean he’s about to join them in the afterlife?

Sue Haasler is the author of the official Holby City book, which you can read about here. Her other TV books and novels are listed here

There was a lot going on in tonight’s Holby City, with Jac (Rosie Marcel), Chloe (Amy Lennox) and Serena (Catherine Russell) all returning after some time away, Essie (Kaye Wragg) facing having to give up baby Isla and Max McGerry (Jo Martin) being introduced to the cast. But by the end of the episode everybody’s thoughts will have been on Ric Griffin (Hugh Quarshie) and his decision to have super-risky surgery to remove his brain tumour.

Serena heard about this surgery from Max and Ric, without realising that Ric was the patient under discussion. She said she would advise the patient whose MRI scan they were looking at ‘not to start any box sets.’ When Ric told her it was his scan they were looking at she was mortified. She tried to persuade him not to have the surgery, which has never before been successfully tried on a human. ‘I don’t want my friend to be a dead guinea pig,’ she said. ‘If I can’t be a surgeon, what is the reason for my existence?’ he argued.

We were left in no doubt that if anyone can do it, Max can. She was at Holby to see a patient of hers (Max is currently a neuro consultant at The Mythical St James’s, but we already know that Jo Martin is joining the Holby cast soon so expect an offer from the equally mythical Holby HR department very soon). The patient had long term neurological problems and more recent appendicitis, which meant Serena and Max had to work together – and the tension between them was highly amusing to watch. We also got to see at first hand that Max is a brilliant surgeon who is ice cool in a crisis. Exactly what we need if Ric is going to have any chance at all.

Meanwhile, Essie was shocked when Isla’s mother Frankie (Sophie Harkness) returned unexpectedly. She said she had her life sorted out, including a job in Birmingham, and she was now ready to take Isla back. This wouldn’t have been great news for Essie at the best of times because she’s become so attached to Isla, but she noticed that Frankie was ravenously hungry and also had some injuries which could have been caused by Connor, Isla’s father. Essie wasn’t happy to let Isla go under those circumstances. It was Sacha (Bob Barrett) who got through to Frankie and made her realise that she still wasn’t in a position to take care of a baby, so Isla is still in Essie’s care for now.

Jac was back from a trip to Disneyland with Emma, and she seemed in an unusually mellow and happy mood. She didn’t even mind when Fletch (Alex Walkinshaw) and Nicky (Belinda Owusu) used a picture of her dressed as Elsa from Frozen as a screensaver. This sunny mood didn’t last long, though. We heard that Emma had spent most of the time they were away talking to Jonny and his wife Stacey on the phone. Then Jac got a call and told Kian (Ramin Karimloo) she’d have to go as Emma’s babysitter had double-booked herself – but on her way out she was apologising to someone and saying she never messes up like this. What’s going on?

Cameron (Nic Jackman) was feeling the pressure already, as it was the day his mum’s body was being returned to the UK and he had another funeral to arrange. Still eaten up with guilt over the way he stood by and let Evan die, he was further upset by Chloe asking him about Evan’s death. She hadn’t known that Cameron was present at the time and thought he’d died alone. ‘Was he in any pain?’ she wanted to know. ‘In my opinion, not nearly enough,’ was his honest reply.

Sue Haasler is the author of the official Holby City book, which you can read about here. Her other TV books and novels are listed here

Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) has had an incredibly tough year thus far in Hollyoaks, but things are set to get much worse for the young woman in autumn, as she finds herself the target of an unknown shooter, and will be left for dead in the middle of The Loft’s dance floor. 

It’s safe to say that Mercedes has been to hell and back this past year. Between battling a drug habit, to knocking down Grace (Tamara Wall) during a joyride with Liam (Jude Monk McGowan) — not to mention her marital problems with Sylver (David Tag) which certainly weren’t helped by the summer affair she embarked on with Liam — she’s had to cope with a lot of stress as of late, but things are set to get much worse.

Yes, after a huge row breaks out in The Dog, Mercedes retreats to the The Loft, where she finds herself all alone. While partying on the dance floor, someone will pull the trigger and leave her for dead.

The question on everyone’s lips, of course, is who is the mystery shooter?

This incident will kick-off a long-running mystery storyline, as viewers try and work out who it was that left Mercedes for dead. Goldie (Chelsee Healey) will be determined to get the bottom of things also and — given that she’s proven incredibly good at detective work via her investigation into Breda’s (Moya Brady) odd behaviour —she could well prove successful in uncovering the truth.

As noted earlier, Mercedes has had an awful year, and her actions throughout the past couple of months have had a negative effect on several of the village’s residents. The question is: which one of them would be capable of leaving the McQueen matriarch for dead?

Could Grace Black perhaps uncover the truth that it was, in fact, Mercedes who knocked her down and thus seek revenge?

Or will Sylver find out about his wife having cheated on him with Liam?

Considering all the heartache Mercedes has caused, it’s certainly going to be incredibly difficult trying to work out who exactly is responsible.

Dramatic events and emotional farewells are at the centre of our latest Coronation Street spoilers as the soap prepares for one of its biggest weeks of the year, as David Platt (Jack P Shepherd) finds himself caught up in a horrifying prison riot, and Sinead Tinker (Katie McGlynn) prepares to bid farewell to her loved ones, as she dies in heartbreaking scenes.

Meanwhile, Bethany Platt (Lucy Fallon) finds herself faced with an emotional dilemma, and Max makes a shocking discovery about David, as Shona Ramsey (Julia Goulding) questions what she thinks she knows.

Monday 21st October Part One

A riot breaks out in prison and David retreats to his cell, but things are made complicated when Abe brings Josh into said cell and — handing him a pair a scissors — gives David ample opportunity to do as he pleases with his rapist. Will he take revenge?

Kirk, Beth and Craig surprise Sinead by having an impromptu Christmas celebration, and she’s thrilled as a result. However, Daniel’s overprotectiveness poses a risk to the meal running smoothly, as he thinks Sinead simply isn’t up to such a thing — and conflict ensues as a result.

Monday 21st October Part Two

With tensions running high, David informs Abe that he wishes to deal with Josh alone, as he ponders whether or not to seek revenge for what the rapist did to him. News of the riot reaches the Platt household via the news, and David rings Shona to tell her that Josh has been stabbed — and that she’d better get him a lawyer.

Bethany spots an emotional Daniel and tries to cheer him up. However, he breaks down in her arms, confessing that he wishes he could change the situation that both he and Sinead have found themselves in. Bethany embraces him —something which Ken spies, and he orders his son to return home to his dying wife.

Wednesday 23rd October Part One

Bethany can’t stop thinking about the moment she shared with Daniel, and thus reveals to Audrey that she’s in love with him, but she can’t stop blaming herself for taking advantage.

Meanwhile, Sinead searches for her notebook, but stumbles upon Bethany’s instead — and proceeds to read her short story.Sinead confronts Daniel, claiming that it’s pretty obvious that Bethany’s in love with him. Daniel refutes such a claim, but Sinead knows there’s more to this than meets the eye, and thus begs him to be honest with her.

Meanwhile, David claims to have had no involvement in the attack on Josh, but Max uncovers some evidence that would seemingly suggest otherwise — leaving Shona in shock.

Wednesday 23rd October Part Two

Daniel swears to Sinead that what happened between him and Bethany meant nothing, but Sinead’s not so sure, and she struggles to make eye contact with him as a result. Dr Gaddas tends to Sinead and informs her that regardless of what transpired with Daniel, she is loved.

Daniel enters self-destruct mode, leaving Adam to pick up the peaces, while an enraged Craig confronts Bethany over her recent actions.

David is horrified when he hears that Max has seen the video of the prison riot, and he professes his innocence once more. However, Shona’s not really sure what to make.

Thursday 24th October

Sinead’s upset when she wakes up and realises that Daniel’s not there. Beth helps her to record some messages for Bertie to show her son just how much she loves him — thus preparing for a future that she won’t be a part of.

Tracy gaves Sinead some words of wisdom about Daniel, and manages to convince her that — in addition to the fact that Bertie’s going to need his dad — Daniel loves her more than anything.

Friday 25th October Part One

Sinead berates Daniel and urges him to stop punishing himself over what’s transpired. Dr Gaddas arrives to check on Sinead, but it becomes apparent that she’s simply too ill to move to a hospice — making Daniel realise just how little time he has left with his wife.

Sinead later takes comfort in hearing her family argue over silly things and, later when they’ve left, she spends some quality time with Daniel.

Elsewhere, Gail returns from Thailand to find Sally and Tracy having a go at Bethany in the street.

Friday 25th October Part Two

With Daniel and Bertie by her side, Sinead passes away peacefully.

Both the Barlow and Tinker clans congregate in the Rovers and await the news of Sinead, as they share their favourite memories of the young woman.

The Emmerdale cast have lifted the lid on what it was like to film upcoming explosion and underwater stunt scenes as the affair between Moira Dingle and Jurell Carter has been exposed, leaving Jeff Hordley seething and hungry for revenge.

As Cain lures Nate and Moira onto a fishing boat, where he confronts the farm hand over what has been going on with his wife, violence follows when Nate boasts about seducing Moira. And Jeff Hordley, Jurell Carter and Natalie J Robb did all of their own stunts as the characters end up underwater and an explosion rips through the boat.

Jeff enthused to Metro.co.uk: ‘I am just thrilled not only to be working on the show but to be given the opportunity to do the high octane stunts and sequences such as underwater and diving it is a real thrill. ‘Filming like this is exciting as you step outside your normal limits and push yourself. It then becomes a great sense of achievement.

‘I was very anxious about the underwater sequence to begin with, but once I had acclimatised to the surroundings and being in a water tank it was better. Personally I love snorkelling, going under water and seeing marine life when I’m on holiday but this was a bit different.

‘I had never used a diving regulator before, so that was new. The other big thing for me, that made the whole experience more difficult and challenging was obviously you have to do the whole thing without goggles or a mask so your visibility goes from seeing fully to about 15 percent. I could literally only just see a hand if it was really near my face, so that was a bit daunting. When the person moved away I could just about make out a distant figure in the water.’

Natalie admitted to having some trepidation over going underwater too. She said: ‘Before we started I was apprehensive, but we had buddies underwater. I had a buddy called Wayne. The buddies are divers who stay with you underwater to make sure you always have access to air. Jeff’s buddy was called Matt and they are really reassuring as they gave us so much confidence.

‘The tank is quite deep. It’s like a swimming pool, but really deep. It’s dark and murky and dressed with weeds and rocks. In this case, there was a platform that I had to hook into and put my foot under. I would be on the regulator breathing until we needed to do the action, then the diver would swim over and remove the regulator.

‘I would then hold my breath whilst I did the filming action, then the buddy diver would come straight back in and give me more air. It was really exciting to do. Jeff and I both have slightly bloodshot eyes from filming but nothing eye drops aren’t fixing. I have really enjoyed this whole shoot, it has been fantastic – a great experience and brilliant team work. That is the thing I love about working on Emmerdale, we get to do such great challenges that we would not normally get to do.’

Since getting back together and married to his soulmate Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley), Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) has largely been in control of his demons and has been looking forward to a future with a family unit around him in Emmerdale.

But all of that is about to be ripped away from him when the death of Lee Posner means that Robert has to leave the village one way or another. Whether he escapes and goes on the run or ends up enduring a lengthy prison spell remains to be seen but either way, everything that they have fought to build up over the years is cruelly shattered.

Inevitably, this leaves Aaron in a very dark and vulnerable place. With a history of aggression, depression and self harm, the popular character will hit self destruct and return to his old ways – getting himself into serious trouble.

Worrying the likes of mum Chas (Lucy Pargeter) and sister Liv (Isobel Steele), is there any way back for Aaron as he heads over the edge?

Speaking to Inside Soap, Emmerdale’s producer Kate Brooks revealed: ‘When a big character like Robert exits, there is huge story potential in terms of kicking off the next chapter for Aaron.

‘Robert leaving is going to hit him hard. He is the love of Aaron’s life whom he adored, and has kept Aaron anchored and on the straight and narrow. So when the rug is pulled from underneath his feet, it really affects Aaron and it makes him behave in ways that he wouldn’t normally.’

She added: ‘I think we’re going to see the Aaron of old, before Robert came along and straightened him out. We have loads of great stuff for Danny and Isobel, as they try to navigate their world without Robert in it.’

Ryan’s final scenes as Robert air this week.

Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) and Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) were forced to take drastic action in Emmerdale last night, after they discovered that rapist Lee had died in hospital. As a result, Robert knew he’d risk being charged with murder, and thus he resolved to flee the village with husband Aaron at his side. However, things get a tad more complicated tonight, when the police begin asking questions.

Last night, an emotional Victoria informed her brother that Lee had died. Robert was devastated, as he knew the rapist’s death could result in him being charged with murder and thus have to spend life in prison.

As Robert discussed his options, Liv provided him with an answer, as she suggested that he could go on the run with Aaron.

After some deliberation, they agreed to do just that and Aaron headed off to inform mum Chas (Lucy Pargeter) of his plan and, although she was horrified at the prospect of losing her son, she ultimately bid him farewell, as both he and Robert drove off to start their new life together.

However, the reality of the situation will no doubt hit those who remained behind in the village during tonight’s episode, as the police begin to ask questions.

With Lee having only recently died, the police are sure to put two and two together when they realise that Robert and Aaron have vanished.

The question is: will Robert and Aaron manage to get out of dodge before the law tracks them down?

What’s more, will Chas and Liv be able to remain calm knowing what they know, as the police investigate?

Emmerdale continues on Wednesday 16th October at 7pm on ITV.

Sinead Tinker’s (Katie McGlynn) world came crashing down several several weeks ago in Coronation Street when she learned that her cancer had returned and that, this time, it’s terminal. With only a few weeks left to live, the young woman is determined to enjoy what little time she’s got left but, tonight, the severity of her illness hits her hard.

Since receiving the devastating news that her cancer had returned, Sinead has been determined to enjoy the little time she’s got left, but she was left further heartbroken last week when she learned that she only has a few weeks left to live — something which she later relayed to her friends and family during Ken’s (William Roache) 80th birthday party.

In tonight’s episode, Sinead decides to have a picnic with Daniel (Rob Mallard), Beth (Lisa George), Kirk (Andrew Whyment) and Craig (Colson Smith), but the severity of her illness well and truly hits her, as she’s forced to use a wheelchair in order to get to the location of said picnic.

Afterwards, she attempts to join in on a game of charades, but becomes pretty clear just how poorly she is, and thus the game is called short so that Sinead can be taken home.

Later, Sinead settles down on the sofa in front of the TV, ready to enjoy some time with Daniel, but she’s hit with the realisation that she won’t have many more moments like this one.

Coronation Street continues on Wednesday 16th October at 7:30pm and 8:30pm on ITV.

Faith Dingle is certainly a force to be reckoned with in Emmerdale, and the character has been at the centre of a lot of big storylines, but her time on the soap is coming to an end — at least for now — and actress Sally Dexter has spoken further about her upcoming exit.

Since arriving in the village back in 2017, Faith has featured in a number of Emmerdale’s big storylines, and it certainly didn’t take her long to become a fan-favourite. However, she’s not long for the village, as actress Sally will soon be departing the soap — something which she first confirmed to Metro.co.uk at the Inside Soap Awards earlier this month.

Sally’s elaborated further on the reasons behind her upcoming departure. Speaking to Inside Soap, she said: ‘At the beginning of the year, I was thinking about my job at Emmerdale and how much I love it and how I’d hate for it to become anything less than the job I adore.’

‘So I’m leaving now, but maybe one day I’ll come back to it. Never say never. After all, Cain needs his mum. Whenever people see me out and about in the street, they tell me that I need to keep him in order.’

Speaking of Cain (Jeff Hordley), Faith will plays a huge role in upcoming episodes, as she enlightens her son about how she believes Moira (Natalie J Robb) is having an affair behind his back — a revelation which will lead to some pretty explosive events.

Speaking to Metro.co.uk at the Inside Soap awards about the events to come, Sally said: ‘It’s going to be an explosive October. I may have to leave for a little while.’

Coronation Street just hasn’t been the same since Gail Rodwell (Helen Worth) upped sticks and left several months back, but the Platt matriarch makes her long-awaited return to the cobbles in the coming episodes, but boss Iain MacLeod has revealed that the Corrie icon’s return storyline was almost an entirely different one.

After Gail discovered that David (Jack P Shepherd) and Nick (Ben Price) had swindled Audrey (Sue Nicholls) out of £80k, she was left devastated and thus departed from the cobbles. Before long, it became apparent that she’d headed off to Thailand, and — in the coming episodes — she returns from home from her trip, and is horrified to find what’s been going on with her family in her absence.

The trip will have done Gail the world of good, as her return will bring to light that she’s a bit different than she was when she left. On Gail’s return, Executive Producer Iain MacLeod said: ‘She’s still the Gail that we recognise but she’s a little more grounded and more mother earth’.

‘She’s still the Gail we know and love but there might be a few more harem pants in her wardrobe and a few more coiffure choices.’

While Gail’s return will bring with it the opportunity for viewers to see a different side of the legendary character, it turns out that there was initially a very different narrative in mind for the Weatherfield regular.

When asked if Gail had engaged in a holiday romance with anyone, Iain continued: ‘No, but there was originally a story on the table where she did but we moved away from that in the end just because it felt like we don’t want Gail to get together with another serial killer and if we were going to do it we’d want to do it on-screen rather than off-screen.’

Considering Gail went to Thailand to get away from stress, it’s safe to say that dating a serial killer would’ve been somewhat counterproductive. What’s more, she’s not had much luck in the romance department over the years, so bringing a serial killer into her life would’ve no doubt have had a huge effect on her — especially considering it wouldn’t be the first time.

Long-time Corrie viewers will remember that her third husband was none other than iconic serial killer Richard Hillman (Brian Capron), who murdered several cobbles regulars — most notably Maxine Peacock (Tracy Shaw) — before trying to kill the whole Platt family when he famously drove them into the canal.

Discussing the storyline that was ultimately chosen for Gail’s return, Iain said: ‘She’s just had a Zen like epiphany. But it won’t turn into a pastiche of hippy lifestyle, she’s still Gail.’

Just as it seems Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) is finally getting some happiness, she is on the brink of losing it all again in Neighbours.

Sparks flew between Elly and Shaun before he went away and she began to picture her future as a family with her unborn baby. But her perfect picture could be shattered when a natural disaster strikes.

Finn (Rob Mills) is excited for his brother’s return but he’s distracted when he and Bea (Bonnie Anderson) get into an argument over Scarlett (Christie Whelan Browne). He’s concerned she’s getting herself into a potentially dangerous situation, although neither of them realise just how dangerous Scarlett might be. They’re both hugely taken aback when, during their row, she accidentally calls him Patrick.

Shocked by the moment, Finn turns his attention back to his brother, putting the argument out of his head as he attempts to get in contact with Shaun (Brad Moller) to find out his plans to return. He’s worried when he struggles to get hold of his sibling, but he later gets a call that brings his world crashing down – there’s been an avalanche in Switzerland and Shaun is missing.

Finn immediately fears the worst while Elly surprises him by being hopeful. He becomes angry and resentful that she can’t face facts.

But her positivity is tested when three bodies are discovered and are unidentified. Finn is distraught and Elly is dealt a painful reality slap –  is one of them Shaun?

Elly refuses to believe he’s come to harm, which sees her and Finn come to verbal blows as he thinks she’s burying her head in the sand.

After chatting to Susan, Toadie decides to try and help, taking Elly for a chat. As they talk he gets to the bottom of why she remains so upbeat, she is clutching onto the dwindling hope that her baby isn’t about to grow up without a father.

Distraught, she and Finn find comfort with each other as they wait for news. Will Shaun make it out alive?

Scenes air from Monday 21st October at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3pMVzIjbgR/

Former EastEnders star Dean Gaffney, best known for his role as hapless Robbie Jackson in the soap, has shared a touching post on Instagram, paying tribute to his grandmother Nancy who has died. In the moving message, he promised his late nan that he would look after his mum.

EastEnders coilleagues such as Max Bowden and Emma Barton – as well as Dean’s fans – have been sharing messages of love and support. Along with a picture of Nanny Nancy, Dean wrote: ‘Normally I wouldn’t divulge information like this on social media, however we celebrate births and marriages but never talk about death. RIP nanny Nancy.. I promise you I will look after mum, love you with all my heart, RIP’ (sic).

The actor was recently confirmed to have been written out of the soap, with a source citing ‘a string of bad personal decisions’ as the reason. Dean has recently been sharing his journey in a wellness retreat to help his mental health.

Speaking from the centre in Spain, 41-year-old Dean explained: ‘I’m not that guy who goes to the gym all the time so I had to find another way of giving myself a goal, and this retreat was what I like to call “a step in the right direction”.

‘My health is important. I need to always be aware of that, not just physically but mentally.’

Dean’s final EastEnders scenes have already been aired in the show as Robbie was seen receiving the news that his son Sami had been injured so he was forced to rush abroad to visit him. It was after these scenes were on screen that it was confirmed Dean’s contract was not being renewed and he wouldn’t be making further appearances during this stint.

However, given that Robbie hasn’t been killed off, the door seems to have been left open for the future.

Victoria Barton (Isabel Hodgins) has had an incredibly difficult year in Emmerdale after she was raped by Lee Posner during a night out. The young woman is seemingly set to find a little bit of happiness with newcomer Luke (Max Parker) — that is, unless Luke turns out to be dangerous, which a lot of viewers believe him to be.

Victoria’s world came crashing down earlier this year when, after a night out with her pals, she was raped by Lee. After the police were unable to bring a case against the rapist, Robert (Ryan Hawley) set about seeking revenge on her behalf, and ended up getting himself arrested and charged with GBH with intent.

Matters were made worse earlier this week when Lee died from his injuries, which led to Robert having to go on the run with husband Aaron (Danny Miller). As a result, Victoria has lost her brother too, and — with a baby on the way — she’s got a lot on her plate.

Despite her stresses, she could be set to find happiness, as it recently became apparent that there was chemistry between her and Luke — a man whom she met at the hospital last month.

During last night’s episode, the pair went for lunch — and they got along incredibly well. Yes, Luke certainly seems like a nice lad on the surface — and it’s nice to see Victoria getting on with her life after all that’s been through.

The question is: could there perhaps be more to Luke than meets the eye?

When the pair first met, Victoria was convinced that Luke was up to no good, which — considering everything that she’s been through, was more than justified — but, upon dicussing the matter further with Diane (Elizabeth Estensen), she came to the realisation that there was nothing to fear from this young man.

However, what if Luke is, in fact, dangerous? The character has accidentally bumped into Victoria on several occasions — something which he acknowledged during their second meeting — so could her perhaps be stalking her?

Since his first appearance at the hospital, some viewers have made clear on social media that they believe Luke’s linked to Lee, which — considering Victoria has only encountered Luke on hospital grounds when she’s been checking up on how Lee’s doing — is rather plausible.

Let’s not forget that it was a trip to the hospital which led to Victoria encountering Lee’s mum Wendy, so it’s entirely possible that history would repeat itself where Luke is concerned. If Luke is mates with Lee, then it would explain these ‘chance’ encounters, for sure.

What’s more, before Robert hit him with the shovel, Lee relayed how the rape trial had negatively impacted his reputation, so perhaps — in an attempt to seek revenge — he roped his mate into a plan to target Victoria? It’s certainly something he’d be capable of, given everything he’s already put Vic through.

If so, then the aim could be to get close to Victoria. However, the question is: is he simply be looking revenge, or is it the baby he’s after?

Luke demonstrated a certain degree of shock when he realised that Vic was pregnant during last night’s episode, but could he perhaps have been feigning such a reaction in order to give a more convincing performance?

Regardless of what his motivations might be, If Luke is operating on behalf of Lee, then he’ll no doubt up his game now that Lee has died.

Or maybe we’re jumping the gun and Luke’s just a nice guy?

Let’s hope it’s the latter, as if anyone deserves to be happy, it’s Victoria. Mind you, few people find happiness in the Dales, so whatever happens with Luke, there’ll no doubt be plenty more conflict to come.

Emmerdale continues on Wednesday 16th October at 7pm on ITV.

Hollyoaks stars Nadine Mulkerrin and Rory Douglas-Speed are over the moon after welcoming their baby boy Reggie. Nadine, who plays Cleo McQueen in the soap, gave birth yesterday and Rory has since shared an adorable picture with his family on Instagram, praising Nadine.

Rory, best known as vicar Joel Dexter, enthused: ‘Welcome to the family wee Reggie Speed 15.8.19. We love You man. So proud of Nadine, I didn’t think I could love her anymore but my heart is bloody bursting! She was amazing throughout her labour.

‘Women are seriously Superhuman x.’ (sic)

The copuple got together after meeting on set and recently became engaged. The love story began alongside the couple being together on screen and while Cleo and Joel have gone their separate ways, Nadine and Rory have gone from strength to strength.

Fans – and co-stars including Kieron Richardson and Sophie Porley – have been responding to the announcement with love and best wishes.

On screen, Cleo is currently in a relationship with Mitchell Deveraux (Imran Adams) but he is struggling with his conflicted feelings for Scott Drinkwell (Ross Adams) and his alter ego Anita Tinkle.

The pair have been seen conducting an affair and will be central to an upcoming stunt that will see them fighting for their lives – but will Cleo discover the truth?

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3rlWPbDtRo/?igshid=1jpwze79kdj4q

Nadine will depart the show on screen very soon, having already left for maternity leave. It has not been confirmed if or when Nadine will reprise her role as Cleo and whether the door is being left open for a future return.

Meanwhile, things are busy for Rory on the soap too as he recently discovered the truth about Grace Black’s (Tamara Wall) accident. When Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer McQueen) is shot, Joel will be one of the main suspects.

Thank goodness things are much happier in real life! Congrulations to them all!

Emmerdale star James Moore’s girlfriend Sophie recently graduated from university.

James — who plays Ryan Stocks in the ITV soap — took to Instagram to mark the momentous occasion, as he shared a series of photos of the special day on his account.

In addition to the proud pictures, he captioned the post with a touching message: Words cannot begin to describe how proud I feel today. My girlfriend graduated with a masters degree!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3pv2T1h1bN/

She’s worked so hard this past year and has done so much to get here and I’m so so proud of everything she’s achieved!! I love you so much Sophie, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for your career.’

‘You’re going to do some incredible things, and I’m lucky enough to be with you every step of the way.’

Fans were quick to comment their messages of congratulations, with one saying: ‘Aww well done to her :) such a lovely couple xxx’, while another added: ‘Hugely well done Sophie and what a gorgeous couple’, with another commenting: ‘Aww Congratulations Sophie on your Masters Degree’.

Several of James’ Emmerdale co-stars also congratulated Sophie, with Emma Atkins — who plays on-screen mum Charity Dingle — adding: ‘WONDERFUL INCREDIBLE AMAZING.’

James made his first appearance in Emmerdale last year when it was revealed that Charity had given birth to a child when she was a teenager. However, she’d presumed that he’d died and thus was shocked to learn that he was very much alive.

Ryan has recently struck up a friendship with Matty (Ash Palmisicano), and was last seen threatening to ruin Kim Tate’s (Claire King) business venture.

I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! will hopefully be back on our screens again next month and with both Ant and Dec back on board to present again this year, all everyone wants to know now is what the I’m A Celeb line up is for 2019.

There have been plenty of rumours so far and Ant and Dec even teased fans with a sneak peek into their meeting with ITV show bosses, but no one has confirmed they’ll be heading to the I’m A Celeb camp yet.

Ladbrokes currently have bets on for who will be entering the jungle this year and Ladbrokes’ Alex Apati said: ‘It looks as though we could be set for the best ever series of I’m a Celeb if the latest rumoured names are anything to go by.’

Up there with an array of celebrity names are a few well-known faces from our favourite soaps.

So, which soap stars are currently rumoured to be heading into the jungle?

Which soap stars are rumoured for I’m A Celebrity 2019?

Coronation Street’s Lucy Fallon

Corrie’s Lucy Fallon announced back in May that she would be leaving the soap for good at the end of her contract.

After five years on the Cobbles, Lucy will be bowing out of the show as Bethany Platt, and while the actress admitted she doesn’t know what lies ahead for her character in her exit storyline, what could be lying ahead for Lucy is a trip Down Under.

With 9/4 odd from Ladbrokes and a source apparently telling The Sun that Lucy is expected to be a ‘big hit’ with fans at home and campmates, it seems like the star could be swapping Weatherfield for Australia’s Gold Coast soon.

Coronation Street’s Alan Halsall

There’s clearly something in the water in Weatherfield, as Coronation Street actor, Alan Halsall, who plays Tyrone Dobbs in the ITV soap is hotly tipped to be entering the jungle this year too.

Ladbrokes are offering EVENS odds on Alan heading into the jungle, suggesting they are pretty sure that the affable mechanic from Corrie is headed Down Under soon.

It’s no wonder the bets are on for Alan, as the star himself has even been dropping hints that he might be joining I’m A Celeb this year.

EastEnders’ Jacqueline Jossa

Jacqueline Jossa, the former EastEnders’ actress who played Lauren Branning in the BBC soap opera from 2010 to 2018, has been given 7/4 odds by Ladbrokes to enter the jungle this year.

The mum-of-two recently launched a brand new performing arts school in Bexleyheath that runs acting, singing and drama classes, as well as dance classes and self-confidence workshops.

However, with no other acting roles listed in the near future for the actress, could Jacqueline be planning to leave husband Dan in charge of their family while she heads Down Under?

EastEnders’ Lacey Turner

Lacey Turner made an emotional exit from EastEnders back in August and hasn’t been seen on the soap since as the actress is currently on maternity leave, having given birth to her first child in July.

The actress welcomed a baby girl, called Dusty, with her husband over the summer.

Despite the fact that she’s still on maternity leave and not due back on our screens in EastEnders until at least next year, there’s been rumours the 31-year-old could join the I’m A Celeb line-up.

While it seems unlikely the new mum will enter the camp this year, Ladbrokes have still given Lacey 7/4 odds on joining the show.

EastEnders’ Danny Dyer

EastEnders’ hard man Danny Dyer is yet another star from Albert Square rumoured to be swapping Walford for the jungle.

His daughter in real life, Love Island winner Dani Dyer, is also rumoured to be entering the jungle and a father daughter face-off in one of the Bushtucker trials is definitely something we’d be tuning in to see.

Hollyoaks’ Jennifer Metcalfe

Mercedes McQueen actress Jennifer Metcalfe is also rumoured to have been considering signing up for I’m A Celebrity, with the Hollyoaks star yet another small-screen regular said to be heading to Australia’s Gold Coast to film for the reality TV series.

‘Jen is perfect for the jungle, she’s really funny and attractive and she loves a challenge,’ a source told The Sun Online.

However, with so many soap stars rumoured to be entering the jungle this year, only a handful of the rumours can be true – unless ITV producers are planning an I’m A Celeb soap star special – which seems highly unlikely!

Hollyoaks’ Duncan James

Former boyband member and Hollyoaks star Duncan James seemed to be in with a shot of joining the I’m A Celeb line up this year and he was given 6/4 odds for entering the jungle.

However, unfortunately, we won’t be seeing this boy from Blue take on any bushtucker trials this year.

Following the rumours a spokesperson for Duncan clarified to Metro.co.uk that the rumours are: ‘totally untrue. No idea where they got it from, but absolutely 100% inaccurate.’

So that’s that rumour squashed then.

When does I’m A Celebrity 2019 start?

As yet there’s no confirmed date for the start of the new series.

However previous series have kicked off in mid-November, so if it follows the same pattern this year you can expect to see it on screens around the same time.

The series normally runs for around three weeks, with the King or Queen of the Jungle crowned in early December.

MORE: I’m A Celebrity 2019 cast rumours from Maura Higgins to Freddie Flintoff

MORE: When does I’m A Celebrity 2019 start and who is in the line-up rumours so far?

Former Emmerdale star Leah Bracknell has died three years after being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, her manager said.

Leah, 55, starred as Zoe Tate from 1989 to 2005 and was part of the legendary Tate family, as well as being the first lesbian character in a British soap.

‘It is with the deepest sadness that Leah Bracknell’s family confirm that Leah passed away in September, three years after her diagnosis with stage four lung cancer,’ said her manager on 16 October.

‘They would like to thank all the public for their support and generosity which contributed to the extension and quality of her life over the past three years. Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity. Many aspects of her journey can be found on her blog.

‘Leah was best known and much loved as Zoe Tate in Emmerdale. She also had roles in Judge John Deed, A Touch of Frost, The Royal Today and DCI Banks to name just a few, as well as numerous appearances on stage and in pantomime. As well as acting, Leah was also an accomplished yoga teacher and shamanic healer.

‘Leah had an energy and enthusiasm for life, a kind heart and much love to give to those around her.

‘Her family have asked for privacy at this very sad time.’

John Whiston, the manager director of Continuing Drama & Head of ITV in the North said in a statement: ‘Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell.

‘Leah was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years.

‘During that time she featured in some of the show’s most high profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch perfect performance.

‘Zoe Tate was one of soaps first lesbian characters and Leah made sure the character was both exciting and credible. Leah herself was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike.’

The actress was originally diagnosed in October 2016 and revealed her lung cancer diagnosis on her fundraising page for her to undergo treatment overseas, due to a lack of options available on the NHS.

She revealed she had been diagnosed after rapid weight gain around her abdomen and breathlessness prompted her to seek medical help.

‘My abdomen suddenly ballooned and within a matter of a few days I looked heavily pregnant. I could barely walk or breathe,’ she said in a statement of her diagnosis.

‘Then, one Saturday night at the beginning of September I ended up in A&E.

‘I was subsequently given an emergency procedure to remove a large amount of fluid from around my heart. However, the bad news is that I have been diagnosed with lung cancer, stage 4. In their opinion, that means it’s terminal, not curable, not operable.

‘A fairly brutal and bleak diagnosis but one I am determined to challenge and see from the perspective of ‘a glass half full’, going against a lifetime of pessimism, negativity and fear!’

More than 2,500 fans joined together to raise £50,000 to help pay for cutting-edge treatment for her in Germany.

She thanked everyone involved, adding: ‘I really did not expect or feel deserving of such interest and kindness.’

In August, she shared with fans that her treatment had stopped working.

Leah wed her long-term partner Jez Hughes in 2017 after her diagnosis.

The pair said ‘I do’ during a low key registry office in Horsham, Sussex.

In November 2017, Leah also took to Twitter to reveal that she was documenting her experiences with the disease in a blog titled Something Beginning With C.

In October 2018 she shared: ‘I have just celebrated the second anniversary of the day I almost died.

‘But I didn’t. I have also just passed the two-year mark from the day on which I received a diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer.

‘And last week, the long-awaited scan results from the first phase of the trial I am on, have come back with the encouraging news that, currently, the cancer is stable. The celebration is muted, one of relief rather than champagne and fireworks. But it is without doubt the most positive news to come my way in almost a year.’

Talking in February 2019 on ITV’s Loose Women she said she had a positive outlook on life and was not fearful despite being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

She said: ‘I’ve talked before about how my response was one of absolute anger, it’s infuriating – how dare you tell me this – which is why I didn’t want someone to guesstimate what someone thought my prognosis would be.

‘It’s based on statistics that could be out of date, that could be not about my age, not about my specific sort of cancer. I don’t want to be a statistic.’

The 55-year-old gave a speech at a cancer awareness festival in July.

Leah talked about the importance of ‘keeping your head above water’ and ’embracing life’.

‘I wrote The Cancer Rebel’s Manifesto for life as a reminder to myself what it takes to keep your head above water,’ Leah told the crowd.

‘To thrive, and to keep on keepin’ on while living with cancer and defying expectation every single day.’

Leah continued: ‘Against the fear of cancer, against my prognosis, against pity from others and myself, against being diminished by cancer.’

Addressing the audience, she went on: ‘I embrace the strength of my spirit. I embrace every opportunity that cancer gives me to learn, to grow, to expand, I embrace the glass half full, I embrace healing, I embrace laughter, I embrace joy, I embrace hope.’

Leah was born Alison Rosalind Bracknell on 12 July 1964.

A mother of two, she was also known for her work teaching at the British School of Yoga and for creating her own line of jewellery.

She left the ITV soap in 2005 in an episode voted the Best Exit at the British Soap Awards in May 2006, but went on to appear on Judge John Deed, Casualty 1907, Doctors and another ITV1 soap, The Royal Today.

She also turned her attention to theatre, starring in both Gaslight and Strangers On A Train.

MORE: From Coronation Street to EastEnders: The soap stars rumoured for I’m A Celeb

MORE: His Dark Materials episode 1 spoiler-free review: James McAvoy and Dafne Keen set up enchanting fantasy tale

Emmerdale have remembered Zoe Tate actress Leah Bracknell who has passed away three years after being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.

John Whiston, Managing Director of Continuing Drama and Head of ITV in the North said: ‘Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell. Leah was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years.’

‘During that time she featured in some of the show’s most high profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch perfect performance. Zoe Tate was one of soaps first lesbian characters and Leah made sure the character was both exciting and credible. Leah herself was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike.’

Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell. She was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years. Leah was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike. #Emmerdale pic.twitter.com/qeTXBXGToM

— Emmerdale (@emmerdale) October 16, 2019

Leah made her first appearance as the iconic character back in 1989, and featured regularly until 2005. During her time on the ITV soap, Zoe featured in some huge storylines — such as her battle with schizophrenia — and is renowned for being the first ever lesbian character on a British soap opera.

Leah Bracknell’s manager said: ‘It is with the deepest sadness that Leah Bracknell’s family confirm that Leah passed away in September, three years after her diagnosis with stage 4 lung cancer.’

‘They would like to thank all the public for their support and generosity which contributed to the extension and quality of her life over the past three years. Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity. Many aspects of her journey can be found on her blog.’

‘Leah had an energy and enthusiasm for life, a kind heart and much love to give to those around her. ‘Her family have asked for privacy at this very sad time.’