The Masood Family Appreciation Thread **May contain spoilers** [Archive]

lizann

23-04-2010, 16:57

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has revealed that there are "really dark" times ahead for the Masood family over the coming weeks.

Earlier this year, the actress's character Zainab Masood was forced to deal with the bombshell news that her son Syed (Marc Elliott) is gay and had been having an affair. Next week, the plot reaches a climax as Syed's wife Amira (Preeya Kalidas) discovers the truth.

Speaking on This Morning today, Wadia explained that the Masoods are to face more misery as the BBC soap's producers want to carry on providing a realistic portrayal of the issues affecting gay Muslims.

Fans of the Walford serial have already seen Syed's father Masood, played by Nitin Ganatra, being told to disown his son after seeking guidance from his local imam.

Wadia commented: "They've really done their research on this. It goes to a really dark place because that is what would happen - and has happened.

"From the research they've done, they've spoken to families who've had this conflict and you literally cut off all ties. It's like that person doesn't exist."

Ganatra, who was also interviewed, added: "It's very tragic, it's a very tragic situation for a family to have to go through that. They've handled it beautifully and very delicately."

lizann

03-11-2010, 14:04

EastEnders star Himesh Patel has revealed that his character Tamwar Masood will face "a very big obstacle" in a new romance storyline.

In the coming weeks, Tamwar will be left feeling lonely on the Square as his friend Darren Miller starts spending more time with girlfriend Jodie Gold - but he is expected to soon find a possible new love interest of his own.

Speaking to Walford Web about what kind of woman Tamwar is looking for, Patel explained: "I'm not sure he knows, due to lack of experience in that part of life.

"It's got to the stage where he just wants someone, whether that someone is perfect or not. He won't ask many questions and that is what's going to cause problems."

Meanwhile, asked whether the identity of Tamwar's potential girlfriend will surprise fans, the actor replied: "It depends how long you've been watching the show."

He added: "There's one very, very big obstacle to overcome. It's something that Tamwar couldn't possibly prepare himself for."

sean slater

12-11-2010, 17:29

So Tamwar's girlfriend is not a new comer then. I cant think of anyone his age that would really fit the bill. Lauren? she's kinda with Peter isnt she?! Maybe they will be the next Bradley and Stacey. Tamwar being the kind hearted geek and Lauren the live wire who is tamed ha.

parkerman

12-11-2010, 17:33

Isn't it Afia?

sean slater

12-11-2010, 17:37

She's not really a main character. I dont know what the obstacle would be. It seems like the perfect scenario. And his parents would love him for it lol. Muslim related to one of their best friends.

parkerman

12-11-2010, 17:41

'asked whether the identity of Tamwar's potential girlfriend will surprise fans, the actor replied: "It depends how long you've been watching the show."' suggests it wouldn't be Lauren.

I'm sticking with Afia!

sean slater

12-11-2010, 19:22

Maybe. Maybe she has a deep dark secret that nobody knows. She does seem like a bit of a wild child underneath lol.

moonstorm

12-11-2010, 19:44

No it is Afia. And if rumours are to be believed, she is the daughter of the first husband of Zainabh. Although not too sure if she is also her daughter but as there has been incest stories floating about, could be?

tammyy2j

10-03-2011, 10:44

The Masoods will be at the centre of a dramatic stunt on EastEnders next month when the roof of the family's Argee Bhajee restaurant collapses, Digital Spy can confirm.

In a surprise storyline twist, disaster strikes on the night of Tamwar's (Himesh Patel) engagement party as he happily celebrates his future with fiancée Afia Khan (Meryl Fernandes).

Exact details of what happens next are currently being kept under wraps, although it is understood that Syed Masood (Marc Elliott) will be one character who sustains injuries as the joyful occasion descends into chaos.

A Walford source told DS: "These dramatic scenes were filmed a couple of weeks ago and will air in early April, providing some big drama for the Masoods on what should have been a happy day for Tamwar.

"Despite the ill-feeling between him and his parents, Syed is in the building when the disastrous party takes place. But what the accident could mean for the family feud remains to be seen."

Builder Greg Jessop (Stefan Booth) completed last-minute repair work on the Argee Bhajee's roof in January, rescuing the Masoods' plans for the restaurant's grand re-opening.

At the time, Greg warned that new roof beams would be needed in the long-term - but the family have since been plagued by financial difficulties, leaving them unable to spend any more money on the building's restoration.

The plot twist is likely to lead to Syed and his partner Christian Clarke sharing more screen time with the Masoods as Christian's portrayer John Partridge recently told DS that old problems and hostilities between the family would start to be revisited.

Speaking in January, Partridge said: "I think those issues will start to be resolved. We may not have the outcome that people want and it may not come about in the way that people think, but some of those issues will be addressed."

alan45

10-03-2011, 11:09

The Masoods will be at the centre of a dramatic stunt on EastEnders next month when the roof of the family's Argee Bhajee restaurant collapses, Digital Spy can confirm.

In a surprise storyline twist, disaster strikes on the night of Tamwar's (Himesh Patel) engagement party as he happily celebrates his future with fiancée Afia Khan (Meryl Fernandes).

Exact details of what happens next are currently being kept under wraps, although it is understood that Syed Masood (Marc Elliott) will be one character who sustains injuries as the joyful occasion descends into chaos.

A Walford source told DS: \"These dramatic scenes were filmed a couple of weeks ago and will air in early April, providing some big drama for the Masoods on what should have been a happy day for Tamwar.

\"Despite the ill-feeling between him and his parents, Syed is in the building when the disastrous party takes place. But what the accident could mean for the family feud remains to be seen.\"

Builder Greg Jessop (Stefan Booth) completed last-minute repair work on the Argee Bhajee's roof in January, rescuing the Masoods' plans for the restaurant's grand re-opening.

At the time, Greg warned that new roof beams would be needed in the long-term - but the family have since been plagued by financial difficulties, leaving them unable to spend any more money on the building's restoration.

The plot twist is likely to lead to Syed and his partner Christian Clarke sharing more screen time with the Masoods as Christian's portrayer John Partridge recently told DS that old problems and hostilities between the family would start to be revisited.

Speaking in January, Partridge said: \"I think those issues will start to be resolved. We may not have the outcome that people want and it may not come about in the way that people think, but some of those issues will be addressed.\"

Already posted http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?119438-Roof-collapse-to-rock-Enders-family

alan45

10-03-2011, 14:42

SYED Masood will be seriously injured when the roof of his family's restaurant falls in during his younger brother Tamwar's engagement party.
Syed (Marc Elliott) - who has been shunned by his parents since revealing he is gay - bears the brunt of the disaster at the Argee Bhajee next month.

Engagement party ... Tamwar Masood
It happens during the family's bash to celebrate Tamwar's (Himesh Patel) future with his fiancée Afia Khan (Meryl Fernandes).
But the happy occasion turns into terror when the roof caves in on the clan and their pals.

The scenes, which air in April, are expected to have an impact on the family feud between Syed and his disapproving parents.

An insider said: "The shock storyline is set to have a huge effect on the Masoods."

The dramatic episode occurs months after builder Greg Jessop (Stefan Booth) warned the strapped-for-cash Masoods they needed to pay for new roof beams for the restaurant.

He carried out some last-minute repairs on the Argee Bhajee in January before the restaurant's re-opening, but told Zainab and Masood it would need more work done to it in future.

The chaos comes around the same time as Max Branning (Jake Wood) and his daughter Abi (Lorna Fitzgerald) are involved in a car crash.

tammyy2j

11-04-2011, 10:43

Christian Clarke will pop the question to partner Syed Masood in a forthcoming EastEnders storyline, a report has revealed.

The Walford soap recently filmed scenes showing Christian (John Partridge) tearfully getting down on one knee and asking Syed to marry him, according to The Mirror. The emotional moment is expected to air on screen next month.

Whether Syed (Marc Elliott) will accept the proposal is currently unclear, although Albert Square sources have suggested that plans are already underway for the pair to tie the knot in a major summer plotline.

In a further twist, it is thought that the couple's recent baby storyline could be revisited if the wedding takes place as rumoured. Earlier this year, Christian and Syed decided to hold off on the idea of having a child with the help of a surrogate mum, but reports have speculated that they could still go ahead with plans to start a family further down the line.

Discussing the couple's future, an insider said: "If everything goes ahead, Christian and Syed will be the biggest stars on the soap, providing some happy news after the baby swap storyline which went down so badly with viewers."

In January, Partridge promised that Christian and Syed would remain "strong and united" this year, adding that the duo are the "perfect combination".

Speaking at the time, he commented: "I am very excited about the things that are coming up - I wish I could tell you more! If it happens the way I've been led to believe, it'll blow everyone's socks off."

Christian and Syed first embarked on a clandestine relationship in 2009, before finally going public with their love for each other last summer. Their decision led to Syed being cut off from his parents Zainab and Masood.

Perdita

19-04-2011, 16:49

Nitin Ganatra has revealed that his EastEnders character Masood Ahmed will head down a dark path as his current storyline continues.

In recent weeks, Masood has found his marriage to Zainab (Nina Wadia) come under strain amid their ongoing financial problems and the troublesome presence of Zainab's ex-husband Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti).

Speaking to Inside Soap, Ganatra confirmed that Masood's woes have only just begun as his life will continue to spiral out of control in the coming months.

He explained: "We're shooting scenes at the moment that are really exciting. Masood is becoming darker and more desperate, and we could even see him become a little bit dangerous with his actions.

"He'll find himself increasingly isolated from his wife and his family - it's going to be brilliant to watch."

EastEnders fans will get a glimpse of Masood's desperation in next week's episodes, which see him start gambling again in a bid to solve his financial mess.

At the same time, Masood feels betrayed by Zainab when she decides to accept a loan from Yusef and goes against his wishes by spending time with estranged son Syed for the first time in months

DS

tammyy2j

24-04-2011, 16:56

EastEnders character Masood Ahmed will reportedly kidnap wife Zainab's ex-husband Yusef Khan and douse him in petrol - warning him to stay away from her.

Masood becomes angry when Yusef (Ace Bhatti) reminds Zainab (Nina Wadia) of the romance they once had. He wants to teach the GP a lesson and threatens to set him on fire. Yusef then turns up at Zainab's covered in petrol and bleeding, informing her of the incident.

The two men have clashed since Yusef's arrival in Albert Square. Masood's (Nitin Ganatra) latest actions echo the attack Zainab suffered when Yusef's family set her alight for being unfaithful.

An insider told the News of the World: "Masood has never got over that. Tension has been simmering for a while and leads to an outpouring of violence from Masood that leaves Yusef seriously injured. But Yusef will get his own back.

"It is a twisted love triangle that will also show the sometimes brutal side of arranged marriages. It's not clear if their marriage will survive Yusef's meddling.

"They've had so much to contend with recently - Tamwar falling in love with Afia and Syed in hospital. But Yusef obviously wants her back and will do anything he can to drive a wedge between Masood and Zainab. Zainab will have a lot of thinking to do."

The storyline will begin in around six weeks' time.

Ganatra recently promised a dark storyline for Masood.

Perdita

26-04-2011, 18:03

EastEnders actress Nina Wadia has admitted that she would love her character Zainab Masood to cause fireworks at son Syed's next wedding.

Earlier this month, reports revealed that Syed (Marc Elliott) could tie the knot again later this year as his partner Christian Clarke (John Partridge) will apparently propose to him in an upcoming storyline.

Zainab is currently trying to repair her damaged relationship with Syed, but next week's episodes will show that she is still not ready to accept Christian.

Speaking to Inside Soap about whether Zainab would be involved in a 'Chryed' wedding, Wadia confessed: "I'd love for that to happen! I want Zainab to wreck Syed and Christian's wedding!

"Yes, it would be so special for them and they'd really deserve to have a lovely day after all they'd been through. Mind you, having said that, it's the only wedding she wouldn't be fighting to plan, isn't it? As Zainab, I'd love to completely destroy their big day!"

Wadia also confirmed that she finds it difficult to film scenes which explore the homophobic views of her alter ego.

She said: "Her homophobia is very hard to play, and it's the only thing I really hate about Zainab. As an actor, you worry that people out there might believe that you're like that in real life, and I am so not!

"But it's down to the believability of the character. If I can find even 1% of my character that might say it, I'll say it. If I felt in my entire being that she wouldn't, I would fight to not say it."

Zainab has another meeting with Syed in tonight's episode of EastEnders.

DS

Perdita

05-05-2011, 13:40

EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has admitted that the soap's mysterious newcomer Yusef Khan will become "very manipulative and very nasty" in the coming weeks.

Over the past few months, fans have seen Yusef (Ace Bhatti) start to cause trouble for Ganatra's character Masood Ahmed and his wife Zainab (Nina Wadia), who used to be married to the enigmatic doctor.

In an interview with Holy Soap, Ganatra revealed that Yusef's meddling will intensify after he learns of Masood's feelings for Jane Beale in next week's episodes.

Discussing where the plot goes from there, Ganatra commented: "He throws a real spanner in the works for Masood. It's horrible, it's very manipulative and very nasty. He is doing everything he can to wreck Masood's life, really, and the way you do that is to get to his family.

"It's a very clever way of doing things - it's not about destroying his family, it's about winning his family and turning them against him, so that Masood is left isolated and on his own. Masood is the one guy who is the glue for the family. His sense of humour is what keeps the family together."

The actor also explained that he is unsure whether Yusef is telling the truth about the night that his family tried to kill Zainab by setting her on fire. Yusef has repeatedly insisted that he attempted to save her on the day in question.

However, Ganatra said: "Allegedly he tried to save her. Maybe he did try and save her but we are only playing it from each person's point of view. Yusef is playing it from his point of view that he did try and save her. Masood is saying, 'All I know is that I went back to get her and she had been locked in this kitchen and it was on fire'."

Siobhan

05-05-2011, 13:42

"In an interview with Holy Soap, " :lol: is that the soap bible??

alan45

11-05-2011, 13:35

Nitin Ganatra has claimed that it would be "a shame" if Masood Ahmed and Zainab Masood were to divorce in EastEnders.

The Walford couple are currently experiencing turbulent times in their marriage amid the family's ongoing financial problems and the constant interference of Zainab's ex-husband Yusef (Ace Bhatti).

Recent reports have suggested that things will get worse for the pair in the coming weeks as Yusef steps up his attempts to split them up.

However, speaking to Inside Soap about whether the duo could break up for good, Ganatra commented: "The beauty of the Masoods is that they work so well as a family unit. Divorce? Now that would be a shame! I think it's much better to keep them together.

"There are already so many families who are fragmented on the show. The Masoods need to be kept together to represent the minority of long-lasting happy relationships that do exist!"

Ganatra added that he would not be opposed to Zainab (Nina Wadia) reuniting with Yusef temporarily to provide further drama in the storyline.

He said: "In a way, I'd like to see Zainab go off with Yusef because I'd love to see Masood fighting to win his wife back from him!"

tammyy2j

11-05-2011, 15:19

I am gone sick and tired of the Massods especially Mas and Zainab

Perdita

12-05-2011, 17:05

Nina Wadia has explained that she would like her EastEnders character's long-running homophobia storyline to have a positive impact and lead to acceptance.

The actress's alter ego Zainab Masood currently remains estranged from her son Syed (Marc Elliott) as her strict Muslim beliefs have prevented her from giving her blessing to his relationship with Christian Clarke, played by John Partridge. The family feud has been running for nearly a year.

In an interview with the Guernsey News, Wadia commented: "It's a challenge to play a bigot, I'll be honest - it's not something I've found easy to do. I do get a few comments on the street and things, which are not pleasant but I deal with them.

"I'm hoping that, if nothing else, it's opened the conversation for being gay and being Muslim - to show that there is a conflict in that, but it does exist. And to hopefully get people talking about it and allow the acceptance to happen, which is what I'm hoping eventually will happen with Zainab."

Wadia said that while she does not agree with Zainab's views, she believes that her portrayal as a homophobe is realistic.

"I believe that my character would think that way," she continued. "From the research they've done, 90% of the women they interviewed in that situation do feel that way, because of their religious background, because of their culture - they find that they're at odds with each other.

"So I'm hoping that somehow this woman learns that it's important to be a mother and support her son before it's important to be a Muslim woman."

Discussing the success of her screen family, Wadia added: "I think we manage to make people laugh, cry, go through all of the emotions that you would as a family unit. And if nothing else, I want them to be able to open conversations that are otherwise closed to the general public."

Zainab's latest storyline has seen her marriage to Masood (Nitin Ganatra) come under severe strain due to the family's financial problems and the return of her ex-husband Yusef Khan.

Perdita

16-05-2011, 20:01

EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has praised the impact that scheming Yusef Khan is having on the Masood family's storylines.

Ganatra's character Masood Ahmed is currently experiencing problems in his marriage to Zainab, partly due to Yusef's (Ace Bhatti) interference.

Speaking to Digital Spy on the red carpet at the British Soap Awards, the actor said of Yusef: "He's very much an arch-villain - he's a great character who's there to put jeopardy into the Masoods' relationship. Zainab and Masood have been married for 28 years and they're mad about each other - for someone to come and destroy that slightly, it's exciting. It's exciting for us to play."

Asked about speculation that Masood could take revenge on Yusef, he replied: "I think there's rumours of revenge! Yusef is a really nice catalyst - he's a very exciting character to throw into the mix. If it goes that way, it's more drama for us to play."

Meanwhile, Ganatra's screen partner Nina Wadia pondered how Zainab might react to the news that her son Syed is hoping to adopt a child with boyfriend Christian.

She said: "If anything, it might drive them apart! I don't know how Zainab feels about gay men adopting a baby, so that will be a challenge! Hopefully she'll get over it."

Perdita

22-06-2011, 13:52

EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra has revealed that he is thrilled with the viewer response to the Masoods' ongoing story with scheming Yusef Khan.

The actor's character Masood Ahmed is currently estranged from wife Zainab and the rest of his family as Yusef (Ace Bhatti) has managed to turn all of them against him.

Masood's wife Zainab (Nina Wadia), who used to be married to Yusef, has appeared to be particularly affected by the sinister doctor's manipulations over the past few weeks.

Speaking of the plot, Ganatra told This Morning today: "A lot of people have been quite moved by this story because the Masoods are really centred around the family. It stops it from being 'the Asian family on EastEnders' and it becomes a universal thing. It's a father trying to keep it all together."

"What's lovely about the storylining for me is that Masood is more and more isolated, because he's the only one with the conviction to know what Yusef is really like and nobody else believes him," he continued.

Ganatra also promised that the mystery surrounding the fire which almost killed Zainab many years ago will be revisited in this week's episodes. Although Masood suspects that Yusef was responsible for the attack, the GP has always insisted that his family were to blame.

"The storyliners are keeping that hanging this week - so we will reveal something about that," Ganatra said.

EastEnders continues tomorrow night at 7.30pm on BBC One.

Perdita

07-08-2011, 05:33

EastEnders' Zainab Masood will face fresh turmoil later this year when her scheming ex-husband Yusef Khan convinces her family that she has tried to commit suicide, a report has claimed.

In recent weeks, viewers have seen the villainous doctor provide Zainab (Nina Wadia) with a regular supply of sleeping pills in a desperate attempt to keep her under his control.

However, according to the Daily Star Sunday, the plot will take a dark new twist in the autumn when Zainab slumps into a stupor after Yusef (Ace Bhatti) ups her dosage.

Subsequent scenes will apparently see Yusef slip pills into the palm of her hand, making her horrified loved ones think she has tried to take her own life when they find her unconscious.

When Zainab recovers, she is expected to even question her own behaviour as she cannot remember what happened - leaving her to wonder whether she really did make a suicide attempt.

A Walford source told the newspaper: "[Yusef is] using his position as a doctor to get her hooked on sleeping pills. He thinks if he can make it look as though she's tried to kill herself, he'll be able to sweep in as her knight in shining armour. He's trying to isolate her from her family so he's the only one in her life."

The insider added: "No-one knows what Yusef has been up to and the real danger that Zainab is in. These really are must-see episodes."

In June, an EastEnders episode confirmed that Yusef was responsible for the fire which almost killed Zainab when their marriage broke down. However, his seemingly affable nature has fooled nearly everyone in Walford since he arrived in the area last year.

Perdita

19-09-2011, 11:43

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has predicted that her character Zainab Masood will grow closer to son Syed in the coming weeks.

Zainab disowned Syed (Marc Elliott) after he embarked on a relationship with Christian Clarke (John Partridge) in summer 2010, and the pair have only recently begun getting back on better terms.

The situation in the Masood family will take new twists next month when Syed's estranged wife Amira (Preeya Kalidas) returns to Albert Square with their baby daughter.

Wadia told the Daily Star of the Masoods' future: "I'm hoping things will hot up with Yusef and Zainab. I'm excited to see what will happen with that love triangle.

"And I can't wait for Syed's baby to come. I think it will help Zainab and Syed get closer as she'll want her grandchild and it may make her feel like her son is a proper man."

Zainab and Yusef's storyline takes a darker turn later this week when the scheming GP crushes up pills into her food, causing her to lose consciousness.

Perdita

21-09-2011, 16:35

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has admitted that she was surprised when she learned that Masood Ahmed would divorce her character Zainab Masood in an upcoming storyline.

Masood, played by Nitin Ganatra, makes the heart-wrenching decision in next Monday's episode after hearing that Zainab has taken an overdose of pills. Both are unaware that scheming doctor Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) secretly crushed the tablets into her food.

The scenes in question see Masood pay a visit to the family home and leave Zainab stunned by saying the word "talaq" - meaning "I divorce you" - three times in accordance with Islamic culture. Masood does so as he believes that Zainab needs a fresh start without him. :eek: :(

Wadia told Inside Soap of the plotline: "When Nitin and I found out Zainab and Masood were going to divorce, we were like, 'Noooo'. When we read the scripts and saw that twist right at the end, we went, 'Whoa!'"

The actress also admitted that she does not foresee an easy way back for the former couple.

"I can't see them getting back together yet," she explained. "They're going in opposite directions. But I don't doubt that they still love each other."

EastEnders airs Zainab and Yusef's shock pills twist tomorrow at 7.30pm on BBC One.

Perdita

27-09-2011, 16:45

EastEnders stars Himesh Patel and Meryl Fernandes have said they hope their characters Tamwar and Afia Masood live happily ever after.
The two soap stars attended the Inside Soap Awards 2011 at Gilgamesh in London to collect the Best Wedding gong for Tamwar and Afia's wedding, which they had in secret in a mosque and registry office, while their parents organised them a lavish, traditional Muslim ceremony.
Meryl said it was "lovely" to win the award, but added she hopes all the drama is over for the newlyweds.
She said: "I hope they live happily ever after. They're so in love. They're really cute and I think they have a very beautiful innocent love that I definitely think will last."
Himesh added: "We told them to make us the couple that last.
Meanwhile, EastEnders' Tameka Empson collected the award for Funniest Performance for her portrayal of feisty beautician Kim Fox.
She said: "It feels amazing. All those days in the bedroom practising with the hairbrush, now I've finally got my award and it feels great."
The soap actress revealed it felt good to bring humour to the often dark and dramatic show.
She said: "I think people want to smile, people want to have a laugh and I love Kim. You get so much theatre with Kim. I'm not actually like her but I love it. I like to party like Kim, but Kim can out-drink me any time."
Tameka added: "I've got a reason to party so I think I'm going to shake a leg or two."

PA

That usually means that the scriptwriters have started a new storyline to split them up :(

tammyy2j

04-10-2011, 12:15

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has promised that there are big moments ahead for her character Zainab Masood in the build-up to Christmas.

Zainab is currently being manipulated by her ex-husband Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti), who stooped to a new low last month by crushing up pills into her food - causing her to overdose.

The mother-of-four has since recovered, but Yusef's path has been left open for more schemes in the weeks ahead as Zainab's partner Masood recently decided to divorce her - leaving her even more isolated.

Wadia told Digital Spy of the storyline's future: "Oh gosh, there's definitely more shocks and surprises to come for Zainab! The scripts seem to get darker and darker each time, and every time I open a new one, my jaw drops.

"The coolest thing is that I've just received scripts for two weeks prior to Christmas, and those scripts have already shocked the life out of me. So goodness knows what Christmas itself will bring!

"The scripts are page-turners. When you get those scripts where you can't wait to see what comes next, that's when you know that you've got something special in your hands. I'm literally thinking, 'Oh my God, oh my God, what's going to happen next?'"

Wadia added that while Yusef currently has an ambiguous quality, she believes his main motivation is revenge.

"I think that's the clever thing about the way Ace plays Yusef - you never really know," she explained. "Sometimes when I'm playing the scenes I'm not quite sure, and I only figure it out when I watch them back.

"I think what Ace does is really brilliant - it unnerves me both as an actor and as a character. I personally think that somewhere in there, Yusef has a love for Zainab, but I think his primary intent has to be revenge.

"That's what I think as Nina, but not as Zainab. I think Zainab falls in love with him, and she actually thinks that they could love each other."

Perdita

23-10-2011, 11:50

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has revealed that she plans to stay in the show for the foreseeable future.

The actress, who plays Zainab Masood in the BBC One soap, said she is excited by her current storyline but doesn't want to outstay her welcome.

"When they first told me what they had planned for the Masoods I was so excited," she told the Daily Star Sunday.

"I've just read the pre-Christmas scripts and things are going to get even darker.

"I've been on the show for nearly five years and it still feels fresh. But once I have outstayed my welcome I know it will be time to go."

Wadia recently promised that there will be big moments ahead for her character Zainab in the build-up to Christmas.

She has also been working as executive producer on her film Four, a black comedy about a man who hires someone to help kidnap his wife's lover in a vengeful plan.

Perdita

23-10-2011, 14:04

The Masood family will reportedly be at the centre of the upcoming fire on EastEnders.

It was reported last month that Albert Square's B&B will go up in flames, with the soap's team building a replica set at Elstree Studios to film the shock blaze scenes.

The fire is started deliberately and causes a massive explosion, leading to the climax of the Masood and Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) storyline, according to the Daily Star Sunday.

Zainab (Nina Wadia) is under the complete control of Yusef, who is attempting to make her return to Pakistan with him. When the fire breaks out, Masood (Nitin Ganatra) is living in the B&B and Zainab desperately tries to reach him, much to Yusef's dismay.

The cast recently filmed the episodes, due to be aired at Christmas, and Preeya Kalidas (Amira) tweeted that the explosion on the special Elstree set felt like an "earthquake".

An EastEnders spokesman told the paper: "We do not comment on storylines as we don't want to spoil it for our viewers."

Speaking of her character's Christmas storyline, Wadia recently told Digital Spy that the scripts "shocked the life out of me".

"I'm literally thinking, 'Oh my God, oh my God, what's going to happen next?'" she said.

tammyy2j

23-10-2011, 18:56

^ Pat must be living at the B&B by then if she dies in this fire

I dont think I can stand watching Yusef until Xmas

Perdita

26-10-2011, 10:52

^ Pat must be living at the B&B by then if she dies in this fire

I dont think I can stand watching Yusef until Xmas

Pat does not die in the fire.

I think you might have to put up with Yusef until Xmas but that should be the end of this storyline

Perdita

26-10-2011, 10:53

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has warned that viewers have not yet seen the worst of the soap's villain Yusef Khan.

The actress's character Zainab Masood has been manipulated by ex-husband Yusef for months, and the situation looks likely to intensify in the build-up to Christmas.

Ace Bhatti, who plays Yusef, has been part of the EastEnders cast since last year - and his alter ego's true colours have become increasingly apparent over the past few months.

Wadia told Inside Soap of the storyline: "I was filming out on location recently with Ace and a bunch of women came over to him and said, 'God, you're such a horrible man!' It's funny because Ace is such a sweet man - and you haven't even seen the worst of Yusef yet!"

Yusef receives a setback in next week's episodes when his scheme to make the Masoods think that baby Yasmin is not Syed's daughter is exposed.

However, Yusef soon returns to his old tricks by claiming that Zainab is to blame for the man he's become. He then continues trying to convince her to move to Pakistan with him.

Wadia continued: "Let's just say that what happens is the complete opposite of what you want to see. Zainab and Yusef share a dark and twisted love, and she definitely has feelings for him. It's not true and pure like what she used to have with Masood - and if Yusef manages to get her back to Pakistan, it will be the end for her.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Zainab ends up in some sort of home to recover from everything that's going to happen."

EastEnders continues on Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One.

Perdita

28-10-2011, 12:46

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has revealed that she would love her character Zainab Masood to develop more female friendships on Albert Square.

The actress admitted that she is eager to see Zainab interact with characters like Roxy Mitchell, Shirley Carter and Carol Jackson.

Wadia told Inside Soap: "I'd love to work more with the likes of Rita Simons, Linda Henry and Lindsey Coulson. It would be really cool to do more book club scenes with the women of Walford.

"It's interesting, because no matter how different we are as actresses, we always bond."

Wadia said that she also holds out hope that Zainab's daughter Shabnam, played by Zahra Ahmadi, could return to the soap in the future.

"I'm still hoping that Zahra Ahmadi will return one day," she said. "It would be very interesting to see how Shabnam's matured since moving to Pakistan."

Zainab is currently enduring turbulent times on Albert Square due to the manipulations of her ex-husband Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti). The storyline is expected to intensify in the build-up to Christmas.

Perdita

02-11-2011, 13:59

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has revealed that she is keen to see the Masood family reunited in 2012.

The popular Walford clan have been torn apart this year due to the meddling influence of Yusef Khan, who has been trying to worm his way back into the life of Wadia's character Zainab, his ex-wife.

Zainab's current storyline led to Masood divorcing her earlier this year, and she is expected to continue being manipulated by Yusef (Ace Bhatti) in the weeks ahead.

Speaking to Inside Soap's Yearbook 2012 about her hopes for next year's plotlines, Wadia commented: "I hope the Masood family is brought back together, but it all depends what happens with Yusef, doesn't it? The writers haven't yet told us what's happening with him, but I'm assuming because he's playing a baddie, there has to be some kind of comeuppance for him later on.

"Unfortunately, I think things are going to get even darker for Zainab for quite a while before they get better."

Wadia also said that she is pleased with the way Yusef has shaken up life for the Masoods in recent months.

"Yusef's brought such a great dynamic to the family and made them more exciting," she explained. "I've filmed some quite horrific scenes where Yusef gets violent towards Zainab. I don't like all of that to be honest, I have to be so on the ball when filming it. But Yusef pushes everyone to the limit, and he could potentially hurt anyone."

megan999

02-11-2011, 16:58

I think you might have to put up with Yusef until Xmas but that should be the end of this storylineWhew, glad about that! It's been good, but they don't want it to drag on.

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has warned that viewers have not yet seen the worst of the soap's villain Yusef Khan.Wonder how much lower he can stoop?!

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has revealed that she is keen to see the Masood family reunited in 2012.They all deserve a happy ending, apart from Yusef :D

Perdita

06-11-2011, 06:43

EASTENDERS star Nina Wadia went through a traumatic ordeal shooting the soap’s explosive Christmas episodes.

She was left in floods of tears after acting out harrowing *domestic violence scenes which deeply affected her and will stun Albert Square fans.

Nina’s character Zainab Masood ends up being brutally attacked by her evil ex-husband Yusef after months of mental torture in a disturbing storyline that tackles the taboo of “honour killings” in Britain’s Asian communities.

And for Nina – who is patron of an ethnic women’s refuge – her screen trauma has been almost too harrowing to bear.

“It’s very draining emotional stuff,” she told The People.

Revenge

“I’m putting myself into this very dark place which I know sadly is a reality for so many women. Zainab’s confidence has been steadily eroded. She’s *feeling isolated and has fallen under Yusef’s control.”

The evil doctor, played by Ace Bhatti, has been trying to *rekindle their romance and lure Zainab back to Pakistan.

But he is haunted by the “dishonour” she brought on him by having an affair with Masood Ahmed when they were married.

“He wants revenge,” said Nina, 41. “We’ve already seen Yusef try to poison her and then make everyone, including her, believe she had attempted suicide. She is totally in his power.”

Showdown: Yusef lies in wait for Zainab

What happens next to Zainab mirrors the rising tide of *domestic brutality sweeping Britain.

Latest Parliamentary figures reveal there were 728,242 *reported attacks in the last year – and of the 100 women who died at the hands of a current or former partner, at least 12 were believed to be honour killings.

According to the Home Office, the total for such abuse is “likely to be far higher” because *murders in the closed ethnic communities are often hushed up.

Now happily married mum-of-two Nina is proud to have helped highlight the plight of women trapped in these relationships.

When the storyline was first suggested by EastEnders *bosses, she knew she had to do it. “I had to show this can happen to any woman, no matter how strong she seems,” said Nina.

Face of fear: Zainab recoils as he grabs her

“But both Ace and I have found it hard to do. I’ve known Ace for a long time and we’re good friends. He has been wonderful to work with on this and very concerned about me all the way through.”

Nina drew on her experience with the Roshni refuge in Birmingham which provides *support for Asian women and children fleeing abuse.

She said: “I did research there six years ago for Flight, a film I made about a pregnant woman with two children pursued by a violent man. I talked to so many of the women.”

She was so moved by their stories she agreed to become the refuge’s patron, helping out with fundraising. Now Roshni staff are advising EastEnders on the Zainab and Yusef story. “It is always important to everyone at EastEnders that they get it right,” said Nina.

Flashpoint: He loses it as row boils over

“And I knew the people at Roshni were just the ones to help with this.

“It can happen to any woman. Zainab was strong and not naive, but a woman is vulnerable if the man hits the right psychological weak spots.”

Nina revealed that the scenes she filmed can’t touch the horrifying reality of what happened to some of the refuge women.

Tears filled her eyes as she told how one victim was *systematically burnt with an iron by her husband.

“He would tell her the ironing needed to be done, and she should get the board out,” explained Nina.

“But she knew if she did he would burn her with the iron – and that if she didn’t he would beat her up. It was Hobson’s choice.”

The woman finally fled the marriage when her husband threw one of their children across the room.

“Many women take abuse to protect their children.” Nina explained.

She also realises EastEnders viewers might find it hard to *understand how Zainab, once so headstrong, has become cowed and submissive,

“People don’t understand how a woman totally loses any *confidence when she becomes a victim,” said Nina.

“It’s also not the easiest thing in the world to go somewhere else if you don’t have any money and if you have children.

“And in Asian communities you are brought up to believe it is shameful if you do not have a successful marriage or end up a woman on your own.

“I just want these women to know that know matter how *horrible life is, they need to try to find that inner strength to get out and seek help.”

In real life Nina has been *happily married to Canadian composer and producer Raiomond Mirza for 12 years. They recently worked together for the first time on a comedy movie called Four – with Nina as executive producer.

“It was an *interesting experience,” Nina laughed. Everything I despise! Dealing with *money, staffing etc. But I’m learning a new set of skills and I’m very proud of what we have achieved together.”

So does this mean she’s going to be leaving Albert Square? “Ah no, I love being in front of the *camera too much and I love acting too much,” Nina declared.

She hopes viewers will see something of the old Zainab return after her ordeal.

“But after what’s happened I don’t think she can ever totally be the same again” said Nina.

http://www.people.co.uk/celebs-tv/celebrity-interview/2011/11/06/i-broke-down-filming-this-dishonour-102039-23540685/

tammyy2j

11-11-2011, 15:15

Tamwar is also suppose to get badly burnt in the fire as well

Perdita

11-11-2011, 18:22

EastEnders character Tamwar Masood will reportedly be badly disfigured during the shock Albert Square fire on Christmas Day.

Tamwar (Himesh Patel) will be required to undergo plastic surgery after getting caught up in the B&B blaze that will conclude the ongoing Masood family and Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) storyline.

Viewers will see Tamwar's young marriage to Afia (Meryl Fernandes) put under pressure by his devastating injuries, according to The Mirror.

"Tamwar is lucky to be alive after the fire," a show source said. "He escapes but suffers serious scars to his face and it causes depression. For the actor it is going to be a huge challenge with a new look."

Nina Wadia, who plays Zainab Masood in the soap, recently told Digital Spy that her scripts for the Christmas period "shocked the life out of [her]".

Wadia also promised "more shocks and surprises" for Zainab in the near future, saying: "Every time I open a new [script], my jaw drops."

owenlee4me

12-11-2011, 13:24

I read that Tamwar is in a horrifice christmas story line, and he is to be horribly burnt?:wall:
What sort of Jolly story line is this, why do Soaps do this, make things sad and miserable at the Season to be Jolly time!,
has no one ever thought of story lines that make you sentimental? "A wonderful life" film comes to mind.:)

I don't know if I can watch a fire at christmas time,:thumbsdow and for all those out there who had suffered a burn, it's kind of a bit cruel at this time of year.
As for it being Tamwar, he's a canny lad, why not someone who is a pain in the b**t, like moany Lauren or Chav Whitney.

Poor Zainab what a year she's having, lets hope that this tragedy makes her and Masood close, now that would be more like it:cheer:

Perdita

17-11-2011, 06:11

It just wouldn’t be Christmas in Walford without doom and gloom.

And this year producers have added disaster to the mix with a spectacular blaze that will leave one character dead and three others fighting for their lives.

In true EastEnders fashion, Albert Square will be the centre of misery on Christmas Day with the fire at the B&B.

Hardman Phil Mitchell, Masood Ahmed and his son Tamwar Masood are all left with devastating injuries. But sources on the show say Dr Yusef Khan will be killed in the inferno.

The insider said: “This is the biggest fire EastEnders has ever seen and there will be casualties.

“It is such a huge disaster that it will affect most of the families on the show in one way or another.

“Masood passes out with all the smoke and heat, Phil is rushed to hospital and Tamwar leaves the B&B on fire.

“But Yusef is the one trapped inside and definitely won’t live to see 2012.

“It’s not just deaths this fire causes, it’s divorce and destruction among families.

“It is the perfect thing to make sure the soap explodes with emotion and excitement going into the New Year.”

EastEnders wanted a spectacular similar to the Corrie tram crash last year and it seems they’ve come up with the goods.

The blaze starts during a festive party in the B&B with the whole first floor collapsing. Moments after Yusef had waved to his daughter Afia outside, he is seen plunging 10 feet into the flames.

But Masood played by Nitin Ganatra, Phil (Steve McFadden) and Tamwar, played by Himish Patel, also face hospital treatment and could be written out of the soap.

The fire sequence was such an ambitious set of scenes that a replica of the B&B was made at Elstree film studios in an area normally reserved for special effects on movie blockbusters.

Nina Wadia, who plays Tamwar’s mum Zainab in the soap, recently said her scripts for Christmas “shocked the life out of her”. But EastEnders fans will be no strangers to yuletide shocks and upsets. Who can forget Archie Mitchell being bludgeoned to death with the Queen Vic bust in 2009 and Max Branning’s affair with son Bradley’s wife Stacey being exposed in 2007?

Then there were such classic moments as Queen Vic landlord Den Watts serving divorce papers on Angie in 1986 and Arthur Fowler having a mental breakdown.

A source said: “There is a great tradition at EastEnders of captivating Christmas Day storylines and this year is no different.

“It promises to be the most dramatic plot ever and we’re hoping to smash previous ratings from over the last few years. Corrie won lots of accolades for their tram crash in 2010 but this will be bigger, better and bolder in its vision.

“Everyone is delighted with what the writers have conjured up, not least the actors involved.”

The Mirror also revealed how Heather Trott will be murdered early in the New Year, while Pat Butcher is being killed off this Christmas.

Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2011/11/17/eastenders-four-characters-will-fight-for-life-in-another-grim-christmas-plot-115875-23567145/#ixzz1dwMN4Rpt

Glen1

17-11-2011, 14:53

I just wish there was a bit of humour on part of a Xmas day episode, heaven knows where it could come from with the current storylines.

Perdita

19-12-2011, 16:22

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has spoken of how she wants her ongoing domestic violence storyline to have a positive impact.

Viewers have recently seen the actress's character Zainab Masood suffer physical and mental abuse from her partner Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti), who has spent months trying to gain total control over her life.

Although Zainab has traditionally been portrayed as a strong and feisty woman, she has started to crumble in recent weeks due to Yusef's mistreatment.

Wadia today told BBC News: "I think the idea behind showing a strong woman like Zainab changing like this is to show that it can happen to even the strongest of women. They can change and they can be manipulated - especially if they're isolated from their friends and family. The manipulator can take advantage, so it's to prove that it can even happen to people like her."

"To be honest, if even one woman rings that Action Line at the end of the show and there's some difference made to her life, I'll feel like we've done our job," she continued. "It is a serious issue and I'm glad it's being highlighted.

"I hope that it wakes anyone up - not just women, I know that there are abused men out there as well. So if it gives anyone the strength to leave a relationship like that, we'll have done our job."

Wadia also discussed the drama ahead in this week's episodes, which see Yusef take Zainab's young son Kamil away from her as he steps up his manipulation.

"Yusef shows very clearly his true colours," she confirmed. "He decides to take Kamil, so he's now messing with her children, which is what's going to wake Zainab up big-time.

"She then realises that she's in trouble, and she goes to the one person she knows will help her regardless of what he says he thinks of her - which is Masood. They will have to work together to ensure that their children are safe."

EastEnders continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.

Perdita

06-03-2012, 16:07

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has admitted that her character's latest storyline twist was emotional to film.

The actress's troubled alter ego Zainab Masood reaches breaking point this week, finally telling her family how she vengefully sent her abusive husband Yusef Khan back into the burning B&B at Christmas.

Speaking on Lorraine this morning (March 6), Wadia confessed that she was surprised by how much the scenes affected her on set.

"We were filming mid-January, and I suddenly had a massive breakdown in front of everyone! It was really embarrassing," she explained. "I just cried in the middle of a scene, I just absolutely burst into tears.

"It was Zainab talking about what had happened, and then I just uncontrollably couldn't stop and it was horrible. Luckily Nitin [Ganatra] and Marc [Elliott], who play Masood and Syed, were there. They literally just took me aside, sat with me and calmed me down. I apologised to the director, because I physically couldn't stop crying."

Wadia said that she hopes a happy ending is on the horizon for Zainab and Masood, despite the turmoil ahead for the family following her character's confession.

"Zainab's been living with this for a few months now and she finally can't take it anymore," she commented. "So it all comes out, and it comes out in the worst way possible, in front of everyone. I think she probably would have liked to confess to Masood privately first, but she didn't get a chance.

"It all has gone very wrong for her since Christmas. But I'm hoping, I'm really hoping, at some point they get her and Masood back together."

EastEnders continues tonight (March 6) at 7.30pm on BBC One.

Perdita

12-03-2012, 06:02

THE MASOOD family agreed to a fresh start in EastEnders last night – but their woes aren't yet over.
Himesh Patel – who plays Tamwar – revealed things don't go smoothly. "There's so many loose ends to tie up, so we're still exploring it," he says. "But it does move on."

Tamwar is feeling insecure over the scars he suffered on his back in the Christmas blaze at the B&B.

He was hurt that his wife Afia (Meryl Fernandes) was this week seen looking up plastic surgery websites.

Patel added: "He thinks she doesn't like the way he looks. But she just wants him to feel better about himself, as she can see what it's doing to him."

The Sun

alan45

14-03-2012, 16:37

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has admitted that she wants 'lighter' material ahead for her character Zainab Khan.

Zainab recently reached a huge turning point as she finally made peace with Christian Clarke, the partner of her son Syed (Marc Elliott).

The mum-of-four decided to bury the hatchet with Christian (John Partridge) shortly after she had confessed the truth about the night of the B&B blaze, when she sent her abusive husband Yusef back into the flames.

Wadia told PA of Zainab's future: "I finally get to show the world she's not a homophobe. It was very emotional filming those scenes with John Partridge. I'm hoping they lighten her up a bit now."

The actress also reaffirmed her desire to see Zainab reunited with ex-husband Masood (Nitin Ganatra) in the near future.

"I've known Nitin for about 20 years now - I think I'm more married to him than my own husband! It's been really difficult not having him around," she explained.

"They've paired me up with Diane Parish for the Minute Mart stuff. I think they like the duo there, which is great fun and girl power, but I do miss working with Nitin."

owenlee4me

15-03-2012, 22:53

It was so moving seeing zee and Christian move forward with their relationship, both are such good characters and i think it would be brill if they developed a sense of humour and inject some light hearted fun into the relationship,
I think "maz" is just great, he has a good attiutude to his family, and his attitude to opening his mind to all that comes to his family is a delight.
I think this family is an essential part of EE and love to see what is coming next!!!

Perdita

23-04-2012, 15:42

EastEnders star Nina Wadia has admitted that she is keen to see more humourous scenes for the Masood family.

The actress's character Zainab endured dark times on Albert Square last year as her abusive relationship with Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti) left her a broken woman.

Wadia, reflecting on the storyline, told This Morning today (April 23): "It wasn't pleasant. I did a bit of research talking to a lot of women who'd been through quite abusive relationships. Their stories alone upset me, and then to actually play it - Ace is quite realistic in his portrayal of things, so I took away quite a few real bruises!"

Asked whether she is hoping things will look up for Zainab, she replied: "I don't think she can get any worse! Yes, I am - I miss all of the Masood humour. I'm so glad that Christian and Zainab have sorted their problems out - I'm getting less abuse on the street because of that!

"And I love working with Di [Parish] with the Denise-Zainab relationship. I look forward to when scenes with those two are written in - she's just a gem to work with."

Wadia is in the running for the 'Best Actress' prize at this year's British Soap Awards, which take place in London on Saturday (April 28).

Perdita

05-05-2012, 16:10

EastEnders actress Nina Wadia has said that she finds her role in the show therapeutic.

Wadia, who plays the often-confrontational Zainab Khan, told MSN that her part enables her to avoid real-life confrontation.

"It's great because I don't take things out on my real husband, I take it out on the fake husbands instead," Wadia said.

"It's quite therapeutic, as far as I'm concerned."

She went on to suggest that her character needs to move on from the trauma of her recent past, and her abusive relationship with Yusef Khan (Ace Bhatti).

"I think she needs to move on and be happy again, that would be a bit of fun, but who knows what the year holds."

Wadia recently expressed a hope that Zainab's storyline would "lighten up" in forthcoming episodes, admitting that she had broken down over one recent scene.

alan45

29-05-2012, 00:57

EastEnders' Masood Ahmed pulls off a romantic surprise next week as he asks a stunned Zainab to marry him again.

Masood (Nitin Ganatra) pops the question during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations at the Queen Vic, declaring his love for his ex-wife in front of the locals.

Just prior to the proposal, Zainab (Nina Wadia) has been busy trying to save The Vic's attempts to mark the royal occasion, teaming up with Cora Cross to help decorate the pub and source food and drink after troubled Jean Slater's attempts fail to impress.

http://i2.cdnds.net/12/21/618x443/soaps_eastenders_4438_3.jpg
© BBC

Although she is pleased when her last-minute efforts come up trumps, Zainab is also concerned by Masood's strange behaviour as she has spotted him going into a mysterious lady's house.

Zainab fears that Masood could have a new love interest and soon confronts him about what's going on. Masood explains that he has been continuing his tutor lessons as he really enjoys doing them, but Zainab remains sceptical, questioning where all of the extra money is in that case.

All becomes clear, however, when Masood pulls out a ring and asks a shocked Zainab to marry him. Is this their chance to move on from their ordeal with Yusef once and for all?

http://i2.cdnds.net/12/21/618x431/soaps_eastenders_4438_1.jpg
© BBC

EastEnders airs these scenes on Tuesday, June 5 at 7.30pm on BBC One.

alan45

01-06-2012, 00:52

EastEnders fans will see Masood Ahmed's brother AJ arrive in Walford later this year.

Paul Sharma has been cast in the role of AJ, who hopes to reconnect with Masood as he turns up on Albert Square.

http://i2.cdnds.net/12/22/300x225/paul-sharma_1.jpg
© BBC

Paul Sharma

Billed as a "cheeky chancer" who lives his life by the toss of a coin, AJ is a mechanic who never misses an opportunity for excitement.

Within minutes of AJ making his EastEnders debut, he manages to get himself and Masood into trouble. However, as they relive their childhood antics, it's not long before Masood begins to wonder if his younger brother is running away from something.

Although some will see AJ as a bad influence, he also shows a more serious side as he is desperate to build bridges with his family. In order to do so, he realises that he'll have to tip-toe around an unimpressed Zainab (Nina Wadia).

An EastEnders statement teased: "Using his trusty coin to make his decisions for him, AJ is the polar opposite to his control freak sister-in-law. Sparks will fly in the Masood household as the battle lines are drawn."

Sharma's previous screen credits include roles in Casualty and Doctors. He also previously worked with Nitin Ganatra on Meet the Magoons.