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I wonder what their new storyline will be?
EastEnders boss Bryan Kirkwood says he's been working hard to line up a "good week of episodes" to coincide with Corrie's big anniversary.
The rival soap celebrates its 50th birthday on December 9, and plans include a live episode and a tram crash that will kill off key characters.
Speaking of what he has in store to keep his own viewers interested, Walford's executive producer told This Morning: "We plan up to nine months in advance with storylines. Some of our long-term storylines are two or three years in the future. We knew Corrie's 50th was happening in the first week of December so we've got a good week of episodes."
He went on: "There are no explosions, there are no trams but I'm really happy with the material we've got."
He also praised the long-running ITV1 soap, saying: "I say good on them and good luck. It's a great show. They've embarked on a live episode. When I see the pictures of their tram crash I feel more than a little bit jealous - they've got a huge stunt on the way. But I'm sure they'll do it brilliantly."
Bryan also revealed that the sets at the soap's Elstree HQ are "all gleaming and shiny and new" following refurbishment ahead of the soap's move into HD.
"We'll hopefully be able to announce a date [for HD] quite soon," he added.
EastEnders star Scott Maslen has revealed that he once feared he had killed a man during a street fight.
The actor, who plays Jack Branning in the BBC One soap, admitted that he hit the man with a steel pipe when he was a teenager, after arriving to back up a friend who was being racially abused.
He told The Mirror: "I met him there and he knocked on their door. He received a complete tirade of racist abuse from this 40-something geezer, the father of some of the boys. We were just 16. I was about 15st and had just been sitting on the wall listening.
"Suddenly it had all gone off and turned very nasty. The father went back in the house, I thought to call the police, but actually came back outside with a baseball bat. One of the kids pulled a bit of steel piping from a nearby skip. He swung it into my ribs, then into the side window of a car.
"I was an animal trapped up a dead end street. Somehow I grabbed the piping, went back up the street and whacked the dad. We ran off. It was a mad two minutes. I stayed up that night studying for my O level history exam the next day but all the time in the back of my mind thinking 'maybe I killed him'."
Maslen, currently starring in Strictly Come Dancing, also revealed that he once got involved in football violence as a teenager.
EastEnders star Charlie Brooks has admitted that she wants her character Janine Malloy to discover the truth about Archie Mitchell's murder.
Most of Albert Square's residents are still unaware that Stacey Branning killed the Walford villain last Christmas - instead believing that her now-deceased husband Bradley was responsible for the crime.
However, in a twist which airs in tonight's episode of the BBC soap, Janine is present as Stacey blurts out that Archie raped her last year. Immediately afterwards, Stacey fears that she has let slip too much by accidentally revealing her motive.
Ex-EastEnders actress Lucy Benjamin is reportedly three months pregnant with her second child.
The star, who played Lisa Fowler on the Walford soap, revealed that she cannot wait to have another baby.
She told The Mirror: "I am so looking forward to having baby number two next April... and to all the noise, laughter and chaos he or she will bring to our home."
Benjamin is already mum to daughter Bessie, who was born in November 2006.
A special scene referencing George Osborne's spending review is to be edited into tonight's episode of EastEnders, Digital Spy can exclusively reveal.
Yesterday, the Chancellor officially announced £81bn of spending cuts as part of the Government's ongoing plan to reduce Britain's record peacetime deficit.
Following Osborne's statement to the House Of Commons yesterday afternoon, EastEnders bosses began working on a last-minute scene which will allow the national talking point to be reflected on screen this evening.
The scene in question will see Walford residents Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker) and Charlie Slater (Derek Martin) discussing the impact of the Chancellor's plans.
EastEnders producers have often referenced issues of national and international importance on screen in recent years. Back in May, a last-minute scene saw the result of the UK general election mentioned on screen, while other episodes have referenced Michael Jackson's death, President Obama's US election victory and the results of various football games.
The main focus of tonight's episode will be troubled Carol Jackson as she continues to lash out at her loved ones following the tragic death of her son Billie.
BBC soap EastEnders will be broadcast in high definition for the first time on Christmas Day, it has been announced.
Fans of the show will get their first glimpse of Walford in HD in the show's December 25 episode, which is expected to feature more festive drama for the residents of Albert Square.
In order to ensure that the drama's base at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood, Herts is prepared for the high quality filming format, a series of improvements have been made to sets. Most notably, a new-look Queen Vic will soon be unveiled on screen following the huge fire which engulfed the pub last month.
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood commented: "Christmas Day in Walford is traditionally turkey, tinsel and turmoil for the residents of Albert Square. This year will be even more spectacular with viewers having the opportunity to watch the festive drama unfold in HD for the first time."
Yesterday, it was confirmed that BBC One HD will launch on multiple digital TV platforms on November 3.
EastEnders is to appear on BBC One HD in the run-up to Christmas, but will transmit as upscaled SD material until December 25.
Former EastEnders star Michelle Collins has claimed that the actors on the BBC One soap hate working there.
The actress, who played Cindy Beale until the character was killed off in 1998, admitted that she is glad she can't return to the soap because of the extra pressures to attract high ratings.
She told the News of the World: "Everyone who works at EastEnders doesn't want to be working there. Ask any of the actors - they complain all the time.
"I think soaps are under so much pressure to scandalise. It's all about boosting ratings these days. I didn't really see the point of doing a live episode, especially because a lot of those people have never done live theatre before.
"It put them under a huge lot of pressure. Scott Maslen (Jack Branning) forgot his lines, and now he's always going to be remembered as the man who forgot his lines on telly."
Speaking of a possible return for her character, she said: "They'd be very silly to bring Cindy back. I don't think anyone would take it. I'm actually quite pleased that she died - at least I'm not being enticed into going back."
JustJodi
31-10-2010, 17:03
SOUR GRAPES coming from Michelle Collins,,
That went through my mind too, Jodi :)
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood has revealed that a new family may be introduced to the soap within the next year.
The programme's showrunner disclosed the news on yesterday evening's special edition of Points of View, on which he fielded questions that had been submitted by viewers of the Walford drama.
One fan enquiry questioned the recent return of Kat and Alfie Moon to Albert Square, asking whether their places on the show should be filled by new characters instead.
Speaking in response, Kirkwood explained: "I love seeing Kat and Alfie back on screen and acting alongside icons like Phil, Carol and Bianca, and new stars like the Masood family.
"We are always looking for new characters and great new actors, and that's going on behind the scenes. We may unveil a new family in the next year or so."
Meanwhile, Kirkwood also spoke of how much the BBC soap values viewer feedback, explaining that the opinions of fans are discussed by the show's team on a daily basis.
He said: "The first thing I do every day is to read the duty log, which is a reflection of the audience's reaction to the previous night's episode. We take a huge interest in [feedback], we discuss it every day and take feedback as an opportunity to learn lessons."
Kirkwood began heading up production at EastEnders earlier this year following the departure of previous exec Diederick Santer.
Long-standing EastEnders supporting artist Ina Clare has died at the age of 77.
The Walford extra, who played flower stall vendor Ina Foot on the BBC soap, was taken ill on Thursday before passing away at the weekend.
Clare made a number of appearances in the role of flame-haired Ina over the years, and a notable moment for the character came just a few months ago when her workmate Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) organised a birthday party for her at the Queen Vic.
Paying tribute to the actress, EastEnders executive producer Bryan Kirkwood commented: "Ina was a much-loved and highly valued part of the EastEnders community who will be very much missed in Albert Square. Many viewers will recognise Ina as one of the most long-standing characters on the market, where she's been helping to create the magic of Walford for 24 years."
Clare has also been praised by a number of her former colleagues on Twitter over the past 24 hours.
Writing on the social networking site, ex-cast member Robert Kazinsky (Sean Slater) described Clare as an "on-set legend" and noted that she would be "sadly missed".
Meanwhile, Sam Attwater (Leon Small) said: "R.I.P. Ina Clare, long-term supporting artist on EastEnders! Great woman to work with."
As well as her Walford role, Clare made small appearances in French and Saunders, Blake's 7 and sitcom In Sickness and in Health during her acting career.
An EastEnders spokesperson has told DS that tonight's episode of the soap will be dedicated to Clare with a screen tribute acknowledging her death.
matt1378
02-11-2010, 03:33
Thats sad, R.I.P Ina
EastEnders actress Samantha Womack has admitted that she is enjoying playing pregnant Ronnie Mitchell.
The actress told Soaplife that she has become caught up in the plot and begun acting as if she is really expecting a baby.
"I love being pregnant," she said. "I've started to act as if I'm really pregnant. In real life I'm banned from breeding!"
Womack confessed that she hopes things work out for Ronnie and Jack (Scott Maslen) with their new arrival.
"New Year will be the baby saga," she teased. "I hope it will be OK. It would be nice to see Ronnie happy... for a bit."
JustJodi
03-11-2010, 15:23
I am a bit confused how did Scott Maslen manage to do STRICTLY COME DANCING,,when he is still contracted with EE..I thought it was only allowed for actors who were no longer contracted with the show,, I am glad that Jack is still on EE .It would be nice if EE allowed them just a teeny tiny bit of happiness.. any couple for the matter
EastEnders' Samantha Womack has hinted that her character Ronnie Mitchell's upcoming wedding will not go smoothly.
Speaking to Soaplife, the actress revealed that her alter ego's sister Roxy (Rita Simons), who is paying for her wedding to Jack Branning (Scott Maslen), will run out of money at the last minute.
She said: "She wants Ronnie to have the frills she and Jack can't afford. But it turns out nor can Roxy, only she doesn't realise until her bank card is refused.
"Apparently Jack's care worked out at about £10,000 a day. They're heading for disaster, but Ronnie's just rolling with it because she's got her man. That's all that matters."
The star added: "She could forgive Roxy anything. This goes back to their childhood when they'd sleep together as spoons. It was them against the world."
When Sonia Fowler made a brief return to Albert Square this year for the wedding of her big sis Bianca, her husband Martin was notable in his absence.
But fans can see Martin - oh, all right, his real-life alter ego James Alexandrou - in a new documentary on BBC3. Hooray!
The actor is fronting a two-part show, Cannabis - What's The Harm?, which looks at both dealers and uses and features doctors and psychologists talking about the effects of the drug.
The show is part of Dangerous Pleasures season on the channel, which looks at young people's pursuit of pleasure and tackles subjects such as boozy holidays abroad, drinking games and the controversial world of music videos.
In 2008, TV star James hit the headlines when pictures surfaced on Facebook of the actor apparently smoking a spliff at a party.
Olly Murs has again expressed his desire to appear in EastEnders.
Having revealed his ambition to join the soap last year, the 2009 X Factor runner-up has now suggested that his proposed character should have an affair with Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement).
He told the Daily Star: "How cool would it be to get a part in EastEnders as a proper Cockney? I'd love that.
"I love being a singer and everything is still really exciting following my time on X Factor. But I'm keen to get into acting so moving into Albert Square would be a great start. I could have an affair with Pat Butcher."
megan999
07-11-2010, 16:53
That Harry is really nasty - no wonder Vanessa had affairs. Was funny when Ronnie and Kat were squaring up to each other! So Roxy has no money left. Wonder why?
megan999
07-11-2010, 19:28
That Harry is really nasty - no wonder Vanessa had affairs. Was funny when Ronnie and Kat were squaring up to each other! So Roxy has no money left. Wonder why?oops was meant to post this in the Current episode thread :o
Steve McFadden's former TV brother Ross Kemp has become a father for the first time - after his ex-lover had his baby.
New Zealand-born makeup artist Nicola Coleman, 35, gave birth in a hospital near her home in Ruislip, North-West London.
TV hardman Kemp, 46, was not at the birth - and was seen out shopping in Central London with a mystery blonde on the day his son was born two weeks ago.
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He dated Ms Coleman on and off for four years after meeting her on the set of EastEnders.
She said: "I have had a baby boy and Ross is the father. He will be involved."
Kemp, who has re-invented himself as a tough TV documentary maker after leaving his soap role as Grant Mitchell in 2006, said: "I don't speak about my private life. A child is always a blessing."
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2010/11/07/ross-kemp-becomes-a-dad-after-his-ex-lover-gives-birth-115875-22698642/#ixzz14fWv4XKY
EastEnders actor Thomas Law has revealed that he would like to try his hand in the music industry.
Law, who plays Peter Beale in the BBC soap, joked that he could be the UK's version of Justin Bieber.
"If I wasn't an actor I'd be the British Justin Bieber, probably!" he told Bang Showbiz. "I'd love to do a bit of singing. My uncle owns a studio, so I've been in there, having fun and mucking about with music."
He added: "It's always been something I've wanted to do, but I love acting in EastEnders."
In June, Bieber revealed that he had been mistaken for Law while in the UK.
Former EastEnders star Rob Kazinsky has reportedly signed to appear in ABC drama Brothers & Sisters.
The actor, who was recently named as part of the cast for Peter Jackson's The Hobbit, is to star in one episode of the drama, E! Online reports.
Kazinsky will play Dr Rick, the ex-boyfriend of Annie, who is played by Odette Yustman.
The return of Dr Rick in Annie's life will cause trouble for the youngest Walker, Justin (Dave Annable), who has formed a fledgling relationship with Annie in the wake of his divorce.
Yustman, who recently married co-star Dave Annable in real life, is tipped to become a series regular after an initial short run.
At 83, she's giving Brucie a run for his money.
June Brown, the EastEnders legend behind Dot Branning, is stepping up to star in a Christmas special of Strictly Come Dancing, and she's the oldest contestant ever to take to the floor.
She'll be twirled around by professional dancer Vincent Simone.
Five celebs have signed up so far - Fern Britton, Ronnie Ancona, John Barrowman and Vince Cable.
BBC head of entertainment and events Katie Taylor said: "Building on the success of the current series of Strictly - that has taken us literally to new heights - I am very excited that, this year, five fresh celebrities are prepared to don their dancing shoes, show us the cut of their cha-cha-chas and delight BBC1 viewers for Christmas."
Go on June. Strut that stuff!
EastEnders has scooped a prize at the Mind Mental Health Media Awards for a second consecutive year.
In a ceremony held at the British Film Institute in London last night, the ongoing story of Stacey Slater's bipolar disorder came out on top in the 'Soaps' category, being recognised as an accurate and powerful portrayal of mental distress.
A statement released by Mind confirmed that the event's judges were impressed with the "outstanding way in which EastEnders developed Stacey's experience of bipolar disorder without letting it define her character".
The performances of Lacey Turner - who plays Stacey - and her screen mother Gillian Wright (Jean) were also highly commended by the panel.
Speaking of the show's victory, Turner commented: "I am thrilled that EastEnders has won this award. Playing the bipolar storyline was one of the biggest achievements that I have had at EastEnders and I was honoured that I was entrusted with the task of portraying an issue that so many people are affected by.
"From the letters and feedback I have received, I am glad that EastEnders was brave enough to raise awareness of such a sensitive issue."
Meanwhile, Mind's chief executive Paul Farmer said: "EastEnders is a fantastic programme that never fails to grip the nation and the storyline involving Stacey Slater developing bipolar disorder is an excellent example of how broadcasters can cover mental health issues in a responsible, forward-thinking way to produce hugely watchable TV."
Emmerdale had also been nominated in the 'Soaps' category in recognition of the storyline which saw Aaron Livesy (Danny Miller) attempt to take his own life as he struggled to come to terms with his sexuality.
Stacey's plotline previously received the Mind 'Making A Difference' trophy at last year's event.
If you're still running low on ideas for Christmas presents, this blog post could help - especially if you have a big soap fan in your family or circle of friends!
Among the products being promoted by BBC Worldwide this festive season is a collection of EastEnders T-shirts featuring some big prints of legendary characters from the Walford show.
Dot Branning, Arthur Fowler and Frank Butcher are among the favourites featured in the range, as shown in the pictures below:
Other characters included in the collection are the Mitchell brothers and Dirty Den.
The range is available to buy exclusively at Topshop (RRP £22).
Posting on behalf of Alan;
More ravings from Kym Marsh
It sounds as if Kym Marsh and her family are closet EastEnders fans.
When the Corrie star travelled to Albert Square to take part in last Friday's Children In Need sketch, her mum got roped in as an extra too.
Kym told New! magazine: "It was fun filming East Street, the Corrie and EastEnders crossover for last Friday's Children In Need. I went down to the EastEnders studios with Beverley Callard (Liz McDonald), Ryan Thomas (Jason Grimshaw), Jimmi Harkishin (Dev Patel) and Helen Worth (Gail McIntyre) and the cast were very welcoming.
"Did anybody spot my mum serving behind the counter in Minute Mart? They roped her in as an extra!"
In the sketch, Kym's character Michelle Connor headed into the Queen Vic and caught the eye of old friend Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), which didn't go down two well with his wife Kat (Jessie Wallace).
Kym said: "I did a scene with Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie, who play Kat and Alfie Moon, where Kat thought my character Michelle was after her man. I wouldn't like to put money on which of them would win in a fight!"
Kym needs to shut the hell up
Chloe O'brien
25-11-2010, 10:12
Why don't they just give her her own reality show on one of the cable channels that know one watches. That way we can get rid of her.
Posting on behalf of Alan;
More ravings from Kym Marsh
It sounds as if Kym Marsh and her family are closet EastEnders fans.
When the Corrie star travelled to Albert Square to take part in last Friday's Children In Need sketch, her mum got roped in as an extra too.
Kym told New! magazine: \"It was fun filming East Street, the Corrie and EastEnders crossover for last Friday's Children In Need. I went down to the EastEnders studios with Beverley Callard (Liz McDonald), Ryan Thomas (Jason Grimshaw), Jimmi Harkishin (Dev Patel) and Helen Worth (Gail McIntyre) and the cast were very welcoming.
\"Did anybody spot my mum serving behind the counter in Minute Mart? They roped her in as an extra!\"
In the sketch, Kym's character Michelle Connor headed into the Queen Vic and caught the eye of old friend Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), which didn't go down two well with his wife Kat (Jessie Wallace).
Kym said: \"I did a scene with Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie, who play Kat and Alfie Moon, where Kat thought my character Michelle was after her man. I wouldn't like to put money on which of them would win in a fight!\"
Kym needs to shut the hell up
already posted: http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?72828-Children-In-Need&p=734427&highlight=Children#post734427
already posted: http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?72828-Children-In-Need&p=734427&highlight=Children#post734427
Cool.. i will moderate myself then :lol:
Cool.. i will moderate myself then :lol:
And slap your own wrist while you are at it. Sorry for getting you into trouble
June Brown has revealed that her career has been "frustrating" during her time on EastEnders.
The veteran actress, 83, was speaking in the BBC1 documentary Fern Britton Meets... about her time on the soap and how she would have preferred to have appeared in other projects.
She said: "You may think I'm successful, but I don't. This will sound dreadful, but I didn't want to end my life playing a soap character. I wanted to end up playing wonderful characters like Dame Judi Dench.
"There are no longer any parts I want to play. I'm too old to play parts that are interesting. Just what comes along, I think."
Referring to a controversial storyline ten years ago regarding euthanasia, Brown also revealed that fans had told her they had also helped loved ones commit suicide.
She said: "I had so many letters from people saying they had never told anybody they had been asked to do it, and actually had done it."
A local council officer in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire has claimed that EastEnders favourite Dot Branning should be issued with a fixed penalty notice for littering.
Wendy Mills recently made a complaint to the BBC after spotting that Dot - played by 83-year-old June Brown - continues to throw her cigarette ends on the ground without punishment.
Speaking to the Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph, Mills explained that she feels strongly about the issue as she is currently leading a 'No Excuses' anti-litter campaign as part of her council role.
She commented: "I think the show has a responsibility to set a good example. We are hugely influenced by this soap. Dot is a main character and she's old enough to know better."
Mills's letter to the corporation received a response from a BBC Complaints representative, who wrote: "Good drama rarely involves the portrayal of the normal, the well-adjusted or the well-run.
"Writers of compelling drama scripts are, by the very nature of the medium, more likely to focus on the dubious than on people who are quietly going about their daily lives in a responsible manner, taking part in all sorts of activities, professions or sharing a particular belief.
"As littering is a problem within society, the EastEnders team are simply reflecting what happens in day-to-day life. I appreciate that you feel that Dot should maybe be apprehended by the council for these actions. We're guided by the feedback that we receive and to that end I'd like to assure you that I've registered your complaint on our audience log."
The actions of Coronation Street's Becky McDonald (Katherine Kelly) have also previously sparked criticism from anti-litter campaigners.
Apparently bears sh!t in the woods too. Maybe she should report them too. Obviously some folk have too much time on their hands. Some people will print anything
EastEnders has picked up a top prize at the CDN Diversity Awards.
The ceremony is held by the television industry's voluntary collaboration the Cultural Diversity Network and was hosted by Gok Wan.
EastEnders won the Sainsbury's Award for Mainstreaming Disability for its "rich, complex and human portrayal of disabled characters across major storylines".
The judges praised the character of Jim Branning, played by real-life stroke survivor John Bardon, and the representation of bipolar disorder through the characters Stacey Branning (Lacey Turner) and Jean Slater (Gillian Wright).
Meanwhile, Victoria Wright won the 'Best On Screen Performance' award for her role in the Channel 4 drama Cast Offs. However, the show lost out to My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding in the 'Most Groundbreaking Programme' category.
EastEnders newcomer Stefan Booth has revealed that he is keen for his character Greg Jessop to have a long-lasting relationship with fiancée Tanya Branning.
Greg made his first appearance on screen back in October, having been mentioned as the new love in Tanya's life some months earlier. However, the pair have only been appearing on screen infrequently as they are currently still living away from Albert Square.
Speaking at a recent photo shoot for Gay Times' Naked Issue, Booth was asked whether the characters will come to the fore in the months ahead.
He replied: "I hope so… It's funny, because people want to know what's going on at the moment because there's been a big press release that I'm in EastEnders, but I had lots of prior work commitments before I came in, so I'm in, then I'm out for a bit, then I'm back in.
"Jo Joyner, who plays my on-screen fiancée, has also just come back from maternity leave. We haven't quite hit the ground running as a couple, but yes, I'd like to think that our future could sustain a very healthy and long-term relationship. But I have no idea what they've got planned."
The actor said that he is having "a lot of fun" at EastEnders and will appear on screen again from mid-December.
Asked whether Tanya's heart belongs to Greg or her ex-partner Max, he replied: "You know what I think about that! Of course I want her to be with Greg. Greg loves her. Greg absolutely adores Tanya and I think she knows that.
"She probably hasn't had that sort of doting affection from her previous partner. He's just there as a rock for her, no matter what happens. I think that's what she's been after - someone that's going to be true and genuine."
ACTRESS Jill Halfpenny has split from her husband Craig Conway - but will still star in a film with him.
The ex-EastEnder and Strictly Come Dancing winner, who is dating a new man, has vowed to stay pals with actor Craig.
The pair, both 35, have a two-year-old son Harvey. Geordie Jill is living apart from Craig in London while they film the comedy How To Stop Being A Loser, due for release next October.
A source said: "They're definitely still friends. It's sad, but they get on together now much better than they did before."
Jill recently revealed she has given herself a new look since separating from Craig after four years of marriage.
She said: "I've downsized my whole wardrobe by about half.
"I've a new partner who is very complimentary of both my tomboy look and my glamorous look."
Soap characters should be just as susceptible to catching the flu as everyone else, a leading public health advisor has suggested.
Professor John Ashton claimed that Heather Trott from EastEnders, portrayed by actress Cheryl Fergison, would offer an excellent opportunity to show the potentially fatal dangers of contracting the seasonal virus.
Speaking to PA, the chairman of the UK Public Health Association said that Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks also had an opportunity to highlight the issue, which is often overlooked as a health concern.
He explained: "Soap operas can play a vital role in educating the people on public health messages, whether it's breaking down preconceptions around HIV/AIDS, eating disorders or mental illness.
"They provide a perfect platform to both normalise health problems and inform people of the choices available to them, to protect themselves often in a sensitive and well researched manner."
Ashton has written to producers of the UK's four biggest soaps, to ask them to consider writing a plot which centres around the illness.
He continued: "I am now hoping that by raising the issues around the dangers of the influenza virus and how some people miss the opportunity to protect themselves, some of the scriptwriters may consider including flu in future plotlines.
"A soap opera could illustrate the dangers of the virus, by showing a character such as Heather in EastEnders deciding consciously not to have the seasonal flu vaccine. Following this decision she could then become acutely ill due to her pre-existing chronic asthma.
"I hope that by demonstrating how a character became ill after missing the opportunity to protect themselves it may resonate with some viewers and make them think twice in the future."
Ashton added: "As the flu season runs from November until March there is still time for something to be done."
JustJodi
17-12-2010, 12:21
Ok gang for the heck of it , who do you think pushed Glenda down the stairs ? My partner thinks it was a robber. It has to be a female cos the person picked up an earring ??? so what do U all think ??
BTW I could not find a THREAD STARTER,, so I am using this instead hope it is OK,, :readtheru
I reckon either Shirley or Jay
Being a dad on screen has its challenges, so spare a thought for EastEnders star Neil McDermott, who is also going to be a parent off-screen.
The actor, who plays Ryan Malloy in the BBC soap, has revealed he got "freaked out" as he filmed the scenes of his screen daughter's birth - because, in a weird coincidence, he had just discovered his real-life wife Michelle was expecting a baby too.
In EastEnders, he is the father of Stacey Branning's (Lacey Turner) baby Lily.
"The day I found out Michelle was pregnant was the day I was filming Stacey giving birth. I was holding the three-week-old baby we had in there and I wasn't telling anyone at the time that Michelle was pregnant, so that was a very strange day. I was getting freaked out," he said.
Neil is looking forward to fatherhood and has been getting some practice in with the two babies who play Lily.
"Hopefully I won't have to save my daughter from a fire... but it's been great having two little Lilies around," he added.
The actor, who celebrated his 30th birthday on December 15, can't wait for the arrival of his real bundle of joy, a daughter, due on New Year's Day.
"I'm really, really looking forward to it now," he said. Sounds like it's going to be a happy new year!
EastEnders series consultant Simon Ashdown has revealed that he wants the soap to broadcast another live episode.
The BBC drama went live earlier this year to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The dramatic episode, written by Ashdown, saw Stacey Branning reveal that she was Archie Mitchell's killer - moments after the death of her husband Bradley.
Speaking to Walford Web, the writer admitted that he knows what he wants to happen in the episode, should it get the go-ahead from executive producer Bryan Kirkwood.
"I have an idea for one," he said. "But it’s very, very different in style. All I’ve got to do is persuade Bryan [Kirkwood].
Discussing the challenges surrounding a live episode, Ashdown commented: "Firstly it had to be a good episode in it’s own right: good structure, good story, some truthful emotion and high impact moments."
Ashdown has penned Stacey's upcoming Christmas Day exit from Albert Square.
EastEnders actress Laurie Brett is expecting her first child, it has been revealed.
The star, best known for her role as broody Jane Beale in the BBC soap, is due to give birth in early summer.
Brett's pregnancy will be hidden on screen as Jane is unable to have children following a hysterectomy.
A source told the News of the World: "Laurie's over the moon. Many of her plotlines centre on Jane's desire for kids. But after she was shot in the stomach by hubby Ian's stepson Steven that won't happen naturally."
The insider added: "It's going to be tricky for producers to hide Laurie's bump. We'll no doubt see her hiding behind carefully placed piles of cakes and sandwiches in the café for the next few months!"
Brett is thought to have been in a relationship with her current partner since 2009.
EastEnders actor Neil McDermott and his wife have reportedly celebrated the birth of a baby daughter.
McDermott - Ryan Malloy in the BBC soap - and his wife Michelle welcomed Arabella Betsy - who weighed 7lb 9oz - yesterday, Hello reports.
The magazine quoted the actor as saying that he was "absolutely delighted" by the new arrival.
Last month, the 30-year-old admitted that neither he or his wife would be watching the Albert Square drama's controversial baby-swap storyline on New Year's Eve.
DS
FORMER EastEnder Louisa Lytton has been charged with drink-driving following a night out.
The actress, 21, who also appeared in The Bill, was stopped in the early hours in London's Belgravia.
She was taken to a Central London police station and later charged with driving with excess alcohol.
Louisa, Albert Square's Ruby Allen, was freed and will face JPs on February 11. Hours earlier she was photographed in the West End, wearing a navy blue dress.
Sources said the star, charged under her real name Louise, had recently split up with a boyfriend.
A spokesman for Louisa declined to comment last night.
JustJodi
01-02-2011, 00:43
what an interesting name,, good weight too :-)
JustJodi
01-02-2011, 00:44
well now if she had still been in east enders they would have sacked her lil fanny
Chloe O'brien
01-02-2011, 15:09
well now if she had still been in east enders they would have sacked her lil fanny
Don't worry Jodi. Kiddie cop will be able to get away with it.
Former Bill actress Louisa Lytton has been banned from driving for 14 months.
Lytton was found guilty of drink-driving, having been arrested in Belgravia in the early hours of January 30.
According to the Daily Mail, Lytton pledged to "live and learn" from her mistake, after she was fined £350 at the City of Westminster Magistrates' Court today.
Before the hearing, she tweeted: "In life we make mistakes... and have to deal with the consequences."
Lytton rose to fame playing Ruby Allen in EastEnders, before moving to The Bill where she played PC Beth Green. She also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2006.
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EastEnders actor Neil McDermott and his wife have reportedly celebrated the birth of a baby daughter.
McDermott - Ryan Malloy in the BBC soap - and his wife Michelle welcomed Arabella Betsy - who weighed 7lb 9oz - yesterday, Hello reports.
The magazine quoted the actor as saying that he was "absolutely delighted" by the new arrival.
Last month, the 30-year-old admitted that neither he or his wife would be watching the Albert Square drama's controversial baby-swap storyline on New Year's Eve.
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EastEnders actor Neil McDermott has described becoming a father as "unbelievable".
The actor and his wife Michelle Edwards welcomed their first daughter Arrabella last month. Speaking to Hello magazine, McDermott - Ryan Malloy in the BBC soap - praised his "heroic" wife after she went through 36 hours of contractions.
"Patsy Palmer told me, 'Get ready to feel a love like you have never felt before'," he said. "And she is absolutely right. It's unbelievable.
"We had a text message from Bertie [Patsy's baby boy] asking Arrabella out on a date. I said, 'No, not until she is 21'," he joked.
McDermott previously admitted that he did not watch the Albert Square drama on New Year's Eve when Ronnie Mitchell swapped her dead son for Kat and Alfie's newborn child.
"When your baby is about to be born you don't choose to watch something like that," he said. "I've watched it since and the aftermath of it. The acting has been very strong and the storyline very good.
"When it is so much more relevant to you then it does become more heartbreaking," he added.
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Patsy Palmer has revealed that her EastEnders character Bianca Butcher has proved popular with the royal family and Madonna.
The 38-year-old actress explained that her infamous catchphrase of shouting "Rickaaaay" at her husband has got her some unlikely fans.
According to the Daily Star, Palmer revealed to Piers Morgan: "Madonna was shooting a commercial in a red wig and did an impression of me between takes, going 'Rickaaaay!'"
The soap star also claimed to have royal fans in the form of Prince William and Princess Diana.That would be the LATE Princess Diana. Im sure they dont have TVs where she is now.
She said: "Tara Palmer-Tomkinson and I were at Party In The Park and she was on the phone to him. I was like 'Oh my God, Prince William.' Tara told him she was with me and he said, 'Tell her I've got a naked picture of her on my wall.'"
Palmer added: "Princess Di and I had the same hairdresser and he asked me for my autograph for her. Apparently she insisted on watching EastEnders while she had her hair done."
I cannot believe that a 38 yr old would speak like some lovesick tweeny
I cannot believe that a 38 yr old would speak like some lovesick tweeny
Where have you been for my Matt/Seb chats??? I am 38!!
Anita Dobson has revealed she has no regrets about being in EastEnders.
The actress became a household name for her portrayal of emotionally battered and alcoholic landlady Angie Watts, winning record numbers of viewers for the BBC soap.
"I went from being a jobbing actress who was just earning a living to being the second most photographed woman in Britain, next to Princess Diana - but it was exciting too and I wouldn't have swapped it for a second," she said.
"Wonderful things happened to me - I met my husband, I got invited to previews and premieres, I was asked to do fashion shoots, and front covers of magazines. You've just got to embrace it and do the best you can."
Anita, who is now presenting Ration Book Britain: Entertaining The Home Front, reckons her character's sense of humour made her an instant hit with viewers.
"I think it was the fact that she was a survivor and she was funny," she recalled.
"That's what drew me to the character - that she could be on the floor, drunk, weeping buckets, mascara everywhere, then drag herself up the next morning in that old blue dressing gown, tidy herself up and be in the bar that night telling jokes and looking a million dollars."
:: Ration Book Britain: Entertaining The Home Front is on Yesterday on February 24 at 9pm (Sky 537, Virgin 203, Freeview 12).
BBC chiefs have been asked to update the opening titles of flagship soap EastEnders - to include the Olympic Park.
The iconic title sequence features aerial shots mapping East London with the River Thames curving through the area - but was produced before the Olympic Stadium sprung up.
Now local mayor Sir Robin Wales, whose Newham borough includes the Olympic Park, has contacted BBC director-general Mark Thompson, claiming it is time the Olympic Stadium and its surrounding venues in Stratford were put on the map.
Sir Robin, who supported West Ham in their successful bid to move ito the Stadium after the 2012 Games, said: "We're disappointed that there appears to be no plans to update the EastEnders title sequence to include the transformation under way in London's East End."
Sir Robin, a member of the Olympic Park Legacy Board which helps decide what happens to the venues after 2012, said: "A number of key landmarks for the Games are already in place, including the Olympic Stadium, Velodrome and Aquatics Centre.
"The BBC is the Olympic broadcaster of the 2012 Games and I've asked the director-general to intervene to ensure the Stadium and other symbols of East End regeneration on put firmly - and rightly - on the map."
In 2009 the opening sequence got a make-over for the first time in 10 years to include the Millenium Dome, now re-named the 02 Arena which is one of the Olympic venues and will stage the gymnastics.
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London 2012 chiefs have already held talks with ITV and the BBC about using storylines about the Games in popular programmes such as EastEnders over the next year.
Other soaps such as Coronation Street and Neighbours have in the past included topical sporting events in episodes.
Manchester-based Coronation Street pledged its support to the city's bid for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, with resident shopkeeper Norris Cole becoming a fictional steward at the event.
And Aussie hit Neighbours made a series of references to Sydney's hosting of the Olympic Games of 2000.
The Sun
EastEnders bosses have insisted they will not be updating the soap's opening credits to include the Olympic Park.
Local mayor Sir Robin Wales, whose Newham borough includes the iconic Park, wrote a letter to BBC director-general Mark Thompson proposing the change to the iconic title sequence. The credits were made prior to the Olympic Stadium and its surrounding venues in Stratford being built and features aerial map shots showing East London and the River Thames.
An EastEnders spokeswoman said: "A letter has been received and it will be responded to in due course - but we will not be updating the credits.
"We updated them last year for the 25th anniversary and for HD. But the Olympics will be referred to in the show and have already been mentioned several times, and that will be ongoing."
Sir Robin, who sits on the London organising committee for the Games, had asked the soap's chiefs to "update the iconic EastEnders title sequence to include the transformation already underway in London's East End" in his letter.
He wrote: "I would ask that you intervene to ensure that as the Olympic broadcaster of the 2012 London Olympics, the BBC helps to support our regeneration efforts as we look to ensure they inspire people in Newham, across London and beyond. I trust therefore that you will help ensure that the Olympic Stadium and other iconic symbols of East End regeneration are put firmly - and rightly - on the map."
The EastEnders credits were amended in 1999 to include the Millennium Dome, now re-named the 02 Arena, and underwent a makeover in 2009 to include a three-dimensional coloured map and a tweaked theme tune.
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Reports in today's News of the World quote BBC sources as saying June Brown has signed a new one year contract for £300000..
Now I think June is a fine actress but that is disgusting. It's well seen that the BBC doesn't give two flying figs about the licence payers
Bit more info:
June Brown has signed a new 'EastEnders' deal to become the show's second-highest earner.
The 84-year-old actress - who plays chain-smoking Dot Cotton - will now be paid a reported £300,000-a-year after bosses of the BBC One soap feared she might leave after a year of controversial storylines.
Her new deal means only Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell) is paid more than her and producers are thrilled she decided to stay on.
An insider told the News of the World newspaper: "June is soap royalty. The BBC pulled out all the stops.
"It's great news for June and 'EastEnders' fans."
A show spokesman added: "Viewers will be pleased to hear they can continue to enjoy June's brilliant work."
In 2009, June admitted she was worried her alter-ego Dot could be killed off in a bid for the show to save money.
She said: "If they want to drop you, most often they will give you a rather unpleasant storyline.
"The public always equate the character to the actor - and then everyone says, 'Oh I don't like him at all - I'll be glad to when he's gone'. They ease it in. You're in the hands of the Gods."
(C) BANG Media International
Reports in today's News of the World quote BBC sources as saying June Brown has signed a new one year contract for £300000..
Now I think June is a fine actress but that is disgusting. It's well seen that the BBC doesn't give two flying figs about the licence payers
Just reading below this and it seem beetroot man gets paid more.. what about Ian who has been in it since beginning???
EastEnders star Sid Owen may be taking a break from the soap to focus on charity work, but his former co-star Natalie Cassidy thinks it's about time he focused on becoming a dad too.
The actor, who plays loveable Ricky Butcher, has left the soap temporarily and jetted off to India to help build wells with the Drop 4 Drop charity.
But Natalie - who played Ricky's sister-in-law Sonia Fowler in EastEnders - wrote in her New! magazine column: "It's all very admirable but, Sid, when are we going to hear the pitter-patter of tiny feet? He's been with his partner, Polly Parsons, for years and I'd love to see him become a dad."
She also sought to ease fan's fears that the popular character might be leaving the soap for good.
"For anyone who's worried, the lovely Sid Owen isn't leaving EastEnders, he's merely having a few months off to do some charity work," she said.
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Kara Tointon is to make her West End debut in May, in an adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion.
The former EastEnders actress and current Strictly Come Dancing champion will take on the role of Eliza Doolittle in the play, which was the basis of musical My Fair Lady.
Starring opposite Rupert Everett, Tointon will portray a London flower girl selected to be transformed into a lady by Everett's Professor Henry Higgins.
Commenting on the news, Tointon's former Strictly Come Dancing co-star Tina O'Brien told the PA: "That is great news. She will make the best Eliza, she will be brilliant."
Pygmalion opens at the Garrick Theatre on May 12, running until September 3.
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Chloe O'brien
09-03-2011, 20:47
You know I used to like Natalie Cassidy when she played Sonia, but she's slowly begining to get on my nerves like Kym Marsh. Who is she to say that Sid Owen should start a family. And being honest Sid leaving the soap for a while is not a huge surprise. He always conviently finds an excuse to take a break when Bianca is out of the picture. He needs Patsy there to hang on her coat tails as his acting is useless without her.
Cheryl Fergison would like to see her EastEnders character date Coronation Street's anorak Roy Cropper.
The actress, who plays Heather Trott in the BBC soap, reckons they would make a good match.
"I think they'd be brilliant - as long as Heather doesn't go anywhere near John Stape, it'll be fine, he is bad news!" she told Inside Soap.
But there's one obstacle - Roy's wife Hayley (Julie Hesmondhalgh).
"It would be interesting to see how his wife Hayley would take it, though. If there was a fight between them, Heather would just sit on her!" joked the 47-year-old.
She added: "I think Heather and Hayley would get on quite well actually. I can imagine them sitting down for a chin wag."
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Hayley Tamaddon has revealed she'd like to appear in EastEnders.
The former Emmerdale actress, who was crowned queen of the ice after winning Dancing On Ice last year, has set her sights on a role in Albert Square.
"I'd love to be in EastEnders - but they don't have many northerners in that show," she told Inside Soap.
"It's like everyone who lives in Walford has to be from the East End of London. I think it's about time they got a family from up north moving in. I'd love to be a part of that!"
Hayley - whose alter-ego Delilah Dingle left the Dales in 2007 - still gets mistaken for being on the ITV soap.
"People seem to think I'm still in Emmerdale for some reason, and I have to tell them that I haven't been on set for over three years," she continued.
She still watches the soap though.
"The show's really great at the moment, and I've loved all of Danny Miller's stuff as Aaron. But it does make me sad that I'm not part of the Dingle family any more," she added.
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EastEnders star Laurie Brett has told how her Albert Square co-stars have been showering her with gifts and advice as she prepares to become a mother.
The actress - who plays childless Jane Beale - is to become a mother for the first time at the age of 40 with her child due in May.
She tells Hello! magazine: "I keep arriving at my dressing room to find that Steve McFadden (hard man Phil Mitchell) has left all sort of gifts outside my door, including a beautiful crib.
"He's been like Santa," she said as she spoke about her pregnancy for the first time.
Brett, whose long-standing character Jane is unable to have a baby, said she has been receiving pregnancy advice from Jo Joyner - mother to twins in real life. Linda Henry (Shirley Carter) and Cheryl Fergison (who plays Heather Trott) have also promised to take her on a shopping spree.
Brett was planning to keep quiet about her pregnancy in the early days, but co-star Adam Woodyatt - her on-screen husband Ian Beale - realised.
"He said, 'you're pregnant, aren't you?' It's not surprising that he knew as we spend more time with each other than we do with our partners. I had suddenly become very sensitive to certain smells and I wasn't going out for cigarette breaks."
She and boyfriend Johnny Milroy - whom she began dating last year - were not actively trying for a child, although both are delighted and Brett had become broody.
"I thought I would be very sad if it didn't happen. I felt as though something was missing from my life, and Johnny really listened and understood that."
The full interview is in the new edition of Hello! magazine out now.
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TV viewers believe that BBC soap EastEnders portrays entrepreneurial characters in a poor light, according to new research commissioned by the government.
A study published today by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) shows that business-based programmes like Dragon's Den and The Apprentice have promoted "more positive social values towards entrepreneurship".
However, The Guardian reports that half of the viewers who took part in the study believed that EastEnders was a show which depicted entrepreneurial figures negatively. Walford's longest-serving character Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) is among those who have tried their hand at various businesses on Albert Square.
Meanwhile, only a third of respondents said that Coronation Street painted entrepreneurs in a negative light.
Business and enterprise minister Mark Prisk said that he was pleased by the overall findings of the study, which showed that TV programmes are making people think more positively about entrepreneurs.
He commented: "The media has such an important role to play in creating a positive image around entrepreneurship and starting your own business. It is very encouraging to see such a dramatic shift in recent years. And I hope this trend continues.
"The government is focused relentlessly on supporting growth across our economy. Backing and encouraging new enterprises to start up, and small businesses to grow, will deliver new jobs and transform our economy.
"We need to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, showing them the ambitions they can realise in business. The media can play a crucial role in this."
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Laurie Brett is turning to unusual methods to disguise her growing baby bump from 'EastEnders' viewers.
The actress plays cafe worker Jane Beale - who is married to Walford wimp Ian (Adam Woodyat) - in the BBC One soap, and as her alter-ego is unable to conceive after being shot in the stomach by her husband's evil stepson, show bosses are coming up with creative ways to hide Laurie's changing shape.
She explained: "I have to find novel ways of hiding the bump. It's been quite fun thinking of ways to do that. One involves a feather boa."
Laurie - who is due to give birth in May - also revealed her co-star Adam realised almost immediately that she was pregnant, as he knows her so well.
She said: "I didn't tell him, he told me. He said, 'You're pregnant aren't you?' It's not surprising that he knew as we spend more time with each other than we do with our partners. I had suddenly become very sensitive to certain smells, and wasn't going out for cigarette breaks."
Adam is not the only co-star who is excited for Laurie, and while the female members of the cast have been supportive, she admitted she has been surprised by Steve McFadden - who plays hardman Phil Mitchell - showing his soft side.
She said: "Jo Joyner (Tanya Branning) has been giving me advice and Linda Henry (Shirley Carter) and Cheryl Fergison (Heather Trott) want to take me out shopping.
"I keep arriving at my dressing room to find that Steve McFadden has left all sorts of gifts outside my door including a beautiful crib. He's been like Santa."
(C) BANG Media International
Same old stories among the rows on EastEnders
★NEW hope at EastEnders after Fat Boy exclaimed: “I have died.” Wishful thinking. Unfortunately, Arthur had “died and gone to heaven” after seeing a bevy of beauties on the square.There wasn’t much new to report in Walford – Kat and Alfie have split up for the 100th time, Ian and Jane have fallen out for the 10,000th time and Ronnie Mitchell has scowled for the millionth time. So, business as usual then.
Same old stories among the rows on EastEnders
★NEW hope at EastEnders after Fat Boy exclaimed: “I have died.” Wishful thinking. Unfortunately, Arthur had “died and gone to heaven” after seeing a bevy of beauties on the square.There wasn’t much new to report in Walford – Kat and Alfie have split up for the 100th time, Ian and Jane have fallen out for the 10,000th time and Ronnie Mitchell has scowled for the millionth time. So, business as usual then.
:searchme: :confused:
Matt Lucas has revealed that he would love a role in EastEnders.
The comedian told the Radio Times that he would relish the opportunity to join the Walford dynasty, admitting that it would put his acting skills to the test.
Lucas said: "I'd love to play the youngest Mitchell brother in EastEnders, but I would have to learn how to talk really quietly and menacingly."
He joked: "Failing that, [I'd play] Pat Butcher's long-lost sister Nat, who would obviously also have a penchant for bleached hair, big earrings and leopard print."
The Come Fly With Me star also admitted that he is unable to watch himself on screen.
"If I am flicking through the channels and a repeat of Little Britain is on BBC Three, I flick right on," he said.
Ex-EastEnders actress Hannah Waterman is five months pregnant with her first child.
The 35-year-old, who played Laura Beale on the BBC soap between 2000 and 2004, was photographed by the Sunday Mirror sporting a sizeable baby bump on a London street yesterday.
Waterman, who split with former EastEnders co-star Ricky Groves in January 2010 after three years of marriage, has yet to reveal the identity of the child's father.
A source commented: "This may come as a bit of a shock to a lot of people but Hannah is absolutely thrilled. She is 35 now and feels it is the perfect time to start a family. Everyone who knows her is sure she's going to be a great mum."
Waterman and Groves tied the knot in 2006, but separated shortly after her highly-publicised two-and-a-half stone weight-loss.
Waterman adamantly denied reports that her new slimline figure had contributed to the collapse of her marriage.
Patsy Palmer has predicted that her EastEnders character Bianca Butcher would be a changed woman if she ever returned to Walford.
Bianca is currently in prison after attacking womaniser Connor Stanley in the climax to his love triangle storyline with her adopted daughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) and mother Carol (Lindsey Coulson).
Off-screen, meanwhile, Palmer made a swift departure from the soap in December as she gave birth to her fourth child Bertie almost a month before he was due. The actress is now out of contract with EastEnders but has confirmed that she would not rule out a future comeback.
Speaking to Take It Easy about her most recent stint as Bianca, Palmer commented: "It was quite nice playing an older, wiser Bianca. Now she's in prison, I'm sure she'll come out and be a different person, so if I do go back it'll be a new challenge."
Asked whether she does intend to return to EastEnders, she replied: "I really don't know at the moment because everything is about the baby. If I do go back, it won't be for at least 12 months, but they've left the door open for me. I'm really grateful for that because I do enjoy my job.
"I'm lucky to be in a position where if I didn't enjoy it, I wouldn't have to go. I don't just do it for the money. My husband works so I could be a stay-at-home mum."
Palmer's screen husband Sid Owen (Ricky Butcher) is also currently on a break from EastEnders but has not yet departed screens.
Ex-EastEnders actress Hannah Waterman is five months pregnant with her first child.
Waterman, who split with former EastEnders co-star Ricky Groves in January 2010 after three years of marriage, has yet to reveal the identity of the child's father.
THE mystery father of Hannah Waterman’s unborn child can be revealed as former The Bill star Huw Higginson.
Huw, who played loveable buffoon PC George Garfield in the police drama, has left the house he shared with his wife and two children and set up home with Hannah, 35, in readiness for the birth.
Friends of the couple say they are “‘blissfully happy” and looking forward to starting a family.
The pair first met 10 years ago when Huw, 47, had a brief role as a manipulative landlord alongside Hannah in EastEnders.
They stayed in touch and became close again in 2009 when they were cast opposite each other in plays Rattle of a Single Man and Killing Time.
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They went on a countrywide tour, months after Hannah dramatically lost two-and-a-half stone following her appearance in an exercise DVD.
At the time Hannah, who was still with then husband Ricky Groves, 42, spoke gushingly about her co-star: “Huw is lovely in real life. When there’s only two of you, you have to absolutely trust each other… he is a rock.”
Friends revealed that when Hannah split up with former EastEnders co-star Ricky, Huw comforted her. Six months ago, Hannah found out she was pregnant.
Having left wife of 13 years Geraldine and their daughters, nine and 15, Huw has moved into Hannah’s home in Essex.
Friends added that Ricky, heartbroken by his split from Hannah 16 months ago, will be further devastated by the news her new man is someone he knows.
“This will be hard,” one said. “Things are still pretty raw for him.”
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2011/04/10/pregnant-hannah-waterman-s-new-man-is-the-bill-actor-huw-higginson-115875-23049728/#ixzz1J50tyIMs
TELLY hardman Billy Murray has been charged with beating his wife and daughter during a boozy late-night family row.
Murray, 69 - who played corrupt Det Sgt Don Beech in The Bill and EastEnders villain Johnny Allen - was arrested after a 999 call to second wife Elaine's £700,000 penthouse flat.
Murray and Elaine, 61, had been out drinking before an argument erupted.
Dust-up dad ... Billy Murray with daughter Lizzie
Sources said their singer daughter Lizzie, 27, stepped in to defend her mum but was allegedly hit. The couple's other daughter, ex-Hustle star Jaime Murray, 34, was not involved in the incident in Chigwell, Essex.
Murray - currently fronting TV ads for personal accident firm Injury Lawyers 4U - was taken away by cops. He was later charged with two counts of common assault by beating.
At her home, Elaine confirmed an incident had taken place, and she did not know Murray had been charged. She said: "I don't want to talk about it." A spokesman for Murray added: "We are unavailable for comment."
Police said: "We can confirm a 69-year-old man from London was arrested in Chigwell in the early hours of April 7. He has been charged with two counts of common assault. He will appear at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on May 6."
Speaking in 2004 of his marriage to hypnotherapist Elaine, Murray said: "We've had our rough patches, that's well-known. I think she'd like to get me on the couch sometimes and zap me into the 21st century.
"But I'm an old-fashioned man with old-fashioned values and that's never going to happen."
Murray lives in a £450,000 riverside flat in the Isle of Dogs, East London - 12 miles from his wife and daughter's home.
Sid Owen has explained his decision to take a break from his EastEnders role as Ricky Butcher.
Earlier this year, it was announced that Owen is to depart the soap temporarily in the summer, allowing him to spend time concentrating on charity work and other projects.
The actor's screen wife Patsy Palmer (Bianca Butcher) is also currently out of contract with EastEnders and focusing on motherhood following the arrival of her fourth child Bertie in December.
Speaking of his forthcoming departure, Owen told Inside Soap: "When I returned to the show, it was only meant to be for six months. Three and a half years later, I'm still here so I just wanted to take a break. I'm having 12 months off and leave in July. But if Patsy comes back - which I'm sure she will - I'll be happy to return."
Asked what the news means for the rest of the family, he replied: "Ricky will run into troubles as he's skint and has kids to provide for. But Carol and Pat will hold the fort."
Owen is currently working with the charity Drop 4 Drop, which helps to tackle the global water crisis in the developing world. He recently paid a visit to India for a week and helped to install wells in communities which did not have access to clean drinking water.
Discussing how he will spend his time away from Albert Square, the star said: "I'll be heading back to India. I'll be making documentaries and also working on my autobiography. I've had such an incredible life, so I think it'll be a good read."
JustJodi
13-04-2011, 13:53
Why is it so important that they quote the price of those flats that these people live in?
EastEnders cast members have reportedly been warned that they will never work for the BBC again if they leak plot details to the media.
According to The Mirror, executive producer Bryan Kirkwood issued the stern warning to the cast in a letter obtained by the paper.
"Confidential information is being passed on," the document stated. "Please be assured that we are working hard with the BBC investigations service to find out who is doing this. When we do find out, action will be taken and the persons responsible will never work at the BBC again."
The investigations department is said to be looking into the case and has allegedly pinpointed two of the Albert Square drama's 'biggest stars' over suspicions that they are behind storyline leaks.
"The letter makes it clear the bosses are taking no nonsense when it comes to the show's filming schedule and scenes being given out," a source told the paper. "A life ban from the BBC seems a very severe punishment but that is what is being threatened so the cast should take note."
The insider added: "No one has been left exempt from the warning. The senior members of the cast have all been told."
In 2007, it was reported that bosses had gone to similar lengths to uncover the source of leaks after the press learned of details surrounding the death of Pauline Fowler.
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Chloe O'brien
20-04-2011, 17:41
Quite right too. One of the reasons I don't watch much of the soaps is because you know months in advance what is going to happen and that puts viewers off. I can understand then revealing a cot-death plot coming up in so that if some viewers can decided to tune in or not, but they don't have to reveal every single detail. One of my favourite soap plots was Brookside's Mandy/Beth murder trial of Trevor. No one knew that Mandy & Beth were going to be found guilty until it was shown. I think that huge storylines like Christmas plots should be kept a secret even if a cast member is leaving the soap and their character is being killed off they should keep quiet about it.
EastEnders star *Jessie Wallace has reportedly become engaged to a mystery man.
The actress, who returned to her role as Kat Moon last year, was spotted wearing an engagement ring while out with co-star Shane Richie (Alfie Moon).
According to the Daily Star Sunday, the soap star is determined to keep her personal life away from the public after learning from her mistakes during her first stint on the show.
A source said: "Jessie really couldn't be happier or more settled at the moment. She made a few mistakes the first time around and was *determined not to do the same when she went back.
"Her personal life was always very public, which made it all *extremely difficult when her relationships didn't work out. Since she returned to EastEnders she just goes to work and then comes straight home to be with her little girl.
"Jessie has never quite made it up the aisle but she's turning 40 later this year and it's something she'd like to do. She is *determined not to let anything spoil what she has with her latest man. She's decided to keep him all to herself. She has no intention of bringing him into the limelight."
She already has a six-year-old daughter called Tallulah with ex-fiancé Dave Morgan.
Shane Richie and his wife Christie have announced the arrival of their baby girl.
The EastEnders actor and Christie welcomed their daughter, who weighed in at 6lbs, on Wednesday.
The pair already have two other children together, Mackenzie Blue, 4, and 2-year old Lolita-Belle, and Shane revealed that they are "delighted" with the new addition to their family.
The 47-year-old, who also has two grown-up sons from his marriage to TV presenter Coleen Nolan, told Hello: "We're delighted.
"She came out with full theatrical make-up on, and screaming! She looks just like her mum. Lovely."
Shane recently revealed that he was shocked EastEnders won the National Television Award for 'Best Soap' this year instead of Coronation Street.
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BBC1 is set to rip up its schedules for next year's Olympics - with even EastEnders under threat.
All prime-time drama and daytime shows will be affected during the three-week event, controller Danny Cohen said.
The wall-to-wall coverage will be welcomed by sports fans but risks upsetting viewers used to watching their favourite shows at certain times.
Cohen said: "We are the host broadcaster. We want to broadcast all of the Olympics. It won't be 24 hours a day, but the events start early and go on past midnight.
"We will have a radically different schedule for that period. It has to be.
"It is a massive moment for Britain and we are the channel that brings people together.
"It is right that it is on BBC1."
Cohen also said the BBC was close to confirming who would be the main anchorman or woman for the Games which last from July 27 to August 12.
He added it would "most likely" be one of the Beeb's current main presenters.
Those in the frame include Match of the Day's Gary Lineker, Jake Humphrey and Gabby Logan.
EastEnders favourite Shane Richie is to appear in pantomime this Christmas, starring in a production of Aladdin in Essex.
The actor, best known for his role as Walford's Alfie Moon, will take to the stage at the Cliffs Pavilion Theatre in December, leading the cast of the production.
According to the Essex Echo, the show will run from Saturday, December 10 until Saturday, December 31.
It is thought that the pantomime is not running into January due to Richie's filming commitments with EastEnders.
Richie's Albert Square character is currently playing a central role on screen as EastEnders continues to explore the aftermath of the soap's baby swap storyline following Ronnie Branning's confession about her desperate act.
John Partridge, who plays Christian Clarke on the show, is also doing a stint in panto this year - starring as Prince Charming in a production of Cinderella at The Marlowe Theatre in Kent.
Scott Maslen has appeared on the front of Angler's Mail after catching a giant carp in Gran Canaria.
The EastEnders actor is pictured holding the 35lb fish, which he caught while on holiday from the soap.
Speaking to the publication, Maslen, who plays Jack Branning in EastEnders, said: "It's the best fishing holiday I've ever had.
"It's always been a dream of mine to be on the front of my favourite fishing magazine - I've read it since I was a schoolboy."
The magazine's editor Tim Knight told the Daily Mail: "Not a lot of people know that one of Scott's very first jobs, when he was a youngster, was working in a tackle shop - getting his hands dirty and smelly with all the maggots and baits. That's a far cry from being soap land's sexiest male!
"Scott's not lazy with his fishing and it doesn't appear like it's all about relaxing for him. He's done well when he's entered some physically and mentally demanding events, like the British Carp Angling Championships and America's 72-hour St Lawrence River Challenge."
Maslen has previously been chosen for both sexiest male and sexiest vegetarian awards, but says that he would much rather gain recognition for his work as an actor.
DS
EASTENDERS is “too white” and fails to reflect real London life, according to a top BBC boss.
Head of Drama John Yorke said Eastenders does not accurately portray the mix of ethnic minorities in the capital.
And he said the show “may be significantly white compared with the real East End”.
He also added the show was not a realistic portrayal of working-class life.
He added: “Real life changes more quickly than representations of it on television.”
But he insisted the show now had more Asian characters than it once did, such as postman Masood Ahmed, played by Nitin Ganatra, 43, and GP Yusef Khan, played by Ace Bhatti, 39.
Black characters – including shopkeeper Patrick Trueman, played by Rudolph Walker, 71, and working mum Denise Johnson (actress Diane Parish, 41) – have featured for a number of years.
And in February 2009 the BBC broadcast an all-black episode of EastEnders which featured no white characters for the first time in the show’s 25-year history.
Mr Yorke said: “It’s considerably more multicultural than it was even five years ago and is easily the most multicultural show on telly now.
“Soaps reach a point where they have a really big decision to make; do they stay true to the original vision or do they adapt to a changing world? My feeling is that the truth lies somewhere in between.”
Coronation Street executive producer Kieran Roberts said the ITV1 soap had the right racial mix.
He said: “The ethnic mix is something we’re always conscious of. Statistically, we’re probably getting it about right.”
Daily Star
EastEnders star Jessie Wallace has finally revealed the identity of her new fiancé.
Wallace, who won 'Best Actress' at last night's British Soap Awards for her role as Kat Moon, is engaged to 49-year-old Vincent Morse, who runs a film catering firm.
Yesterday, she dedicated her award to "my wonderful husband-to-be", adding: "He's the love of my life, I've never been this happy with a man before. He's *absolutely wonderful."
A friend told the Sunday Mirror: "Vincent's great looking and he's completely at ease with her because he meets so many celebrities."
News of her engagement broke last month, with a source saying:
"Jessie really couldn't be happier or more settled at the moment. She made a few mistakes the first time around and was *determined not to do the same when she went back [to EastEnders].
"Jessie has never quite made it up the aisle but she's turning 40 later this year and it's something she'd like to do. She is *determined not to let anything spoil what she has with her latest man. She's decided to keep him all to herself. She has no intention of bringing him into the limelight."
Shane Richie was among the EastEnders stars who showed their support for colleague Rudolph Walker's awards ceremony celebrating young theatrical talent.
The Sun reports that Richie, who plays Queen Vic landlord Alfie Moon, was joined by Kate Williams (Liz Turner) and Ellen Thomas (Grace Olubunmi) at the event.
The Rudolph Walker School's Drama Awards were first launched in the 1970s but were re-established on Sunday, May 22, and Walker, who is also known as 'Enders veteran Patrick Trueman, applauded the youngsters that performed.
"I have been blown away by the talent I have seen on stage here today," he said in a speech.
"They have left me almost speechless. Let's send a powerful and positive message out there about London's young people instead of all this negativity."
Walker added: "With your support the youngsters here today could be lawyers, doctors or even Prime Minister one day."
Earlier this month, EastEnders was named 'Best Soap' at this year's British Soap Awards.
The BBC is reportedly considering moving the set of EastEnders to the MediaCityUK complex on Salford Quays, near Manchester.
The soap could relocate to the site when its current contract with Elstree Studios runs out in 2014, the Daily Star Sunday reports.
"A move from Elstree has been under consideration for some time now," a source said. "With the resources and technology available at the MediaCity site it could be a possibility.
"There's a huge buzz about MediaCity and all the big shows like BBC Breakfast, BBC Sport and CBeebies relocating. To move EastEnders would be incredible, considering the facilities on offer."
The move would see the show being produced in the same place as Coronation Street, which is relocating to the Salford Quays complex.
The source added: "Whether EastEnders is made there or not, it's going to become harder to keep scripts quiet. All those BBC staff are bound to mingle with production workers from Coronation Street."
Bosses are said to "love" the thought of producing a southern soap in the North.
Television bosses have denied that the set of EastEnders will be moving from Borehamwood to the MediaCityUK complex on Salford Quays near Manchester.
The BBC has released a statement following rumours that the soap may be changing its location in favour of better resources.
The statement confirmed: "There are currently no plans to move EastEnders to Salford."
Earlier this week, the Daily Star Sunday suggested that the show might be relocating when its long-term contract at Elstree Studios expires in 2015.
A source had alleged: "A move from Elstree has been under consideration for some time now. With the resources and technology available at the MediaCity site it could be a possibility.
"There's a huge buzz about MediaCity and all the big shows like BBC Breakfast, BBC Sport and CBeebies relocating. To move EastEnders would be incredible, considering the facilities on offer."
EastEnders star Laurie Brett has confirmed that she is overjoyed following the arrival of her first child.
The actress, who plays Jane Beale on the Walford soap, recently gave birth to a baby girl named Erin Anne Millie Brett in a private London hospital.
Brett has now spoken publicly about being a new mum in an interview with Hello magazine, revealing that she and partner Johnny Milroy are "ecstatic" over the new arrival.
The 42-year-old also confessed that she found herself listening to Milroy's favourite Duran Duran and Spandau Ballet songs throughout the birth as she was keen to hear music but forgot to bring her own iPod to the hospital with her.
She told the magazine: "I think that's why I was so calm, because I was lying there thinking, 'What is that?'"
Brett also confirmed that it was her boyfriend's idea for Erin to take her surname rather than his.
"I was not fussed, but Johnny said, 'I think Erin Brett is such a strong name'," she explained.
Brett is currently on maternity leave, so viewers recently saw Jane depart Walford following her split from husband Ian.
Congratulations to them :cheer:
glad to hear that she's had her first child :d such a gorgeous name too.
BBC One controller Danny Cohen has claimed that EastEnders' Dot Branning (June Brown) is a Christian role model.
Cohen said that the chain-smoker, who is better known as Dot Cotton before she re-married, is an example of a Christian living out her faith in a "day to day way".
The BBC One boss made the remarks after being challenged to provide instances of ordinary believers on television who were not "freaks, geeks or antiques".
Cohen told delegates attending this year's Church and Media conference on Tuesday: "She is a single example of someone who lives out her faith on television in a charitable way."
However, the controller's case study did not go down well with some faith leaders and broadcasters.
Afterwards the Rev Hayley Matthews, chaplain for MediaCity UK, the new Salford base for BBC North, said: "I don't think Dot Cotton is very representative of Christians. I think a lot of people would be offended by that."
Matthew Adcock, from the London School of Theology, commented that although Cotton was portrayed as a Christian she did not represent the country's "growing younger demographic".
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood has said that he stands by the decision to show gay couple Christian Clarke and Syed Masood in bed together in a recent episode of the soap.
The episode in question sparked complaints from a handful of viewers who felt that the pair's scene was "inappropriate".
Official figures released earlier this week showed that 125 people had contacted the corporation to complain about the matter. However, 77 messages were also sent from viewers who praised EastEnders for including the scene.
Responding to the complaints during an appearance on This Morning today, Kirkwood commented: "I think EastEnders was the first soap to broadcast a gay kiss about 24, 25 years ago so it's only taken them 25 years to get into the bedroom from the living room!
"I think that we showed a heterosexual kiss on Monday night between Max and Vanessa that had no complaints, so I think we're right to show a loving, tender relationship within the context of the timeslot."
He continued: "I think Christian and Syed are the most established gay, loving relationship on TV. It wasn't crude, it wasn't over-sexual. It was something that you see every day within a heterosexual relationship and I stand by the decision to do it. [Syed] had just accepted his marriage proposal, so it was a beautiful moment."
Kirkwood also promised that the popular couple will be at the forefront of EastEnders in the coming months as they begin to play a bigger role in the Masoods' current storyline with scheming doctor Yusef Khan.
"They've just got engaged, they're trying to start the search to adopt a child and we'll see Christian and Syed coming well and truly front and centre of the show over the coming months as they get back into the Yusef storyline," he said.
A former EastEnders producer has defended a number of recent controversial soap storylines, describing them as "invaluable" in educating younger viewers.
John Yorke, senior drama executive at the BBC, argued that plots such as Emmerdale's assisted suicide saga and the sexual exploitation exposé in EastEnders highlight sensitive real-world issues in an entertaining way.
"If you ringfence soaps and say they are not a place for adult issues, removing them, it would be like making children's programmes," Yorke told The Guardian.
"It would be like taking the wolf out of Little Red Riding Hood. They allow children to assimilate uncomfortable views about the world in a safe setting... there is a need to show complex issues."
Yorke added that potentially upsetting storylines should be publicised well in advance to avoid a repeat of the EastEnders baby-swap controversy, which prematurely ended after attracting more than 8,000 complaints.
He also noted that soaps have ably changed with the times, becoming "more liberal" in terms of addressing issues of sexuality while ditching language that could be deemed as offensive by modern audiences.
Daniela Denby-Ashe has revealed that she would relish the chance to return to EastEnders.
The My Family actress appeared in the soap as Sarah Hills from 1995 to 1999. Hills was engaged twice, firstly to Joe Wicks (Paul Nicholls) and later to Matthew Rose (Joe Absolom).
She told People: "I think she ended up going to prison for murder but I'd never say never.
"I was watching it the other night and I thought it was fantastic. I'd love to go back and I think it would be interesting to see what the storyline would be."
Denby-Ashe has appeared in sitcom My Family as daughter Janey for 11 years. The actress added that she never expected the show, which will end after its current eleventh series, to last as long as it had.
"I was really surprised by the success of the show. I don't think anyone expected that.
"Fred Barron the creator tried to sell it in America and he couldn't so he came over here. I think we're lucky he did."
The fiance of former EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has been ordered to do 120 hours unpaid work for assaulting her.
Adam Cottrell, 31, who had admitted assaulting Cassidy, was also made subject to a restraining order banning him from contacting the actress.
He had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing at East Hertfordshire Magistrates' Court in Hertford to two counts of assault and one of criminal damage.
Cassidy, who was due to marry Cottrell later this year, played Sonia Jackson in the BBC1 soap.
After quitting the series in 2007, she briefly rejoined in February 2010 before making a solitary appearance earlier this year.
120 hours isn't enough. How many more women could he do this to in the future?
Claudia Winkleman has conceded defeat in her attempts to tempt EastEnders star Adam Woodyatt into appearing as a guest on her new Channel 4 show.
The 39-year-old presenter, who hosts Friday night comedy talkshow King of..., admitted that her sexual advances on the Ian Beale actor may have backfired.
"He's my go-to for everything - I rubbed up against him once and he looked appalled," she told Buzz. "I've asked him to come on King Of..., but he won't."
Winkleman, who has been married for 11 years to film producer Kris Thykier, recently described the programme as "the s**ttest thing you'll ever see".
The Film 2011 presenter has previously confessed to a crush on Channel 4 newsreader Jon Snow, stating her belief that "no-one wears a tie as jauntily as him".
Channel 4's King Of... continues tonight at 9.30pm, featuring Jessie Wallace and Stephen Mangan as this week's guests.
EastEnders star Shane Richie has revealed he wants to adopt a child - after becoming a father for the fifth time.
The actor, who plays Albert Square's Alfie Moon, wants to expand his brood even further after adding daughter Romalie to his family two months ago.
And he told Hello! magazine that he and wife Christie were "serious" about adoption.
"We certainly would do it," Richie said. "We were talking about looking into it at Christmas so we can spend some quality time with Romalie this summer.
"We know we'll have to jump through hoops, but it's something we are serious about, so we are going to get someone round from the local council to talk through what we have to do.
"There's enough love in this house and enough room and I think we could give a kid a chance who may not necessarily otherwise get a chance. We are definitely up for it."
The couple showed off their new baby for the first time in the magazine.
Richie has two sons from his marriage to Coleen Nolan, plus two more children, Mackenzie and Lolita, from his current marriage.
"I would love more kids," said Christie. "Motherhood is everything I dreamt it would be. All I wanted was to be married and to have children and to be happy - I couldn't ask for anything more. We have talked about adopting, so we will see."
The full interview is in the new issue of Hello!, which is out now.
PA
JustJodi
11-07-2011, 09:23
Sounds like Shane is taking a break around Christmas,,, if he is wanting to spend time with his daughter?????
I think he means waiting until Christmas with looking into adopting so he has the summer to spend with his new baby girl.
Ex-EastEnders star Billy Murray will not face trial over assault allegations.
The 69-year-old actor was arrested in April, accused of beating his wife Elaine and daughter Lizzie "during a boozy late-night family row" at their Essex penthouse.
However, The Mirror reports that the Crown Prosecution Service has said that no further action will be taken.
A spokesman confirmed: "We can confirm that the case has been discontinued and no further action will be taken."
Murray, who also appears in advertisements for Injury Lawyers 4 U, had apparently put his career on hold following the arrest.
The London-born actor appeared as gangster Johnny Allen in EastEnders from January 2005 to October 2006. He had previously starred in axed ITV police drama The Bill as the corrupt DS Don Beech.
EASTENDERS star Tony Discipline was quizzed by cops yesterday over a row in which a man had his jaw broken.
The actor, 22, who plays Tyler Moon, was identified after a late-night fight near celeb hangout Merah in Central London.
A source said: "It was a lot of macho nonsense with two groups of lads. There was shouting and it erupted into a fight."
Discipline only joined the BBC soap last month. His agent declined to comment.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/3691738/EastEnders-Tony-Discipline-in-row-quiz.html#ixzz1RxQ5NpZw
JustJodi
13-07-2011, 10:07
If EE has its way I guess "Tyler" will be fired ??? cos alot of the other EE folks have been let go on lesser charges ?????
'EastEnders' Tony Discipline names "perfect" celebrity crushes
EastEnders star Tony Discipline has named Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian as his ideal women.
The 22-year-old, who plays Tyler Moon in the BBC soap, revealed his celebrity crushes after admitting to being a fan of vivacious and curvaceous women.
"My perfect woman is Latina, like J.Lo or Kim Kardashian," he told The Sun's Buzz magazine. "Someone with curves."
Discipline also shared a rather unorthodox method of attracting the opposite sex that he regularly deployed as a teenager.
"When I was 17, on dates I'd pick up girls in my fish van for a bit of novelty," he confessed.
Discipline recently promised Digital Spy that viewers could "expect a lot of flirting, a lot of girls and maybe some arguments" during Tyler's time in EastEnders.
Discipline was this week questioned by police over a fight in which a man had his jaw broken.
EastEnders viewers have complained of motion sickness following a particular scene in the soap that featured shaky camera-work.
The episode in question first aired on July 14, and featured Christian Clarke (John Partridge) and Zainab Masood (Nina Wadia), in a discussion about Christian's relationship with Zainab's son Syed (Marc Elliott).
During the short scene, the camera appeared to wobble, with strange camera angles in comparison to normal EastEnders scenes.
Several fans took to BBC's Points of View online forums to comment about the odd scene, with one viewer writing: "Oh, what was with the wobbly camera? Surely, BBC isn't so bad off that it can't afford to buy EastEnders a tripod."
Another viewer added: "Am I the only one who thought the camera angles were bad during the Christian and Zainab scene? The camera was shaking and the angles were just all over the place."
Viewer Marie Marshall, 41, said: "It was really weird. At first I thought my own telly was playing up but then I went to another telly in a different room and it was doing the same thing.
"The picture was shaking so much it made me feel like I was sea-sick. Whoever was holding the camera must have been shaking a lot."
A spokesperson for the soap said that they were aware of complaints made about the scene, but have yet to offer an explanation for what happened, according to The Daily Telegraph.
already posted http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?122721-EastEnders-Spoilers-Week-28-(11-15-July-2011)/page2
Former EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has revealed that she wants to return to the soap.
The actress, who played Sonia Fowler, described the BBC One show as her "home" and said that she will be meeting with producers to discuss a comeback.
Cassidy told the Sunday Mirror: "I'd go back to EastEnders in a heartbeat. I see it as my home, I see them as my family.
"They might say, 'No, we don't want any more old faces', but I am definitely going to ask them in the next few months and see what they say.
"When people come up to me and shout, 'Sonia! Where's your trumpet?', which they still do a few times a week, I don't mind at all."
Speaking of her recent split from fiancé Adam Cottrell, she confessed that she thinks it is "disgusting" the pair have ended the relationship before their daughter Eliza is even 1 year old.
Cassidy said: "I wanted me and Adam to be a family forever. I wouldn't have chosen to have a baby with someone if I didn't think it would be forever."
Cassidy made a one-off appearance in EastEnders earlier this year.
Chloe O'brien
24-07-2011, 17:07
I don't know if EE will let her return but Sonia has family in the square so at least there could be a story for her. At least Natalie is being honest she is asking to return because she has a child to support.
EastEnders star Ricky Norwood has revealed that he is saving up to buy girlfriend Jade Ewen an engagement ring.
The actor - who plays Walford's Arthur 'Fatboy' Chubb - has been dating the Sugababes singer since 2009 and described Ewen as the Kate Middleton to his Prince William.
Norwood is quoted by The People as saying: "We really are compatible and we really suit each other, so if all goes well I wouldn't see a reason why not to. But before I think about proposing I know I've got to save for that big rock of a diamond she's going to want.
"I tried to say, 'Is cubic zirconia all right?' and she just gave me a look. I have no clue how much I need to raise but it's going to be very expensive. I would hate to think of the price because I might start sprouting grey hairs. She's worth it though, she's priceless.
"She's my princess. I'm her Wills and she's my Kate. We both watched the wedding and she loved the dress. It put ideas in her head, of course. I picked up the laptop the other day and she'd been looking at wedding dresses."
Norwood also revealed that the couple even got their big breaks on the same day. Ewen discovered she had been recruited for the Sugababes at the same time as he landed a role in EastEnders.
Jason Donovan has admitted that it would be "fun" to land a role in EastEnders.
The Australian actor, best known for his role as Scott Robinson in Neighbours, quipped that he thought his "terrible" attempt at an East End accent would see him sacked.
"EastEnders could be a fun move but to be perfectly honest, my East End accent is terrible," he told Bang Showbiz. "I think I would probably last five minutes in Albert Square."
He added: "I would definitely end up on the cutting room floor."
Donovan also insisted that, despite receiving offers, he is unlikely to ever return to Ramsay Street, which he left behind in 1989.
"The Neighbours thing is a bit like old shoes, they look nice so you don't want to quite get rid of them," he said. "But you'd never actually wear them out in the street again.
"There isn't a day in my life where I don't talk about it. Neighbours changed my life but I can't see myself going back to it."
Hannah Waterman has given birth to her first child, a baby boy.
The 36-year-old actress announced in January she was expecting a baby with The Bill's Huw Higginson, 47, and it has just been confirmed she gave birth to a son in July, the Daily Mirror reports. The baby's name is not yet known.
Hannah revealed earlier this year: "The pregnancy triggered diabetes symptoms, so it meant I was diagnosed earlier - it probably saved my life.
"It can be dangerous, which means this baby will probably be the only child I can have."
Former EastEnders star Hannah and Huw began dating last summer after Huw left the mother of his two children after 14 years of marriage.
Hannah had a difficult split from her husband and fellow ex-EastEnder Ricky Groves last January after three years of marriage.
She has said of her relationship with Huw: "I've been friends with Huw for 10 years. We first met when he played my pervy landlord in EastEnders.
"We wanted a family, but didn't expect it so quickly."
PA
Shane Richie reportedly had a six-year affair with a fan he first met when she was 13 years-old.
The EastEnders actor is said to have first seduced Alison Hall when she was 20, after she was appointed as the head of his online fan club, according to the Sunday Mirror.
Hall alleges that the pair have been having a sexual affair for six years, with Richie often texting her for explicit photos.
Richie apparently ended their relationship last year, Hall confronted the actor's wife Christie with evidence of the affair. Richie convinced his wife to forgive him.
"He seduced me in the spare bedroom when I was working on his website," Hall told the tabloid.
"Like an idiot I went along with him for years. I devoted 17 years of my life to Shane. He knew I would do anything for him and he used me for sex.
"I was completely besotted and he took advantage of that. It broke my heart. He was my life and when he dropped me I felt like I had nothing to live for."
Hall revealed that she first became a fan of Richie after watching him perform in Grease in 1994.
"I used to save my dinner money and live on sweets until I saved enough money to buy a ticket for Grease or Boogie Nights, and sometimes our parents would let us travel around the country to watch his shows on tour," she revealed.
"We'd wait at the stage door and get Shane to sign pictures. At home my room was full of pictures and newspaper cuttings. It was like a shrine. Coleen got to know us and was really nice, and we sometimes played with his children Jake and Shane Jr."
Richie reportedly appointed Hall as his fan club chief after joining EastEnders in 2002.
"Obviously I thought this was fantastic because it meant we'd be seeing more of each other and we'd be in contact by phone all the time.
"We'd exchange texts and sometimes he could be a bit flirtatious, but I thought that was just Shane being cheeky, that's what he was like."
Their relationship allegedly turned from professional to sexual in 2004. "The first time we had sex we were in the spare room and my mum was downstairs," Hall said.
"I remember my head was banging against the door and I was worried she would hear. I had spent years dreaming about being with Shane and now it was actually happening. It wasn't quite how I had imagined it but it was still incredibly exciting.
"He started coming over two or three times a week instead of once a fortnight and we would be all over each other as soon as he arrived. I felt guilty because we both had partners but I adored him so there was no way I could say no."
Hall added that she decided to speak out about the affair after she realised Richie would no longer agree to meet her.
"I deserve to be heard and to have my feelings acknowledged. Shane needs to realise how devastating it is to have wasted so much of my life on him. He must have seen I was vulnerable and had no self-confidence but adored him, and he took advantage of that.
"Now I'm just hoping I can rebuild my life and find someone who will treat me how I deserve to be treated and love me for who I am."
Shane Richie, who has three children with wife Christie, recently revealed that they are considering adopting a fourth baby.
Chloe O'brien
07-08-2011, 14:30
Well there's his EE career about to go down the drain.
tammyy2j
07-08-2011, 19:22
What a tool he is well he did cheat on Coleen Nolan so up to his old tricks again
JustJodi
07-08-2011, 22:41
Well there's his EE career about to go down the drain.
I always thought he was a HORN DOG .. I was right ...
His wife must be a bit touched in the head to forgive him so easily ????
This was around 2004 ish.. so which wife was he with then?
This was around 2004 ish.. so which wife was he with then?
He was married to Coleen from 1990 - 1999, he married his current wife in 2007, so had the affair before and after he married his second wife. :thumbsdow Don't understand Alison Hall though for not stopping the relationship once he started going out with his now wife, silly girl:angry:
I don't understand why she is only speaking out about it now.. seriously.. another "scorned" woman out for cash cause he is back in EE
I don't understand why she is only speaking out about it now.. seriously.. another "scorned" woman out for cash cause he is back in EE
No doubt that is the real reason for her going public. Next, there will be an ex-boyfriend telling everybody how heartbroken he was when he found out she was cheating on him with Richie :rolleyes:
Gary Oldman has said that he likes to lead a quiet life.
The actor, who will soon be seen as George Smiley in a new adaptation of John Le Carré novel Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, told Esquire that he maintains a discreet attitude on and off set.
Oldman explained: "I've never really courted [fame]. I still don't have a publicist. If I'm in a film, you have an obligation to promote it, I'll do as much as I can.
"On set I keep myself to myself; I'd rather the director speak up. I'm not gonna direct a younger actor. I think the power of example works best, actually."
Oldman also added that he thinks his soap star sister Laila Morse - who plays Mo Harris in EastEnders - attracts more attention from fans, saying that fame "comes in waves".
"Overall I enjoy a certain anonymity. I live a very normal, very ordinary life," he added.
Oldman's interview will appear in the October issue of Esquire magazine, which goes on sale next Monday.
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy - which also stars Colin Firth, John Hurt, Tom Hardy, Benedict Cumberbatch, Mark Strong and Toby Jones - opens on September 16 in the UK and December 9 in the US.
Fans of EastEnders couple Christian Clarke and Syed Masood are aiming to raise £2,000 for gay, lesbian and bisexual charity Stonewall after being inspired by the pair's storyline.
Viewers saw Christian (John Partridge) and Syed (Marc Elliott) officially embark on their relationship in summer 2010, when Syed finally decided to fight against the disapproval of his strict Muslim family.
'Chryed' fans on the Digital Spy forums are now marking the success of the plotline by organising a mass donation to Stonewall.
The fundraising page set up for the project says: "Watching Christian and Syed together has not only melted our hearts but reinforced our need for them to be together, despite all the opposition they face. EastEnders' 3D view of the story has strengthened our values, ethics and views over homosexuality.
"We believe that every person should be free from ridicule, abuse, oppression and bullying, regardless of who they love or are attracted to. We also support and endorse the need for people to educate others about equality, tolerance and acceptance. This is why we have chosen Stonewall charity."
All information can be found on the fans' Justgiving fundraising page, which has already seen £715 come in. A dedicated video has also been made to encourage donations, which we've included below.
Another celebrity relationship bites the dust. SUGABABES singer JADE EWEN and EastEnders actor RICKY NORWOOD – Fatboy in the soap – have called it a day.
The pair had been dating since 2009 and were even close to announcing an engagement, according to pals. But it seems it wasn’t meant to be. The reason for the split? Work c*ommitments (that old chestnut, I hear you cry).
Jade is throwing everything into the Sugababes’ comeback as they prepare to release new single Freedom while Ricky’s busy becoming a soap fan fave.
A pal tells me: “It’s sad. But the door is still slightly ajar, they could still reunite one day.” Watch this space...
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2011/09/11/sugababes-singer-jade-ewen-and-eastenders-actor-ricky-norwood-split-115875-23411074/#ixzz1XcOT5rda
Jessie Wallace has returned to work after recently cancelling her wedding.
The 39-year-old actress, who plays Kat Moon in EastEnders, was expected to take several weeks off after dumping ex-fiancé Vince Morse hours before their wedding, having found out that he had been sending raunchy messages to his former girlfriend.
An EastEnders spokesperson confirmed to The Sun: "Jessie is back filming this week," while a friend of Wallace said: "Jessie has had two weeks from hell. Getting back on Albert Square will help her get some normality back. And being surrounded by the cast will give her a massive boost. It all feels raw and surreal but she's determined to get her life back."
> Jessie Wallace fiancé: 'She was right to dump me'
> Kym Marsh: 'I feel sick for Jessie Wallace after cheating scandal'
As Wallace appeared back on the EastEnders set after lying low in Crete for the past week, Morse went on This Morning begging for the actress's forgiveness.
"She'll be furious that I'm speaking publicly," he said. "But I just want to say... I'm really sorry. I made a real idiot of myself and of her.
"I know I've humiliated you but it doesn't stop me loving you. It doesn't stop me wanting to be with you. I just want you to know from the bottom of my heart, I'm sorry. I can't do anything more than that.
"Hopefully between now and two months, or whatever, things will thaw. Even if we just talk, that's the most important thing. It was ridiculous. I'd never do it again. I'm sorry. From that moment it made me love her more."
Jessie Wallace has reportedly been eating meals in her dressing room since returning to work on the EastEnders set.
The 39-year-old actress, who plays Kat Moon in the soap, went back to work earlier this week after cancelling her wedding to set caterer Vince Morse, but is now hiding away between scenes to avoid him in the canteen.
According to The Mirror, Wallace has warned Morse to "back off" at work and refuses to see anyone except on-screen husband Shane Richie.
One source said: "Jessie has barely left her dressing room. She is just coming out at the last possible second when called for a scene, and then going straight back into isolation. Her dressing room is practically in lockdown, with only Shane Richie being allowed inside because they're very close friends.
"She's embarrassed about everything that has happened and doesn't want to be drawn into awkward discussions with other members of the cast and crew. But more importantly she's terrified about seeing Vince. He runs the on-site catering department and could very easily bump into her at any second around the studios, which would cause major drama."
The insider continued: "She's planned to see him quietly alone but a public confrontation would be likely to end with a meltdown. If there is going to be a reunion, she is determined it will be on her own terms behind closed doors. He has embarrassed her in public enough already."
Friends of Wallace claim that the star has been in contact with Morse but added that there is "a long way to go", while others believe that a reconciliation is "just around the corner".
"We are all expecting a reunion," one friend revealed. "They're still very much in love. They are still planning to meet up quietly this week. But after all that has happened, Jessie is determined to take control and make sure the future of their relationship is her own decision."
London Mayor Boris Johnson has accused the BBC of being "wasteful" for not moving EastEnders to new studios in Olympic Park.
It recently emerged that the corporation had scrapped plans to relocate from their current base in Elstree to the East End from 2012.
Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt held unsuccessful last minute talks with BBC director general Mark Thompson, according to the Evening Standard.
Johnson exclaimed: "This was an opportunity for the BBC to deliver better value for money for hard-pressed licence-fee payers and confront critics who say it's bureaucratic, wasteful and out of touch.
"There was the chance for the BBC to show genuine commitment to the East End - an area it has harvested for audiences for decades. I'm astonished that the boss class don't see the obvious advantages of rooting a popular drama in an area it claims to portray."
Meanwhile, the 47-year-old politician also criticised the supposed "relentless negativity" in EastEnders' storylines.
"Perhaps if they seized this opportunity their plots and script lines would reflect the vibrancy and optimism of this critical part of the capital and not the relentless negativity that often comes across," he added.
A BBC spokesman confirmed to property website CoStar News: "EastEnders is committed to Elstree and there are no plans to relocate any time soon. We are not currently in active negotiations with any party."
London Mayor Boris Johnson has accused the BBC of being "wasteful" for not moving EastEnders to new studios in Olympic Park.
It recently emerged that the corporation had scrapped plans to relocate from their current base in Elstree to the East End from 2012.
Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt held unsuccessful last minute talks with BBC director general Mark Thompson, according to the Evening Standard.
Johnson exclaimed: "This was an opportunity for the BBC to deliver better value for money for hard-pressed licence-fee payers and confront critics who say it's bureaucratic, wasteful and out of touch.
"There was the chance for the BBC to show genuine commitment to the East End - an area it has harvested for audiences for decades. I'm astonished that the boss class don't see the obvious advantages of rooting a popular drama in an area it claims to portray."
Meanwhile, the 47-year-old politician also criticised the supposed "relentless negativity" in EastEnders' storylines.
"Perhaps if they seized this opportunity their plots and script lines would reflect the vibrancy and optimism of this critical part of the capital and not the relentless negativity that often comes across," he added.
A BBC spokesman confirmed to property website CoStar News: "EastEnders is committed to Elstree and there are no plans to relocate any time soon. We are not currently in active negotiations with any party."
The BBC has reportedly claimed that technical issues prevented EastEnders from moving to the site of the 2012 Olympic Games.
Secret talks to move production of the soap from Elstree Studios to Stratford recently fell through, prompting accusations of snobbery from London Mayor Boris Johnson.
"There was the chance for the BBC to show genuine commitment to the East End - an area it has harvested for audiences for decades," Johnson said earlier this week.
"I'm astonished that the boss class don't see the obvious advantages of rooting a popular drama in an area it claims to portray."
However, a BBC insider has told The Guardian that the Stratford move was vetoed due to a number of complications, such as a 23ft privacy wall around the EastEnders set interfering with sight lines.
The source added that 30% of filming time would have been lost by 2015 had they made the move, due to air traffic around the Olympic park. The site also costs considerably more to film on than Elstree, where the BBC is the freeholder.
Jessie Wallace has reportedly been eating meals in her dressing room since returning to work on the EastEnders set.
The 39-year-old actress, who plays Kat Moon in the soap, went back to work earlier this week after cancelling her wedding to set caterer Vince Morse, but is now hiding away between scenes to avoid him in the canteen.
According to The Mirror, Wallace has warned Morse to "back off" at work and refuses to see anyone except on-screen husband Shane Richie.
One source said: "Jessie has barely left her dressing room. She is just coming out at the last possible second when called for a scene, and then going straight back into isolation. Her dressing room is practically in lockdown, with only Shane Richie being allowed inside because they're very close friends.
"She's embarrassed about everything that has happened and doesn't want to be drawn into awkward discussions with other members of the cast and crew. But more importantly she's terrified about seeing Vince. He runs the on-site catering department and could very easily bump into her at any second around the studios, which would cause major drama."
The insider continued: "She's planned to see him quietly alone but a public confrontation would be likely to end with a meltdown. If there is going to be a reunion, she is determined it will be on her own terms behind closed doors. He has embarrassed her in public enough already."
Friends of Wallace claim that the star has been in contact with Morse but added that there is "a long way to go", while others believe that a reconciliation is "just around the corner".
"We are all expecting a reunion," one friend revealed. "They're still very much in love. They are still planning to meet up quietly this week. But after all that has happened, Jessie is determined to take control and make sure the future of their relationship is her own decision."
Jessie Wallace's ex-fiancé Vince Morse has claimed that the former couple are trying to rekindle their relationship.
The EastEnders actress called off her wedding last month after discovering that Morse had sent lewd emails to an old girlfriend.
Morse has since accepted that Wallace "did the right thing" by cancelling their nuptials and this week publicly apologised for his actions on This Morning.
Speaking to The Sun, Morse claimed that he had managed to win Wallace over with his on-air plea and the pair would be meeting once the 39-year-old is able to take a break from EastEnders filming.
"I made a complete muppet of myself talking to her on TV but it's worked," the catering boss said. "Well, not 100%, but she's talking to me now a little bit.
"[We will meet] maybe next week. I don't want to say too much in case it jeopardises things. She says she'll consider meeting me soon. I don't want to mess up again and lose the best thing that's ever happened to me."
Chloe O'brien
17-09-2011, 18:19
He is going to milk this celeb sob story for all it's worth. Just like her previous boyfriend. Watch this space he'll be signed up for I'm a Celeb.
The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright has revealed that he is hoping to land a role on EastEnders.
The 24-year-old told the Daily Star that he would like to stir up life on Albert Square by playing a new tough guy character.
Wright commented: "I'm still really pursuing the acting and I have spoken with one of the producers of EastEnders.
"I want to play a hard man role, but to be honest, I reckon I could pull anything off."
The reality TV star also explained that he wants to branch out with a high-profile presenting job.
"I'd like to have Paddy McGuinness's presenting gig on Take Me Out, but I wouldn't appear on a celebrity version of it as I'm not ready to date again," he said. "I'm still upset about splitting with Lauren Goodger. I hope we can be friends but I don't think she wants it."
The Only Way Is Essex returns for a new series on ITV2 on Sunday, September 25.
EastEnders actresses Jacqueline Jossa and Tameka Empson have revealed that they would be open to the idea of Mark Wright joining the soap.
The Only Way Is Essex star Wright recently explained that he dreams of landing a role on the BBC show and would particularly like to play a tough guy character.
Jossa, who plays Lauren Branning on the programme, told The Sun that she believes Wright is good enough to secure a place in Walford.
"I think he's probably really talented," she explained. "He's the only one out of The Only Way is Essex I believe when I watch it."
Meanwhile, Empson - better known as outrageous Kim Fox - said that she would be happy for Wright to have an opportunity to prove himself.
Empson commented: "The proof is in the pudding so he'd have to show how good an actor he is.
EastEnders star John Partridge married his long-term boyfriend yesterday.
The actor, who plays *Christian Clarke in the BBC One soap, wed Jon Tsouras in a civil ceremony after eight years of dating.
They pair tied the knot in front of family and friends at the Trafalgar Tavern pub in Greenwich, South East London, according to The Mirror.
Guests included Dancing on Ice judge Jason Gardiner and several of Partridge's EastEnders co-stars.
Partridge announced his plans to marry Tsouras last year.
"We've been together for seven years and it's about time I made an honest man of him," he said. "My lovely Jon's Canadian and it's all about when his family can come over, which might be this autumn."
He recently said that he thinks his EastEnders character Christian and Syed would make good parents.
The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright has revealed that he is hoping to land a role on EastEnders.
The 24-year-old told the Daily Star that he would like to stir up life on Albert Square by playing a new tough guy character.
Wright commented: "I'm still really pursuing the acting and I have spoken with one of the producers of EastEnders.
"I want to play a hard man role, but to be honest, I reckon I could pull anything off."
The reality TV star also explained that he wants to branch out with a high-profile presenting job.
"I'd like to have Paddy McGuinness's presenting gig on Take Me Out, but I wouldn't appear on a celebrity version of it as I'm not ready to date again," he said. "I'm still upset about splitting with Lauren Goodger. I hope we can be friends but I don't think she wants it."
The Only Way Is Essex returns for a new series on ITV2 on Sunday, September 25.
EastEnders bosses have today denied claims that Mark Wright is joining the cast of the soap.
The Only Way Is Essex star Wright has recently been linked to a part in the BBC show after he spoke of his desire to play a new Walford tough guy.
Earlier today, a report in the Daily Star suggested that Wright was close to landing a three-month trial, which would see his character become a rival for Phil Mitchell.
However, an EastEnders spokesperson told Digital Spy this afternoon: "There is no truth to the rumour that Mark Wright is joining EastEnders and we're not in any discussions for him to join the show."
Wright is currently appearing in the third series of The Only Way Is Essex, which airs on ITV2.
Oh wow, there’s a new EastEnders romance ahoy! SHONA MCGARTY and MATT LAPINSKAS, who play Whitney Dean and Tony Moon* *respectively, are an item!
The pair chose the wedding of cast member JOHN PARTRIDGE and his partner JON TSOURAS in Greenwich to step out for their first official outing. And don’t they look cute? I think so.
Earlier in the week Shona was more coy and said: “There is a certain someone in my life. It’s all very new and fresh, it hasn’t even been a month. He took me to a nice Italian.” No doubt somewhere ‘up West’.
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2011/10/02/eastenders-stars-shona-mcgarty-and-matt-lapinskas-are-an-item-115875-23460001/#ixzz1ZbsgpqOM
Several EastEnders stars are reported to gone public with their new relationships over the weekend.
The actors are said to have shown their mutual affection while attending the wedding of John Partridge (Christian Clarke) and his partner Jon Tsouras.
Matt Lapinskas, who plays Anthony Moon in the BBC One soap, is dating Shona McGarty (Whitney Dean), according to the Sunday Mirror.
Earlier this week, McGarty was quoted as saying: "There is a certain someone in my life. It's all very new and fresh, it hasn't even been a month. He took me to a nice Italian."
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Tony Discipline, who plays Tyler Moon, is in a relationship with co-star Jacqueline Jossas (Lauren Branning).
Speaking of the party, a source told the Daily Star Sunday: "The civil ceremony started at 4pm but the majority of the guests didn't leave until 3am. It was a good old-fashioned East End knees-up and everyone was in good spirits for John's special day.
"Once the formalities were over it really was all about celebrating and boy did they put on a good bash. The champagne flowed all night and everyone took to the dancefloor until the early hours."
McGarty recently admitted that co-star Patsy Palmer had helped her mature since joining
EastEnders actors Matt Lapinskas and Tony Discipline have confirmed their off-screen romances with fellow cast members Shona McGarty and Jacqueline Jossa.
The pair, who play Moon brothers Anthony and Tyler on the BBC soap, sparked speculation about their love lives earlier this month when they were spotted looking cosy with their colleagues at co-star John Partridge's wedding.
Lapinskas and Discipline were guests at Radio 1's Teen Awards yesterday and revealed that the recent press reports were true.
Asked by Yahoo whether he is dating McGarty (Whitney Dean), Lapinskas replied: "Yes."
Meanwhile, discussing his romance with Jossa (Lauren Branning), Discipline said: "It's early stages but it is true."
The pair, who joined EastEnders earlier this year, added that they are still adjusting to the media interest surrounding their personal lives.
Discipline explained: "It's completely different to what we're used to. People writing about your private life is strange and something we're getting used to."
EastEnders continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
EastEnders star Matt Lapinskas has insisted that he and girlfriend Shona McGarty remain professional on set.
The actor, who plays Anthony Moon in the BBC One soap, was first reported to be dating McGarty (Whitney Dean) earlier this month, when the pair were spotted together at co-star John Partridge's wedding.
He has since confirmed the romance but insisted that the couple don't publicly display their affections while at work.
"When we're on set we try and keep it as professional as possible. There's no sneaking off and kissing," Lapinskas told The People.
Tony Discipline, who plays Lapinskas's on-screen brother Tyler, is dating fellow EastEnders star Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning).
Speaking of their relationships being in the public eye since joining the show, Discipline recently explained: "It's completely different to what we're used to. People writing about your private life is strange and something we're getting used to."
EastEnders bosses have denied reports that they are considering relocating to MediaCityUK in Salford.
Reports of the move first surfaced in June, but were quickly dismissed as false by producers.
Fresh reports suggested that the BBC was again considering moving the soap to MediaCityUK - as Coronation Street has - as part of the corporation's attempts to cut its budget by 20 percent.
"A move was rumoured a couple of months ago but denied. But it's been talked about again recently," a source told the Sunday Express. "The other suggestion is Cardiff, where Casualty has been relocated."
However, a spokesperson for EastEnders insisted that there have been no new discussions and that the soap's set will remain at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire.
"There have been absolutely no discussions about EastEnders' production moving to Salford or Cardiff and we're committed to Elstree until at least 2014," a statement said.
Shows such as Blue Peter, Dragons' Den, Songs Of Praise and Match Of The Day are all being relocated to Salford, with around 2,300 staff members moving to the North West.
EastEnders star Scott Maslen has revealed that he and his wife managed to catch out a burglar who stole valuables from their home.
The actor's Primrose Hill property was ransacked in June after 22-year-old Thomas O'Connor broke in through an upstairs window, the Evening Standard reports.
Maslen, his wife Estelle and their 10-year-old son Zak were asleep at the time and woke up the next morning to find that two iPhones and a laptop had been stolen. Estelle's handbag had also been taken along with a variety of other belongings.
Speaking of the incident for the first time, Maslen told the newspaper: "My wife had the foresight to put a tracker on our phone, which is how we managed to trace our gear. We lost jackets and clothes and money, but it was the phones and computer that we were really worried about.
"When we got over the shock, my wife had a moment when she said the phone has got a tracker. We got on Google Earth and traced the location and called the police."
The 40-year-old, who plays Walford's Jack Branning, added: "It wasn't as harrowing for me as it was for my wife. It really affects you psychologically when you don't feel safe in your own home."
Maslen also praised police for doing "a remarkable job" dealing with the matter.
Reports say that O'Connor was yesterday given a 22-month jail sentence, but is expected to serve seven months because of time already spent in custody.
Shane Richie has hosted a celebrity fundraising event in aid of a children's charity.
The EastEnders actor, who plays Alfie Moon in the soap, said that he feels "proud" to be an ambassador for Barnet-based children's charity Noah's Ark Children's Hospice.
Richie led a silent auction and sold raffle tickets at the Big Night In event held at Elstree Studios on October 25. According to the Barnet and Potters Bar Times, Sonia de Freitas gave a tribute speech in honour of her son Pedro who died earlier this year.
Along with daughter Rachel, she talked about how much Pedro had loved watching EastEnders and revealed how much support the family has received from the staff at Noah's Ark since he became ill.
After their speech, Spandau Ballet singer Tony Hadley performed on stage, followed by dance group Flawless and X Factor finalist Stacey Solomon.
Richie said after the event: "I'm very proud to be an ambassador for Noah's Ark Children's Hospice. Tonight's event has raised a phenomenal amount for the charity - thanks to everyone who took part and came along to make the evening such a success."
The star managed to raise £19,000 at the charity gala. :clap: Well done, Shane :thumbsup:
New pictures have been released today showing the special Queen sketch that the EastEnders cast have recorded for Children In Need.
Stars from the Walford soap recently filmed a musical tribute to the iconic band on the show's Albert Square set to help raise money for this year's charity appeal.
Cast members involved included Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), who dressed up as a housewife in the style of Freddie Mercury in the video for 'I Want To Break Free'.
Speaking of how he prepared for the shoot, Woodyatt revealed: "I went on YouTube and had a good look at the original video as it's so long since I've seen it. I mean everyone's got a rough picture in their head of what was in it, but I wanted to get a few pointers in the right direction - like how to hoover because I haven't got a clue!"
Asked whether he liked his costume, the actor replied: "It was quite disturbing and I really don't look that attractive as a 46C, and I can definitely see why spanx were invented!"
Marc Elliott (Syed Masood), John Partridge (Christian Clarke), Matt Lapinskas (Anthony Moon), Lindsey Coulson (Carol Jackson) and Cheryl Fergison (Heather Trott) were among the other stars involved in the shoot.
EastEnders fans can see the special sketch when Children In Need airs on Friday, November 18 from 7pm on BBC One.
Below, a full set of pictures from the shoot.
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EastEnders star Adam Woodyatt has revealed he spent ages trying to remove his nail varnish after dressing up in drag for this year's Children In Need Queen tribute.
The 43-year-old soap star - who stars as Albert Square businessman Ian Beale - donned a wig, skirt and pink lipstick and nail varnish to look like Freddie Mercury in the video to 1984 hit I Want To Break Free.
Adam revealed: "It was quite disturbing and I really don't look that attractive as a 46C, and I can definitely see why Spanx were invented.
"I've got to say it was actually quite quick the make-up, it only took about 20 minutes, although my wife did paint my finger and toe nails the night before - that was quite weird!"
But while it was quick to put on, Adam and co-star Nitin Ganatra struggled to get their make-up off.
He said: "Me and Nitin, we couldn't get the nail polish off! We were stood in make-up afterwards like a pair of old women rubbing away with something that stunk, just chatting away. Rita [Simons] said it was one of the funniest things she'd seen, us trying to remove nail polish."
And Adam didn't enjoy recording the song either.
He revealed: "It was absolutely hell! I am definitely not a singer."
The EastEnders' Queen tribute performances will air on BBC One on Friday November 18 with other cast members recreating famous videos including Bohemian Rhapsody and We Will Rock You.
PA
Rita Simons has claimed she loves the trauma of EastEnders.
Rita's co-star Samantha Womack - who played her sister Ronnie Mitchell - reportedly left the soap because she found it exhausting acting stressed and miserable all the time. But Rita, who plays party-loving Roxy, told the Daily Express she enjoys the gritty storylines.
The 34-year-old actress said: "That's not the reason why Samantha left the show, but she needed a break from Ronnie as it was hard for her to come in every day and cry and scream, dealing with death and rape.
"I didn't have it as bad as her - I get to play a drunk slapper!
"I'm getting my fair bit of trauma now but I love it. Pile the trauma on me."
PA
Former EastEnders star Neil McDermott will join the cast of Shrek: The Musical next year, it has been announced.
The actor, who played Walford's Ryan Malloy, is taking over the role of Lord Farquaad in the production at London's Theatre Royal.
McDermott will appear in the part from February 2012, succeeding current Farquaad actor Nigel Harman.
Meanwhile, West End actor Dean Chisnall is taking over from Nigel Lindsay in the lead role of Shrek.
Shrek: The Musical has been running in the West End since May. Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh is currently appearing as Princess Fiona in the show.
McDermott bowed out from EastEnders earlier this year after two years in the role of Ryan.
EastEnders bosses have defended their portrayal of homosexual issues after George Michael branded recent storylines "insulting" to the gay community.
The openly-gay singer made his remarks on Twitter after watching last night's episode, which saw Christian Clarke's relationship with Syed Masood hit the rocks after he was falsely accused of molesting schoolboy Ben Mitchell.
Ben's father Phil (Steve McFadden) has struggled to come to terms with his son's sexuality in recent weeks and he reacted furiously to the teenager's allegation, storming round to Christian's home with a baseball bat.
Meanwhile, EastEnders' Christian and Syed storyline has explored the challenges faced by the couple after they fell in love. Syed (Marc Elliott) took months to accept his sexuality and was later disowned by his strict Muslim parents after finally deciding to build a life with Christian.
Michael told his online followers last night: "It's official.....George Michael has had enough of.... EastEnders. ARE THEY F**KING KIDDING! Gay people deserve better than the BBC's pathetic attempts to 'represent' us.
"Message to gay kids in Britain. The East End of London is one of the best places on earth to be a modern gay man or couple. The relationship between Sayed [sic] and Christian is the most insulting piece of bulls**t on British television right now.
"Insulting to the gay community, insulting to the Muslim community, and in the meantime, terrifying every gay child that is struggling to come to terms with their sexuality, and the prospect of coming out to their family, whatever their religion.
"So far, Christian has been beaten up 3 times that I can remember, and is now accused of child molestation. Sayed has been disowned and is now mistreating his partner shamelessly, presumably because he is now a confused bisexual after all. Total f**king bulls**t."
However, an EastEnders spokesperson told Digital Spy: "EastEnders reflects a wide range of issues. All soap characters face their own trials and tribulations in order to create drama, however EastEnders viewers will know that this is a story about Phil Mitchell who, while struggling with his own relationship with his son, will do anything to protect him."
EastEnders' Christian and Syed storyline has built up a dedicated fanbase since its launch in 2009. Fans of the pair also recently raised more than £2,000 for the lesbian, gay and bisexual charity Stonewall after being inspired by their plot.
Meanwhile, John Partridge - who plays Christian - won the 'Entertainer of the Year' prize at last year's Stonewall Awards, which celebrate those who have made a positive impact on the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
Former Coronation Street star Danny Young has revealed he'd really like to play a proper East End lad in EastEnders.
The actor - currently touring the country with Alex Reid and former Hollyoaks hunk Marcus Patric in strip show Wildboyz - played cockney footballer Warren Baldwin in Corrie, but would like to do more soap work in Albert Square.
Danny told Inside Soap magazine: "I would have liked to have given Warren a bad-boy side.
"I returned to Coronation Street for some episodes in 2006 but if I did another soap now, it would be EastEnders - I'd like to play a cheeky chappy."
But the 24-year-old actor said he still misses the Street, where he appeared as the beloved son of Frankie and Danny Baldwin, played by Debra Stephenson and Bradley Walsh.
He said: "We had such a laugh as the Baldwins. I learned a lot from Bradley Walsh - his comic timing was spot on."
PA
EastEnders character Billy Mitchell will carry the Olympic torch on the show.
The hapless East Londoner, who is portrayed by actor Perry Fenwick, will be granted his long-term wish when he runs the torch through fictional Albert Square on July 23 next year, just before the Olympic opening ceremony on July 27.
Fenwick told The Mirror: "When we first discussed the storyline, my initial thought was that I'll now have to get fit.
"While this may be a fictional one-off for Billy Mitchell, it's a real once in a lifetime opportunity for me and I am thrilled that Walford and Albert Square will be part of this amazing event."
Billy and fellow EastEnder character Fatboy (Ricky Norwood) were both initially in the running for the torchbearer role, but Fenwick won the opportunity.
London 2012 chairman Lord Sebastian Coe said: "Today's announcement is a great addition to the Olympic torch relay route. I'm sure the people of Walford will now start planning their celebrations to welcome the flame to Albert Square.
"Along with people right round the UK, the residents of Albert Square will be getting involved to make this their moment to shine."
During the 70-day Olympic torch relay, 1,018 communities will be visited and it will travel about 8,000 miles. David Beckham said earlier this year that he was "proud to nominate" sportswoman Gabriella Roseje as one of 8,000 torchbearers because of her "inspiring" work with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
EastEnders cast member Tony Discipline is to face trial over assault claims.
Discipline, 22, is accused of breaking a 21-year-old's jaw and assaulting the man's cousin in May, the month it was announced he was joining the BBC One soap.
The incident occurred near celebrity nightclub Merah in London, reports the Evening Standard.
The actor, who plays Tyler Moon, denies grievous bodily harm and common assault.
Discipline was today bailed to appear at Southwark crown court on December 23.
Reports first emerged of the alleged fight in July, when it was claimed that the star was being questioned by the police.
JustJodi
18-11-2011, 21:58
EastEnders cast member Tony Discipline is to face trial over assault claims.
Discipline, 22, is accused of breaking a 21-year-old's jaw and assaulting the man's cousin in May, the month it was announced he was joining the BBC One soap.
The incident occurred near celebrity nightclub Merah in London, reports the Evening Standard.
The actor, who plays Tyler Moon, denies grievous bodily harm and common assault.
Discipline was today bailed to appear at Southwark crown court on December 23.
Reports first emerged of the alleged fight in July, when it was claimed that the star was being questioned by the police.
I just do not get it,,,, they fire people on EE for lesser things, this is a pretty serious charge, and he has not been FIRED from EE ?????
EastEnders star June Brown has revealed that she will perform on stage with Brighton Gay Men's Chorus at their 'Pull a Cracker' Christmas Show.
The actress, who plays Dot Branning in the soap, said that she thinks the December 11 performance at the Brighton Dome will be a great way to mark the festive season.
Brown told The Argus: "I'm really looking forward to joining the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus for their Christmas show. I can't think of a better way to kick-start the festive season while raising money for such worthy charities as the Chorus and the Sussex Beacon."
Comedian Zoe Lyons will compere the show, while cabaret singer Lorraine Bowen and vocalist Jodie Spencer will also make special appearances.
Lyons said: "I am totally delighted to be part of the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus show at the Dome, particularly as it is helping to raise funds for Sussex Beacon who provide such vital services for men and women living with HIV/AIDS.
"As well as continuing to provide excellent outpatient facilities there is an urgent need to raise money to keep the inpatient ward open. By coming to 'Pull a Cracker', the audience will not only be getting right into the Yuletime swing but also contributing towards another great cause this Christmas."
Brighton Gay Men's Chorus hope that the event will help challenge prejudices and raise awareness of issues within their community.
EastEnders star Steve McFadden is reportedly the highest earning celebrity appearing in panto this year.
The actor, who plays Phil Mitchell in the BBC soap, will earn £200,000 to take on the role of Captain Hook in Peter Pan at The New Victoria Theatre, Woking, the Daily Star Sunday reports.
His former EastEnders colleague Larry Lamb will earn £150,000 playing Abanazar in Aladdin, while Jedward will pocket that amount each to star in Jedward And The Beanstalk in Dublin.
A source said: "Steve is one of the soap world's most well-known villains. He's a massive audience puller and this is reflected in his fee. The soap's bosses were happy to let him take time out to do the panto.
"He was the one everyone wanted this year as he really does get bums on seats. Everyone knows who Phil Mitchell is and EastEnders is one of the biggest shows on TV, so to have him star in your panto is massive.
"He's a great villain on TV so you can imagine what he's like in front of a live audience - everyone loves him. They really don't get better than him when it comes to playing the typical pantomime baddie."
Other top earning celebrities appearing in panto this Christmas are David Hasselhoff, who is getting £125,000 plus a luxury hotel room to stay in for the duration of his version of Peter Pan. Pamela Anderson is reportedly being paid £125,000 to play the Genie in Aladdin.
McFadden's Peter Pan co-star, The Only Way Is Essex's Harry Derbidge, will receive just £15,000 in comparison.
Chloe Madeley is starring as Beauty in Beauty And The Beast for £10,000, Ray Quinn will get £30,000 for playing Prince Charming in Cinderella and Gareth Gates will earn £40,000 as the lead in Aladdin.
Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood is also said to be getting £50,000 as the Wicked Queen in Cinderella.
"The top earners really can't refuse the big-money offers. If the offer comes in they'll do everything in their power to juggle other work commitments," the source added. "It's a very lucrative job to get and if your star is rising or you're a household name then you can get big bucks."
I was watching eastenders omnibus earlier and I didn't watch Eastenders when i was growing up (im only 18) and i was wondering whys pat afraid of derek? and has christian left?
Nicola Roberts has revealed she'd like to play Patsy Palmer's sister in EastEnders.
The Girls Aloud star is a massive fan of the soap, and joked she could join Albert Square as fellow redhead Bianca Jackson's little sister.
Nicola laughed: "I could be like Patsy Palmer's younger sister or something!"
But Bianca would have to have a Scouse sister as Nicola admits she is "terrible" at accents.
The 26-year-old revealed she loves watching EastEnders because it helps her relax.
She said: "As soon as I get home I get into my neon tracksuit, get into bed, I've got my little dogs, and put on EastEnders.
"I find it really helps me forget about the rest of the world for half an hour. And if I've not been able to watch it for ages I'll have like seven or eight episodes in a row."
But Nicola isn't sure she'd ever pursue a career as an actress like her bandmate Kimberley Walsh, although she admits she has enjoyed acting.
She said: "I did a little bit of acting on the video for Yo-Yo, because I wrote the song. I wrote the story to the video and I had to kind of act the video a little bit. I didn't know if I was going to be able to do it, but actually I really enjoyed it.
"If I was to have lessons and get better - I was surprised that I enjoyed doing it on the day..."
JustJodi
03-12-2011, 16:39
I was watching eastenders omnibus earlier and I didn't watch Eastenders when i was growing up (im only 18) and i was wondering whys pat afraid of derek? and has christian left?
Pat's son got beaten up by Derek, cos Pats son got Carol pregnant ( if I am not mistaken ) Christian has left but I do not think it is FOREVER,, I bet he comes back ....Carly I didnt start watching EE until 8 yrs ago,, so i am still asking others to help me fit pieces that I have missing too,, Hope this helps :-)
JustJodi
03-12-2011, 16:41
Nicola Roberts has revealed she'd like to play Patsy Palmer's sister in EastEnders.
The Girls Aloud star is a massive fan of the soap, and joked she could join Albert Square as fellow redhead Bianca Jackson's little sister.
Nicola laughed: "I could be like Patsy Palmer's younger sister or something!"
But Bianca would have to have a Scouse sister as Nicola admits she is "terrible" at accents.
The 26-year-old revealed she loves watching EastEnders because it helps her relax.
She said: "As soon as I get home I get into my neon tracksuit, get into bed, I've got my little dogs, and put on EastEnders.
"I find it really helps me forget about the rest of the world for half an hour. And if I've not been able to watch it for ages I'll have like seven or eight episodes in a row."
But Nicola isn't sure she'd ever pursue a career as an actress like her bandmate Kimberley Walsh, although she admits she has enjoyed acting.
She said: "I did a little bit of acting on the video for Yo-Yo, because I wrote the song. I wrote the story to the video and I had to kind of act the video a little bit. I didn't know if I was going to be able to do it, but actually I really enjoyed it.
"If I was to have lessons and get better - I was surprised that I enjoyed doing it on the day..."
I think we have enough AIR HEADS,,plus how on earth will EE explain this character she has dreamed up LOL
Pat's son got beaten up by Derek, cos Pats son got Carol pregnant ( if I am not mistaken ) Christian has left but I do not think it is FOREVER,, I bet he comes back ....Carly I didnt start watching EE until 8 yrs ago,, so i am still asking others to help me fit pieces that I have missing too,, Hope this helps :-)
Thank you.
Sir David Jason has claimed that EastEnders needs 'cheering up'.
The Only Fools and Horses star suggested the soap introduces someone like Derek 'Del Boy' Trotter, as the real East End of London isn't as "dreary" as the soap depicts.
"I'd like to do something on there to cheer it up," he told the Sunday Mirror. "In times of recession lives are a bit dreary so they don't want EastEnders where they keep slitting each other's throats.
"What intrigues me is that there are funny people in the real East End. It's *famous for it.
"There'd be blokes *dressing up as women as a lark, but EastEnders seems blind to the fact that they enjoy a laugh. There should be a cheery chappy on there."
Jason added that he has bought his 10-year-old daughter Sophie the Only Fools and Horses boxset and plans to show it to her over Christmas.
"I don't really like watching myself as I get haunted by the bits I have done wrong, but to be honest it feels like I'm watching a different person when I see Del Boy now," he said.
Sir David Jason has claimed that EastEnders needs 'cheering up', as the real East End of London isn't as "dreary" as the soap depicts.
they don't want EastEnders where they keep slitting each other's throats.
.
Well said David I know you had taste
EastEnders favourite June Brown is to release an autobiography, it has been announced.
The 84-year-old, best known for her role as Walford's Dot Branning, will begin working on the title in the coming months ahead of publication in autumn 2013.
Brown's memoirs will be published by Simon & Schuster, which acquired the rights to the title after paying a six-figure sum, The Bookseller reports.
"June has undoubtedly lived a full and fascinating life - she is one of the few national treasures left not to have done her autobiography and she has more to say than most," Simon & Schuster's deputy non-fiction editorial director Carly Cook commented.
"As big celebrity non-fiction prospects stand for 2013, June Brown's story is a proper one, the life of someone who is hugely respected and much loved.
"Although best known for her brilliant portrayal of Dot Branning, she is seen as an institution - an outstanding TV and stage actress whose appeal is far-reaching and ageless."
Brown was seen delving into her family history on BBC One's Who Do You Think You Are? in August.
megan999
31-12-2011, 16:46
Enders Pat gets a stairway to Evans
THE death of Pat Evans in Sunday night's EastEnders is such a momentous occasion that it gets its own TUNE.
The tearjerker episode will end with an arrangement named Pat's Theme by Simon May, who composed the soap's iconic music.
Pat has been played by Pam St Clement since 1986.
A show insider said: "It's only right that we pay tribute to such a character with a wonderfully touching special theme tune."
There will be another change to the credits on Sunday night, as bosses have bowed to pressure from real-life EastEnders to include the Olympic Park in the opening sequence.
source:The Sun
flappinfanny
03-01-2012, 23:51
Well said David I know you had taste
i think sir david would have his time better spent improving his dire new sitcom. sir david obviously dosent watch ee, if he did, he would realise ee does humour and has a lighter side. ee is never dreary and dosent need cheering up. look at the state of corrie with its pantomime , cartoon humour. in mondays ep tiff was brilliant with her put down to michael, genius. ee is really on form at the mo and on top of its game thanks to bk and certainly dosent need cheering up when we have tameka empson.
EastEnders will air twice a day later this year on Australian television in order to close the gap between the country and the UK.
The British soap has been airing on UKTV since the channel launched in 1996, and will now screen double episodes every Monday to Thursday night from January 23 at 6.30pm.
BBC Worldwide Australia's Deirdre Brennan said: "EastEnders is our number one show. I'm delighted to be able to give our soap savvy fans a double-helping from the Square as we close the gap on the UK.
"With Mandy's unlikely romance with Ian, Tyler's determined attempts to woo Whitney and mayhem at the Moons', there's plenty for them to enjoy."
A new dedicated website for Australian fans of the soap will also be launched to coincide with the double episodes. Fans will be able to catch up with shows and watch preview clips and behind-the-scenes videos.
EastEnders' Laila Morse has revealed her intention to host a post-watershed talkshow.
The 66-year-old, best known for playing Mo Harris in Albert Square, was speaking to The Sun following her early departure from Dancing on Ice.
"I would like to be like Jeremy Kyle," she declared. "If there was two ugly people I'd say, 'Well, you suit each other 'cos you are both ugly'."
She elaborated: "It would have to be after the watershed. I would call it Late Night with Laila.
"They would come on and I'd say, 'Look at you, your shoes need cleaning, your teeth are like a horrible pair of railings'.
"But there wouldn't be fighting. I like making people laugh; it is the best tonic in the world to laugh. If I can do that I am doing everybody good."
flappinfanny
01-02-2012, 23:54
as the mid night hour strikes all will be revealed duff duff duff duff duff duff duff duff.
JustJodi
01-02-2012, 23:56
as the mid night hour strikes all will be revealed duff duff duff duff duff duff duff duff.
What ???? what will be revealed ???? sorry ya lost me there :-)
flappinfanny
02-02-2012, 00:14
amazing news :-)
What ???? what will be revealed ???? sorry ya lost me there :-)
http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?129867-Return-of-Shannis-minus-Dennis&p=766688#post766688
EastEnders star Shona *McGarty's has admitted that the crossover between her on-screen and off-screen love life is "weird".
The actress plays Whitney Dean, who next week starts dating Tyler Moon - played by Tony Discipline.
In real life, McGarty is in a relationship with his *EastEnders brother Anthony, played by Matt Lapinskas.
Meanwhile, Discipline is seeing Jacqueline Jossa, who plays Lauren Branning - Whitney's best friend.
"We didn't plan this, but you can't help who you fall in love with," McGarty told the Sunday Mirror. "I got together with Matt last August and I love absolutely everything about him. He makes me laugh and I tell him stuff I wouldn't tell anyone else.
"I completely trust him. But I suppose at the moment it is a bit like the kind of plot our writers would come up with, because I'm sort of going out with two brothers. It was a bit weird at first. But we've all brought the situation upon ourselves by falling for each other and now we just laugh about it.
"Jacqueline doesn't mind me kissing her man and Matt doesn't mind me *kissing his EastEnders brother. It's just a job and the romantic scenes are all part of it."
Speaking of her real-life romance with Lapinskas, she added: "We've already spoken about moving in together, although we've decided it's a bit early. I've never felt anything like this *before.
"People say it's a honeymoon period, but I really hope it lasts and that this doesn't turn out to be like an EastEnders storyline and all go wrong."
She concluded that she'd like Whitney to cheat on Tyler with Anthony so they could film scenes together.
EastEnders actor Steve McFadden is recovering after an ex-girlfriend allegedly attacked him with her car. :eek:
The 52-year-old, who plays Phil Mitchell in the soap, told police on Sunday (February 13) that Dr Rachel Sidwell had left him bleeding heavily and sporting deep scratches in the incident.
Police arrested the 45-year-old dermatologist yesterday morning (February 14), according to The Sun. She was released at 6.30pm.
A Scotland Yard spokesman confirmed that they had spoken to a man in his 50s and arrested a woman in her 40s in connection with the investigation.
McFadden and Sidwell got together in 2008, but split a year later.
The two are parents to a 2-year-old daughter.
Countdown host Nick Hewer has claimed that EastEnders bosses should cut down on the level of "violence and aggression" in the soap.
The Apprentice star names the Walford serial as one of his pet peeves during an appearance on Room 101 next week, according to a report in The Sun.
Hewer is quoted as saying: "There is one thing I loathe and abhor about EastEnders, and it's the violence and aggression which seems to be threaded through every episode.
"And that violence over the years has leached into the British consciousness so that today this country is worse for it.
"I think EastEnders - God bless them, great actors, great storylines - just less violence please. You are doing us harm."
Hewer features on Room 101 on Friday, February 24 at 8.30pm on BBC One. Comedian Rhod Gilbert and presenter Carol Vorderman also appear in the episode.
megan999
17-02-2012, 15:48
CHARLIE BROOKS is leaving EastEnders to compete on Strictly Come Dancing.
The actress, who plays scheming Janine Butcher, will quit Albert Square in August for six months.
Charlie is fired up for Strictly after winning the Christmas special and dance bosses want her because soap stars are a huge draw for fans.
Ex EastEnders Jill Halfpenny and Kara Tointon both lifted the glitterball trophy.
Charlie says Janine will have her baby before leaving Walford.
Asked what is coming up in EastEnders, she said: "Baby. I think that's about all I can say really as that's all I know.
"I've got six months off in August so we're having the bump, but I won't have to deal with prams and stuff in extra small doors on the set."
Last year after winning the Strictly Christmas show, Charlie revealed she wanted to do the full series but needed time off.
She said: "It would be fantastic to do the whole show but EastEnders is a six-days-a-week job. I've seen how difficult it is to juggle both but it would be an amazing opportunity."
Last night a source at the BBC said: "It's more or less a done deal. Charlie would be a dream signing for Strictly. She's high-profile and popular and judging by the Christmas special, she has natural ability."
Last night an EastEnders spokeswoman confirmed: "Charlie will be taking a break from EastEnders later this year.
"Over the coming months there will be a lot of unexpected twists and turns and the story is bound to be explosive."
source: The Sun
--->I'm sorry she's leaving EE on a break, but she'll be great on Strictly Come Dancing :D
Former EastEnders star Tanya Franks has said she believes her character's crack cocaine addiction storyline was important as it highlighted a serious issue.
The soap star played Phil Mitchell's drug addict and alcoholic girlfriend Rainie Cross whose drug use on the pre-watershed soap sparked complaints, but the teetotal actress told The Independent she is proud of the storyline.
Tanya said: "I think it can be massively helpful when a popular show like EastEnders covers an issue as important as drugs.
"If EastEnders has saved one life by putting this story out it's worth it."
The 44-year-old star - who left the show at Christmas - was helped by the charity DrugScope while researching the storyline and is now campaigning to save young people's drug and alcohol services from tax cuts.
Tanya also revealed she doesn't even drink because she is so scared of addiction.
She said: "In real life I'm a very cautious person. I'm fearful of things and not into experimentation.
"I'd always think, what if I'm the person who gets addicted? I'd think I might not be able to handle it. I'd think I'd be the one to get caught. I've been like that all my life."
Tuesday 20 March
10.35-11.30pm
BBC ONE
EastEnders actress Rita Simons (Roxy Mitchell) has six-year-old twin daughters, Maiya and Jaimee. Maiya was diagnosed with hearing loss at six months old and Rita and husband Theo have been told that one day she will probably lose her hearing completely.
This deeply personal documentary follows Rita and her family as they make life-changing decisions for Maiya’s future. Do they embrace the Deaf world, learn to sign and send her to a specialist school, or try to give her hearing with technology, implants and artificial sound? The choices that lie ahead for Rita and her family are vast and complex.
Along the journey, Rita meets a hearing mother with a deaf daughter who has embraced the Deaf Community, watches a young boy have his Cochlear Implant turned on for the first time and engages with a group of people who are strong supporters of their Deaf Culture. Rita also experiences first-hand what it is like to be deaf in a hearing world.
Rita Simons: My Daughter, Deafness and Me is part of the Disability Season on BBC One. The programme will be shown on the Sign Zone and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.
EASTENDERS stars Cliff Parisi and Ricky Groves have gone into business together — driving brides to their weddings.
Cliff, 51, the soap's Minty Peterson until 2010, is using his £35,000 blue Bentley for the venture which launches this week.
He said: "It's the best job in the world.
"What could be nicer than driving a bride?"
Cliff, most recently seen as maintenance man Fred in BBC1 drama Call The Midwife, formed a strong Albert Square friendship with Ricky, 43, who played mechanic Garry Hobbs until 2009.
He said: "I'll be a chauffeur at weekends and when I'm not busy doing TV and stage work.
"I'll do weddings in North London and Ricky will do them in Peterborough where he lives."
The pair will be happy to act in their EastEnders' roles when they drive brides on their big day.
Cliff said: "I did a bit of chauffeur work before. I love getting suited and booted for a big day out."
The Sun
Former EastEnders actress Gemma McCluskie has been reported as missing by her family and friends.
McCluskie - who starred in the soap for over 30 episodes as Kerry Skinner in 2001 - vanished from her London home on Thursday (March 1).
A large search has been undertaken by police in the local area, with a body being discovered in a canal, reports The Mirror.
"We've been told the police have found the body of a woman and we're now waiting to find out if it's Gemma," a friend of the family said.
I hope they find her safe and sound
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed: "A body was found in Regents Canal near Broadway Market in East London at 2:40pm. Enquiries are under way to establish the identity of the deceased.
"A post mortem will be scheduled to ascertain the cause of death. Pending that post mortem we will be treating the death as unexplained."
McCluskie's brother Danny said: "We are all going out of our mind with worry. Her phone has been switched off since Thursday afternoon. We've not heard from her."
Over 100 people have assisted police in the search for the actress in the Bethnal Green area.
EastEnders stars Martine McCutcheon, Brooke Kinsella and Natalie Cassidy have also helped with the search on Twitter.
Kinsella wrote: "Please get in touch if you have seen her".
Gemma McCluskie's character Kerry Skinner was a close friend of Zoe Slater in the soap, and the great niece of Ethel Skinner. She also dated Robbie Jackson, who proposed to her at one
A 35-year-old man has been arrested after a female torso, feared to be that of a missing former EastEnders actress, was found in a canal in London.
The body, which was found in the Broadway Market stretch of Regent's Canal in Hackney on Tuesday, is feared to be that of Gemma McCluskie, 29.
The arrested man is believed to be her brother Tony McCluskie.
Ms McCluskie, who starred as Kerry Skinner in 2001, disappeared from Bethnal Green, east London, last week.
Twitter appeal
Scotland Yard said it knew the victim's identity but was awaiting results of further forensic tests before formal identification.
Family and friends have been carrying out searches across east London and handing out missing person posters.
The actress appeared in the BBC One soap in 2001
Gemma McCluskie appeared in the BBC One soap in 2001.
Her former co-stars Natalie Cassidy and Brooke Kinsella have both appealed for help on Twitter to find her.
Ms Cassidy, who played Sonia Jackson in the soap, also posted on the website: "Gemma Mcluskie, missing since Thurs, if u have sn her/have any info PLS contact @CarlyKarma ... #FindGemma."
A post-mortem examination on the body is due to take place at Poplar Mortuary later.
The arrested man remains in custody at an east London station.
Police were called to the scene after a passer by noticed something suspicious in the canal.
Divers from Scotland Yard's Marine Support Unit recovered the torso and additional searches are due to be carried out in the water.
Ms McCluskie is 5ft 1in (1.5m) tall with straight black hair.
Police said at the time she went missing she had been wearing a cream coloured top, blue leggings and sandy coloured Ugg boots.
Ms McCluskie appeared in the BBC One soap for 30 episodes.
Her character was a friend of Zoe Slater and the great niece of the late Ethel Skinner. Her character briefly dated Robbie Jackson and got him to propose to her.
Its rumoured that the arestee is her brother
Dean Gaffney has said that he is "utterly devastated" over the disappearance of his former EastEnders co-star Gemma McCluskie.
McCluskie, who starred on the soap for over 30 episodes as Kerry Skinner in 2001, vanished from her London home on March 1.
A police search for the actress recently led to a female torso being discovered in Regent's Canal in Hackney, but the remains have not yet been formally identified.
"It's tear-jerking to hear what's happening and I'm utterly devastated," Gaffney told The Mirror.
"It's something you see in a movie and there are no words to describe the situation. This was a lovely girl with a heart of gold. I'm speechless and it doesn't make any sense. Not knowing is the hardest thing - it's tear-jerking and totally heart-wrenching."
http://i1.cdnds.net/12/10/M/532058143.jpgGaffney's character Robbie Jackson was briefly engaged to Kerry during her time on EastEnders. The actor added that he has fond memories of working alongside McCluskie (pictured left).
"She came in and was immediately a very important and instrumental part of the show, causing a ruckus in the characters' lives," he commented.
"She was so popular with all the cast and so small in height that you just wanted to cuddle her - and everyone did. There was a definite connection between us.
"We were engaged [on screen] and it was a silly childish thing for us to do - and then she went off to Ibiza without me. Effectively, she came in, caused a stir and went off. She was an important part of the show and she really shaped my character."
BBC News has reported that a post-mortem examination carried out on the body found in Hackney proved inconclusive. Further investigations could take some days.
A 35-year-old man, thought to be McCluskie's brother, has been arrested in connection with the case and remains in police custody.
A body discovered at a canal in London has been formally identified as ex-EastEnders actress Gemma McCluskie.
Police have confirmed that the headless torso found in Hackney is that of McCluskie, who played Kerry in over 30 episodes of the BBC soap in 2001.
The 29-year-old disappeared from Bethnal Green, east London, last Thursday (March 1).
Scotland Yard officers, who are reviewing CCTV footage of her last movements, say she was murdered and dumped in the canal after attending the opening of a new hospital.
A 35-year-old man, thought to be McCluskie's brother, still remains in custody following his arrest in connection with the case.
Her EastEnders co-star Dean Gaffney recently said that he was "utterly devastated" by her disappearance.
EASTENDERS star Shona McGarty was booted out of Asda — for suggestively smearing herself with YOGHURT. :eek:
Shona, 20 — Whitney Dean in the soap — was challenged by security men after she and boyfriend Matt Lapinskas were spotted larking around with the food.
One angry mum who alerted staff said: "It was disgusting. The man was opening up pots and looked as if he was throwing it around.
"Then the girl started to smear it over herself in a suggestive manner.
"I had my kids aged ten and nine with me and they certainly don't need to see that in the shopping aisles of Asda." Shona and EastEnders co-star Matt, 25, who plays Anthony Moon, were ordered out of the superstore in Watford, Herts, and told not to return unless their behaviour improved.
An Asda spokeswoman confirmed the incident, saying: "This isn't us being Albert squares. As with any customer found to be causing a ruckus in our stores, we politely asked the culprits to leave so they didn't offend other shoppers."
An EastEnders source said the pair had been chucked out for throwing food and added: "They were larking around with products they were planning to buy."
An EastEnders spokeswoman refused to comment.
flappinfanny
11-03-2012, 14:43
EASTENDERS star Shona McGarty was booted out of Asda — for suggestively smearing herself with YOGHURT. :eek:
Shona, 20 — Whitney Dean in the soap — was challenged by security men after she and boyfriend Matt Lapinskas were spotted larking around with the food.
One angry mum who alerted staff said: "It was disgusting. The man was opening up pots and looked as if he was throwing it around.
"Then the girl started to smear it over herself in a suggestive manner.
"I had my kids aged ten and nine with me and they certainly don't need to see that in the shopping aisles of Asda." Shona and EastEnders co-star Matt, 25, who plays Anthony Moon, were ordered out of the superstore in Watford, Herts, and told not to return unless their behaviour improved.
An Asda spokeswoman confirmed the incident, saying: "This isn't us being Albert squares. As with any customer found to be causing a ruckus in our stores, we politely asked the culprits to leave so they didn't offend other shoppers."
An EastEnders source said the pair had been chucked out for throwing food and added: "They were larking around with products they were planning to buy."
An EastEnders spokeswoman refused to comment.
go to tesco shona better quality. :D
Former EastEnders star Laurie Brett has explained her decision to bow out from the role of Jane Beale.
Jane departed Walford in January after accepting a new job in Cardiff, while in real life, Brett has just signed up for a new regular part in Waterloo Road.
The actress is also competing on the current series of Let's Dance for Sports Relief, recently appearing as Lady GaGa for a rendition of 'Telephone' on the show.
Speaking to the Daily Record about her EastEnders career, Brett insisted that it was the right time to say goodbye to Jane for the time being.
The Scottish star has also said that she is "really excited" about working in her native accent for Waterloo Road when she begins filming next month.
© BBC Pictures
Ricky Grover has revealed that he has battled dyslexia from a young age, and aims to help other sufferers.
The EastEnders actor - who plays Andrew Cotton in the soap - explained that he was diagnosed with the learning disability late, and was often called "thick" while growing up.
He added that his life may have taken a very different route, due to his stepfather's links with underground crime.
"My stepfather was an armed robber, and for a long time it looked like I was going to go that way too," he told The Daily Record. "When you come from quite a rough area and you grow up having problems reading and writing, you feel like society is against you.
"That's certainly how I felt and you can go astray, to try to get your own back on society. Thank God I never did. I stayed on this side of the fence and I think I got my aggression out in the boxing ring.
"In school, I was just labelled thick. The way I used to deal with it, when the book came round for reading, I'd say 'I'm not reading that, it's rubbish' or storm out or something. Even as an adult, if anyone gave me a form or asked me to write out a cheque, I would go to pieces. I couldn't face it."
Grover explained that he finally decided to learn how to read when he realised he wanted to become an actor.
"I decided out of the blue. It was a brainstorm because I had tried lots of other things. I was a boxer, I was a hairdresser, I didn't know what I wanted to do. I went to a place in East London and said to the teacher there, 'I want to act but I have dyslexia quite bad'.
"I thought she would say, 'Well, fine, you can improvise around the lines', but she said, 'Well, you better learn to read then, hadn't you?' I was gutted but it started me off, getting me to read out loud and face my fears. Even now, I'm not a brilliant reader. I put a lot of my lines into a dictaphone and listen to them and memorise them."
The 50-year-old revealed that his dyslexia cost him a part in the recent remake of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo before landing his role in EastEnders.
"The way I love working is improvising, that is my strength, coming in and ad-libbing. When I was offered EastEnders, I thought, 'Hold on a minute, this has all got to be word for word, and you've got to churn out script after script, and I am not going to be able to do it'. So I kept saying no. They were saying, 'This is going to be brilliant for you, you'll fit right in'.
"When I eventually read the part, I really liked it and I thought, 'I am just going to give it a go'. It has been a great discipline for me because I have had to learn lines and what I didn't realise was they are really good about you being loose, as long as it works.
"Even just last year, I was asked five times to be in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and I kept saying, 'No, it's not for me'. But if I put my hand on heart, the reason I never went to meet them was because I was scared of the speech they had sent me."
Grover added that he tries to help other sufferers of dyslexia whenever he can, saying: "There is still a lot of stigma around dyslexia and I would imagine there are so many talented people out there who are just too scared to make a go of it.
"The good side of it is I can go round my area, or other areas, and say, 'Don't let it hold you back. Anyone can do anything'."
The actor recently said that he cried real tears while filming Heather Trott (Cheryl Fergison)'s death on EastEnders.
A second man has been arrested in connection with the death of Gemma McCluskie.
The 35-year-old was arrested on Friday (March 30). He was released on bail yesterday until a date in May, the BBC reports.
The torso of the former EastEnders actress was discovered in Regent's Canal, near Broadway Market, east London, on March 6.
Her brother Tony was charged with her murder on March 10 following his arrest.
More body parts belonging to Gemma, who played Kerry Skinner in the BBC One soap, have subsequently been found in the canal.
Former co-stars including Dean Gaffney, Brooke Kinsella and Joe Swash have all paid tribute to Gemma since her death.
EastEnders star Chucky Venn has revealed plans to start an exercise club with his co-stars.
The former Footballers' Wives actor, who was cast as Ray Dixon earlier this year, said that the likes of Patsy Palmer (Bianca Butcher) and Tameka Empson (Kim Fox) will join him on a training session.
"I don't have as much time to train now, but I have promised a couple of my castmates that we'll hit the gym together," Venn told Inside Soap.
"Both Patsy Palmer and Tameka Empson are up for it - whenever they're ready. I'm a tough taskmaster - I believe in hard work and dedication! I apply that to everything."
Speaking of his character Ray Dixon's past as a soldier, he added: "I'd like to see Ray's past catch up with him, in the form of an ex-comrade coming to the Square.
"It'd also be interesting to find out who the mother of his daughter Sasha is."
EastEnders star Steve McFadden has signed up for another pantomime.
The actor, best known as Walford hardman Phil Mitchell, will appear in Aladdin at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford later this year, News Shopper reports.
McFadden is taking on the villainous role of Abanazar in the production, which will run between December 8, 2012 and January 6, 2013.
Speaking of the project, McFadden commented: "I am delighted to be playing the part of Abanazar in Dartford this year. Playing the pantomime bad guy is such great fun, and there are lots of opportunities to interact with the audience during the show.
"The Orchard in Dartford has a great reputation - I'm really looking forward to playing there this Christmas."
Jonathan Kiley, executive producer for Qdos Entertainment, added: "As a former British Soap Awards 'Villain of the Year', Steve is certainly well qualified to lead the cast as the pantomime bad guy.
"With 3D sequences, this production has all of the elements of traditional family pantomime that Dartford audiences have come to expect, but also has the added element of an array of outstanding and unmissable visual effects."
McFadden appeared as Captain Hook in a Peter Pan pantomime last Christmas. His EastEnders absence was explained as Phil spent time in jail in the climax to his stalker storyline.
EastEnders star Adam Woodyatt has announced that he will appear in a pantomime this Christmas.
The actor, who has played Ian Beale since EastEnders began, revealed via his Twitter account that he has been cast as Captain Hook in Peter Pan.
Woodyatt tweeted: "Really pleased that I will be playing Captain Hook in the Christmas pantomime this year at the Beck Theatre, Hayes."
He later tweeted that this would be his first pantomime appearance in 18 years.
Woodyatt's fellow EastEnders star Steve McFadden recently signed up for another pantomime, playing the villainous Abanazar in Aladdin.
EastEnders actor Steve McFadden will take part in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
According to The Sun, McFadden, who plays Phil Mitchell in the series, will join the historic river pageant for the Jubilee on board his boat Barbara.
The pageant is comprised of more than 1,000 vessels, and will work its way down the Thames from Battersea Bridge to Tower Bridge on June 3.
McFadden, a lifelong royalist, applied to take part alongside friends from lifeboat and lifeguard charity RNLI.
He said: "It's an absolute honour to be taking part in the pageant for the Diamond Jubilee. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and will be a moment in history that will always be remembered.
"I'm really looking forward to being out on the river with friends and family. To mark this historic moment will be extremely special."
McFadden recently signed up for a pantomime in Dartford.
The BBC is considering staging a musical based on EastEnders.
Executives will attend Street of Dreams, the musical based on Coronation Street which starts next month, to see if it could be a suitable option for the BBC One soap, The Observer reports.
Paul O'Grady is the narrator of Street of Dreams, with Russell Watson performing and appearances from Corrie stars such as William Roache and Julie Goodyear. Kym Marsh will play Elsie Tanner.
Phil Murphy, BBC Worldwide's managing director for live entertainment, said: "EastEnders is a lovely idea [for a live event]. I would like more drama. You would need a great script and the stars, but it would be interesting to see it done. If someone came to me for an EastEnders Live, I'd not kick them out of the door."
The BBC's plan is part of the trend for "brand extensions" in TV. Tickets to see BBC Worldwide-licensed productions are expected to reach 3m in the financial year 2012-13.
John Yorke, the BBC drama controller who oversees EastEnders, said: "I am very intrigued. We are in a whole new era of live entertainment, which began, perhaps, with the Strictly Come Dancing tours.
"In this case Street of Dreams is playing in its home town. Conversations are always going on about brand extensions for EastEnders. About nine years ago there was talk of EastEnders the Movie.
"Culturally we've come to accept it, as the BBC becomes more commercial. I'd be cautiously welcoming to the idea of doing it. It is hard to see an EastEnders musical. It would have to be something more gritty, scripted say by Arnold Wesker. I can't see [Dirty] Den and Michelle doing a high-kicking number."
Michael Harrison, producer of the new Susan Boyle musical I Dreamed a Dream, added that audiences want to spend money on something "they know they will like before they go", particularly in recessions.
Birds of a Feather and Yes, Prime Minister have recently been adapted into stage shows.
Following its premiere in Manchester, Street of Dreams will tour in Dublin, Belfast and Newcastle.
© WENN
Denise Van Outen has outlined her desire to join the cast of EastEnders.
The West End actress, best known for hosting The Big Breakfast, revealed that she has had "conversations" with the BBC soap's bosses.
She told the Daily Star Sunday: "I'd love a part in a soap and there have been conversations but I'm not allowed to say anything else at the moment. Working on a soap like EastEnders is something I've always wanted to do.
"You need new challenges, and working on a soap would certainly be a great challenge for me.
"It really is one of my ambitions and hopefully it will happen."
Discussing what sort of character she would want to play, Van Outen added: "I wouldn't want to be a villain though as I couldn't handle being hated. I'd love to be a barmaid."
An EastEnders spokeswoman stated last night: "There are no plans to bring in any female cast members at the moment."
JustJodi
06-05-2012, 15:35
Didn't she play Chrissie ??? How can they bring her back since shes banged up in some woman's prison ?????
Didn't she play Chrissie ??? How can they bring her back since shes banged up in some woman's prison ?????
No, Tracey-Ann Obermann played Chrissie
Didn't she play Chrissie ??? How can they bring her back since shes banged up in some woman's prison ?????
Denise van outen was never in EE...
Denise Van Outen has played down reports linking her to a role on EastEnders.
Earlier this month, Van Outen expressed an interest in appearing on Albert Square amid suggestions that she had met with the BBC soap's producers.
However, speaking on This Morning today (May 10), the West End actress insisted that her comments had been taken out of context.
Van Outen explained: "I was at the Soap Awards, I was doing the red carpet and a journalist said to me, 'Do you watch soaps?' I said, 'Well, I watch EastEnders' and she said to me, 'If there was any soap you could be in, which one would it be?'
"I said, 'Well, the obvious choice would be EastEnders, because it's the one that I watch'. And then from that, it became this."
She continued: "I'd never rule it out, I'd love to do it [and] pull a few pints! You never know, if they'd have me - probably not now!"
However, Van Outen hinted that she could be too busy for EastEnders as she is currently making plans for a one-woman stage show.
"A fantastic writer called Terry Ronald has been developing it with me," she confirmed. "I'm very excited about it. It's something that [becoming a mum] allowed me to do, because I wanted to take a little bit of time out. It kind of worked well, because I'd be at home writing. It's in development."
JustJodi
10-05-2012, 15:03
Denise van outen was never in EE...
Now I know who she is,, isn't she the one who married Lee Mead ?????
Now I know who she is,, isn't she the one who married Lee Mead ?????
Yes, that is her :)
EastEnders star June Brown has been signed up to front a BBC One documentary on the elderly.
The Dot Branning actress, who is currently taking a six-month hiatus from the Walford soap, will investigate the lack of respect for old people in British society today.
The 85-year-old said: "I want to find out why older people are undervalued and ignored and what can be done to change the lives of millions.
"My own belief is that we must try and somehow reconnect the young and old before the gap between them grows so wide that it's impossible to fix."
Brown's show will be part of an entire 'When I'm 65' season of programmes focused on the ageing population in the UK.
The Apprentice's Nick Hewer will also reunite with former colleague Margaret Mountford to follow 15 retired pensioners returning to the workplace in The Town that Never Retired.
BBC One controller Danny Cohen said in a statement: "When I'm 65 brings together a range of powerful and thought-provoking programmes that explore the reality of life for many older people, and the choices they face.
"Thought-provoking seasons anchored in primetime are something I would like to have more of on BBC One, and the theme of our ageing population and the lives of older citizens is clearly a pressing one. I hope this cluster of programmes resonates with all BBC One viewers, no matter how old they are."
moonstorm
26-05-2012, 08:13
EastEnders star Joshua Pascoe has been arrested in connection with an alleged sex assault, it has been reported.
The Sun claims that the teenager, who plays Ben Mitchell in the BBC soap, was questioned by police in Wimbledon, South London on Thursday, before being released on bail.
"His mum is distraught. He's only 16, so his arrest is very upsetting for the whole family," a source told the paper.
Scotland Yard said: "A 16-year-old boy was arrested on May 24 in connection with an allegation of sexual assault. He has been bailed to return to a North London police station on July 31."
Meanwhile, a BBC spokesman added: "We are aware of the allegations."
Pascoe, who first appeared in EastEnders in December 2010, is the fourth actor to play the role of Ben. Matthew Silver, Morgan Whittle and Charlie Jones have also portrayed the young Mitchell.
JustJodi
26-05-2012, 09:26
So he is a creep in real life too???? How come this toe rag can stay on the show, while others who did lots less got fired ??????
moonstorm
26-05-2012, 18:32
Did he not get flung out of school for bullying?
EastEnders bosses have confirmed that Ben Mitchell will be bowing out from the soap later this year.
The troubled teenager makes his departure from Walford at the end of his current storyline, which has seen him attempting to cover up his guilt in the Heather Trott murder case.
Joshua Pascoe, who plays Ben, is expected to film his final scenes in the summer.
Yesterday, it emerged that Pascoe had been arrested and bailed in connection with an alleged sex assault. However, reports suggest that it was always the plan for the 16-year-old to leave EastEnders as a natural conclusion to the Heather story.
Discussing the plotline, an EastEnders spokesperson told the Daily Star Sunday: "It will come as no surprise to the viewers of EastEnders that the character of Ben will be departing Walford when the truth finally emerges."
Meanwhile, a show insider said: "Joshua was always going to leave at the end of his current contract due to his storyline. There was no way Ben could stay on the Square long-term after killing Heather. But how it all comes out is a closely guarded secret."
Pascoe was cast as Ben in late 2010, taking over from Charlie Jones.
Jessie Wallace has been on our screens in EastEnders as the feisty yet troubled Kat Slater for over a decade now.
She is an icon of British soap and her character is adored by the millions of fans of the show.
As she prepares for a steamy new storyline, Digital Spy brings you a few quick-fire facts about the Albert Square favourite.
1. Jessie Wallace was born Karen Jane Wallace on September 25, 1971 in Enfield, North London. Her father James was a telecommunications engineer and her mother was a secretary. At the age of 3, Jessie's parents divorced and she and her sister lived with their father. Their mother stayed part of their lives as they saw her at weekends.
2. Wallace left school at the age of 15 and tried her hand at several different jobs. At 21, she moved to Portugal for seven months to work in holiday bars. On returning to Britain, she decided that she wanted to be a make-up artist and went on a two-year course at the College of East London. After her studies, Jessie got a job at the Royal Shakespeare Company for two years.
3. Jessie decided that she would rather be an actress than a make-up artist and began auditioning for acting courses in secret. She was recalled for further auditioning at RADA but did not make it on to the programme. She then got on to a two-year course at the Poor School. The course was in the evening which meant that Jessie had to quit her job, prompting her to begin wig-making during the day to fund her studies.
4. Her first television appearance was in an episode of ITV's The Bill in 1999. She also originally auditioned for another part in EastEnders after graduating from the Poor School but she didn't get it. However, the producers of the show instantly thought of her for their new Slater family and offered her the part of Kat.
5. Although she is strongly affiliated with EastEnders, Jessie crossed over to the cobbles of Corrie in December 2010 to play British soap sex siren Pat Phoenix in The Road to Coronation Street, a one-off drama that showed the creation of the much-loved soap for its 50th Anniversary. She was nominated for a 'Best Supporting Actress' BAFTA for her portrayal.
6. She has made many guest appearances on television. These include The Dinner Party with Alison Steadman and Lee Evans and A Class Apart, as well as a hosting stint on a special edition of The Friday Night Project. She also took Kat Slater out of Walford for the 2005 French and Saunders Christmas Special.
7. Jessie was once suspended from work by the BBC for drinking to excess and adverse publicity. After her return to the soap, she found herself in yet more trouble when she was arrested for driving one and a half times over the limit. While attending court for the the crime, she met policeman Dave Morgan and the couple now have daughter Tallulah Lilac.
8. Jessie is quite a keen singer. In 2007, she replaced Denise Van Outen in the West End production of Rent Remixed at the Duke of York's Theatre. She played the title role in Miss Marie Lloyd - Queen of The Music Hall on BBC Four in 2007. She got the part after singing a version of 'The Boy I Love Is Up in the Gallery', one of Lloyd's songs.
9. Jessie is only 26 years younger than Laila Morse, who plays her grandmother Mo Harris in EastEnders. Also, despite playing her older sister in the soap, Jessie is three years younger than former co-star Kacey Ainsworth.
10. Jessie in numbers: She was one of 16 EastEnders actors to have competed in BBC's Strictly Come Dancing; she has won 21 awards for her portrayal of Kat Slater; the character appeared twice in the 2010 50 Greatest EastEnders Weddings of All Time - in position 14 for her wedding to Andy Hunter and 4 for her wedding to Alfie Moon.
Jessie Wallace has been on our screens in EastEnders as the feisty yet troubled Kat Slater for over a decade now.
She is an icon of British soap and her character is adored by the millions of fans of the show.
As she prepares for a steamy new storyline, Digital Spy brings you a few quick-fire facts about the Albert Square favourite.
1. Jessie Wallace was born Karen Jane Wallace on September 25, 1971 in Enfield, North London. Her father James was a telecommunications engineer and her mother was a secretary. At the age of 3, Jessie's parents divorced and she and her sister lived with their father. Their mother stayed part of their lives as they saw her at weekends.
2. Wallace left school at the age of 15 and tried her hand at several different jobs. At 21, she moved to Portugal for seven months to work in holiday bars. On returning to Britain, she decided that she wanted to be a make-up artist and went on a two-year course at the College of East London. After her studies, Jessie got a job at the Royal Shakespeare Company for two years.
3. Jessie decided that she would rather be an actress than a make-up artist and began auditioning for acting courses in secret. She was recalled for further auditioning at RADA but did not make it on to the programme. She then got on to a two-year course at the Poor School. The course was in the evening which meant that Jessie had to quit her job, prompting her to begin wig-making during the day to fund her studies.
4. Her first television appearance was in an episode of ITV's The Bill in 1999. She also originally auditioned for another part in EastEnders after graduating from the Poor School but she didn't get it. However, the producers of the show instantly thought of her for their new Slater family and offered her the part of Kat.
5. Although she is strongly affiliated with EastEnders, Jessie crossed over to the cobbles of Corrie in December 2010 to play British soap sex siren Pat Phoenix in The Road to Coronation Street, a one-off drama that showed the creation of the much-loved soap for its 50th Anniversary. She was nominated for a 'Best Supporting Actress' BAFTA for her portrayal.
6. She has made many guest appearances on television. These include The Dinner Party with Alison Steadman and Lee Evans and A Class Apart, as well as a hosting stint on a special edition of The Friday Night Project. She also took Kat Slater out of Walford for the 2005 French and Saunders Christmas Special.
7. Jessie was once suspended from work by the BBC for drinking to excess and adverse publicity. After her return to the soap, she found herself in yet more trouble when she was arrested for driving one and a half times over the limit. While attending court for the the crime, she met policeman Dave Morgan and the couple now have daughter Tallulah Lilac.
8. Jessie is quite a keen singer. In 2007, she replaced Denise Van Outen in the West End production of Rent Remixed at the Duke of York's Theatre. She played the title role in Miss Marie Lloyd - Queen of The Music Hall on BBC Four in 2007. She got the part after singing a version of 'The Boy I Love Is Up in the Gallery', one of Lloyd's songs.
9. Jessie is only 26 years younger than Laila Morse, who plays her grandmother Mo Harris in EastEnders. Also, despite playing her older sister in the soap, Jessie is three years younger than former co-star Kacey Ainsworth.
10. Jessie in numbers: She was one of 16 EastEnders actors to have competed in BBC's Strictly Come Dancing; she has won 21 awards for her portrayal of Kat Slater; the character appeared twice in the 2010 50 Greatest EastEnders Weddings of All Time - in position 14 for her wedding to Andy Hunter and 4 for her wedding to Alfie Moon.
EastEnders star Steve McFadden was reunited with former on-screen mum Barbara Windsor as they joined the flotilla of boats taking part in the Diamond Jubilee Thames Pageant.
McFadden, who shot to fame as hardman Phil Mitchell, took part in the pageant on behalf of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), a charity he has been a prominent suporter of for many years.
http://i2.cdnds.net/12/23/618x439/showbiz_steve_mcfadden_barbara_windsor.jpg
© Hello! Magazine
Before the flotilla he posed with former co-star Windsor, who starred alongside McFadden in the soap for 16 years, in front of her namesake, the 40ft Dutch barge 'Barbara'. The photos can be seen in the recent souvenir Jubilee edition of Hello! magazine.
The 53-year-old actor then held a large RNLI flag aloft aboard the boat during the pageant, a celebration of the 60-year reign of the Queen, who is patron of the RNLI.
McFadden later said: "Being as keen a royalist as I am a sailor, I was pleased as punch when I found out I had been accepted to take part in the Diamond Jubilee Thames Pageant.
"It was a fantastic experience to be part of history, and also to have my own Windsor aboard!
"Flying the RNLI flag was my way of recognising the brave and courageous volunteer lifeboat crews, knowing the great life-saving work they do and the spirit they do it in whenever their pagers sound."
McFadden recently signed up for a pantomime in Dertford later in the year.
A second man has been arrested in connection with the death of Gemma McCluskie.
The 35-year-old was arrested on Friday (March 30). He was released on bail yesterday until a date in May, the BBC reports.
The torso of the former EastEnders actress was discovered in Regent's Canal, near Broadway Market, east London, on March 6.
Her brother Tony was charged with her murder on March 10 following his arrest.
More body parts belonging to Gemma, who played Kerry Skinner in the BBC One soap, have subsequently been found in the canal.
Former co-stars including Dean Gaffney, Brooke Kinsella and Joe Swash have all paid tribute to Gemma since her death.
The brother of former EastEnders actress Gemma McCluskie will stand trial for her murder in November, it has been confirmed.
Tony McCluskie, 35, today (June 18) appeared for a brief hearing at the Old Bailey after being accused of killing his 29-year-old sister.
Mr McCluskie spoke only to confirm his identity, but it was announced that his trial will take place from November 12, BBC News reports.
A plea and case management hearing has also been confirmed for October 12.
Ms McCluskie's torso was found in Regent's Canal in Hackney on March 6. She had been reported missing a few days earlier.
The actress played the role of Kerry Skinner in EastEnders in 2000 and 2001.
EastEnders star Ricky Norwood has claimed that he was not expected to realise his ambition as an actor.
The actor, who plays Fatboy in the Albert Square soap, drew on his upbringing in Hackney as part of a BBC Radio 1Xtra Q&A.
Norwood said when asked whether he believes coming from a deprived area limits a person's chances as an actor: "Not at all - I think it gives you more fight.
"I'm from Forest Gate, they expect me to be a shotter [drug dealer] and they expect me to have twelve babies at the age of 17. I love to prove people wrong."
Norwood, who has also written for EastEnders teen spinoff E20, insisted that his lack of drama school experience has not hindered his career progression
Comedienne co-star Tameka Empson, who portrays Walford's Kim Fox, commented on her experience in London: "For me there was really no limits, there was never a doubt for me.
"I think regardless of where you come from, you don't have to be there. If it's something that you want to do, you just have to get up and do it."
EastEnders legend June Brown has revealed that she pays regular visits to former co-star John Bardon.
Bardon, who played Jim Branning in EastEnders until two years ago, suffered a major stroke in 2007.
Dot Branning actress Brown - Bardon's on-screen wife - spoke about Bardon's physical condition in an interview with What's on TV.
"I visit John regularly - his wife Edna has been marvellous," she said. "I feel for him because he can't write, paint or tell his jokes any more. He is such a clever man and he loved performing."
Brown was promoting her new documentary Respect My Elders, which airs as part of BBC One's 'When I'm 65' season on Thursday, July 12 at 9pm.
The 85-year-old is currently on a six-month hiatus from EastEnders to write her autobiography.
Tanya Franks has been cast in Lindsay Lohan's upcoming TV movie Liz & Dick.
The actress is perhaps best known for playing drug addict Rainie Cross in EastEnders, before she left the UK to pursue a Hollywood career last year.
Liz & Dick stars Lohan and Grant Bowler as film legends Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and focuses on the stars' two marriages.
Franks will portray Burton's first wife Sybil Williams, whom he divorced in 1963, the year before he first married Taylor. The couple had two daughters together.
The film's director Larry Thompson has praised Franks for her "emotionally charged" performance, reports The Sun.
Franks had previously said of her role: "It's fun playing Rainie drunk but I don't drink - so there's no chance of me having any before filming to help me out."
She has also starred in the likes of Family Affairs, Pulling and The Bill.
Liz & Dick is scheduled to premiere on November 3 on Lifetime in the US.
The father of EastEnders star Jacqueline Jossa has been jailed for four years after stealing nearly £500,000 of taxpayers' money. :eek:
The actress, who plays Lauren Branning on the BBC soap, is said to have wept as her father John pleaded guilty to three offences of dishonesty or tampering with expenses during his time as head of finance at Enfield Council.
The 58-year-old siphoned off £491,088.35 into his own account between 2006 and 2010, £42,000 of which came from false wages to his wife, who he pretended also worked at the council.
However, he lost a significant amount of the money in scams and only £25,000 was recovered when Enfield Council launched a court action against him, according to the Daily Mail.
John, who in 2009 collected more than £170,000 in redundancy and continues to receive a pension, was told by Judge Nicholas Cooke at the Old Bailey that he had "embarrassed the vast majority of hard working...government employees" with his "criminally distorted thinking".
Judge Cooke added: "In addition to being fully dishonest, he's a fool... Your offending will have real consequences to local residents in terms of reduced services or a decline in payments for those that live in the area."
Jacqueline, 19, recently said that she intends to stay on EastEnders for many years.
EastEnders star Danniella Westbrook has outlined her desire to star in hit ITV comedy Benidorm.
The 38-year-old actress has been out of work since leaving her famous role of Sam Mitchell in the Albert Square soap.
Regarding her future plans, she told the Daily Star Sunday: "I'm having meetings with people but I don't know what's coming up, you just need to have faith.
"If I could have any job in the world it would be Benidorm - an old trollop from Essex."
Praising the sitcom's lead writer, she added: "I love Derren Litten's writing, it's funny and creative.
"I said to him, 'Why do you only have Northerners in there? London people go to Benidorm as well'."
Fellow former EastEnders cast member Cheryl Fergison, whose character Heather Trott was killed off earlier this year, recently announced that she has signed up for a new show penned by Litten.
Westbrook also spoke about her belief in Christianity, having converted last year.
"I became a Christian when I was in America. My best friend is my pastor," she added. "I went along to their church and I've never experienced anything like it."
EastEnders star Danniella Westbrook has outlined her desire to star in hit ITV comedy Benidorm.
The 38-year-old actress has been out of work since leaving her famous role of Sam Mitchell in the Albert Square soap.
Regarding her future plans, she told the Daily Star Sunday: "I'm having meetings with people but I don't know what's coming up, you just need to have faith.
"If I could have any job in the world it would be Benidorm - an old trollop from Essex."
Praising the sitcom's lead writer, she added: "I love Derren Litten's writing, it's funny and creative.
"I said to him, 'Why do you only have Northerners in there? London people go to Benidorm as well'."
Fellow former EastEnders cast member Cheryl Fergison, whose character Heather Trott was killed off earlier this year, recently announced that she has signed up for a new show penned by Litten.
Westbrook also spoke about her belief in Christianity, having converted last year.
"I became a Christian when I was in America. My best friend is my pastor," she added. "I went along to their church and I've never experienced anything like it."
EastEnders actress June Brown has provided vocals for a new single.
The 85-year-old actress - who is currently undertaking a six-month break from the soap as Dot Cotton - features on her godson Tim Arnold's track 'Soho Heroes', reports The Mirror.
Arnold - who is dating Brown's co-star Jessie Wallace - records under the stage name Soho Hobo.
The track is described as "somewhere between Blur and the Divine Comedy" and is released on Monday (July 23).
A source said: "June and Tim are great friends.
"She loves to help him out. She loves his music and Tim is delighted about her agreeing to take part."
The song is dubbed as a "tribute to the figures who have each made their mark living or working in Soho over 400 years".
Brown recently made a tearful reunion with her former co-star John Bardon for a BBC TV documentary.
EastEnders actress June Brown has provided vocals for a new single.
The 85-year-old actress - who is currently undertaking a six-month break from the soap as Dot Cotton - features on her godson Tim Arnold's track 'Soho Heroes', reports The Mirror.
Arnold - who is dating Brown's co-star Jessie Wallace - records under the stage name Soho Hobo.
The track is described as "somewhere between Blur and the Divine Comedy" and is released on Monday (July 23).
A source said: "June and Tim are great friends.
"She loves to help him out. She loves his music and Tim is delighted about her agreeing to take part."
The song is dubbed as a "tribute to the figures who have each made their mark living or working in Soho over 400 years".
Brown recently made a tearful reunion with her former co-star John Bardon for a BBC TV documentary.
Rudolph Walker has said that it is important for EastEnders to retain its sense of humour.
The 72-year-old, who has played Patrick Trueman on the soap for 11 years, said that there are still many moments of levity on the show, despite its somewhat miserable reputation.
Walker is quoted as telling Inside Soap that this is the reason he is still happy to work on the programme, despite his advancing years.
He said: "The camaraderie keeps me going. Being in EastEnders is challenging at this stage in my career, and the demands are far greater than they used to be.
"Turning up on set every day and keeping the character fresh is hard work, but I do it with a smile.
"As long as Patrick continues to run the gauntlet of emotions and there's humour in the show, I'll be happy."
Walker said last year that he would "never retire" from EastEnders, arguing that actors are supposed "to drop down on the job".
Patrick has recently been left distraught by Heather Trott's murder, but things start looking up for him when he embarks on a fling with Tanya Branning's mother Cora Cross.
Walker commented: "Patrick enjoys the thrill of the chase - and the conquest!
"He'll continue to investigate the prospect and see what happens between him and Cora."
EastEnders star Sid Owen has reportedly said that he will never return to the BBC soap.
Owen, who played Ricky Butcher, announced that he is taking a break last year.
© Yui Mok/PA Archive/Press Association Images
© BBC Pictures
The 40-year-old has now confirmed that he has "retired" from acting, also vowing never to live in the UK again.
Owen told the Sunday Mirror: "I've retired. I'm now living permanently in France, where I have been on-and-off for the last ten years, and I'm running my restaurant.
"I haven't quite made my *millions but I'm happy doing that and I'll never be back."
He added: "I'm done with the UK and I hope that you will never see me on your TV screens again *because I'm done and I've *retired. I much prefer the *lifestyle I have now."
His character Ricky, famous for his long-term romance with Bianca (Patsy Palmer), was last seen on Albert Square in June having originally left in January.
EastEnders star Jessie Wallace has reportedly signalled that she is keen to marry boyfriend Tim Arnold.
The Albert Square actress, who was only revealed to be romantically involved with the musician in May, has apparently told friends of her long-term plans.
"She had her heart broken into a million pieces and vowed she'd never marry," a source told The Mirror.
"But she's fallen so in love with Tim that the path is very much clear for her to walk down the aisle.
"Everyone hopes she'll wed again. She's a great girl who deserves happiness, and Tim's lovely."
Jilted ex-fiancé Vince Morse offered his blessing to Wallace's new relationship in late May, but expressed concern over ex-Jocasta star Arnold's history of drug use.
Arnold, the godson of Wallace's EastEnders co-star June Brown, has previously spoken about the couple's "love" for each other.
Jessie Wallace is currently involved in an EastEnders plot which has shown her character Kat Slater having a mystery affair with a Walford resident.
EastEnders star Jessie Wallace has reportedly signalled that she is keen to marry boyfriend Tim Arnold.
The Albert Square actress, who was only revealed to be romantically involved with the musician in May, has apparently told friends of her long-term plans.
"She had her heart broken into a million pieces and vowed she'd never marry," a source told The Mirror.
"But she's fallen so in love with Tim that the path is very much clear for her to walk down the aisle.
"Everyone hopes she'll wed again. She's a great girl who deserves happiness, and Tim's lovely."
Jilted ex-fiancé Vince Morse offered his blessing to Wallace's new relationship in late May, but expressed concern over ex-Jocasta star Arnold's history of drug use.
Arnold, the godson of Wallace's EastEnders co-star June Brown, has previously spoken about the couple's "love" for each other.
Jessie Wallace is currently involved in an EastEnders plot which has shown her character Kat Slater having a mystery affair with a Walford resident.
Tamzin Outhwaite has admitted that she never expected EastEnders to change her life as much as it did.
The 41-year-old actress, who played Mel Owen between 1998 and 2002, was heavily involved in some of the BBC soap's biggest storylines of the era.
She told PA: "I don't think you're ever really prepared. I do remember when I was told I had the job, the executive producer, Matthew Robinson, said to me, 'Be prepared for your life to change', but I don't think I realised just how much it would change.
"Because I was a jobbing actress before, and I was only doing a three-month contract, I never really saw the big picture and just thought, 'Oh, this is a nice job'.
"And then it turned into a three-and-half-year nice job! Also, I was 28 - if it had happened to me as a teenager, it would have been a different thing."
The star is married to fellow former Albert Square cast member Tom Ellis, who played Dr Oliver Cousins in 2006.
While Outhwaite remains open to an EastEnders reappearance, she has acknowledged that a return storyline may prove difficult to write.
EastEnders star Tony Discipline appeared in court today (August 13) as his trial for GBH and common assault began.
The actor, who plays Walford's Tyler Moon, has been accused of breaking 21-year-old Hayden Deol's jaw and injuring his cousin Sab Deol during an altercation at a nightclub in May 2011.
Southwark Crown Court today heard that Hayden Deol needed two metal plates fitted to his mouth following the alleged attack, This Is Local London reports.
Prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones told the jurors that Discipline was at the Merah club in central London with EastEnders colleagues Shona McGarty (Whitney Dean) and Bunmi Mojekwu (Mercy Olubunmi) when he clashed with the two men.
It is alleged that Discipline lost his temper after Sab Deol made a jibe about his clothing.
Karmy-Jones told the court: "Hayden Deol was standing chatting to his friend along with his cousin Sab Deol when the defendant passed by.
"Sab Deol made a remark about [Discipline's] clothing, saying it looked like one of the shirts that Hayden wore to work. There is no doubt that this remark was somewhat derogatory and Hayden and Sab laughed."
The court heard that Discipline replied "in an aggressive way", which resulted in Hayden Deol pushing him with one hand in the chest.
Discipline allegedly then followed the pair into the club's VIP area, where the altercation continued.
Karmy-Jones continued: "The defendant accosted Sab and said 'Do you think you are funny?' He was angry and shouting when he said this and he then punched Sab twice in the face. Sab staggered backwards, dazed by the blow.
"The next thing that Sab saw was the defendant had moved over to Hayden and punched him. The punch was landed with such a force that he crashed back against the wall."
Discipline denies causing grievous bodily harm and common assault. The trial continues.
JustJodi
13-08-2012, 17:32
[B]Whoops,,, I wonder if EE will sack him ... they have fired their"stars" for lesser charges ....B]
[B]Whoops,,, I wonder if EE will sack him ... they have fired their"stars" for lesser charges ....B]
He is leaving anyway, I think
[B]Whoops,,, I wonder if EE will sack him ... they have fired their"stars" for lesser charges ....B]
Yes, you are right. Remains to be seen, I guess
JustJodi
13-08-2012, 17:58
He is leaving anyway, I think
thought it was the other brother that was leaving not him... oh well who knows LOL
thought it was the other brother that was leaving not him... oh well who knows LOL
yes, was thinking of wrong one, it is his brother that is leaving
thought it was the other brother that was leaving not him... oh well who knows LOL
yes, was thinking of wrong one, it is his brother that is leaving
EastEnders star Tony Discipline has today (August 14) been cleared of GBH and common assault charges.
The actor, who plays Walford's Tyler Moon, had been accused of breaking 21-year-old Hayden Deol's jaw and injuring his cousin Sab Deol during an altercation at a nightclub in May 2011.
However, This Is Local London reports that Judge Jeffrey Pegden has now thrown the case out of court.
The 23-year-old has therefore been acquitted of GBH and common assault.
According to the Evening Standard, Discipline did not deny hitting Hayden Deol, but claimed that he was acting in self-defence as the alleged victims were "acting like thugs" and he was surrounded by a group of men.
Judge Pegden ordered the jury to return verdicts of not guilty after the Deol cousins gave conflicting accounts of the night in question.
He said: "I have a duty to consider whether this jury, given proper direction in law, could safely convict this defendant Mr Discipline on either charges that he faces. I have very carefully considered the evidence in this case and have heard detailed submissions from counsel.
"I have come to the conclusion that bearing in mind the markedly different accounts of these two young men that no jury could safely and properly be sure that the assault was unlawful in the sense that it was other than lawful and reasonable self-defence.
"For all those reasons I have come to the conclusion that it would be unsafe for this case to go further. I'm going to ask you to return a unanimous verdict of not guilty."
The soap star's trial began yesterday (August 13) and had been expected to last for four days.
Discipline joined EastEnders in spring 2011 but did not appear on screen until June, a month after the alleged nightclub incident.
Ross Kemp has revealed that a return to EastEnders is unlikely, but possible.
The actor and TV journalist stated that he has no plans of following Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts) back to the BBC soap, but that he would never fully rule it out.
"I would never say never to going back. It was a good ten years of my life, I really enjoyed it," he told The Sun.
"But I am doing other things now. It has taken the skin off my knees and my bald head to get this far, so I'm not about to give up just yet."
He added: "I'm hoping I will want a quieter life one day, but who knows? I bet Letitia and Steve McFadden are having a ball now she is back. She is such good fun to work with."
Kemp last appeared as Grant Mitchell on the soap six years ago.
He wished his former on-screen wife Letitia Dean good luck on her return to Albert Square earlier this year.
The second series of Ross Kemp: Extreme World will premiere on Monday, September 3 at 9pm on Sky1
Ross Kemp has revealed that a return to EastEnders is unlikely, but possible.
The actor and TV journalist stated that he has no plans of following Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts) back to the BBC soap, but that he would never fully rule it out.
"I would never say never to going back. It was a good ten years of my life, I really enjoyed it," he told The Sun.
"But I am doing other things now. It has taken the skin off my knees and my bald head to get this far, so I'm not about to give up just yet."
He added: "I'm hoping I will want a quieter life one day, but who knows? I bet Letitia and Steve McFadden are having a ball now she is back. She is such good fun to work with."
Kemp last appeared as Grant Mitchell on the soap six years ago.
He wished his former on-screen wife Letitia Dean good luck on her return to Albert Square earlier this year.
The second series of Ross Kemp: Extreme World will premiere on Monday, September 3 at 9pm on Sky1
Barbara Windsor has revealed that she was good friends with Amy Winehouse.
The former EastEnders actress explained that her friendship with the late singer was kept secret from the press.
"I kept our friendship private even though she was often in the news," she told The Mirror.
"We kept it a secret. We always said our friendship would be very private because we knew what it would be like…'Friends with Barbara Windsor, what's that all about?'"
Talking about how they become close, she stated: "My husband's family is very friendly with Amy's family.
"The two have known each other for a long time. I live near Regent's Park and she used to go to a clinic near us. She would sit out at the back entrance and have a cigarette.
"I spotted her one day and said to Scott, 'That's Amy out there having a cigarette, you should go out'. He went out and she said, 'Hello, Scott, I was wondering which house you and Ba lived in'.
"He told her to stop sitting outside and come in. Then, whenever she was there, she knew she didn't have to sit on a wall and could come and see us.
"She would knock on the door and we would have quality time with her."
Windsor revealed that Winehouse would often help her learn lines for EastEnders.
"There was always an EastEnders script on the coffee table and we would read the scripts together.
"There was one really heavy scene between Peggy and Pat where it really kicked off. I pretended to be Peggy and for the first time Amy played Pat.
"Afterwards she always insisted on playing Peggy, which was lovely. She was very good, she was a very good actress.
"That was one of our smashing moments. It was lovely and we always said we would never tell anyone."
Speaking about the singer-songwriter's death aged 27, she added: "I was so upset when I heard the news. She was an amazing, amazing talent.
"It was tragic that she was getting herself sorted out…but that's life isn't it?
"We stayed away from her funeral but we went to the third Shiva and said prayers with her family."
Stevie Wonder recently revealed that he wanted to duet with Amy Winehouse.
..EastEnders bosses have spent one million pounds filming the soap's biggest ever car crash which will leave fans fearing that their favourite characters have been axed, according to reports.
The Sun said that an incident happens when Lauren Branning, played by Jacqueline Jossa, steals her uncle Derek's Jaguar and goes for a ride with her cousin Joey.
But the car crashes into a shop window and viewers will see characters rush to help the pair before the car explodes.
The crash was filmed over a five-day shoot in Keynsham, Somerset.
A soap insider said: "No expense was spared on this car crash. With salaries, location fees, hotel costs, security fees and maintaining the set for five days, costs were nudging one million pounds.
"But fans will think it all worth it with this thrilling plot line."
..
So perhaps there is a point to the post-schoolgirl Lauren Branning character after all. She's never had a job, doesn't want a job, is not looking for a job, has no pressure from her parents to get a job etc etc - surely there should be more to a character than simply drinking alcohol? As for whether we'll think the plot was worth a million quid, I very much doubt that we will.
tammyy2j
12-09-2012, 15:00
..EastEnders bosses have spent one million pounds filming the soap's biggest ever car crash which will leave fans fearing that their favourite characters have been axed, according to reports.
The Sun said that an incident happens when Lauren Branning, played by Jacqueline Jossa, steals her uncle Derek's Jaguar and goes for a ride with her cousin Joey.
But the car crashes into a shop window and viewers will see characters rush to help the pair before the car explodes.
The crash was filmed over a five-day shoot in Keynsham, Somerset.
A soap insider said: "No expense was spared on this car crash. With salaries, location fees, hotel costs, security fees and maintaining the set for five days, costs were nudging one million pounds.
"But fans will think it all worth it with this thrilling plot line."
..
Dont think Lauren and Joey are anyone's favourite characters
A writer and producer on EastEnders has claimed that the source of all of the soap's storylines can be found in the Bible.
Jennifer Robins is a former series producer and current storyliner on the show, and made the comments to an audience of media executives and religious leaders at the BBC's 'Re:Think' conference.
The Telegraph reports that Robins told the crowd: "The prototype of every EastEnders story can be traced back to one source: David and Goliath, Daniel in the Lions' Den, Samson and Delilah, Sodom and Gomorrah, the fall, all the Bible stories."
She also argued that "EastEnders slays all before it when it is moral to its core", before continuing: "Like the parables it offers hope and a morality where the good are rewarded and the bad punished either by death, rapid exit or karmically bound forever on a wheel of fire.
"Despite the twists and turns of the plotlines all our conclusions are essentially moral: good triumphs, evils is punished and the value of human life is asserted."
She cited storylines involving paedophila, assisted suicide and sham marriages as evidence that the soap was essentially a "morality play", and dismissed the idea that the programme had been tawdry, sensationalist and immoral.
Robins added that all plotlines were subject to intense research and consultation, particularly those involving religion.
When a theologian brought up the storyline of Lucas Johnson, an insane pastor who strangled his love rival, and pointedly asked how it fit into Robins's "Judeo-Christian discourse", she replied that the storyline was "before her time", and admitted that in 27 years of broadcasting there have been some "howlers".
The 'Re:Think' conference was held in Salford and organised by the team behind programmes such as Songs of Praise. Other guest speakers this year included Speakers included BBC journalist Jeremy Bowen, the Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and professor Richard Dawkins.
EastEnders actor has Adam Woodyatt has revealed that he is a fan of Bollywood celebrity Shah Rukh Khan. WHO???? :searchme:
The soap star met Khan earlier this week at 'An Evening With Shah Rukh Khan' in Manchester.
http://i1.cdnds.net/10/42/showbiz_main_ss_shahrukh_khan.jpg
© WENN
"Meeting @iamsrk later, wonder if he fancies playing in a Charity Football Match," Woodyatt - who is organising a series of celebrity matches - told his Twitter followers.
Woodyatt later posted an image of himself with the Indian actor.
Other stars attending the SRK event included England cricketer Sajid Mahmood and former Arsenal and Everton footballer Kevin Campbell.
Khan is reported to have revealed how much he loves the city and that he is a fan of Manchester United.
The gala dinner took place on September 20.
JustJodi
24-09-2012, 13:25
I love love love love love love BOLLYWOOD...and SRK,,,i travel with at least 8 movies when I am in America,,
Michelle Ryan has admitted that she does not feel tempted to return to EastEnders in the near future.
The Zoe Slater actress revealed that she has recently started watching Friday's late-night omnibuses while preparing for her new theatre role.
"I hadn't watched it for years before this tour for Cabaret," Ryan told Metro.
"I've been staying in B&Bs, and I've found myself watching the omnibus a couple of times recently."
Ryan conceded that viewing the BBC soap has not persuaded her to make a comeback.
"There's something comforting about it, but it didn't rekindle any desire in me to go back," the 28-year-old added.
The Cockneys vs Zombies star, whose time on EastEnders lasted five years between 2000 and 2005, said earlier this year that she has become "nostalgic" about the Albert Square serial.
Her character Zoe left Walford after her fake pregnancy scheme with 'Dirty' Den (Leslie Grantham) - an attempt to keep her relationship going with boyfriend Dennis (Nigel Harman) - became wider knowledge, and Chrissie (Tracy-Ann Oberman) tried to implicate Zoe in Den's murder before she left the Square.
Steve McFadden has strongly hinted that he intends to stick with EastEnders for a long time.
The 53-year-old actor, who has been a cast member on the show since 1990, praised writers for refreshing his character Phil Mitchell with exciting storylines.
McFadden told Kent News: "EastEnders keeps me so busy - that is where I'm at and I can't see that changing too soon."
The star - promoting his Aladdin pantomime role - continued: "There's nothing that has quite got the punch of an EastEnders script.
"I think I have a few big ones coming up, but I don't know what they are. I just have them as they come each week.
"I don't really look into the future because they keep me well occupied and weaved in stories, so I don't poke around. I just open the scripts, roll my sleeves up and crack into it when it happens."
McFadden will return to the forefront of the Albert Square soap when his alter ego proposes to ex Sharon on New Year's Day.
Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s2/eastenders/news/a446727/steve-mcfadden-looking-for-long-term-eastenders-stay.html#ixzz2Fh7tKpBA
Gillian Taylforth has revealed that EastEnders bosses wanted her to return to the soap.
The Celebrity Big Brother star, who left the house on Friday (January 18), was told by one producer that they regard killing off Kathy Beale six years ago as the biggest mistake in the show's history.
Kathy was last seen on-screen in 2000, but died in an off-screen car crash in 2006.
"I was at an EastEnders party [in 2011] and I had a scriptwriter saying they wanted me to go back," Taylforth told the Daily Star Sunday.
"They were asking if I could think of any way Kathy could return even though she's been killed off. They said they'd thought of loads of ideas about how it could work but wanted my input.
"They said because viewers didn't see me die that there are ways round it. Another idea I heard was that Kathy could have a twin.
"Even one of the executive *producers John Yorke told me that killing off Kathy was the biggest mistake they've ever made."
She added: "If the EastEnders storyline was good and I could make a dramatic return I would go for it. I still get fans calling me Kathy all the time. It's actually really nice."
A show spokesman explained that while Kathy was "a great character", there are *currently no plans to bring her back in the immediate future.
Death is not the end of a character in EE. She can always return with some daft excuse of a storyline
EastEnders star Laila Morse has spoken for the first time about her turmoil with her son.
The Mo Harris actress reveals in her new autobiography, being serialised this week in The Mirror, that she has funded Gerry's long-time drug addiction in the past.
"When he got on to heroin he turned to crime to feed his habit, but I visited him in prison," she writes. "And when he was out I'd drive him to his dealers and give him money for his next fix because I couldn't see him in agony.
"God, the things I've done. I hated it, hated it! But I did it often, and probably still would, because the alternative is getting a knock on the door to say my boy's been nicked again... or he's dead from a dodgy deal.
"I still couldn't stop his descent into self-destruction though. I was often consumed by guilt - thinking it had to be my fault Gerry had gone off the rails."
The 67-year-old added: "But I was very young and naive when I had him and, yes, I was so madly in love that, too often, I put my relationship first. It's too late for regrets now but I can't help feeling that I didn't do enough for my children.
"If I had my life to live over again I'd do things differently, be a better mother."
Just A Mo: My Story by Laila Morse will be released in book stores on January 31.
EastEnders star Laila Morse has admitted that she was "bloody petrified" with nerves when she first joined the soap.
The actress has been playing the role of Mo Harris since 2000 and opens up about Albert Square life in her new autobiography Just A Mo, which is being serialised in The Mirror this week.
Reflecting on her early days at EastEnders, Morse wrote: "My first scene was with Pam St Clement, who played Pat Butcher, but my stomach was flipping over like a live kipper and it passed in a haze. A couple of weeks later, a TV critic said I acted like a lump of cardboard. I daresay he was right! I was bloody petrified.
"It was three years before I started to feel comfortable on set. But I made a load of new friends - Derek Martin, Gillian Wright, Laurie Brett, Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace.
"June Brown, who plays Dot, is lovely. You can't get a word in - she chats like there's no tomorrow - but she's a great storyteller. And I loved Wendy Richard."
However, the 67-year-old added that while she still "loves" EastEnders and "really enjoys" playing Mo, she barely knows many of her newer co-stars.
She said: "I keep to myself much more than I used to. I've seen so many people go, and a lot of us don't know each other. I preferred it when I was first there.
"But I blame the smoking ban stopping us meeting for a fag in the green room! We were all friends and gelled back then. Now we're in our individual rooms like pigeonholes. When it's time to go on set, you just get a phone call to your room. Often we only come out when we're going on set or for something to drink."
Just A Mo: My Story by Laila Morse will be released on January 31.
EastEnders were forced to cancel outdoor filming after a knife-wielding gang turned on the cast and crew.
Actress Patsy Palmer, 40, who plays Bianca Butcher, and 16-year-old James Ford – screen son Liam – were shooting scenes in a park when the boys were heard yelling: “We’ll cut you.”
The teenagers, some in hoodies and one with his face partly covered, hurled snowballs at onlookers before turning on the crew of the BBC1 soap.
The gang – at least seven-strong – heckled the cast and bragged about carrying knives. Security staff moved in but backed off as tension worsened. A lit firework was allegedly thrown at the vacated set.
Crew planned two days filming at Graham Park in Colin*dale, north London, but cut the stint short after the hostile encounter on Monday.
A source said: “A lot of locals came to see the shoot and most were really excited. But by mid-afternoon a pack of teenagers, a few in hoodies, began causing trouble. At first they were just messing around and throwing snowballs at people watching.
“Then it turned nasty. They began to heckle the security staff and crew trying to film. They were shouting expletives and saying they wanted to have a fight. They also said they had knives and would cut up the crew.”
Security got the situation under control – then the atmosphere again turned more aggressive. The source added: “It was clearly a group of bored lads who wanted to cause trouble.
“The cast and crew weren’t bothered at first and kept filming – but then packed up. Late in the day the boys lit a firework and aimed it at the set.”
EastEnders said: “We always get a lot of attention on location. All situations are monitored, as safety of cast and crew is our priority.”
It came days after former EastEnders star Michelle Collins, 51 – now in Coro*nation Street – told of her terror as drunken teenagers screamed abuse at her on a London Tube train.
The People
EastEnders star Shona McGarty has denied claims that she is close to quitting the soap.
A newspaper report today (January 27) suggested that the 21-year-old is ready to bow out as Whitney Dean as she hopes to pursue a music career.
McGarty, who has played Whitney since 2008, was said to have already spoken to show bosses about the possibility of leaving.
However, the actress dismissed the report by telling Digital Spy today: "I'm very happy at EastEnders and have no current plans to leave."
McGarty has often spoken about her passion for music in interviews. She was also praised for her live rendition of 'A Change Is Gonna Come' on Children in Need last year.
However, viewers will see a new EastEnders storyline begin for Whitney in a few days' time as her boyfriend Tyler Moon (Tony Discipline) proposes to her, keen to show his commitment to their future as a couple.
EastEnders continues on Monday (January 28) at 8pm on BBC One.
Kara Tointon has revealed that she almost quit acting after leaving EastEnders.
The actress, who played Walford's Dawn Swann from 2005 to 2009, admitted she struggled to find work initially after leaving the soap.
The Yorkshire Evening Post quotes Tointon as saying: "I have had a fantastic couple of years and yet there was a point after EastEnders that I strongly considered giving up on acting and resorting to my plan B, training to be an interior designer.
"At that point, I started to think it wasn't going to happen for me.
"After you've been in a soap, people can assume you can't do anything else, because you're associated with your TV character.
"It can be demoralising, going to audition after audition and getting rejected, and you have to be pretty strong to carry on in this business."
Tointon's post-EastEnders projects have included a role in The Sweeney and the lead role in a West End production of Pygmalion.
She also fronted Kara Tointon: Don't Call Me Stupid, a programme about dyslexia, and took part in Strictly Come Dancing, where she met partner Artem Chigvintsev.
JustJodi
23-02-2013, 13:48
Is she still Artem Chigvintsev's partner off SCD ???
Lord Alan Sugar has criticised BBC soap EastEnders, accusing the show of product placement.
The Amstrad businessman and star of the BBC's Apprentice spoke of his annoyance of a long shot of a Nokia phone on Tuesday's episode.
http://i2.cdnds.net/13/07/300x225/soaps-eastenders-4594-3.jpg
© BBC
Phil Mitchell with phone
The phone was seen in a close-up shot for ten seconds while Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) lay unconscious in the car garage.
The soap had several other mobile phones in the show - including Apple's iPhone - but the brandings were not as visible as the Nokia.
EastEnders actress Danielle Harold - who plays Lola Pearce in the soap - laughed back to Sugar's comments: "Hahaha!!"
One follower wrote: "Not that you would ever use product placement? Amstrad phones in Apprentice?"
Sugar replied: "Correct, ******."
A BBC spokesman denied Sugar's comments, telling The Sun: "EastEnders never gives any one brand undue prominence, in line with BBC guidelines.
"If a product is featured there will always be a range of different brands also featured - as was the case in Tuesday's episode, when Phil, Max and Sharon's mobiles were all seen on screen."
Lord Sugar recently confirmed that Young Apprentice has not been renewed for a new series by the BBC.
EastEnders legend June Brown has revealed that she wanted to be a doctor in her younger years.
The actress, best known for playing Walford favourite Dot Branning, gave up on her dream as she was daunted by the training involved.
Brown, 86, told The Sun: "In my early days I might have liked to have done something with medicine. I think I would have quite liked to have been a doctor. But I decided not to stick with it because of the long training."
She continued: "I wouldn't have had the confidence to trust myself as a doctor. As soon as somebody questions me, I wonder if I'm wrong. I don't have an enormous amount of confidence.
"We weren't instilled with confidence as children, and we were told you should be seen and not heard."
Brown is now back on screen in EastEnders after a six-month break, but will also be appearing in an episode of BBC Two sitcom Heading Out later this month, playing a character named Sozzie.
She said: "I always like to play characters that are different to Dot. Sozzie is the complete opposite in every way.
"She speaks very loudly because her hearing isn't particularly good and she's a little fond of the drink. Not only that, but she's also, unfortunately, going slightly demented! It gave me freedom to be larger than life."
Actress Shona McGarty is reportedly planning to enter the recording studio.
The soap star - who plays Whitney Dean - has been given studio time by Florence + the Machine manager Mairead Nash, according to The Sun.
"I'm always writing and singing my own songs, so I am going into the studio to record some of them," McGarty is quoted as saying.
McGarty worked in amateur musical theatre before joining the soap in 2008, and performed Sam Cooke's 'A Change Is Gonna Come' on BBC's Children in Need fundraiser last November.
Sources close to the actress have claimed that she would consider quitting EastEnders if she was given a recording contract.
"You know she's in the room because unless she is talking to you, she's singing away to herself," one insider said. "People liked her performance on Children in Need, so who knows?"
However, McGarty added: "It isn't anything official, [the songs] are just for my own personal use. I have no plans to leave EastEnders."
Martine McCutcheon, Anita Dobson, Sean Maguire and Sid Owen are among other EastEnders stars who attempted a singing career following or during their time on the soap.
JustJodi
04-04-2013, 16:54
I often wondered if they had any success ????? Sid Owen ????????? I had no idea he was into SINGING,, I do not know any of the others so,,, can any one enlighten me ???? THANKS :-D
Danniella Westbrook kidnapped by gunmen and raped as punishment after failing to pay drug debt
The actress was held for three days in a grimy flat where she was subjected to a series of hellish sex assaults by three thugs
EastEnders star Danniella Westbrook was kidnapped at gunpoint and raped by a gang of drug dealers after failing to pay a £5,000 cocaine debt, the Sunday People has revealed .
The actress was held for three days in a grimy flat where she was subjected to a series of hellish sex assaults by three thugs.
Their evil behaviour was a punishment for not being able to pay for the Class A drug that had almost killed her.
Danniella, who had just quit the BBC1 soap in which she played Sam Mitchell, was addicted to cocaine at the time of the horrific ordeal.
A source close to the star said last night: “It was nothing short of hell on earth for Danniella. It was the lowest point of her life. She was distraught but had no way of paying the money.
“Looking back, she can’t believe she let something like that happen.”
Danniella, 39, has waived her right to lifetime anonymity as a victim of a sexual attack so she can reveal the shocking truth about the scariest time of her life.
The actress, now a born-again Christian, was terrified when the gang arrived on the doorstep of her luxury riverside apartment near London’s landmark Tower Bridge in 1994.
The three drug dealers, furious that she hadn’t paid them, held a gun to her head and marched her into a waiting car which sped to Stockwell, south London.
There she spent three days being abused as a sex slave to the evil gang.
They told her they were punishing her and teaching her a lesson for not honouring her debt.
When they eventually let the traumatised star go free, she had to walk miles home.
Despite dating former East 17 singer Brian Harvey at the time, Danniella kept the horrendous assault a secret.
She only revealed the ordeal to close family last month after she sat down to write her forthcoming book.
Danniella will reveal the shocking details of the attack in her autobiography Faith, Hope and Clarity which will be published next month.
The source said: “Danniella had never been so frightened. She couldn’t believe what was happening.
“It is the worst incident that happened throughout the period when she was hooked on drugs. When she looks back and thinks about what happened, it fills her with horror.
“She was petrified as she was taken away. She didn’t know where she would end up.
“She owed £5,000 and had no way of paying the money back. She had quit EastEnders the year before and was just getting by earning a far smaller wage doing other acting work.”
At the time Danniella was appearing with Timothy Spall in ITV’s Frank Stubbs Promotes, a comedy about a ticket tout.
The source said: “With her drug addiction having spiralled out of control, her debts were mounting up.
“The gang wanted what they were owed. While she was relieved when they finally freed her she was still frightened.
“She had to walk back home having been abused for days without any money or phone to contact anyone. She had never felt that sort of humiliation before, she was numb and felt disgusting.
“She couldn’t believe what had happened but at the time she was so hooked on drugs that she just accepted it and moved on.
“She was not at all proud of how her life was at the time. She often felt suicidal and attempted to kill herself. She was in a bad, bad place.”
Danniella, now married to businessman Kevin Jenkins, 45, felt she couldn’t tell anyone about the attack.
She didn’t tell police as she feared she would be in trouble herself for using the illegal drug.
The source added: “When Danniella sat down to write her second book last year, she didn’t have any intention of revealing the ordeal but then decided the truth had to come out.
“She has always been very honest about her past as a drug addict and wanted to tell of the depths of her despair.
“She is not at all proud of the cocaine chapter in her life but she’s proud of getting through it and is happier than ever now she has come out the other side.
“Kevin and Danniella’s mum Sue were both incredibly shocked about what happened and couldn’t believe she’d never told them about the kidnap or the rape. She only told them a month ago.
“She felt shamed for a long time. But now she’s getting everything out in the open once and for all.
“She’s proof you can reach the lowest depths and come back and turn your life around.”
Danniella’s heartbreaking revelation will be just one shocking story in the book the star is self-publishing next month.
It is her second autobiography. Her first, The Other Side of Nowhere, was published in 2006 and went to No1 in the bestsellers list.
In her new book she will also lift the lid on her struggles with bipolar disorder and how her family nearly fell apart when Kevin lost his fortune as his business went under.
Danniella will also recount the crazy millionaire lifestyle they lived and how she’s found Jesus and got her life back on track.
The source added: “You thought Danniella had revealed everything but this latest book is the star laid bare.
“No subject is out of bounds and she’s laid every card there is on the table. It will shock people but it will also inspire those struggling with drugs to turn their lives around.”
Danniella’s drugs battle ended 12 years ago when she became clean for the first time since she was 14.
She was a teenager when she first snorted cocaine in a club in London’s West End.
After landing the EastEnders role of Sam Mitchell in 1990 alongside Ross Kemp and Steve McFadden as brothers Grant and Phil, she became hooked.
She would spend £400 a day on the drug, and now estimates she blew a total of £250,000 on her addiction.
Her weight dropped to just six stone and she attempted suicide several times.
She needed her nose rebuilt after the drug eroded her septum, leaving one gaping hole instead of nostrils.
In 2002 she underwent a four-hour operation to rebuild it.
She also revealed she snorted cocaine throughout her pregnancy with son Kai, now 15.
Danniella, who starred on I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here in 2003 and Dancing On Ice in 2010, said: “I had so many rock bottoms.
“I tried to overdose a few times with paracetamol and Night Nurse. It was a feeble cry for help.”
Danniella’s cocaine days ended in 2001 when husband Kevin put her into rehab at the Promises clinic in Arizona after she stole from him to fund her addiction.
At the time she was three months pregnant with daughter Jody B, now 11.
She said: “He just put me on a plane to Arizona. I was so drugged up I didn’t know what was happening.”
Danniella now lives in an Essex village with her family after returning to the UK from California.
The family moved to the States in 2009 after selling their Kent mansion following the credit crunch.
In America she found God and will now never go back to drugs.
She and Kevin were introduced to the Sanctuary Church in Westminster, California.
Danniella said: “I have given my life to the Lord. The first time I came to this church I felt something so spiritual and amazing I wanted to cry.
“After a few visits I found myself walking up to the altar to ask the Lord for forgiveness for my sins. It was an incredible experience.”
Danniella is one of the most recognisable faces from EastEnders after starring on the soap on and off between 1990 and 2010.
She quit in 1993 to pursue other projects but was asked back two years later. In 1996 she was axed for her off-screen antics and poor time-keeping but was asked back in 1999 and sacked again a year later.
She returned for the third time in 2009 for two stints and finally left for good in 2010.
Last night Danniella declined to comment on her new autobiography and what it reveals.
Sunday People
Jessie Wallace has denied claims that she is engaged.
Rumours began circulating that the actress, who plays Kat Moon in the BBC One soap, was to marry Tim Arnold after she was recently spotted with a ring on her finger.
Sources suggested as early as last July that she was ready to marry the musician as she had "fallen so in love".
However, a spokesperson for Wallace told The Mirror that she isn't yet engaged.
She has been dating Arnold for 11 months after meeting him through his godmother June Brown, who plays Dot Cotton in EastEnders.
Wallace was previously engaged to Vince Morse, but cancelled the wedding just hours before it was due to begin after discovering that he had sent explicit messages to an ex.
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