View Full Version : Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson)
Former EastEnders actress Lindsey Coulson has ruled out a potential return to the BBC soap.
The 48-year-old - who played loudmouth Carol Jackson for six years between 1993 and 1999 – believes the show has evolved since her time on the Square.
Speaking to GMTV of a potential return, she said: "I think not, I think the programme has moved on…my friends Maggie O'Neil [Suzy Branning] and Diane Parish [Denise Fox] are in it now and I think they are carrying the flag and doing great stuff."
Earlier this year, her real-life sister-in-law Patsy Palmer returned to Albert Square as her screen daughter Bianca Jackson after an eight-year break.
She appears in the latest episode of Doctor Who, 'Midnight', this weekend.
From DS
Shame I would have liked to have seen a return of her, partially with her son Billy.
Chris_2k11
14-06-2008, 11:30
Patsy Palmer her sister-in-law, well you learn something new everyday
would have liked her to come back, especially with Jack, Max, Suzie, Bianca and Jim all around nowadays, she'd have a real reason to be back. Eastenders was great back in the day with her, especially the love triangle between her, Dan and Bianca.
parkerman
14-06-2008, 16:35
I agree bondboffin, it could have been good.
One minor point...it was more of a love square than triangle. Don't forget Ricky was also caught up in it.
Patsy Palmer her sister-in-law, well you learn something new everyday
Same here!
Chloe O'brien
14-06-2008, 22:44
I think she is right not to return. EE has to move on and not rely on old characters to keep their viewing figures up. The boses of EE should be concentrating more on better plots and not which big names they can bring to the show. An unknown actor can do a better performance than the well known actors/actresses if they are given a good storyline.
tammyy2j
07-02-2009, 20:23
Former EastEnders actress Lindsey Coulson has ruled out a potential return to the BBC soap.
The 48-year-old - who played loudmouth Carol Jackson for six years between 1993 and 1999 – believes the show has evolved since her time on the Square.
Speaking to GMTV of a potential return, she said: "I think not, I think the programme has moved on…my friends Maggie O'Neil [Suzy Branning] and Diane Parish [Denise Fox] are in it now and I think they are carrying the flag and doing great stuff."
Earlier this year, her real-life sister-in-law Patsy Palmer returned to Albert Square as her screen daughter Bianca Jackson after an eight-year break.
tammyy2j
07-02-2009, 20:24
EastEnders star Patsy Palmer has claimed that producers should bring back her on-screen mother.
The actress, who plays Bianca Jackson on the BBC One soap, confirmed that she would be thrilled if Lindsey Coulson was recruited to reprise her role as Carol.
Palmer also confirmed that she is keen for Nick Berry and Michael French to return in their respective parts of Simon and David Wicks.
In an interview with We Love Telly magazine, Palmer explained: "I'd love to see Bianca's mum Carol return and it'd be amazing to have Simon and David Wicks back."
Chris_2k11
07-02-2009, 20:52
Shame but I never expected her to really.
Chloe O'brien
07-02-2009, 23:49
Good on her for not jumping on the please give me my old job back bandwagon like many of her EE buddies.
LostVoodoo
08-02-2009, 11:21
she could just come back for a couple of weeks or so though. her daughter, two brothers and at one point sister are all living on the sqaure! and then there's her nephew Bradley and stepmum Dot. you'd think she could pop in and say hello!
di marco
08-02-2009, 15:34
she could just come back for a couple of weeks or so though. her daughter, two brothers and at one point sister are all living on the sqaure! and then there's her nephew Bradley and stepmum Dot. you'd think she could pop in and say hello!
arent abi and oscar her niece and nephew as well? i agree though that she could come back for a few epis, but it would probably only work then if it was for something big
sindydoll
08-02-2009, 16:19
Former EastEnders actress Lindsey Coulson has ruled out a potential return to the BBC soap.
The 48-year-old - who played loudmouth Carol Jackson for six years between 1993 and 1999 – believes the show has evolved since her time on the Square.
Speaking to GMTV of a potential return, she said: "I think not, I think the programme has moved on…my friends Maggie O'Neil [Suzy Branning] and Diane Parish [Denise Fox] are in it now and I think they are carrying the flag and doing great stuff."
Earlier this year, her real-life sister-in-law Patsy Palmer returned to Albert Square as her screen daughter Bianca Jackson after an eight-year break.
i didnt know they were sister-in-laws!
i would love carol to return
di marco
08-02-2009, 16:32
Former EastEnders actress Lindsey Coulson has ruled out a potential return to the BBC soap.
The 48-year-old - who played loudmouth Carol Jackson for six years between 1993 and 1999 – believes the show has evolved since her time on the Square.
Speaking to GMTV of a potential return, she said: "I think not, I think the programme has moved on…my friends Maggie O'Neil [Suzy Branning] and Diane Parish [Denise Fox] are in it now and I think they are carrying the flag and doing great stuff."
Earlier this year, her real-life sister-in-law Patsy Palmer returned to Albert Square as her screen daughter Bianca Jackson after an eight-year break.
this article was from about 8months ago so who knows what her views are now (probably still the same though!)
EastEnders star Patsy Palmer has claimed that producers should bring back her on-screen mother.
The actress, who plays Bianca Jackson on the BBC One soap, confirmed that she would be thrilled if Lindsey Coulson was recruited to reprise her role as Carol.
Palmer also confirmed that she is keen for Nick Berry and Michael French to return in their respective parts of Simon and David Wicks.
In an interview with We Love Telly magazine, Palmer explained: "I'd love to see Bianca's mum Carol return and it'd be amazing to have Simon and David Wicks back."
Coulson ruled out returning to Walford in a TV interview last summer. She made her final appearance on the soap in 1999.
Aww I would love to see her coming back
LostVoodoo
09-02-2009, 12:44
she could just come back for a couple of weeks or so though. her daughter, two brothers and at one point sister are all living on the sqaure! and then there's her nephew Bradley and stepmum Dot. you'd think she could pop in and say hello!
arent abi and oscar her niece and nephew as well? i agree though that she could come back for a few epis, but it would probably only work then if it was for something big
lol, yes they are. and she has like 4 grandchildren as well! Jim's birthday would have been a good occassion.
i think it would be nice if she popped in maybe for an occasion, but i do think it is good she is not like you say jumping on the band wagon and asking for her old job back
SCREECHING Walford star Patsy Palmer has been begging show bosses to bring back the rest of her family.
Patsy, 35, who reprised her role as gobby Bianca Jackson last year, said: “I’d love to see Bianca’s mum Carol return, and it’d be amazing to have Simon and David Wicks back, too.”
From Daily Star Sunday
sindydoll
15-02-2009, 07:19
me too!:thumbsup:
me too!:thumbsup:
Me three :D :thumbsup:
*-Rooney-*
15-02-2009, 15:27
but didnt carol and bianca end things on a slippery slope after bianca had an affair with carols fiance dan, their mother/daughter relationship was never the same after that was it
This is soapland and arch enemies become bestest of friends in no time. :)
*-Rooney-*
15-02-2009, 20:03
true look at bradley and max lol and they are all from the same gene pool
CrazyLea
16-02-2009, 02:00
Palmer also confirmed that she is keen for Nick Berry and Michael French to return in their respective parts of Simon and David Wicks.
I wouldn't say no to that :wub:
sindydoll
16-02-2009, 10:32
what happened to the dark guy she was with? (was he called alan)
tammyy2j
17-02-2010, 16:23
Is she staying around for a while? And if so how long?
The spoilers seem to suggest she is and she starts a romance with Billy Mitchell
I read somewhere that Carol and Billie are the only Jacksons who've turned up for the wedding who are staying around. I don't know how true that is, though.
I'm glad she is back i do hope she stays around
Chris_2k11
19-02-2010, 11:56
I like Carol but I think we can do without Billie.
I like Carol but I think we can do without Billie.
yes i agree i prefer Todd
sindydoll
19-02-2010, 12:25
is carol sticking around is she making a brief comecack?
I think she and Sonia are staying a little longer
CrazyLea
19-02-2010, 14:19
Urgh get rid of Sonia. I almost forgot how annoying she is.. till this week!!!
Urgh get rid of Sonia. I almost forgot how annoying she is.. till this week!!!
think she is gone.. didn't she say to phil last night she was going to make another go of it with Martin
Missed last night's epi, so not sure about that
CrazyLea
19-02-2010, 14:51
Oh yeah she did didn't she!!!! Forgot about that. Thanks, made my day Shiv :p.
think she is gone.. didn't she say to phil last night she was going to make another go of it with Martin
Has she had her great seduction scene yet though where she sprawls naked in the bed waiting for Beetroot Man
Has she had her great seduction scene yet though where she sprawls naked in the bed waiting for Beetroot Man
yeah that was Tuesday.. it was lame.. she was told by phil to go upstairs and freshen up and she took that to mean, get naked in my bed
yeah that was Tuesday.. it was lame.. she was told by phil to go upstairs and freshen up and she took that to mean, get naked in my bed
So it looks the Strumpet with the Trumpet has gone.
I think just Carol and Billie are sticking around from what I've read. I loved Carol's scenes with Bianca last night - they were really moving - so I'm glad she's staying put.
tammyy2j
19-02-2010, 15:15
Carol is a great character as is the actress who plays her
Its hit me the pass week that I really cant remmeber her from years ago!
tammyy2j
22-02-2010, 15:52
I loved Carol with David
sindydoll
23-02-2010, 08:06
think she is gone.. didn't she say to phil last night she was going to make another go of it with Martin
yes she did! where are carols loop earings??
tammyy2j
14-10-2010, 15:23
Her grief over Billie gets the better of her and she tries to kill herself - I think she is staying around so dont succeed
Her grief over Billie gets the better of her and she tries to kill herself - I think she is staying around so dont succeed
Poor Carol :(
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson has revealed that she wants her character Carol Jackson to develop more friendships on Albert Square.
In recent days, viewers have seen the troubled mum left devastated following the shock death of her beloved son Billie, who passed away after his booze-fuelled birthday party.
Speaking to Inside Soap, Coulson admitted that she is keen to see Carol strike up bonds with Shirley Carter (Linda Henry) and Denise Johnson (Diane Parish) in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Coulson commented: "Wouldn't it be great to see Carol get friendly with Shirley and Denise? I'd love to explore them bonding as older ladies.
"To see women having that depth and intensity would make for some very interesting conversations."
Meanwhile, discussing her current storyline, the actress said: "It's very difficult to play grief, because you can't scream like a banshee and have that go on forever. It's a journey Carol goes on and she makes some terrible decisions."
Carol will continue to lash out at those closest to her as the plot continues in the coming weeks.
Grief-stricken Carol Jackson makes another decision that she may live to regret in EastEnders later this month as she seeks comfort in the arms of Billie's friend Connor.
After enduring the heartbreaking day of Billie's cremation, Carol returns home and seems to be on the verge of a breakdown as she sits alone and sheds more silent tears.
However, there's more drama in store for the troubled mum when Connor bursts through the door and angrily confronts her over banning him from the funeral.
Carol is in no mood to argue and stays calm in the face of Connor's provocation. Instead, she reminisces over the time that Connor and Billie spent growing up together and tells her visitor what a cute kid he used to be.
When Connor relents and gives Carol a comforting kiss, the gesture leads to them heading to bed together
http://i2.cdnds.net/10/41/550w_soaps_blog_171010_5.jpg
^ She will probably end up pregnant :lol:
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson has explained why her grieving character Carol Jackson ends up making another big mistake in next week's episodes.
After returning home from Billie's cremation in next Tuesday's edition of the Walford soap, Carol finds herself comforted by her late son's best friend Connor before heading to bed with him, despite the previous ill-feeling between the pair. The plot twist was first revealed at the weekend.
Speaking to Inside Soap, Coulson admitted: "Carol's crossing a major boundary because Connor was Billie's friend in his gang, so she hated him. But she feels she's got nothing left to lose at this point."
The actress continued: "It's very primal. I thought 'Whoa!' when I read the scripts. I have an 18-year-old daughter, so for me it's like, 'Don't go there, Carol!'.
"For her, though, this is a brief moment where she doesn't have to think about Billie's death. It's not even lovely sex - it happens in a fit of loss and grief."
Coulson recently said that she is keen to see Carol develop more friendships on Albert Square in the aftermath of her devastating loss.
CrazyLea
19-10-2010, 15:10
Ermm Perdy, is that the same post Alan posted like 2 up from you :lol:??
Anyway, that is shocking. I am actually really enjoying watching Carol at the moment though, (and I never liked her before ) so should be good viewing.
That would be the same one then that tammyy posted under spoilers for week 43 :lol:
CrazyLea
19-10-2010, 15:16
:lol: Just trying to make sure we definately see it guys is it :p
tammyy2j
19-10-2010, 16:33
^ she will probably end up pregnant :lol:
lol :rotfl:
Carol Jackson posts are very popular today :p
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson has predicted that moving in with Glenda Mitchell could prove to be a turning point for her grief-stricken character Carol Jackson.
In next week's episodes of the BBC soap, Carol starts staying with Glenda (Glynis Barber) after deciding that her current home holds too many unhappy memories following her son Billie's death.
Carol's decision to seek support from Glenda comes after her brother Max (Jake Wood) insists that she cannot move back in with him.
Speaking to Inside Soap, Coulson commented: "Carol has to leave Bianca's house - she doesn't want the reminders. She doesn't really know Glenda, so perhaps she can reinvent herself.
"It's a strange pairing, but it'll be interesting to see if they can find common ground."
Reflecting on Carol's ongoing grief storyline, she said: "I'd like to show viewers that Carol is strong enough to transcend all of this, because people have to - but it won't just go away."
Grief does funny things to people, and EastEnders viewers are in for a shock next week when bereaved Carol Jackson falls into bed with a teenager.
Still reeling from the sudden death of her son Billie (Devon Anderson), she seeks comfort in the arms of his pal Connor (Arinze Kene).
Of course, consummate professional Lindsey Coulson knows how to stick to a script, but she admits she was stunned when she found out what was in store for her character.
"I couldn't believe it," she told Inside Soap.
"Carol's crossing a major boundary because Connor was her son's friend in his gang, so she hated him. But she feels she's got nothing left to lose at this point."
The actress admitted that having a teenage child of her own made it tricky territory to play out.
"I thought 'Whoa!' when I read the scripts. I have an 18-year-old daughter, so for me it's like, don't go there, Carol! For her, though, this is a brief moment where she doesn't have to think about Billie's death. It's not even lovely sex - it happens in a fit of loss and grief."
Ermm Perdy, is that the same post Alan posted like 2 up from you :lol:??
Anyway, that is shocking. I am actually really enjoying watching Carol at the moment though, (and I never liked her before ) so should be good viewing.
That would be the same one then that tammyy posted under spoilers for week 43 :lol:
:lol: Just trying to make sure we definately see it guys is it :p
Well they do say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
Well they do say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
Flattery or not.. can everyone please checke before posting so I don't have to delete so many.. much appreciated. Just a quick check of the post above yours or on a similar thread take only 2 seconds and saves me time.. Thank you all!!!
Carol Jackson may be eating her heart out after the sudden death of son Billie, but actress Lindsey Coulson has admitted that filming recent scenes has been traumatic for her as well.
The actress, whose alter ego Carol Jackson lost son Billie to alcohol poisoning, said she was left "shattered" by the plotline which took her to a "horrible place".
In an interview with This Morning, she said: "It was really hard to play. It's your worst nightmare, isn't it, taking yourself to that place? I felt absolutely shattered by it all."
Asked if it was hard to switch off after filming, she said: "Yes, because I had to go to a horrible place I didn't want to go to. It was quite draining and exhausting."
She went on: "I go home and I've got my kids. You're back to being a mum. And then you have to go and relearn other lines. I had a holiday in between all that as well, which was really strange."
Blimey!
moonstorm
31-12-2010, 11:37
Carol Jackson will reportedly face prison when she claims that she is behind a brutal attack on Connor Stanley.
Carol, played by Lindsey Coulson, will make the false confession when her two-timing lover is attacked with an iron bar next month, The Mirror reports.
Covering up for the real attacker, Carol will apparently claim: "The whole situation's my fault. Only right I take the blame."
A source added: "This affair could tear the entire Jackson family apart. No-one will forget Connor in a hurry."
I was kind of hoping that Carol and Connor's relationship would be a long-term thing and scandalise the square.
tammyy2j
31-12-2010, 17:39
I'm not keen on Connor tbh and him and Carol or him and Whitney dont suit at all
My God!!!!!!
Is this a first for EE someone actually being punished for a crime they have done.
She should speak to Philth Mitchell as he owns the Metropolitan Police, the PPS and the Judiciary.
parkerman
31-12-2010, 19:07
My God!!!!!!
Is this a first for EE someone actually being punished for a crime they have done.
But she didn't do it; she just feels it's her fault.
But she didn't do it; she just feels it's her fault.
Ah that explains it then. She is doing time for something she didnt do. Justice Walford Style
FREE THE WALFORD ONE
tammyy2j
12-01-2011, 20:36
EastEnders' Carol Jackson will reportedly face an "explosive showdown" with her family when her affair with Connor Stanley is revealed.
Carol (Lindsay Coulson) has been secretly dating her dead son Billy's friend - played by Arinze Kene - while he has also attracted attention from Bianca's stepdaughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty). However, with Tiffany aware of their actions, Carol's secret will soon be exposed to her family.
"When all of the lies are revealed, it's going to be very hard for both Whitney and Bianca (Patsy Palmer) to handle," a source told Inside Soap. "It really is the ultimate betrayal by Carol and Connor.
"It's going to be an explosive showdown. Carol has betrayed her entire family, and Bianca will find her actions unforgivable. This could ruin their relationship beyond repair - especially given what happens to Bianca next."
The insider continued: "Bianca blames him for all her family's problems. She can't contain her fury, and just wants to punish Connor. But it's a decision she'll live to regret.
"Carol reckons she can take the rap, but when Connor comes round, he tells the cops that Bianca attacked him. Prison will be hard on Bianca but when she returns home she'll have scores to settle - especially with her mother."
.:SpIcYsPy:.
15-01-2011, 19:53
Sounds good...
Can't wait for it to be revealed.. It's all getting a bit boring watching Carol and Connor all the time!
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson has confirmed her intention to return as Carol Jackson, describing the soap role as her "perfect job".
The actress is currently on a break from the BBC show and viewers recently saw Carol's exit scenes as she moved to Suffolk temporarily with her grandchildren.
Coulson revealed the reasons behind her EastEnders absence as she made a live television appearance on Loose Women today (May 15).
She commented: "I just needed to not have [Carol] in my head for a little while. When I signed last year, I just said, 'Would it be okay if I could have a little time out?' And they kindly said yes."
Coulson continued: "You've constantly got somebody else's life in your head at all times. You do the 12-hour day and then you come home and you have to learn again for the next day. You're doing 15, 16 scenes a day."
The actress has been working on charity fundraising projects since filming her recent exit scenes, as well as spending time with her family.
She added: "[EastEnders is] a perfect job - for me it's 25 minutes up the road with lovely people. I really like working there. I'm going back in August, actually."
is carol sick?
I think she is going to think she is going through the menopause, and then find out she's pregnant by Masood?
tammyy2j
05-06-2013, 15:12
I think she is going to think she is going through the menopause, and then find out she's pregnant by Masood?
Would it be by Mas or Bianca's probation officer?
tammyy2j
05-06-2013, 15:12
.
I think she is going to think she is going through the menopause, and then find out she's pregnant by Masood?
i was thinking something more serious but her preggers by masood would be good
owenlee4me
06-06-2013, 00:34
is she not to old to be pregnant, if not, then it would be so interesting to see what happens, and it has to be Masood's, story would be crap otherwise
Carol will be 51 this year, so this is probably unlikely, but you never know.
EastEnders' Lindsey Coulson has spoken about the love triangle storyline her character Carol Jackson is currently embroiled in.
In scenes due to be broadcast next week in the BBC soap, Carol's current boyfriend Masood (Nitin Ganatra) is about to tell her that he loves her when former flame David Wicks (Michael French) unexpectedly turns up on her doorstep.
"They're quite saucy scenes," Coulson told Radio Times. "Masood and Carol are having some lovely, intimate, cuddly time together when there's a knock on the door and it's David standing there.
"It's so unexpected. Suddenly he's back and it's a complication that she doesn't want in her life."
She continued: "Carol and David have been on and off for nearly 20 years so there's quite a rich tapestry of emotional stuff to draw on which maybe the show doesn't have all the time.
"So all that's rather lovely, especially for those viewers who have been watching for long enough. You don't really get that kind of history anywhere else but in soaps."
Asked about who she believes Carol should choose, Coulson said: "That's a difficult one because, as a grown-up woman, her head should be with Masood.
"He's a kind and gentle man who feels good about himself. But her heart is probably with David. He's her first love, they have a child together and I just don't think Carol has ever quite grown up. As mature as I'd like her to be, she's still a reactionary."
Coulson said filming the scenes involved "a lot of kissing", and joked: "I've worked out that if I say, 'I'm sorry I didn't quite get that', then I get to do it again and again!
"It's really difficult to play, but hey, at 53 it's really not too bad to be playing with two attractive men. Plus Carol gets to be something other than a grandma. At the moment, she's not a nanny or a mother. She's just Carol being her own self. That's really lovely."
EastEnders bosses have confirmed that the soap will be tackling the issue of breast cancer in a new storyline for Carol Jackson.
Carol, played by Lindsey Coulson, will find a lump in her breast just before Christmas. After an appointment with her doctor, she is referred to a specialist for further tests and is diagnosed with the illness in the New Year.
Scenes airing in early 2014 will see Carol's family deal with the implications of her diagnosis.
The emotional storyline will also see the return of Natalie Cassidy as Carol's daughter Sonia.
Speaking of her new storyline, Coulson commented: "This is a very important storyline as breast cancer is something that affects so many people. Through Carol's story I hope we can raise awareness of the impact of breast cancer on the people that have it and their families."
EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "EastEnders has a long tradition of dealing with social issues and breast cancer is one that the majority of people have been affected by in some way. And this is not just a story about breast cancer. This is a story about women, about mothers and daughters, and ultimately about family.
"And with Lindsey Coulson, Michael French, Patsy Palmer and Natalie Cassidy giving powerhouse performances at its centre, this is a storyline that will inform, move, and shake up the audience as it shakes up the Jackson family."
EastEnders producers have worked with breast cancer experts and charities, including Macmillan Cancer Support, to ensure a realistic and sensitive portrayal of the issue.
Jacqui Graves, Head of Health and Social Care at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "Sadly, thousands of women like Carol are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK, so we congratulate EastEnders for helping to raise awareness of the condition.
"Being diagnosed with cancer can have a devastating impact, not just on the individual, but their families and friends as well. That's why it's vital people get the help and support they need at this difficult time. We hope anyone watching who is affected by the issue comes to Macmillan Cancer Support for advice by calling our helpline on 0808 808 00 00 or visiting our website."
tammyy2j
24-11-2013, 19:47
Given the actress involved she will do the storyline justice
get her back with david soon
tammyy2j
07-01-2014, 14:00
Carol Jackson's storyline comes back to the forefront on EastEnders next week as she collects her test results from the hospital and is diagnosed with breast cancer.
After receiving the news, it's not long until Carol makes some big decisions by breaking up with her partner Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) and paying a visit to her daughter Sonia Fowler in search of some support.
Here, Lindsey Coulson - who plays Carol - reveals her thoughts on exploring the sensitive storyline.
Prior to Carol's diagnosis, what are her feelings for David? Did she mean it when she told him she loved him at Christmas?
"Yes, she did. I think she's always loved David and has been pushing that down because she knows he's probably a bad boy and probably not right for her, and the last time she declared her love he went away. I think she thinks he's changed. She knows that she does absolutely love Masood as well, but David's her first love."
Before her results are in, is Carol bracing herself for the worst?
"Yes, she's gone to the worst case scenario. She does think she's got breast cancer, she's gone to that really scary place already."
How does Carol react when her fears are confirmed and she is diagnosed with breast cancer?
"It feels like her head's imploding. I've heard from several people that's what it feels like to get that news and it's how I believe it would be."
Is Carol confident that David will give her the support she needs?
"I'm not sure she's 100% on that, but at the moment the biggest thing is the fear of life and death. I don't think she's sure still."
We know that Carol pays a visit to Sonia to tell her the news…
"Yeah, she feels more comforted by Sonia than anybody actually. Sonia is a natural carer isn't she, as she's a nurse as well, but Carol feels very quietly at ease with Sonia. She's very practical, whereas Bianca's so heady and a bit like Carol where they spar too much. Everything feels alright when Carol's with Sonia."
Carol finally breaks down while listening to Sonia's daughter Rebecca playing the guitar. Why does it happen at that moment?
"It's all sinking in. She's been holding it in, caring and worrying about everybody else, but the enormity of it and the whole process hits her whilst she's listening to that beautiful music. I think that's a key moment for her."
Why does Carol end her relationship with Masood? Is it because she loves David more?
"I don't think it's as clear-cut for her, actually. I like to play the ambiguity. In another life she would have been with Masood, because she knows this man is kind and gentle and caring and safe, but she can't quite let go of the bad boy. She can't quite let go of when she was 14 years old and how he made her feel.
"There is no real reason, nothing Masood did wrong, but she's at a crossroads. I think it's really sad that she ended it just as his mum died, but I also think that all of those things happened and she needed to clear it up. I think she felt very sad about that."
How will the diagnosis change Carol's everyday life?
"I think clearly if you have something like this, the small things are just not important as we're talking life and death here. I think it will change things, and she certainly thinks it will at the moment.
"But she's trying to do normality too. Lots of the women I spoke to who had experienced breast cancer were saying that it's a bit like being in a goldfish bowl, you're trying desperately to grab onto something that's normal."
What kind of impact do you want the storyline to have?
"So many women are affected by breast cancer, so it's massive as it affects so many families and so many people. I've had a lot of people in my life who have been affected by it. To be honest, it's quite a difficult question for me to answer. People may be interested in Carol, who is a character who you might like or might not like, but you will be interested because you know her, you'll be interested in the way she deals with it.
"It would be fantastic if it made people check their breasts, as so much of it can be dealt with. It's not a death sentence now, it can be caught. Women are living with it and are dealing with it. I think it's massive for women because breasts are a part of your sexuality and it's about child rearing as well, so it's a huge thing.
"And if you did prostate cancer for men, or testicular cancer, hopefully that would prompt men to do the same. Hopefully it will let people know that if you actually find something, go and get it checked as soon as possible because the more you prolong something the more it happens."
Have you been doing research to help you play the storyline?
"Yes, a lot. I've spoken to about five different women and I've read up on lots of stuff, but in fact I had to stop in the end as I'm obviously dictated by the script and by staying true to Carol as a character. Everybody's journeys are unique and unique to them, and their own experiences.
"For a while I felt responsible to get it so right for all of these women, and I can't. And I felt a bit overwhelmed by it, so then I said I wanted to see a nurse. I wanted to talk to someone very clinically about it, so that was good to see from her perspective. And my night reading is about cancer and the treatment of it. Cancer years ago was a word you couldn't say, and now you can say it, and now we can get better from it.
"When soaps are covering these storylines which can really raise awareness is when they're at their best, in a way. It's difficult when you're entrenched in it, because you can't always see it. In my head, I think people are just going to go, 'oh', but as an actor you hope it will have an impact like that. The storyline is going to be done forensically."
Ruffed_lemur
07-01-2014, 19:21
Oh no, another cancer storyline. Just as Corrie's is nearing an end! :thumbsdow
Carol Jackson will be diagnosed with the faulty BRCA2 gene as part of a new storyline in Eastenders.
Viewers of the soap recently saw Carol inform her daughters, Sonia and Bianca, that she was going to be tested for the gene.
The discovery of the gene, which will air later this month, will kickstart a storyline that will run for the remainder of the year.
One of Carol's daughters will also find out that she is affected by the BRCA gene.
Executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins said: "She reacts very differently to her mother. We don't want to scaremonger, we want to show every little moment of a woman going through this and the way it affects her children, brothers, sisters and parents."
Lindsey Coulson, who plays Carol, spoke to The Telegraph about her own research for the role.
"I wanted to layer some detail and the writers are brilliant if I phone up after reading a script and say, look, don't take me to the pub now, I need to go home and sleep because it's the third day after chemo," Coulson explained.
"I suggested Carol drinking mint tea and green tea because I'm quite fired up about the nutritional side. For a while, I was so immersed in it, I almost believed I had cancer myself. It is a big fear for all of us.
"I'm following an alkaline diet, having read about the links between sugar and cancerous tumours. I'm interested in whether someone like Carol would have that knowledge too."
Coulson said that he has known people who have survived cancer and others who haven't been so lucky.
"I want to get it right for them," she added. "I talked to a chemotherapy nurse and what you go through is not pretty.
"The viewers will see it warts and all. Chemo is a toxic poison and you are not going to look great. People need to see that Carol is losing her hair. I'm for as much authenticity as possible."
Carol Jackson's happy wedding day takes an unexpected turn on EastEnders next week as fears mount that her fiancé David Wicks won't turn up for the ceremony.
When Bianca finds out about David's secret kiss with Nikki Spraggan, she urges her father not to go ahead with the nuptials if he has any doubts.
When David's quest for 'something blue' later takes him away from Walford, will he be back or has he taken Bianca's advice?
Here, Lindsey Coulson - who plays Carol - previews the big episodes ahead for her character.
How is Carol feeling about her wedding to David?
"I think Carol is excited. They've gone and set a date at the registry office and she just wants to get it all sorted. Carol was in hospital after collapsing and could have died, so I think she's really excited and they are closer than ever."
On Carol's wedding day, she's in the car ready to go but there's no sign of David. What goes through her mind?
"I think as the time goes on, she thinks he's not going to show up and she gets angry and feels stupid. She's thinking, 'Of course he was going to do this - it's what he does'. She feels angry at herself more than anything."
Does Carol trust David?
"Yes, I think she does. There's no reason for her not to at the moment, as she doesn't know anything about Nikki. Carol has been at her lowest low with the cancer and David is still there for her, so I think they've got an incredible trust at the moment."
Why has David always been the man for Carol?
"I think it's just her heart and the history between them. She can't help herself - the feeling that she feels with him is too good. Her head has an argument with her heart most of the time, but it feels right to her."
How do you think Carol would react if she found out about David's secret kiss with Nikki?
"I think she'd feel let down and angry with herself for allowing herself to open up her heart to him again. But Carol is also fighting cancer, so that makes you a different person and I don't think she's got a lot of energy, really - so she'd just feel let down again."
What impact does Carol's cancer have on her desire to marry David?
"It's made her want to marry him more, because life's too short. She's worried about the children and knows he would look after them. I think she also just feels, 'Why not?'
"The lovely thing about it is that when you look at what Carol is going through and what she's looking like - and when David could've had a very blonde beautiful woman - he's got to love Carol, hasn't he? I think she feels very loved by him. So I think he's been really supportive, apart from all the court stuff. She feels loved."
Carol asks Liam to walk her down the aisle. Has her cancer brought them closer together?
"Yes, they have a lovely relationship. I think Carol had lovely relationships with her sons - obviously one died and one's in India. I think she misses that, and she sees that in Liam. I think he's very supportive and genuinely loves and cares for her."
After her recent collapse, would you say Carol is pushing herself too much with the wedding?
"I think she probably is pushing herself too much, just because she wants to work and wants to be in control. I think Carol didn't realise the impact the chemo would have on her. It has taken her by surprise - I think it does with anybody who's at that point.
"I don't think it's in Carol's nature to take it easy - I think she finds it too hard to not be the controller and she's not comfortable with people doing things for her."
Over the years, did you ever think Carol and David's wedding day would come?
"No, not really. But I think as David's got older he's realised that what he wants is not just some dolly bird - he wants someone who knows him and understands him."
What else can fans expect from the wedding?
"It's an EastEnders wedding so there's bound to be drama!"
What was it like filming the wedding day itself?
"It was bizarre because I looked so different. I was wearing a wig - and a different wig - and for the first time in a long time I had make-up on. I felt like a different character, so that was slightly unsettling as an actor."
Did you have any input into Carol's wedding dress?
"Yes I did. We decided that she would have the fairy-tale dress without it being too silly. She didn't know she was going to survive this cancer, so I think she went for something more traditional than she might well have done. That's quite poignant in itself, I think."
What's it like having Natalie Cassidy back on the show as Sonia?
"It's fantastic - I absolutely love working with Natalie. She is a true professional and we have such a lovely bond. I've known her since she was 10, and I'm really grateful to be spending more time with her."
How does it feel to be up for Best Actress at the British Soap Awards?
"It's lovely - it's a real compliment. I'm glad people have enjoyed what I've been trying to do with this particular story, and it's really nice to be acknowledged. But the whole cast are doing such wonderful work at such speed, you want all of them to be up.
"I don't think you can single one person out, to be honest - but it's rather lovely and thank you to everyone that's voted and is still voting."
Have you been able to watch yourself on screen while playing Carol's storyline?
"I think some people find it hard. It's quite hard to watch and it's hard for my family to watch because no matter if it's Carol, it's sort of me. It's quite incredible being bald, it's fairly freeing as an actress.
"I'm just really pleased that the story and the script and everybody involved with it - including make-up and costume - all have collaborated really well. That's been a real joy and I've really enjoyed working with everybody. To try and make the story truthful with her cancer but also how Carol gets on with her life with it has been so important.
"So it's been a pleasure but a strange pleasure. Hopefully I'm portraying it so that some people have identified with it."
tammyy2j
20-05-2014, 14:40
I hope they marry
maidmarian
21-06-2015, 00:57
she is leaving
Oh no! Permanently or a "break"?
Do you know anymore please.
maidmarian
21-06-2015, 00:57
Dupl
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson is quitting the show.
The actress will soon film her final scenes for the Walford soap after five years back on screen in the role of Carol Jackson.
Carol has been trying to get her life back on track this year after receiving the all-clear following a battle with breast cancer. Viewers will have to wait and see how and why she bows out from Albert Square, but the door will be left open for her to return in the future.
"I've had a fantastic time playing the formidable Carol Jackson and although I'll miss everything about EastEnders, I feel the time is right for me to move on," Coulson told the Daily Star Sunday.
EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "EastEnders has always been so lucky to have an actress of Lindsey's calibre in the company.
"We were thrilled when she signed for another year to play Carol's breast cancer story - and Lindsey's nuanced, brave and utterly real performance rightfully won her an award and praise from viewers, charities and women who have been through similar experiences to Carol."
Coulson's original run as Carol was between 1993 and 1997. She returned briefly in 1999 and made a full-time comeback in 2010 to tie in with EastEnders' 25th anniversary episodes, which saw Carol's daughter Bianca tie the knot with Ricky Butcher for a second time.
Carol's on-screen grandson Liam Butcher, played by James Forde, has also recently announced his exit after show bosses decided to write out his character.
Come back David Wicks and get your Carol!
yes david back for carol, good exit for her
It seems strange that they wouldn't keep Liam for a few more months if they knew Carol was going anyway. I believe James has already filmed his final scenes but Lindsey is yet to film hers.
owenlee4me
21-06-2015, 17:09
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson is quitting the show.
The actress will soon film her final scenes for the Walford soap after five years back on screen in the role of Carol Jackson.
Carol has been trying to get her life back on track this year after receiving the all-clear following a battle with breast cancer. Viewers will have to wait and see how and why she bows out from Albert Square, but the door will be left open for her to return in the future.
"I've had a fantastic time playing the formidable Carol Jackson and although I'll miss everything about EastEnders, I feel the time is right for me to move on," Coulson told the Daily Star Sunday.
EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "EastEnders has always been so lucky to have an actress of Lindsey's calibre in the company.
"We were thrilled when she signed for another year to play Carol's breast cancer story - and Lindsey's nuanced, brave and utterly real performance rightfully won her an award and praise from viewers, charities and women who have been through similar experiences to Carol."
Coulson's original run as Carol was between 1993 and 1997. She returned briefly in 1999 and made a full-time comeback in 2010 to tie in with EastEnders' 25th anniversary episodes, which saw Carol's daughter Bianca tie the knot with Ricky Butcher for a second time.
Carol's on-screen grandson Liam Butcher, played by James Forde, has also recently announced his exit after show bosses decided to write out his character.
Come back David Wicks and get your Carol!
why do they always have to say "that it's the right time to move on"? such bloody cliches, she's probably sick of the sodden schedule but does not want to say this, case it blights her future!
she has bounced back more times than a boomarang, no doubt she will be back again!!!!!!!!!
owenlee4me
21-06-2015, 17:09
EastEnders star Lindsey Coulson is quitting the show.
The actress will soon film her final scenes for the Walford soap after five years back on screen in the role of Carol Jackson.
Carol has been trying to get her life back on track this year after receiving the all-clear following a battle with breast cancer. Viewers will have to wait and see how and why she bows out from Albert Square, but the door will be left open for her to return in the future.
"I've had a fantastic time playing the formidable Carol Jackson and although I'll miss everything about EastEnders, I feel the time is right for me to move on," Coulson told the Daily Star Sunday.
EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "EastEnders has always been so lucky to have an actress of Lindsey's calibre in the company.
"We were thrilled when she signed for another year to play Carol's breast cancer story - and Lindsey's nuanced, brave and utterly real performance rightfully won her an award and praise from viewers, charities and women who have been through similar experiences to Carol."
Coulson's original run as Carol was between 1993 and 1997. She returned briefly in 1999 and made a full-time comeback in 2010 to tie in with EastEnders' 25th anniversary episodes, which saw Carol's daughter Bianca tie the knot with Ricky Butcher for a second time.
Carol's on-screen grandson Liam Butcher, played by James Forde, has also recently announced his exit after show bosses decided to write out his character.
Come back David Wicks and get your Carol!
why do they always have to say "that it's the right time to move on"? such bloody cliches, she's probably sick of the sodden schedule but does not want to say this, case it blights her future!
she has bounced back more times than a boomarang, no doubt she will be back again!!!!!!!!!
tammyy2j
22-06-2015, 18:32
Lindsey/Carol is a big loss for the show
owenlee4me
23-06-2015, 12:25
Lindsey/Carol is a big loss for the show
ah she'll be back, so not really a loss
owenlee4me
23-06-2015, 12:25
Lindsey/Carol is a big loss for the show
ah she'll be back, so not really a loss
tammyy2j
23-06-2015, 12:38
ah she'll be back, so not really a loss
She is one of the best actresses the show has
talk of a return for sonia's daddy search
mysangry
11-06-2020, 18:09
well it's took a few years but if she is back, least it will another character not under 40, bring it on!!
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