Feuds are reaching fever point in Emmerdale, with raging battles between enemies raising the stakes – and some even ending in murder. With the Tate family in disarray, Kim Tate (Claire King) finds herself in unfamiliar territory while the ultimate showdown between Will Taylor (Dean Andrews) and DI Malone (Mark Womack) could end in fatality.
Elsewhere in the village, it seems that there could be romance on the horizon for Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) while Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins) is on a mission.
The Tates clash
Andrea is determined to take any measures possible to ensure that she maintains her grasp on Jamie and when her blackmail over Moira’s hit and run escalates, even Kim is forced to concede that she is now in control.
But for how long? It’s a big risk taking on Kim and not expecting the tables to be turned. And with Jamie still longing for Belle, is Andrea onto a loser? Would she really destroy Jamie rather than lose him to Belle?
Deadly showdown
DI Malone’s return to the Dales has deeply unsettled Cain, who is determined that he is behind the hit and run on Moira. But Malone has other motives for being back and determines to get rid of Will by planting drugs on him.
However, when Will catches him in the act, a violent showdown explodes and a lifeless body drops to the floor. Has murder put an end to one of the warring men?
Charity’s mission
Charity knows that she needs to get a hold of Kirin in order to stand a chance of adopting Johnny but her search is a tricky one.
She manages to strike up a deal with Priya, who may be able to discover Kirin’s location from his sister but things are about to get more complicated than they expected.
Is Charity onto a loser?
Lydia has a decision to make
With her Huntington’s test at the forefront of her mind, Lydia is in two minds over what to do but soon she makes a decision on the matter.
But how will Sam respond and, if she takes the test, what will the outcome be?
Coira reunite?
In the wake of Moira’s hit and run, Cain’s feelings for her have been put seriously into perspective – but will he come clean to her about what is in his heart?
And as they start to build bridges, could a reunion be on the cards?
Dan’s battle continues
As Dan continues to struggle with his injuries, Amelia tries to support him as much as possible but his frustration with his disability grows, leading to some huge tension.
Can life ever be the same again for him?
New love for Aaron?
Aaron is set to get a blast from the past when he comes face to face with a lad he used to bully at school over his sexuality.
As Aaron is filled with remorse, can he make it up to him? And are rumours that the tension may turn to romance true?
Can Paul make amends?
Vinny clearly wants dad Paul to stick around in the village – but Mandy is less than keen as she doesn’t trust Paul not to hurt his son again.
But as Paul makes an effort and Mandy then makes a discovery, is Vinny on the road to heartbreak?
Priya and Al – love or lust?
Priya is enjoying her relationship with Al but given his secrecy, they could be about to hit a roadblock, especially when she is given cause for suspicion.
Just what is Al hiding from her – and is he risking potential happiness with Priya in the process?
Nicola’s ambition
Nicola has her business head well and truly on and she is determined to make changes at the cafe – which will ruffle feathers.
Jimmy urges her not to get involved – but will she listen to her husband before she rubs everyone up the wrong way?
Who gets a life changing shock?
One local is about to make a sudden and unexpected discovery which throws everything up in the air. Left with a difficult decision to make, who will they turn to for help?
And what will be the consequences of her decision?
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Emmett shared the news on social media tonight, posting a picture of himself holding his new baby’s hand on Twitter, along with the caption: ‘It’s a boy.’
The actor, who used to play Hollyoaks’ Brendan Brady (and whose best episodes recently aired anew as part of Hollyoaks Favourites), is already a dad to a daughter, Kayla.
Claire, 39, and Emmett, 41, married in 2015.
Claire announced she and Emmett were expecting their first child back in May.
Speaking on Instagram, she said: ‘Feeling it all & so happy to share.
Claire and Emmett married in 2015 (Picture: Chance Yeh/Getty Images)
‘I’ve been growing into a mama oh so quietly & discreetly, tip toeing a tightrope with the ebs & flows of pregnancy.
‘Finding the seclusion exactly what I/we needed to captain the last seven months together, so much joy, so many belly laughs, so much belly, so much morning sickness & moments of fear.
‘Experiencing this journey without too much noise around us … allowing ourselves to be fully immersed into this reality we hold, giving us the time to adjust & feel but REALLY FEEL – to stop & listen, cutting out the hot noise shaped by other experiences whether they be good or bad, it’s allowed our journey to be deeply intimate & intuitive…
‘We now feel our little person kicking & limbering up! and now we sit looking at each other wide eyed smiling nervously at the wonder, beauty & weirdness of what we are right now & what’s to come…[sic]’
Claire won the best actress award at the British Soap Awards in 2013 for playing Jacqui.
She and Emmett both left the show that same year.
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Max Bowden and Ricky Champ have been using their downtime on the set of EastEnders to brush up on their showtunes – and their rendition of Moulin Rouge’s Elephant Love Song is pretty spectacular.
Ricky, who plays Stuart Highway, and Max who stars as Ben, were filmed by Jessica Plummer (aka Chantelle on the show) as they made the most of the empty set.
The clip began with Max sitting on a bench before joining Ricky and clinging to a railing as the pair belted out the song.
However, the singalong came to an abrupt end as Max could be heard saying: ‘Oh s**t, security’ as he jumped off the railing.
Tony Clay, who plays Halfway, could also be seen laughing in the background while Jess giggled as she filmed the clip.
EastEnders has now resumed filming after the coronavirus pandemic, and new episodes are being prepared for when the soap will arrive back on BBC One.
Max and Ricky clearly having too much fun on their break at work! ðððð Featuring Tony too with a âJust so lovelyâ ðð¥°
— Team MBðGO ðDH â¤ï¸TC ðSMGð (@TeamMaxGemmaDan) July 17, 2020
Fans of the show were left on a cliffhanger as Sharon Mitchell took over the Queen Victoria pub, much to the anger of Phil Mitchell as the coronavirus pandemic meant filming had to be halted.
The show had been airing two episodes per week instead of four during the pandemic, in order to make the episodes filmed prior to lockdown last as long as possible.
It eventually went off air in June, the first time in the soap’s 35-year history, with actors only recently being allowed to film once more.
There are a lot of loose ends viewers are waiting to have tied up – but despite the intense scenes that are no doubt being filmed, it looks like the cast are just happy to be back together once more.
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Speaking to Stacey Dooley about how she was first cast as Kim, Tameka said: ‘Well, there I was doing panto — it’s for the kids, for the kids, and adults as well! — and my friend had a friend called Dominic Treadwell-Collins.
‘He said, “Oh he’d like to meet you. He works for EastEnders.” And I said, “Oh yeah? He wants to meet me and buy me a drink? Hm, alright!
‘So, after the show I go down into the bar, and he goes “Hi, I’m Dominic”, and I says “Hi, I’m Tameka” — “I like your work”, “Oh thank you very much!”.
‘And he goes, “do you fancy being in it? How do you see yourself in the show?”
‘I said, “I don’t know. Maybe I could be Denise’s sister?”
‘I offered that idea, just as a joke!
‘Five months later, my agent called me, and said you got the job. I went “Yeah! I’m aunty Kim!” and he said it’s for two weeks and I’m like “huh”?’
“Two weeks and two episodes? Really?” and I thought, “Oh, okay” because you put your foot in the door!’
Diane added: ‘Aunty Kim used to always be talked about. Whenever we were going or disappearing from the Square because someone’s going on holiday in real life, we go, “Oh we’re going to Aunty Kim’s'” ‘
However, Secrets From The Square has been filling the Monday slot nicely, and it won’t be long until the serial drama is back on screens now that filming has resumed.
One to watch: Monday 20 July at 8pm on BBC One
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
EastEnders star Diane Parish has opened up about the first role she played on the BBC One soap.
In scenes which viewers can see for themselves in Monday night’s episode of Secrets From The Square, the actress — who portrays Denise Fox on the serial drama — reminisced about her previous character.
Long-time viewers will know that — prior to being cast as Denise — Diane portrayed a character named Lola Christie back in 1998.
The actress told Stacey Dooley: ‘I was a singer, so it was the most excruciating role.’
‘I don’t sing. I’m not a singer and it was horrible!’
‘Oh it was awful and I remember Patsy Palmer came up to me at one point and she goes. “Oh don’t worry, it sounds really good, don’t worry about it”. I thought “It don’t, Patsy!”
‘She goes, “No, it’s really good, it is!” She’d just be so positive.
‘The role wasn’t for me.’
‘Kate Harwood took over as executive producer and she wanted to create an interracial family. We did a workshop.
‘I was asked to come up, I came up and did that, I did that and nothing else.
‘Our lovely casting lady phoned me up and said, “We’re not using that actor that you workshopped with, but we’ve asked Phil Daniels”.
‘I screamed! I was like, “Phil Daniels, Quadrophenia, he’s amazing”. Phil and I just clicked.’
However, Secrets From The Square has been filling the Monday slot nicely, and it won’t be long until the serial drama is back on screens now that filming has resumed.
One to watch: Monday 20 July at 8pm on BBC One
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Lydia Hart (Karen Blick) has quite the dilemma on her hands in Emmerdale, as she questions whether or not to have the Huntington’s Disease test, but what will she decide to do?
Lydia was devastated when her birth mum Agatha informed her that there’s a chance that she might have Huntington’s Disease.
However, she ultimately decided against having the test — although it’s clear that she has struggled to know what to do for the best.
(Picture: ITV)
In the coming episodes, Lydia opens up to Chas (Lucy Pargeter) about the prospect of her Huntington’s diagnosis.
Chas proves supportive, and can fully understand her paranoia about the test — and whether or not she should have it — but she then reveals that taking it is the only way to know for sure.
Lydia knows she has a choice to make — but what will she choose?
The events of the lockdown episode — which have technically yet to take place in Emmerdale’s timeline since we’re currently back in a world pre-lockdown — saw Sam (James Hooton) argue with Lydia and encourage her to take the test, so will she ultimately do so?
Only time will tell.
One to watch: Monday 20 July at 7pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
With shocking reveals and new arrivals aplenty, it’s been quite the year for the residents of Hollyoaks.
The flash-forward episode of the Channel 4 soap indicated that 2020 was going to be a big one for the residents of the eponymous village, and this has very much proven to be the case thus far.
The serial drama was forced to halt production amid the Covid-19 pandemic, but — in spite of the weekly instalments having been reduced from five to two — the drama is as intense as ever.
With several storylines set to explode, things will no doubt continue to heat up as we enter the summer and beyond — and here’s what you can expect.
County lines
(Picture: Lime Pictures)
The biggest on-going narrative is without a doubt the county lines one, which has seen drug dealer Jordan infiltrate the village in an effort to expand his reach and recruit new allies to grow his drug-dealing empire.
Last we saw, he’d managed to manipulate Sid into recruiting Charlie, and — with Juliet and Sid dealing on his behalf — things are no doubt set to get much worse, especially now that big drugs boss Victor has arrived.
Mother, Daughter, Drug dealer
While Jordan’s primary focus in the village is business, he’s since found himself caught up in a bit of a love triangle — with mother and daughter duo Leela and Peri Lomax!
Given that this is Hollyoaks — and given that love triangles never end well — it’s somewhat inevitable that this one will explode in an epic fashion, but the question is: when?
Peri and Juliet’s romance
While current episodes have seen Peri fall for bad boy Jordan, we know that — by the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve — she’ll seemingly be very much in love with Juliet.
The seeds for this romance have been cleverly laid, with Juliet having already admitted to Sid how she feels about the young woman in question, but — with Jordan back in Peri’s life once more — how long will it be before she and Juliet grow closer?
John Paul, George… and James?
John Paul is adamant that he and James no longer have a future after it came to light that he shot Mercedes. However, James reckons there’s a chance of reconciliation, and therefore he’s been unable to stop pursuing his former beau.
John Paul has found romance with dashing policeman George Kiss, but will this romance blossom? Or will James do whatever it takes to prove to Hollyoaks High’s number one teacher that his heart belongs to him?
Sienna and Warren’s secret
(Picture: Lime Pictures)
After learning the Sebastian could come home, Sienna and Warren were overwhelmed, and — with emotions high — they ended up sharing a passionate kiss.
Sienna immediately regretted what had happened, and became determined to tell Brody — but Warren warned her against such an idea, informing her that she could lose everything over nothing,
Sienna ultimately agreed to keep quiet for the sake her family, but the question is: will the truth come to light? And if so, then who’ll spill the beans?
Cher’s secret?
When Cher arrived in the village, she brought with her a pretty huge secret in that she was Sylver’s daughter.
However, it appears as if she might be harbouring another one, as when Kelly revealed that there had been animosity aplenty between her and her daughter following an argument they’d had the previous day, the young woman begged her mum not to reveal what said argument was about.
Is Cher hiding another secret? If so, just what is it?
Mitchell and Scott’s wedding
There’s nothing soap fans love more than a wedding, and this one in particular will no doubt be full of family drama.
Yes, Mitchell and Scott are set to tie the knot, and Felix has orchestrated a very special wedding venue for them to do just that.
However, with questions aplenty about whether or not Walter will attend — not to mention some animosity between the grooms — will the ceremony actually go ahead?
What’s more, will Toby and Celeste be involved in said ceremony?
Felix’s past trauma
(Picture: Lime Pictures)
Warren revealed to a shocked Brody and Sienna that it was Felix who tortured him for years in the children’s home, but little did he know that Felix himself was also suffering, as carer Cormac had physically abused him.
When Brody got wind of what had happened to Felix, he became determined to help — but will his assistance result in Felix getting justice for what happened?
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Gary Windass (Mikey North) could be set to kill again in a shocking Coronation Street twist as hapless Brian Packham (Peter Gunn) seems set to accidentally unmask him as a killer when he follows him to the woods where he plans to move Rick Neelan’s dead body.
Adam Barlow (Sam Robertson) is already convinced that Gary has killed Rick and this is unnerving enough for the villain. But not long after denying being a murderer to his sworn enemy, who is as determined as ever to topple him, Gary overhears that Brian plans his treasure hunt in the woods.
Frantic with worry, Gary concocts a story to make Brian think that he is wasting his time and he soon gives up on his plans. But later, a suspicious Brian sees an edgy Gary packing a shovel into his van and driving off.
He tells Bernie Winter (Jane Hazlegrove) that he is sure that Gary is after the loot himself, little knowing the sinister reason for Gary’s visit to the woods.
The pair head after Gary to the woods where he is preparing to dig up Rick’s corpse so that he can move him to somewhere that will be less likely to attract coin hunters.
But as Brian and Bernie loom into the scene of the bloody crime, will Gary notice them? And will they see for themselves that Gary is a killer?
While Brian has never done any harm to Gary, will Gary see that he has no other option than to murder the bumbling stargazer?
Could this be the end of Brian as desperate Gary kills again to keep his web of crimes a secret? And what about Bernie?
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
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Ben (Rohan Nichol) and Maggie (Kestie Morassi) have been close to breaking point for a while with their separation, as Summer Bay looks on helplessly. Ziggy (Sophie Dillman) is particularly torn up about the situation, as she looked up to her parents as the ultimate relationship goal.
While Dean (Patrick O’Connor) tells her that there’s nothing she can do, and she has to leave her parents to work out a resolution herself, Ziggy is convinced she has to get involved. After Maggie sees Ben exchange a tender moment with Gemma (Bree Peters) outside Salt, the situation escalates further.
Before he knows it, Ben is confronted with a distraught Ziggy telling him that Maggie is making plans to move to Italy. Stunned, he goes to confirm the news, and Maggie tells him she is going to do what she always planned – even if it has to be without him.
(Picture: Channel 5)
To the Bay’s surprise, Ben seems to give up on the situation, saying that he can’t make Maggie change her mind. Alf (Ray Meagher) steps in, asking him if this is really how he wants to end things with his wife. A few choice words leaves Ben wondering if he should focus on the fact he still loves Maggie, and do whatever it takes to win her back.
Meanwhile, Maggie is making her final preparations and getting in the car to leave the Bay. After some brief and emotional farewells to the residents of Summer Bay, she begins driving away. However, she is suddenly confronted by Ben leaping in front of her car. She gasps and tries to pull the vehicle to a stop – will she make it?
Hollyoaks star Joe Tracini has revealed he thought he would die before he was 25 during his battle with drugs.
The actor, who played Dennis Savage in the Channel 4 soap, shared a message of hope as he celebrated being eight years clean on his 32nd birthday.
‘Today’s my birthday, and it’s the best one I’ve ever had, so I’d like to tell you about the worst. It’s funnier now than it was at the time,’ Joe penned on Twitter.
In the video he explained: ‘For me every day is a celebration of being not dead again but today I get a badge. When I was 24 I was a massive drug addict and I lived on a diet exclusively of drugs, wafer thin ham and drugs.
‘On my 24th birthday I went to get drugs and then to Waitrose to get the wafer thin ham and while I was in there I farted and fully sh*t myself, not just a bit, full poo in pant.
‘And I just stood there and I thought this is it, you’re going to die, you’re literally dying inside and I was convinced on that day I would be dead before my 25th birthday.’
Joe Tracini recalled being an addict at 24 (Picture: Twitter)
He continued: ‘My point is that things change, not necessarily always for the better, but I was convinced I was going to die before I was 25. Today I am 32, I am not dead, I am eight years clean and I am not covered in my own sh*t.’
Congrats, Joe! We’re proud of you.
Joe has previously spoken about his battle with depression and talked about how he nearly took his own life.
Events in the Bay last week saw shocking scenes unfold, as Leah (Ada Nicodemou) was faced with an attacker breaking into the Diner to rob the place. She was knocked to the ground by the hooded figure, who quickly stole away and left her traumatised under the table.
The event has a particular event on the Paratas, as their suspect past means they need to keep their heads down to avoid being looked at too closely by the police. This incident leaves Nikau (Kawakawa Fox-Reo) in particular rattled, as he makes plans to run away.
While Tane (Ethan Browne) manages to talk him down, Ari (Rob Kipa-Williams) is suspicious of the two of them and is half convinced his brother broke in himself to get some easy money. The two come to loggerheads when Ari confronts Tane, but they reluctantly decide to work together.
(Picture: Channel 5)
Meanwhile, as the investigation begins, Leah helps Colby (Tim Franklin) with the first steps. He carries out a routine sweep of fingerprints, and examines all of the Diner staff. As Gemma was previously a casual there, he decides to ask her if she will provide fingerprints too.
He is surprised to discover that, when he shows up at the door to make his request, Gemma simply asks him if he thinks she did it. When he says no, she refuses to give her consent to the fingerprints and closes the door in his face. Colby begins to get suspicious – does he need to look into the Paratas and their history with the law?
It’s hard to believe that it’s summer already but what’s even harder to believe are the big twists and surprises coming up in your favourite soaps over the coming months.
As Coronation Street is hit by tragedy and a dramatic stunt and Hollyoaks sees a blast from the past haunt two major characters, there is murder in Emmerdale and two big EastEnders returns afoot.
Here we present our big soap summer preview of 2020! Enjoy!
Coronation Street
(Picture: ITV/Metro.co.uk)
Dead end for Yasmeen?
The trial which may exonerate or destroy Yasmeen is fast approaching and Geoff is desperate to try and get her back under his control. But a terrible turn of events is about to unfold when, with pressure mounting, Yasmeen collapses and suffers a heart attack.
As Alya fears the worst, has Geoff pushed his abused wife over the edge, with fatal consequences?
Gary caught out?
As Adam continues to dig for dirt on sinister Gary, Laura supplies him with key information which prompts him to accuse Gary of killing Rick.
But it’s not just Adam on his case – as Brian and Bernie head to the woods to go treasure hunting, they could be about to bump into a very shifty Gary in the middle of digging up a corpse.
Have Brian and Bernie wandered into their own doom?
Geoff’s lies exposed
Geoff has done everything he can to keep Tim on side – but the arrival of his ex-wife, the mum that Tim was told was dead – throws everything into chaos.
It turns out that Geoff treated Elaine the same way as he did Yasmeen and she could be the one tpo expose him – and also show Tim the awful truth about his evil father.
Leanne’s trauma
Life is seeming pretty hopeless for Leanne right now as she tries her very best to deal with the trauma of Oliver’s terminal illness.
She has a devastating journey ahead into a future that is going to leave her tortured – can Toyah and Nick keep her from heading over the edge? And what will it mean for Toyah and Imran’s fostering hope?
Sarah tempted again?
Sparks seem set to fly between Sarah and Gary again as the pair rediscover their chemistry, especially with Sarah having caught Adam flirting with Laura.
But as Sarah grows closer to her dangerous ex, will she make a mistake that will cost her her marriage?
A horror stunt
Lives will be on the line in a shocking turn of events on the Street as two major characters find themselves in the path of an oncoming vehicle.
As one leaps to rescue the other, there could be dire consequences which completely change an ongoing playing field.
Johnny’s secret past
The arrival of Scott and his behaviour towards Johnny and Carla has raised a lot of questions for Corrie fans – just who is this mysterious face from Johnny’s past and what does he want?
Pretty soon Johnny will return to face the music, and shocking truths will come to light…
A big decision for Abi
With Abi discovering that her twins are emigrating with their adoptive parents, her world is thrown into chaos and she is forced to reflect on her decisions as a mother.
While she is left to decide whether she can bear to say goodbye, the agony of her mistakes threatens to tip her over the edge. But which unlikely saviour might come to her aid – and at what cost?
A dramatic development for Billy
Billy is set to be confronted by a face from his past which will kick off a dramatic storyline for him – but what impact will it have on his relationship with Paul?
As a turn of events leaves Billy stunned, what shock lies in store for him?
Can Nicky cope with Daniel?
Daniel’s reliance on Nicky will continue to grow as it becomes increasingly clear that he is using her as a crutch to deal with his grief over Sinead.
But when things become even more intense, can Nicky cope with the situation or will she have to be cruel to be kind?
Ed and Aggie face the pressure
Ed is worried as Aggie continues to work hard against the pandemic in her nursing role and he wants to make a gesture to show his appreciation for her.
But when the situation has a direct impact on their anniversary, Ed realises that he is going to have to be inventive.
EastEnders
(Picture: BBC/Metro.co.uk)
EastEnders might be off the air for the first time in history, but there are plenty of reasons to be excited, as it will return to screens later this year — and will no doubt do so in an explosive fashion. Production on the serial drama was forced to halt amid the Covid-19 pandemic earlier this year, and episodes were subsequently rationed out at two a week.
The final pre-lockdown episode aired on June 16, meaning that the soap had to go on an hiatus for the time in its 35 years on the air. With cliffhangers aplenty — including an epic ‘Doof Doof’ which saw Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) reclaim what is rightfully hers — the excitement for the soap’s return is real, and here’s everything we’ve got to look forward to.
Sharon’s reign as landlady of The Queen Vic
EastEnders’ series finale final pre-lockdown episode saw Sharon outsmart Phil and — with some assistance from Ian — secure herself The Queen Vic. Viewers have long hoped that the iconic character would take up residence behind the bar of the soap’s signature boozer, and therefore we can hardly wait to see what she’s got in store for the pub once the soap returns.
Martin and Ruby’s lockdown romance
Actor James Bye confirmed that Martin and Ruby have not only succumbed to their desires, but that they’ve spent lockdown in one another’s company. Speaking to Stacey Dooley, actor James said: ‘We’ve seen Martin and Ruby starting to get a little bit close. ‘So that just continues, the relationship grows and they lock down together, and by the sounds of things, they get on! ‘That’s all I’m saying!’
Kat and Stacey’s return
The return of the BBC One soap will also bring with it the return of Slater icons Kat and Stacey — both who’d been absent in the months prior to the hiatus. Actresses Jessie Wallace and Lacey Turner were spotted returning to set once filming resumed, and Kush Kazemi actor Davood Ghadami confirmed that Kat will have been spending lockdown with her family. He told Stacey Dooley: ”So he’s [Kush] in No. 31 with all the kids, with Jean, with Mo, with Shirley. ‘And we also have Kat back, so they actually spend lockdown together.’ The question is: what brings Stacey back to Walford? What’s more, how will she react once she discovers that Martin and Ruby have been having a relationship?
Mick and Linda’s next chapter
Mick and Linda have become so synonymous with the Queen Vic that it’s rather hard to imagine what they’ll do now that they’ve sold their beloved boozer and moved on to pastures new. What’s more, starting a new chapter amid lockdown is no doubt a daunting prospect for the former publicans, so it’s likely that the last couple of months will have been incredibly difficult for them. Kellie Bright teased what’s ahead for the soulmates on Secrets From The Square, saying: ‘We are essentially going to be coming out of lockdown like the rest of the country. ‘There are some testing times ahead for Mick and Linda.’
Mick’s big story
In addition to adjusting to a new way of life, it appears as if Mick will have a lot on his plate moving forward, as Danny Dyer confirmed that his character is set to be at the forefront of a huge story, which he believes could be his best yet! Danny said: ‘I think potentially when we come out of lockdown, I think I could have the best storyline I’ve ever had on this show’.
Ben’s deaf story
Ben was left with additional hearing loss following the boat crash, and his operation to have a cochlear implant fitted was ultimately delayed after he arrived at the hospital with a fever. With the soap having been forced to go on hiatus at a key point in this particular storyline, one can’t help but wonder if the young man will have had the operation when we meet him next?
Will Ben and Callum find happiness?
There are few couples who work as well as Ben and Callum, but the former’s inability to be totally honest with his lover has prevented the pair from truly being happy over the last couple of months. What’s more, Ben continues to be caught between doing what he wants to do, and doing what will please Phil — which means that his relationship often suffers. Will Ben finally be able to open up to Callum about how he feels? Will they finally be able to find true happiness?
Chantelle and Gray
Chantelle has suffered at the hands of Gray’s heinous abuse ever since they first set foot in Walford. The young woman hasn’t revealed what her husband has been doing, and pretty much everyone in Albert Square believes Gray to be a kind and caring man given that he’s taken on Whitney’s case. When the soap returns, will the truth come out? What’s more, how has Chantelle coped during lockdown, given that she was likely stuck in the house with her abuser?
Ian’s lockdown trauma
Ian was last seen grinning from ear-to-ear after he aided Sharon in outsmarting Phil, but it appears as if lockdown — and the pandemic — will have had a financial impact on him. Speaking on Secrets From The Square, Ian star Adam Woodyatt teased: ‘There’s probably going to be financial ramifications, obviously with lockdown. ‘Any money Ian thought he had to buy the Vic, he’s obviously not going to have as much of going forward. ‘I’ve had that hinted. There’s so much uncertainty, we just don’t know.’
Billy, Karen and Mitch
Karen and Billy’s romance hit rocky shores when Mitch began suggesting that he is Karen’s one true love — a suggestion which ultimately caused friction between the happy couple. The two men came to blows during the final pre-lockdown episode, and — fed up — Billy issued Karen with an ultimatum, asking her to choose between him and Mitch. By the time we return to the Square, will Karen have made her choice? If so, who will it be?
Whitney’s trial
Whitney was facing the prospect of a life behind bars last we saw her, but Gray is determined to get her off the hook. With a time-jump seemingly inevitable, how will lockdown have affected the young woman’s court case — and the preparation for said court case? Has a verdict been given? Or will the trial have been postponed, perhaps?
Sharon discovering the truth about Dennis’ death
Worrying about the financial ramifications of purchasing a pub just before lockdown will be the least of Ian’s worries if Sharon gets wind of the part he played in Dennis’ demise on the party boat. Dotty has been blackmailing Ian with such information for months — threatening to tell Sharon at every given opportunity — but the restaurantuer managed to get the upper hand in the latest episode, leaving us wondering what will happen next. Will Dotty follow through on her threat and tell Sharon? Or will Sharon learn such information another way?
Emmerdale
(Picture: ITV/Metro.co.uk)
The Tates clash
Andrea is determined to take any measures possible to ensure that she maintains her grasp on Jamie and when her blackmail over Moira’s hit and run escalates, even Kim is forced to concede that she is now in control.
But for how long? It’s a big risk taking on Kim and not expecting the tables to be turned. And with Jamie still longing for Belle, is Andrea onto a loser? Would she really destroy Jamie rather than lose him to Belle?
Deadly showdown
DI Malone’s return to the Dales has deeply unsettled Cain, who is determined that he is behind the hit and run on Moira. But Malone has other motives for being back and determines to get rid of Will by planting drugs on him.
However, when Will catches him in the act, a violent showdown explodes and a lifeless body drops to the floor. Has murder put an end to one of the warring men?
Charity’s mission
Charity knows that she needs to get a hold of Kirin in order to stand a chance of adopting Johnny but her search is a tricky one.
She manages to strike up a deal with Priya, who may be able to discover Kirin’s location from his sister but things are about to get more complicated than they expected.
Is Charity onto a loser?
Lydia has a decision to make
With her Huntington’s test at the forefront of her mind, Lydia is in two minds over what to do but soon she makes a decision on the matter.
But how will Sam respond and, if she takes the test, what will the outcome be?
Coira reunite?
In the wake of Moira’s hit and run, Cain’s feelings for her have been put seriously into perspective – but will he come clean to her about what is in his heart?
And as they start to build bridges, could a reunion be on the cards?
Dan’s battle continues
As Dan continues to struggle with his injuries, Amelia tries to support him as much as possible but his frustration with his disability grows, leading to some huge tension.
Can life ever be the same again for him?
New love for Aaron?
Aaron is set to get a blast from the past when he comes face to face with a lad he used to bully at school over his sexuality.
As Aaron is filled with remorse, can he make it up to him? And are rumours that the tension may turn to romance true?
Can Paul make amends?
Vinny clearly wants dad Paul to stick around in the village – but Mandy is less than keen as she doesn’t trust Paul not to hurt his son again.
But as Paul makes an effort and Mandy then makes a discovery, is Vinny on the road to heartbreak?
Priya and Al – love or lust?
Priya is enjoying her relationship with Al but given his secrecy, they could be about to hit a roadblock, especially when she is given cause for suspicion.
Just what is Al hiding from her – and is he risking potential happiness with Priya in the process?
Nicola’s ambition
Nicola has her business head well and truly on and she is determined to make changes at the cafe – which will ruffle feathers.
Jimmy urges her not to get involved – but will she listen to her husband before she rubs everyone up the wrong way?
Who gets a life changing shock?
One local is about to make a sudden and unexpected discovery which throws everything up in the air. Left with a difficult decision to make, who will they turn to for help?
And what will be the consequences of her decision?
Hollyoaks
(Picture: Lime Pictures/Metro.co.uk)
County Lines
The biggest on-going narrative is without a doubt the county lines one, which has seen drug dealer Jordan infiltrate the village in an effort to expand his reach and recruit new allies to grow his drug-dealing empire.
Last we saw, he’d managed to manipulate Sid into recruiting Charlie, and — with Juliet and Sid dealing on his behalf — things are no doubt set to get much worse, especially now that big drugs boss Victor has arrived.
Mother, Daughter, Drug dealer
While Jordan’s primary focus in the village is business, he’s since found himself caught up in a bit of a love triangle — with mother and daughter duo Leela and Peri Lomax!
Given that this is Hollyoaks — and given that love triangles never end well — it’s somewhat inevitable that this one will explode in an epic fashion, but the question is: when?
Peri and Juliet’s romance
While current episodes have seen Peri fall for bad boy Jordan, we know that — by the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve — she’ll seemingly be very much in love with Juliet.
The seeds for this romance have been cleverly laid, with Juliet having already admitted to Sid how she feels about the young woman in question, but — with Jordan back in Peri’s life once more — how long will it be before she and Juliet grow closer?
John Paul, George… and James?
John Paul is adamant that he and James no longer have a future after it came to light that he shot Mercedes. However, James reckons there’s a chance of reconciliation, and therefore he’s been unable to stop pursuing his former beau.
John Paul has found romance with dashing policeman George Kiss, but will this romance blossom? Or will James do whatever it takes to prove to Hollyoaks High’s number one teacher that his heart belongs to him?
Sienna and Warren’s secret
After learning the Sebastian could come home, Sienna and Warren were overwhelmed, and — with emotions high — they ended up sharing a passionate kiss.
Sienna immediately regretted what had happened, and became determined to tell Brody — but Warren warned her against such an idea, informing her that she could lose everything over nothing,
Sienna ultimately agreed to keep quiet for the sake her family, but the question is: will the truth come to light? And if so, then who’ll spill the beans?
Cher’s secret?
When Cher arrived in the village, she brought with her a pretty huge secret in that she was Sylver’s daughter.
However, it appears as if she might be harbouring another one, as when Kelly revealed that there had been animosity aplenty between her and her daughter following an argument they’d had the previous day, the young woman begged her mum not to reveal what said argument was about.
Is Cher hiding another secret? If so, just what is it?
Mitchell and Scott’s wedding
There’s nothing soap fans love more than a wedding, and this one in particular will no doubt be full of family drama.
Yes, Mitchell and Scott are set to tie the knot, and Felix has orchestrated a very special wedding venue for them to do just that.
However, with questions aplenty about whether or not Walter will attend — not to mention some animosity between the grooms — will the ceremony actually go ahead?
What’s more, will Toby and Celeste be involved in said ceremony?
Felix’s past trauma
Warren revealed to a shocked Brody and Sienna that it was Felix who tortured him for years in the children’s home, but little did he know that Felix himself was also suffering, as carer Cormac had physically abused him.
When Brody got wind of what had happened to Felix, he became determined to help — but will his assistance result in Felix getting justice for what happened?
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Coronation Street fans are waiting for the day that will see evil Geoff Metcalfe (Ian Bartholomew) brought to justice and Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King) may be about to play the monster at his own game – by manipulating him into believing that she is prepared to take him back.
With Alya Nazir (Sair Khan) having convinced her gran that she is the victim of abuse, Yasmeen entered a plea of not guilty and since then, she has slowly started to open up about the awful things that Geoff did to her.
She has also found solace from her fellow inmate Lucie (Nicola Duffett), who has told her that what Geoff has done is abuse and provided her with information on coercive control.
On the back of this – and phone calls from Geoff assuring her that he is a changed man and things will be different if they get back together – Yasmeen arranges for a domestic abuse charity advisor to come and visit her.
But as she sits down and speaks with the woman who visits, Yasmeen makes a further shock discovery which leads her to a big decision.
While back at home, Geoff is convinced that he was got Yasmeen back under his control, he is surprised to receive a further phone call from her. He is jubilant and smug as Yasmeen tells him that she is prepared to take him back but there is a sense that she has had her eyes well and truly opened and she is duping him.
Does Yasmeen have a plan in store for her beastly husband – and will it finally destroy him and lead to him being exposed as the abuser that he is?
Later, her day in court arrives but as the pressure of what she faces becomes too much, tragedy strikes when she collapses with a heart attack.
Will she make it through to see that justice is done?
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
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Emmerdale star Samantha Giles admits she felt ‘very low’ after quitting soap (Picture: ITV/Rex)
Emmerdale star Samantha Giles has admitted she struggled to adapt after quitting her role in the soap.
The actress, 49, who is best known for playing Bernice Blackstock in Emmerdale on and off for nearly two decades, decided to finally bow out of the show last year.
She told The Mirror: ‘I felt very low when I first left. I’d gone from seeing people every day and being so busy to nothing. But I had to go through it.’
Samantha explained that she knew she could easily stay in role as Bernice, but she wanted to seek out other opportunities instead.
‘I knew it would be so easy to stay [at Emmerdale] forever as it was a great job, but I wanted to try and do something different with my life,’ she admitted.
Fans best know Samantha for playing Bernice Blackstock for nearly two decades (Picture: ITV)
Samantha says she found it difficult not being busy every day after leaving the role (Picture: ITV)
Her plans to find a new project, however, were no doubt thwarted a little, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic.
Lockdown restrictions saw soaps shut down until recently – where sets have now adopted new social distancing guidelines to be able to continue filming – and the TV and film industry come to a standstill.
Forced to stay home, Samantha added that lockdown itself proved to be another challenge she had to take on.
‘Initially, I thought I was going to kill my husband,’ she joked, before revealing: ‘I had some very difficult weeks to be honest, when lockdown started I just wanted to get into bed and not get out.’
The soap star first made her debut on Emmerdale way back when in 1998, where she played Bernice for four years until 2002.
Samantha returned briefly in 2004, before then rejoining the soap for good in 2012, where she stayed for another seven years until deciding to say goodbye to Emmerdale for good.
Viewers watched on as Bernice called off her wedding to Liam Cavanagh (played by Jonny McPherson) and decided to head to Australia with her daughter Dee Dee.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Gary has quite literally got away with murder, and he’s managed to keep his secrets hidden rather well thus far.
Actor Mikey North — who plays the antique’s dealer — told Metro.co.uk: ‘think Gary has been really confident, Mikey less so!
‘I think he’s felt invincible at times and his split personality comes out and he thinks that nothing can get to him really. But now things are going to catch up with him and his luck might be running out.’
Yes, his luck might just indeed running out, as upcoming scenes will see Rick Neelan’s (Greg Wood) engraved watch found in the woods, and — with her suspicions piqued — Sarah demands answers regarding the loan shark’s disappearance.
(Picture: ITV)
Speaking about the scenes in question, Mikey said: ‘She is starting to put things together and Adam has obviously been after him for a while as well and the net is closing in.
‘Sarah will then approach Gary and ask him straight, did he do it? Gary is going to go back to the body, he is losing it a little bit and is going to go back and try to dig it up.
‘Sarah then just opens the van up and spots his murder kit in the back, spade and all of that, and she’s shocked, doesn’t know what to do and asks him, did he do it?’
With Sarah asking questions, Gary’s web of lies soon unravel, and the young woman is left terrified by a few admissions.
(Picture: ITV)
Mikey revealed: ‘Gary may regret a few things that he tells her in that scene!’
A terrified Sarah subsequently runs off, but a car comes hurtling towards her, and therefore Gary dives into the path of danger in an effort to save her life.
He successfully knocks her out of the way, but he’s ultimately hit by the oncoming vehicle.
This particular scene is a pretty history-making one, as it’s the world’s first socially-distanced stunt — and Mikey was pleased to take part in it.
‘It’s always nice to get involved and do that and I always asked to do my own stuff if I can. I enjoy, it, it is one of the best parts of the job for me.
‘Luckily they let me do it. I was on the bonnet of the car and yeah it was good fun. I enjoy getting bashed about!’
Coronation Street continues Monday 20 July at 7:30pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Rick Neelan’s (Greg Wood) watch is found in the woods, and this proves to be the catalyst in the events which follow, as Sarah (Tina O’Brien) demands answers — and Gary’s web of lies begins to unravel.
After Gary makes a series of admissions, Sarah is utterly terrified and thus runs away, as she attempts to phone the police.
She steps out into the middle of the road, and thus finds herself in danger as a car comes towards her, but Gary pushes her out of the way, and therefore collides with the on-coming vehicle.
Gary knew full well that Sarah could’ve died, which would’ve resulted in his secret remaining just that, but he ultimately risks his life to save her’s.
(Picture: ITV)
Sarah’s relationship with Adam (Sam Robertson) will hang in the balance, but will she decide to keep Gary’s big secret?
In addition to being a huge narrative twist, this car scene is history-making in itself, as it’s the world’s first socially distanced stunt!
The scene in question was filmed after lockdown restrictions were lifted last month.
To avoid contact between the actors — and to adhere to the UK’s social distancing guidelines — a mannequin was dressed in Sarah’s clothes and used in place of actress Tina in certain shots.
What’s more, the stunt was originally scheduled to be filmed on location in the woods, but this was also amended in the interest of safety for the cast and crew.
(Picture: ITV)
Actor Mikey — who plays Gary — said: ‘This was the very first three episodes that I have filmed after lockdown.
‘We have had to alter and change things but I don’t think it has lost any of its intention and hopefully it will be just as good as it would have been on location.
‘I got to ride on the bonnet of the car and I was quite pleased to have the opportunity to do the stunt myself because I enjoy that part of the job but I have never done a car stunt like this before. I loved it.’
Actress Tina added:‘We had such a good time filming these scenes and I have really enjoyed being part of something so different.
(Picture: ITV)
‘The mannequin is from the Underworld set but when I stood next to it, it was towering over me!
‘We had to saw the bottom of the legs off to make it more realistic and more my height but we have a very talented director and post production team so no one will notice when it’s in the show. I am really looking forward to seeing how it looks on screen.’
Director David Kester said:‘Because of social distancing, Mikey cannot touch Tina or push her away and that is integral to the stunt because his character has got to look heroic and that he has saved her.
‘We are cheating it by using a mannequin from Underworld and if we shoot it in the right way, making it a tight shot and we do it very quickly, it will work and will still sell the idea that he has pushed her.’
Coronation Street continues Monday 20 July at 7:30pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
In an effort to ensure it remained on the air for as long as possible, episodes were subsequently rationed out — at three a week initially, before being cut to two.
Tonight’s episode was the final one filmed prior to the shutdown, and therefore the soap will go off the air for a short break after the credits roll.
However, it will do so in an explosive way, as — ahead of his wedding to Scott Drinkwell (Ross Adams) — Mitchell Deveraux (Imran Adams) asks Toby and Celeste Faroe (Bobby Gordon and Andrea Ali) to be his best man and maid of honour.
Will animosity aplenty between the siblings, how will they react?
(Picture: Lime Pictures)
The celebrations are later interrupted by Walter’s (Trevor A Toussaint) arrival, but will he learn of his grandson’s impending wedding?
If Scott has anything to do with it, then he might do, as the young man resolves to tell Walter the truth, as he fears he and Mitchell will never be a proper couple.
Will Walter find out?
We’ll have to wait and see!
Production on the soap resumed last week, as the cast and crew returned to set to film new episodes, and social distancing and temperature checks have been implemented.
The soap will return to a four-episodes-a-week format in September, but in the meantime, viewers can enjoy a selection of Favourites each and every week, and a thrilling new trailer — the latter of which will drop on Tuesday following the final episode’s airing on Channel 4.
Hollyoaks’ final pre-lockdown episode airs Monday 20 July at 7pm on E4. Hollyoaks Favourites resumes Wednesday at 7pm on E4, and find out which classic instalments are on offer this week here.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King) is left in shock in Coronation Street, as she receives a mystery visitor who seemingly reveals quite a lot.
With Yasmeen behind bars, one would think that she’s safe from Geoff’s (Ian Bartholomew) manipulation, but the abuser has managed to take advatage once more.
Last week, he acquired Alya’s (Sair Khan) phone and intercepted a call, and — after promising her a fresh start, not to mention the possibility of no trial if she were to return home as his wife — Yasmeen was conflicted.
The latest episode saw her get in touch with Geoff via a secret phone which her cellmate acquired for her, and she attempted to put the abuser in his place.
However he manipulated once more — claiming to be sorry for the way he treated her.
It was clear that Yasmeen was confused over how best to proceed, and tonight, things take a huge turn.
Geoff speaks on his hospital radio show about how he has forgiven Yasmeen and wants to help her.
Meanwhile, Yasmeen reveals to her pal that she’s getting a visit from a woman from a charity, but when said woman arrives, Yasmeen is shocked by what she reveals.
What has she learned?
What’s more, could this be the breakthrough she needs?
Coronation Street continues Monday 20 July at 7:30pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Coronation Street’s Mikey North has revealed that huge changes were made to both filming and storylines after the coronavirus pandemic.
The ITV soap was forced to shut down production earlier this year amid the pandemic, and episodes which had previously been filmed were rationed out at three a week as opposed to the usual six.
In spite of fears that it would run out of episodes and therefore go off the air for the second time in history, production was able to resume last month — with social distancing and other health and safety measures on set.
Of course, the social distancing means that the way in which the soap operates has had to be altered to some degree.
Mikey, who portrays Gary Windass in the serial drama, told Metro.co.uk: ‘We are having to shoot things quite differently and there is more camera trickery to make us look closer than we are.’
What’s more, it wasn’t just the day-to-day activities that had to be altered, but also certain narratives have had to be amended so that they could be filmed under the new restrictions — and the upcoming stunt is one of them.
On this, Mikey said: ‘In the stunt that you saw there was just me acting with the dummy Sarah at times and it’s not easy but we’ve done all we can and it’s just fantastic to be back.’
‘The crew are fantastic, and the scripts have been edited in a way we can film it. It changed quite a lot from what we had planned from this sort of week before lockdown but hopefully it has not lost any of the effect.’
And — after three months away from set — how does Mikey feel to be back?
He told us: ‘I’ve loved being back. It’s been so nice to see everyone and be working again.’
‘We are so fortunate being in a soap at the minute and working as no one else is and there are so many actors who would love to be working right now. We were one of the first back and for me to get back with such great stuff was really nice.’
Coronation Street continues Monday 20 July at 7:30pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Malone has been causing trouble for Cain since he first showed up in the village, but matters became more complicated when he started to terrorise Moira (Natalie J Robb).
At first, Cain believed his wife to be having an affair with Malone, but an altercation by the side of the road revealed that the bent copper had actually been making her life a living hell.
Cain was later devastated when Moira ended up the victim of a hit-and-run, and he’s been by her side every step of the way — hoping and praying for a swift recovery.
Moira’s surgery proved successful, and — with her now on the mend — it would seem as if Cain turns his attention to the person responsible for putting her in hospital.
While viewers know that it was Jamie (Alexander Lincoln) who knocked her down, Cain believes it to have been Malone, as it’s pretty clear there’s little the bent copper wouldn’t do to get the upper hand.
Therefore, Cain promises vengeance, as he seeks to punish Malone over what’s transpired.
However, Harriet knows Malone wasn’t responsible, and thus she’s left uneasy over Cain’s words.
Will she be able to convince him to reconsider going after the cop?
Emmerdale continues Monday 20 July at 7pm on ITV.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
