Zoe Slater was heard commenting that someone was ‘alive’ as if they were meant to be dead in a scene on EastEnders on Wednesday night, as she was left fighting for her life
22:51, 03 Sep 2025Updated 23:32, 03 Sep 2025
Zoe Slater was heard commenting that someone was ‘alive’ as if they were meant to be dead(Image: PA)
Fans believe a dead EastEnders character may be about to come back to life in a twist linked to Zoe Slater.
Zoe, played by Michelle Ryan, panicked that someone was out to get her as she was shot in explosive scenes on Wednesday night. She had no idea she had accidentally been shot after Jack Branning and Ravi Gulati fought over a gun.
Fearing she was in danger, she admitted to her mum Kat Moon that someone was after her and seemed shocked when she said the words “he’s still alive”. She didn’t specify who she was referring to before she lost consciousness.
Now fans think it’s someone from the show’s past and that they could be about to make a shocking return. One theory was that she was talking about Paul Trueman, who was killed off on the BBC soap in 2004.
Fans believe a dead EastEnders character may be about to come back to life(Image: BBC)
Zoe, played by Michelle Ryan, panicked that someone was out to get her(Image: PA)
Another theory was it was about Dennis Rickman, who died in 2005. Some fans wondered if it was a living character, but Zoe wrongly assumed they were dead – with Ross Marshall named, as well as Max Branning.
Fans also questioned if Zoe’s biological father Harry Slater, who raped Zoe’s mother Kat Moon when she was 13 years old, was the one who was “still alive”. Fans took to X with their theories.
One fan said: “Who’s still alive? What if Dennis Rickman or Paul Trueman is alive and Zoe knows them?” Another fan said: “Who was Zoe looking at in the pub? She clearly saw someone. And she told Kat ‘he’s still alive’.
“Was it Joel? Was it Ross? Was it Oscar, then did she click Max was alive because he looks so much like Oscar??” Another fan posted: “Zoe said ‘He’s still alive,” when talking to Kat in the ambulance. It’s either her twin brother, or (((drum roll))) Harry Slater didn’t die in 2018!”
More will be revealed in upcoming episodes. It come as fans learned Zoe had given birth to twins in 2006, while until that flashback episode no one knew about it.
Fans predicted it was Paul Trueman(Image: BBC)
It seemed that sadly one of the twins died after childbirth, while Zoe left the little boy and fled the hospital, wanting him to be adopted. Now, fans think the father of the babies could be Den Watts.
Zoe slept with Den amid a storyline with her partner Dennis, Den’s son, and it was thought she had an abortion. Now fans think she was still pregnant and that the twins are Den’s children.
Taking to X one fan said: “If anything it’s Den’s baby.” Another said: “Wait is Dirty den the dad.” A third fan posted: “Zoe Slater is the mother of twins by Den Watts, and one of them is dead.” Another added: “No way she had Den’s baby???? No way right????” A further post read: “Is that Den’s baby?.”
Michelle Ryan’s Zoe Slater is at the centre of many iconic moments on Albert Square
Zoe Slater has an iconic past on EastEnders(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
Zoe Slater is officially back in Walford. Michelle Ryan and her iconic character returned to EastEnders permanently this week and her storyline is already of to a dramatic start, complete with dark secrets, arguments outside the Vic and a shocking shooting.
The character’s return was hotly anticipated by fans ever since she briefly appeared in three episodes earlier this year. Her reunion with mum Kat Slater aired on Tuesday night (2 September) and fans have flocked to the internet to share their theories around where her storyline might go.
Zoe is fan favourite on EastEnders thanks to her involvement in many of the show’s iconic moments and characters. Here we take a look at her past, from her reason for leaving Walford to one of the show’s most quoted arguments…
Zoe first arrived in Walford in 2000(Image: BBC)
Arriving in Walford
Twenty five years ago, The Slater family first burst onto the BBC soap. A teenage Zoe moved to Albert Square with her sisters, Kat, Lynne and Little Mo, father Charlie and grandmother Mo Harris.
Later, her cousin Stacey would arrive and become one the core members of the family, but at the start, Zoe was the youngest Slater and described by the BBC as “bolshy and defiant”. Though her family had just moved to Walford, she was intent on getting away and joining her Uncle Harry in Spain – something Kat was not willing to let happen.
Zoe and Kat’s argument is one of EastEnders’ most iconic fights(Image: Press Association Images)
Finding out who her mother is
Less than a year after she arrived, Zoe wanted to leave Walford to join Harry Slater, her uncle, in Spain. Her sister Kat is not willing to let that happen and orders Zoe not to go.
In a fight outside the Vic, Zoe yells the first half of one EastEnders’ most iconic quotes: “You can’t tell me what to do, you ain’t my mother!”
“Yes, I am!” Kat responds.
She explains that she was 13 when she had Zoe and that she got pregnant after being raped by Harry. The argument leads Kat to attempt suicide, and Zoe, unable to process what she’s learned, runs away.
The twist has affected Kat for the rest of her time on the show and even led to a spin-off called Kat & Alfie: Redwater, in which she goes looking for Luke, her long-lost son and Zoe’s twin brother.
During her first time away from Walford, Zoe is found on the streets by Roxy Drake, a pimp who forces her into sex work. Thankfully, Kat tracks her daughter down and is able to take her home after head-butting Roxy.
Zoe and Kat were once in a love triangle(Image: BBC)
Love triangle with Kat
Eagle-eyed fans may have noticed a weird look Zoe gave to Anthony Trueman when she entered the Vic on Tuesday’s episode. This is because the two used to be in a relationship.
But Zoe is not the only Slater that Anthony has been involved with. In fact, before he dated her, Anthony was dating Kat. Zoe disowned Kat for disapproving of the relationship but when Anthony reveals that he’s still in love with Kat, the relationship ends and Zoe runs away again.
Den persuaded Zoe to sleep with him and get pregnant(Image: BBC)
Sleeping with Den Watts
When Zoe returns again, she starts to date Dennis Rickman, the son of iconic EastEnders villain Den Watts. The relationship with Dennis was doomed from the start, as unbeknownst to Zoe, he was in love with his adoptive sister, Sharon Watts.
On Christmas Day 2005, Zoe learns of Dennis and Sharon’s affair and plan to run away together. Den convinces Zoe that the only way to keep Dennis is to say she is pregnant, as Sharon is believed to be infertile.
The plan works but Dennis refuses to sleep with Zoe again and she becomes desperate to get pregnant for real. At his suggestion, Zoe resorts to sleeping with Den.
After Dennis catches his girlfriend and his father in bed together, and realises Zoe wasn’t pregnant, he leaves to be with Sharon. But not before informing Den’s wife Chrissie of his affair with Zoe.
Zoe does get pregnant by Den and a vengeful Chrissie convinces her to terminate the pregnancy and team up to exact revenge on Den. Joined by Sam Mitchell, the three hatch a plan to reveal everything he has done to his beloved daughter Sharon.
Upon learning of the way Den used her infertility against her, Sharon disowns him. When Den realised this was Chrissie’s plan, he attacks her and a distressed Zoe panics and hits him with a metal doorstop. Den collapses and Zoe believes she has killed him.
But, after she leaves, Den wakes up and grabs Chrissie who hits him with the same doorstop. Zoe is led to believe she is the murderer, but is eventually told the truth by Sam. When she learns what really happened, Zoe punches Chrissie and decides to leave Walford.
Zoe left Walford for good in 2005
Leaving Walford
Before this year, the last time Zoe was seen on EastEnders was when she was leaving for Ibiza after finding out she wasn’t responsible for Den Watts’ murder. At the tube station, Zoe tearfully called Kat to say goodbye.
Kat races to meet Zoe at the station and gives her the hospital bracelet she had as a baby. Zoe replied: “I love you, Mum.”
The two parted on good terms, and Zoe wasn’t seen again on screen until this year, when she was revealed to be staying with Stacey Slater. However, as proven by her frosty reunion with Kat, something must have changed.
In 2015, Kat tells Mo and Stacey that she was planning to save some money to visit Zoe in Spain, but Mo tells Stacey that Zoe does not want to see Kat. Mo tries to contact Zoe to change her mind, but she refuses and tells Kat that she wants to move on from her and Walford. Kat then visits the convent where she gave birth to Zoe and finds out about her son, Luke.
Zoe first returned in June(Image: BBC)
Return to Walford
Zoe’s return to EastEnders got fully underway in the most recent episodes of the soap and fans have many theories about what she has been up to in the two decades since she left. Some have suggested she may be the real mother of Joel Marshall, one of the show’s current villains.
Others have guessed she is secretly be married to another returning favourite, Max Branning. If so, she would be the second Slater to be involved with him, as Stacey has been romantically linked to Max several times, including when she was still dating his son, Bradley.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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EastEnders fans were left gobsmacked after last week’s dramatic duff duff, which saw the return of Zoe Slater, played by Michelle Ryan, to Albert Square after 20 years
EastEnders made an announcement just days ago confirming why Wednesday’s episode isn’t on iPlayer and what time fans can watch it on BBC One as Zoe Slater’s secret is revealed
06:00, 03 Sep 2025Updated 06:18, 03 Sep 2025
EastEnders made an announcement just days ago confirming why Wednesday’s episode isn’t on iPlayer(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes)
In a twist to the usual proceedings, EastEnders will air on both BBCiPlayer and BBC One at 7:30pm on Wednesday and will not drop on iPlayer in the morning.
Normally the episode drops each morning on the streaming platform ahead of it airing that same evening on TV. But to preserve some big twists, bosses have made the decision not to release it on iPlayer so that everyone sees it that evening at the same time.
The decision was announced over the weekend, with it revealed the episode would see returning character Zoe Slater’s secrets finally exposed. Not only that, but Tuesday’s episode ended with a deadly cliffhanger as a gun was fired.
Fans will find out who was shot in Wednesday’s episode, after Jack Branning and Ravi Gulati accidentally fired the gun during a struggle. It’s set to be a huge episode as we also find out what has gone on in Zoe Slater’s life for the past 20 years.
In a twist to the usual proceedings, EastEnders will air on both BBC iPlayer and BBC One at 7:30pm on Wednesday and will not drop on iPlayer(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
Zoe made her big comeback to Walford for the first time in two decades this week. Michelle Ryan reprised the role, and Zoe’s first scenes with mum Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace, aired across Monday and Tuesday.
Viewers praised this week’s episodes, and were left excited for what was to come. Soon, fans were sharing their theories about what would happen on Wednesday knowing there was a long wait until they knew the full details.
The BBC soap confirmed the episode would explore Zoe’s past, with her return sending “shockwaves through the Slaters and Walford”. EastEnders Executive Producer Ben Wadey teased “dramatic” scenes ahead, and said she had more than one secret.
He said: “As Zoe makes her dramatic return to Walford next week, more than one secret in her past will come to light as we look to explore the reasons behind her return, and what has happened in the past twenty years to make her the person she is today.”
Fans will find out who was shot in Wednesday’s episode(Image: BBC)
It comes as fans feared over who would be shot in the episode, as other fans predicted Zoe’s secrets. Fans are convinced she is the mother of troubled teen Joel Marshall after some apparent hints in recent months.
Other fans think it will be revealed that she is married to Max Branning who is returning to the BBC soap. As for the shooting victim, fans have named Sharon Watts, Kat, Zoe, Howie Danes and Oscar as potential victims.
In a sad twist fans are also guessing Kat’s nan Mo Harris is the one who gets shot, and that she might be killed off in a tragedy. Fans will just have to tune in on Wednesday evening to find out.
There’s less than a week to go before the ‘mother of all reunions’ on EastEnders, as Kat and Zoe come face to face for the first time in two years – as they tease what’s to come
20:08, 27 Aug 2025Updated 20:08, 27 Aug 2025
With just a week to go until the ‘mother of all reunions’, Jessie Wallace and Michelle Ryan joined The One Show live from Albert Square on Wednesday night, to give EastEnders fans a teaser of what they can expect.
At the time, Alfie and Stacey were the only ones who had been in contact with her and had tried to do all that they could to keep the secret from Kat. However, the two couldn’t keep the secret for long as news got to both Tommy and Jean this week. Tonight, the guilt got too much for Alfie, as he confessed all…
Jessie and Michelle joined JB Gill live from Albert Square(Image: BBC)
Kat was left stunned as the episode came to an end, and now the secret’s out, EastEnders fans only have to wait a few days until the highly anticipated reunion next week. The BBC soap aren’t giving too much away, but JB Gill managed to get some details out of Michelle and Jessie during his trip to Albert Square…
Revealing what viewers can expect from her major return next week, Michelle said: “Zoe is at the lowest point that we’ve ever known her to be. Disappeared 20 years ago, and we’re seeing that she’s struggled a lot. So, she’s desperate, she comes back, and even despite herself, she knows that she needs her family.
The duo are set for the ‘mother of all reunions’ next week(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes)
“And I think that’s where Kat is such a huge part. The mother-daughter dynamic is the best thing that you can play,” Michelle continued.
“But we still play it in a way as sisters, because we grew up as sisters,” Jessie added. “Well, the characters grew up as sisters, but there are elements of, ‘I am your mother!'” she laughed. “But that’s there, that’s sort of underlying.”
Digging for even more details, the JLS star asked the duo whether the reunion would be explosive, or pain sailing – but of course, we knew the answer.
“Oh come on! It’s EastEnders, what do you think?!” Jessie laughed. “Carnage. Complete carnage,” Michelle added.
As Jessie mentioned, Kat and Zoe grew up as ‘sisters’ until October 2001, where Kat accidentally revealed the truth during an argument, creating the iconic – “You’re not my mother!” line.
The pair have had a tumultuous relationship ever since – but with Zoe now heading back to Albert Square, can Kat have the mother daughter relationship with Zoe that she’s always wanted?
It’s not the only dramatic moment happening next week in the BBC soap, as one residents life is set to hang in the balance after a shock shooting. But who is it?
EastEnders legend Danniella Westbrook has revealed that she would consider a return to the BBC soap opera if bosses agreed to her very strict condition
Danniella Westbrook has just one condition should she return to EastEnders(Image: PA)
An EastEnders icon has shared the single condition that might lure her back to the BBC soap opera – and it’s quite a demand. Danniella Westbrook, 49, who initially arrived on Albert Square in 1990 as Sam Mitchell, has confessed she would only consider returning to Walford if her legendary character was given control of the Queen Vic.
Speaking about a potential return, Danniella said: “I’d only go back if they gave Sam Mitchell the Queen Vic. If they put Sam behind the bar and made her the next Peggy, I’d go back.
“But if they didn’t, I’m not interested. The show needs some great matriarchs again, and they don’t have loads now, do they? I know they’ve got Tish [Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon] and Denise. But yeah, I’d consider it if Sam Mitchell was back running The Queen Vic.”
The performer, who has portrayed Sam intermittently for over thirty years, reckons seizing control of the renowned boozer could restore some desperately needed edge to the BBC drama.
Danniella Westbrook has hinted she could return to EastEnders (Image: Unknown)
“If Sam were running the Vic, she’d be a lot like Peggy, I think,” she explained to the Daily Star. “But I think she’d have poker nights and all sorts going on.”
Danniella also suggested that, should she make a comeback, her interpretation of Sam would appear vastly different to the depiction audiences have witnessed recently from actress Kim Medcalf, who played the character between 2002 and 2005, before returning in 2022 and leaving in 2024. “I think if she came back, she’d have to come back a bit differently, because the other girl who plays her does it so differently,” Danniella said.
“The way I play Sam and the way she plays Sam, it’s like two completely different characters. Even the writing changes. What they write for her and what they write for me are like two different personalities.”
Drawing comparisons between their interpretations, she continued: “Kim plays her a lot posher, not as East End, not as flirty, she’s more middle-class in her version. Whereas my Sam is more brassy, more cheeky.”
The Mitchell clan have remained central to EastEnders‘ storylines for decades, with Barbara Windsor’s legendary Peggy Mitchell commanding respect from behind the Queen Vic bar for years.
Danniella believes that handing Sam similar authority could recapture some of that iconic drama. But despite the character being recast in 2002, Danniella returned to EastEnders in 2009 as producers wanted to recreate Sam’s chemistry with Patsy Palmer and Sid Owen, who had returned to the show as Ricky and Bianca.
The London-born star was last seen on EastEnders in 2016, having made a string of appearances between 2009 and 2010. Producers cut short her previous returns when her personal battles took their toll on Danniella’s work.
Speaking previously, she said that the bosses on the show had seen her struggle with addiction and despite her character being recast, she saw it as a “blessing.” Speaking on the Soap From The Box podcast, Danniella claimed the producers told her how they had been “dreading” calling her up with the news.
She claimed they told her: “We were dreading making the phone call. We’re not offering you it because you’ve been so ill the last few times you’ve come back. We do want to look after your safety first. How do you feel about it?”
Recalling her response on the podcast, Danniella said: “Do you know what? You’ve just taken the decision out of my hands and I feel I can put that to bed. Maybe one day, if anything ever comes around, I hope we can all sit down and have dinner and have a lovely time about it, and look at the lovely memories.”
The duo met more than 20 years ago when she interviewed his band Busted on MTV’s TRL
Love Is Blind UK’s Emma and Matt Willis briefly followed the same path before they met with the celebrities both taking on roles in EastEnders.
The second season of Love Is Blind UK has gone down a storm with more instant connections and fiery personalities keeping Netflix subscribers hooked.
At the heart of it all are real-life married presenters Emma and Matt Willis who met back in 2004 when Emma, then 29, interviewed Busted on MTV’s TRL, including 22-year-old Matt.
Four years later, the pair got married at Rushton Hall, Northamptonshire and welcomed their three children in 2009, 2011 and then their youngest five years later.
But years before meeting, both Emma and Matt experienced what life is like in BBC ’s iconic Albert Square.
Presenter Emma Willis starred as a minor character called Jodie in an episode of EastEnders in 1999. (Image: BBC)
In November 1999, The Voice presenter had a guest role in an episode of EastEnders as a youngster called Jodie. She starred alongside Jodie’s mum, played by actress Joanna Hole, although there is little information on what her involvement in the episode was.
In a still image from the episode, Emma looks a lot younger and has longer hair, in comparison to her famous short haircut.
Meanwhile, Busted star Matt made a couple of trips to Walford, the first being an unnamed teenager on a skateboard in 1998.
The second of the two was a far larger role in 2014 when Matt was already well known for being part of the noughties pop band.
Busted star Matt Willis portrayed Stacey Slater’s boyfriend Luke Riley in EastEnders in 2014.(Image: BBC)
He was behind Luke Riley, Stacey Slater’s (Lacey Turner) long-term boyfriend who she was living with in London after she killed Archie Mitchell (Larry Lamb).
Stacey had been pretending that her name was Jenny Smith but when he found out the truth, she headed back to Walford to live with Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace).
Luke still loved Stacey though and was willing to make another go of things, however, upon discovering she was a killer, he left for good this time, leaving her heartbroken.
Love Is Blind UK is available to watch on Netflix.
EASTENDERS legend Cheryl Fergison has revealed she’s been left unable to walk following her stroke.
The actress was struck by the medical emergency in May which has left her walking with a stick.
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Actress Cheryl suffered a devastating stroke earlier this yearCredit: Shutterstock
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She described the medical emergency as ‘one of the lowest times in my life’Credit: Instagram
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Cheryl is known for playing Heather Trott in EastEndersCredit: BBC
She told the Mirror: “You lose the ability to coordinate your hands, to walk properly, your balance is gone.
“It’s frustrating and makes you angry. But I’ve started to recover; I am coming on in leaps and bounds now.”
Recalling the terrifying experience, former EastEnders star Cheryl, 59, said: “I went to bed but couldn’t settle.
“When I got up in the night to go to the bathroom, my balance completely went and I had to stop myself from falling over. My whole right side felt numb, heavy and tingly.”
Cheryl admitted that her health battle has reminded her what’s really important in life.
She added: “Material things don’t matter; they can be lost or broken, but memories are everything. Friends, family and laughter – that’s all that matters.”
Cheryl Fergison announces ‘return to the BBC’ after being axed and forced to work in a Chinese restaurant
She said: “I’ll never give in. I want to keep singing. If people criticise me for singing in small restaurants, so be it.
“At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer. Community has always been important to me, and I’ll perform no matter the crowd.
“If only two people show up, I don’t care—I’m still being paid, and I’ll still give it my all.”
What are the symptoms of stroke?
The FAST method – which stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – is the easiest way to remember the most common symptoms of stroke:
F = Face drooping – if one side of a person’s face is dropped or numb then ask them to smile, if it’s uneven then you should seek help.
A = Arm weakness – if one arm is weak or numb then you should ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downwards then you might need to get help
S = Speech difficulty – if a person’s speech is slurred then this could be a sign of a stroke
T = Time to call 999 – if a person has the signs above then you need to call 999 in the UK or 911 in the US for emergency care.
Other symptoms include:
sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
EastEnders has received a number of complaints from viewers after they aired one raunchy scene between Alfie and Kat Moon earlier this summer
The BBC has been hit with complaints over one raunchy EastEnders scene, which aired earlier this year. This summer, fans watched on as Alfie and Kat Moon tied the knot for the third time. Kat hoped to get a little bit of action before the big day, but was left disappointed when Alfie wasn’t up to it. It came after the character suffered from erectile dysfunction after undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.
Alfie and Kat’s scene received complaints from BBC viewers (Image: BBC)
However, Alfie later rejected Kat’s advances before things went any further, telling her he’d made them dinner. Kat seemed like she’d had enough as she asked Alfie: “How are we supposed to get married if you can’t even bear to touch me?”
She then stormed out of the house, later finding a porn site on the family laptop. It was later revealed that their son Tommy was the one watching porn, although viewers knew it was Joel who introduced him to the site.
Despite no action taking place, it’s been revealed that the BBC did receive complaints about the scene.
The BBC decided the complaint was ‘not upheld’(Image: BBC)
The broadcaster recently published its list of complaints, which showed a grievance for “inappropriate sexual content” during the episode which aired on June 10.
However, the BBC reviewed the complaint and decided it was “not upheld,” as the content was not inappropriate.
A trailer released by the BBC soap earlier today teased the first confrontation between the estranged mother and daughter duo, with Kat looking stunned as she comes face-to-face with Zoe for the first time.
Zoe made her shock return earlier this year but quickly left to go to Barcelona after a close run-in with Kat. Alfie then went to find her behind Kat’s back, but unfortunately came back alone.
Kat is still unaware that both Alfie and Stacey have been in contact with her daughter, but from the explosive new trailer, it looks like she may be about to find out very soon…
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Suki Panesar looked like she had lost everything in tonight’s EastEnders as the character was exposed for her request to pregnant granddaughter Avani Nandra-Hart
19:50, 13 Aug 2025Updated 20:00, 13 Aug 2025
Could it be the end of the road for Suki and Eve?(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
It was an emotional night for the Panesar/Gulati family in tonight’s EastEnders, as Suki was ‘disowned’ by her whole family after the truth about Avani’s pregnancy was revealed. Now fans fear we could be seeing an exit for the character – especially after the actor’s recent Strictly announcement.
Last night, Eve took Avani to get a termination without Suki’s knowledge. In previous scenes, we had seen Suki asking Avani to keep the baby for herself and Eve to bring up. Although Avani was up for the plan at first, she later disclosed to Eve that she had changed her mind.
In tonight’s episode, the aftermath of the revelation continued, with Ravi and Priya unleashing their fury onto Suki for her actions. An angry Priya even went as far as to slap Suki across the face, but that wasn’t the least of her troubles.
This week viewers saw Eve take Avani to have a termination without Suki knowing(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Later on in the episode, she took Avani to hospital after she was experiencing heavy bleeding, and once again met a furious Ravi and Priya in the hospital corridors.
As she left them alone to make their way back home, Suki was left with even more panic when she found her grandson Nugget and son Vinny packing their things to move out the house. However, they weren’t the only ones, as wife Eve also had the same idea.
A tearful Eve then called out Suki for opening her up to the hurt of losing out on motherhood – something she had never been open to in the past.
Is this the end for SukEve?(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
“I don’t know what we’ve got left anymore,” Eve said as she made her way out the door, leaving Suki in tears.
Now, fans fear a split between one of their favourite couples – especially as it was recently announced actor Balvinder Sopal would be appearing on this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
“Oh dear! Is Suki about to have a #strictly sized break after a massive argument with Eve?” said one fan on X, formerly known as Twitter, while another said: “Don’t think #SukEve will survive this!”
A third said: “I think the suki and avani storyline is a build up to suki temporary exit for strictly and also maybe the reveal of joel recording avani…”
But is this the end of SukEve as we know it? With nothing left in Walford for Suki – will she be making a sharp exit?
Many believed she would go off to visit her daughter Ash in Canada to try and make amends after the rest of her family has ultimately disowned her.
However, the actor revealed she’d still be working alongside Strictly rehearsals, as she said: “I’ll still be working here so I’ll be doing two jobs. I don’t know how I’m going to handle it. I don’t know what’s gonna happen but I’m looking forward to it.”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
An Amazon Prime remake of the classic sci-fi War of the Worlds has managed to get the lowest-possible score on Rotten Tomatoes, meaning it has been universally panned
Ice Cube stars in a new version of War of the Worlds, but it has been panned by critics and viewers(Image: Prime Video)
An Amazon Prime remake of a classic sci-fi film has earned the lowest-possible score on Rotten Tomatoes. The streaming platform’s new version of War of the World stars Ice Cube and Eva Longoria, but even having two massive names attached to it did not help things when it came to impressing fans of the original.
On the review-aggregation website, which attracts nearly 80 million film and TV fans on a monthly basis, not one of the 13 reviews is positive and it has therefore been left with a rating of 0%. User ExxtraZY wrote: “I am traumatised. Not because of how graphic it is, but how awful it is. It feels like a 10 year old had a fever dream and decided to write the story at the top of their head.”
The film is the latest in a long line of adaptations based on the HG Wells classic(Image: Prime Video)
A fourth reviewer said: “Stayed 20 minutes longer than I should have because of Ice Cube. But even he couldn’t save this disaster of an adaptation,” whilst one social media user took to X to write: “This new War of the Worlds movie might be the worst movie I have seen in years.” Despite this, some fans who had watched the movie felt that they could defend it.
One wrote: “I felt the story was strong enough to suspend belief. I didn’t care too much about the special effects, I cared about are the kids going to be OK and how this story is different from the many other renditions I have seen,” and another said: “Ok so I am gonna buck the system here. I truly enjoyed WAR OF THE WORLDS. I thought Ice Cube was great – loved the entire cast. Eva Longoria – great. Loved the kids. What is the problem here??”
One irate viewer took to X to vent: “War of the Worlds (2025) is the worst adaption of the source material to date. It had no ideas beyond the found footage approach, and even then the film is struggling to find ways to present coherent scenes.
“Ice Cube is so lost. Maybe one of the worst movies I’ve ever seen. Most of the film just doesn’t make sense because they’re trying to rush through a mountain of developments.
The latest version of War of the Worlds, which focuses on an attempted alien invasion, was released last week on the streaming service. But the original novel by HG Wells was published in 1898, and the story has been adapted for the screen multiple times.
After first being broadcast on the radio in the late 1930s, three film adaptations were releases from 1953 and 1981. In 2005, Tom Cruise starred alongside a young Dakota Fanning in a modern remake of the Victorian classic.
The synopsis for the latest incarnation of the story reads: “‘A gargantuan invasion is coming with this fresh take on the legendary novel of the same name. Renowned actress Eva Longoria is joined by iconic rapper and actor Ice Cube, along with Michael O’Neill and Iman Benson, for a thrilling out-of-this-world adventure that is filled with present-day themes of technology, surveillance, and privacy.”
Betrayal, heartbreak and even a proposal are on the cards next week in soapland, with police intervening once again in Emmerdale after another explosive row. Get the lowdown.
07:00, 05 Aug 2025Updated 07:30, 05 Aug 2025
Ruby and Manpreet go head to head next week
Tension is at an all-time high in soapland next week, from the Yorkshire Dales to The Summer Bay.
In Emmerdale, Ruby and Manpreet go head to head after the village GP was exposed for her fling with Ross (played by Michael Parr), while Vinny continues to mask his concerns over his sexuality.
On ITV’s Coronation Street, Abi is keeping a secret of her own – her affair with brother-in-law Carl. But with fellow mechanic Tyrone around, their illicit romance could be blown out in the open. In happier news, one loved-up Corrie legend decides to give marriage another chance.
Meanwhile in EastEnders, Eve grows increasingly concerned for Avani and urges Suki to tell the rest of her family the truth. But how will Eve react when her best pal Stacey is caught up by her SecretCam past? Here’s what you need to know about all your favourite soaps – including Neighbours, Hollyoaks and Home and Away.
Newcomer Mike is bad news for Vinny – but what are his real intentions?
Emmerdale
Ruby (Beth Cordingly) offers to cover the Depot for Caleb (Will Ash). But after a heated confrontation with Ruby, Manpreet (Rebecca Sarker) turns up to have it out with her. Ruby brushes Manpreet off, prompting the latter to hijack a forklift and she refuses to get off until Ruby speaks to her.
Ruby stays unbothered but when Manpreet mentions Steph, Ruby attacks her. Meanwhile at The Woolpack, Caleb is convinced the Depot is in safe hands. Later, the police make an arrest.
Vinny (Bradley Johnson) chats to Mike (Macaulay Cooper) and appreciates his friendliness as their bond grows stronger. When Mike asks Vinny if he’s gay, his confusion is clear but Vinny is grateful when Mike stays supportive.
Later, Vinny’s conflicted when he arranged to meet with Mike again. The following day, Gabby (Rosie Bentham) tells Vinny she’s spending the night at a spa and Vinny receives an urgent message from Mike, who later reveals his partner has kicked him out.
But Mike quickly turns on Vinny. Elsewhere, Charles (Kevin Mathurin) is concerned about Gabby who wants his help with something she’s keeping a secret from Vinny.
Nicola (Nicola Wheeler) persuades Belle (Eden Taylor-Draper) to get on dating apps and, grabbing her phone, Nicola swipes right on Kammy’s dating profile.
Vic (Isabelle Hodgins) persuades Robert (Ryan Hawley) to spend time with Harry but John decides to meddle. Meanwhile, April’s (Amelia Flanagan) 16th birthday doesn’t go as planned.
Theo struggles to cope without his children next week
Coronation Street
Theo (James Cartwright) is devastated when Todd (Gareth Pierce) shows him a photo of Theo’s family on a leaflet promoting “traditional family values.” In a fit of rage, Theo stands Todd up and trashes the builder’s yard – only for Gary (Mikey North) to catch him in the act.
Later, Theo begs Gary to stay away from Noah (Richard Winsor) as Theo doesn’t want anything to jeopardise his access to his children. But will Gary be deterred?
Carla (Alison King) and Lisa (Vicky Myers) attend a life drawing class together but their evening goes awry when Betsy (Sydney Martin) faces another crisis.
At the factory, Betsy shows Carla what she’s been working on. Later, Carla confides in Ryan that she’s going to propose to Lisa. Will she accept?
Meanwhile, Steve (Simon Gregson) calls at the flower shop with Cassie (Claire Sweeney) and reveals his solicitor has received a copy of the Preston Petals valuation and he wants what’s rightfully his – but Tracy’s (Kate Ford) fuming.
Later, Steve settles himself down in front of the TV and promises to keep an eye on Dorin. But the toddler vanishes, making everyone panic.
Elsewhere, Abi (Sally Carman) receives a text from Carl (Jonathan Howard) and feigns a migraine, telling Kevin she needs to go home. But at No.13, guilt gets the best of her and Carl suggests a drive. In the precinct, Tyrone (Alan Halsall) spots Carl in his car – but has he seen Abi?
Suki Panesar is desperate to raise Avani’s baby but Eve could still stand in her way(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Later, Avani feels self-conscious at Amy’s hot tub party and reaches for a drink but a row ensues when Suki and Eve arrive to check on her. Avani rushes off and is followed by Eve and, after a conversation, Eve agrees to support the teen.
Meanwhile, Stacey (Lacey Turner) prepares for Lily’s return but her happiness is short-lived when Jean (Gillian Wright) and Freddie (Bobby Brazier) tell her someone has leaked her SecretCam pictures and videos online.
Stacey is convinced Joel (Max Murray) is the culprit and confronts him but Ross rushes him home. Later, Stacey gets the police involved.
Harry (Elijah Holloway) finds out that Okie (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu) and Ravi are using Kojo’s (Dayo Koleosho) flat for their illegal activities and tries to secretly intervene. But Ravi insists they need to up their game.
George (Colin Salmon) is equally concerned when Okie offers Kojo an expensive watch. But he’s grateful when Elaine (Harriet Thorpe) offers to investigate. Later, however, both Elaine and Cindy (Michelle Collins) realise there’s a new woman in George’s life.
Patrick (Rudolph Walker) returns home from hospital but he struggles with anxiety following his attack and Howie (Delroy Atkinson) feels awful when he realises how scared Patrick really is. Elsewhere, Honey (Emma Barton) prepares to apply for Mr Lister’s job and later gets bombshell news.
Rex returns to Hollyoaks next week and initiates a conversation with Ste – but how will he react?
Hollyoaks
Sienna returns home to her family and Cleo but she locks herself in the bathroom when she learns her father Jez is gone. When he arrives, Jez faces Sienna and asks her to meet in the allotment for the truth.
Mercedes finds out Bobby’s cause of death while Tony prepares for a barbecue at The Hutch – and Ste encourages him to postpone the event. Meanwhile, Rex returns but lingers in the shadows. When alone, he approaches Ste – but how will Ste react?
Andrew’s marriage with Wendy has been on shaky ground for weeks
Neighbours
Torn between two women, Andrew must reckon with his decision but when Holly is at the centre of a scandal, his moral compass later starts to stray – is his marriage in danger?
Krista and Paul butt heads under pressure but Paul later makes an effort to fix his mistake. Elsewhere, Remi faces a huge career setback while Nell is overwhelmed. And a new crisis is unfolding at the Lassiters Complex.
Home and Away
Cohen calls off his football game with Cash early, sad his mother hasn’t received his letters. But he soon gets an unexpected response. Bree frantically looks for Remy and calls the hospital.
Meanwhile, Remi wakes up next to Avalon. Dana wants to arrange a girl’s night out but Irene shuts her down – Dana then unpacks her concerns with John.
Lacey finds out the funds in the board shop accounts are empty and bankruptcy is only weeks away. Elsewhere, Jo comes clean to Tane – and he later drops a bombshell.
EastEnders fans have been left ‘disgusted’ by Suki’s suggestions since learning about her granddaughter Avani’s pregnancy – but they don’t think she’ll be getting away scot-free…
19:50, 29 Jul 2025Updated 20:08, 29 Jul 2025
EastEnders fans have been left ‘disgusted’ by Suki’s behaviour (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Tonight’s EastEnders left some fans feeling “uncomfortable” as Suki Panesar once again tried to convince her granddaughter Avani Nandra-Hart not to have an abortion.
During tonight’s episode, Avani was seen in the clinic, waiting to have a termination, with Suki by her side. However, during the long waiting times, her grandmother continued to raise her concerns – trying to change Avani’s mind. Suki even went as far as to suggesting she’d pay for everything Avani would need to carry the baby.
Eventually, Suki told Avani she would stop pressuring her but as the nurse came tell Avani they were ready to see her, the teen, who is pregnant with Joel’s baby, changed her mind. Suki looked relieved, but at the moment she’s the only one who knows about the pregnancy.
Parents Priya and Ravi are none the wiser, but fans are certain Suki won’t get away lightly when they find out what she’s been saying to their daughter. Plus, a few weeks ago we saw Ravi fuming when he realised Suki let Bernie get away with their money – will it all get too much for him?
Right now, it seems like he’s too preoccupied drug dealing with Harry and Okie – but fans are sure he’ll drop everything when he finds out what’s going on with his daughter.
Fans think Suki will be ‘mincemeat’ when Priya and Ravi find out(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan wrote: “Priya is going to make mincemeat out of Suki when this all comes out,” as another penned: “There’s a lot of other things Suki hasn’t considered: Ravi and Priya, Joel and his family, Avani changes her mind last minute. When it comes out about the pregnancy, no doubt the social worker would get involved.”
Elsewhere, fans have been left “disgusted” by Suki’s “manipulation” towards her granddaughter. After watching the episode, fuming fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter to express their dismay.
It’s been an eventful few weeks for the Panesars(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
One fan penned: “Suki manipulating Avani into keeping her baby is so gross. She’s never been a nice person but this is just disgusting.”
“I feel what Suki is doing to Avani is worse then when she faked having cancer and feel she may not be redeemed ( and I’m speaking as a #Sukeve fan) Really worrying behaviour from her recently towards Avani,” wrote a second.
A third penned: “Today’s #eastenders was actually quite uncomfortable to watch – Suki’s constant harassment of Avani, wanting to control her and wanting to make decisions about her body are so disgusting.”
Will Avani go ahead with Suki’s plans or will Ravi and Priya find out?
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
EastEnders spoilers confirm horrifying scenes for one Walford legend, while the BBC soap also airs big decisions, worrying actions and two enemies appear to team up
EastEnders spoilers confirm horrifying scenes for one Walford legend(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
New spoilers for EastEnders have teased worrying twists and turns ahead for multiple characters.
There’s a violent showdown that leads to one favourite being rushed to hospital. One vile character is soon targeting others with his grim behaviour, while another teen finds himself in big trouble.
There’s a big decision to be made for one resident of Walford, while one married character is warned against his flirty behaviour with another man. One character, soon returning to the show, makes contact with their family, and two love rivals look set to unite.
Let’s kick things off with more drama ahead for troubled teen Oscar Branning, and it leaves one Albert Square legend in serious danger. Patrick Trueman fends off Oscar who has broken into his home, unaware he is the culprit.
Oscar is being threatened by thug Mike who he grassed up to the police. As things escalate, Mike returns and demands £5,000 in return for the Branning family’s safety.
New spoilers for EastEnders have teased worrying twists and turns ahead (Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Oscar initially tries to lure Ian Beale into a business deal to find the extra cash, but Ian refuses. Lauren Branning soon finds out what her brother has been up to, leaving Oscar seeking other means of getting the funds.
Oscar breaks into Patrick’s home to steal his bet winnings. He’s caught in the act though, leading to Oscar abruptly pushing Patrick to flee. But Patrick ends up falling to the ground, leaving him badly injured.
Patrick is left unconscious as the horror unfolds, with his partner Yolande Trueman unaware of what’s happening amid her row with her fiancé. Having called off the wedding over his betting, will she regret this when she realises Patrick is in a bad way?
With Patrick motionless on the ground, Oscar decides to leave him only for Howie Danes to return home and realise what’s happened. Oscar makes a run for it and Howie sees him, while he doesn’t see his face so is unaware it’s Oscar.
Yolande is inconsolable as she heads home to the horror unfolding, and soon Patrick is rushed to hospital. His family wait for news and the police arrive to take a witness statement from Howie, but will he be okay?
Lauren meanwhile is suspicious of Oscar’s behaviour, and his sudden concern for Patrick. He tries to flee Walford only for her to stop him in his tracks, confronting him with the stolen money.
One vile character is soon targeting others with his grim behaviour(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
He begs his sister to let him flee as she riles at him for his actions. But will Oscar be exposed? Elsewhere, Avani Nandra-Hart is still torn over her pregnancy amid her grandmother Suki Panesar’s plan to help raise the baby with her wife Eve Unwin.
Eve is still unconvinced by the plan next week and is desperate to hear from Avani what she wants, without Suki’s involvement. Eve supports the teenager at her 12-week scan, and after she and Avani lie to the family when Priya finds a receipt from the hospital in Avani’s jacket – but will the pregnancy be rumbled?
The baby’s father Joel Marshall, who has no idea about the baby, is back to his vile ways next week. Ross Marshall takes son Joel and his pal Tommy Moon to work at the timber yard but soon grows concerned for the boys when he overhears some of the language from other workers on the site.
That’s the least of his issues though, as Ross pales to receive a call from Joel’s mum. She informs him that she is getting remarried, and Ross faces having to tell Joel.
As Joel slips out to process the news, he’s soon stealing drink from the pub with Tommy only to be caught. As Joel’s stepmother Vicki Fowler and Tommy’s parents Kat and Alfie rage at the boys for their behaviour, everyone is shocked by what Joel does next.
Joel lashes out with derogatory language towards Kat leaving them all horrified, and soon he’s being lectured by Ross and Vicki. A moment later on that sees Ross trying to bond with his troubled son leaves him sickened though, as he makes a worrying discovery on Joel’s laptop and destroys the device.
There’s a big decision to be made for one resident of Walford(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
He’s cold towards his son in the fallout, and Vicki is later shocked to discover the real reason why Ross broke his laptop. She tells Ross to take action against Joel before his behaviour gets out of hand.
It leads to Ross sharing a heart-to-heart with Harvey in the café and the former is given food for thought. When Joel apologises to Kat, she allows him to hang out with Tommy. But it’s not long before Joel is showing his true colours again when Vicki and Stacey Slater bond over parenting and men.
Finally next week, Elaine Peacock is struggling without the pub and after a heart-to-heart with Yolande, she and love rival Cindy Beale join forces at The Albert. Cindy later offers Elaine the job of co-manager, so could there be a thawing between them?
Callum Highway’s flirting with Johnny Carter leads to him being warned by Jay brown, amid a call from his imprisoned husband Ben Mitchell. With Ben set to return to the show, will it all end in tears?
An ex-pat who swapped Dublin for the Costa del Sol has revealed why she’s never looked back
14:24, 27 Jul 2025Updated 14:24, 27 Jul 2025
Tori Clinton, who has spent the last two years living abroad, says the culture change has had a hugely positive impact on her life(Image: Jam Press/@thetoridiaries)
An expatriate has shared how her life took a complete turn for the better after she relocated to Spain, where she enjoys beers for as little as €1.70.
Tori Clinton, who has spent the past two years living overseas, says the cultural shift has had an enormously positive impact on her life. The 30 year old even confessed that the Spanish approach to alcohol has entirely transformed her outlook.
Tori, originally from Dublin and now residing in Malaga, visits her local pub daily to bask in the sun with a “cheeky caña”. This small beer costs just €1.70 at Tori’s preferred spots, while a pint is only €2.50.
In contrast, the average price of a pint in her former local pub is a staggering €7.30.
The 30 year old freelancer believes that having the occasional drink instead of binge drinking, and embracing a culture where work isn’t everything, has enabled her to “become the best version” of herself, reports Dublin Live.
Tori Clinton has decided to settle down in the Spanish coastal city(Image: Jam Press/@thetoridiaries)
“It is so normal to do things on evenings after work, not just go home like back home and watch EastEnders. “Going to my local is my favourite time of the day – it’s time for me to catch up on some life admin and work, but also check in with myself and journal my thoughts. “I mean, who doesn’t want to be sat out in the evening sun with a cheeky caña, thinking ‘how is this my life?’ “In Spain, there is no binge drinking, and you never see people super drunk or messy.
“They sip their alcohol and pace themselves. “Being Irish, our favourite thing to say is ‘should we get another?
Tori Clinton believes having the odd tipple instead of binge drinking, and embracing a culture where work isnt the be-all and end-all, has allowed her to become the best version of herself(Image: Jam Press/@thetoridiaries)
‘ when in fact there is no need for that other drink. “This is something you would never hear people here say, and it has taken time to shift to this mindset. “Everything feels so much cheaper as the prices are so different in comparison to Ireland and England.
“When I go back there to visit family, it can be quite a shock – even when getting a coffee.”
Tori quit her job and travelled to Malaga, a place she often visited as a child with her family, in 2023. And after falling in love with her new life, she decided to settle down in the Spanish coastal city.
Tori Clinton originally from Dublin, who now lives in Malaga, visits her local every day to soak up the sun with a cheeky caña(Image: Jam Press/@thetoridiaries)
She added: “Work and career are a lower priority here – it’s all about living and enjoying, rather than chasing work pressures. “There are, however, some cultural aspects that have been hard to grasp and still grind my gears.
“As everything is slower paced here, so too is paperwork and getting things done without over complicating everything, but look – we can’t have it all
“It can also be like being on a rollercoaster with your emotions as you’re trying to build a life and a home in a country where you’re not fluent in their language”
Margate is known for its sandy beaches and charming seaside attractions – but it’s also a hotspot for celebrities and has one of the UK’s ‘coolest’ neighbourhoods
Margate Main Sands boasts perfect golden sand(Image: Getty Images)
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect weekend getaway, then Margate is a hidden gem that ticks all the boxes. With its stunning beach, vibrant atmosphere, top-notch eateries and refreshing sea breeze, it’s an ideal spot for families or couples seeking a romantic mini-break.
While Margate has long been recognised as a seaside retreat, the town of today offers so much more. It’s home to a remarkable food scene and a bustling arts community. But fear not – while embracing modern trends, Margate hasn’t lost its classic coastal charm. Nowadays, it manages to blend being trendy and artistic with maintaining a traditional British holiday feel.
Margate Main Sands boasts 19 miles of breathtaking Kentish coastline(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
And we can’t forget about Margate Main Sands – boasting some of the softest, golden sands spread across 19 miles of breathtaking Kentish coastline. The town’s Cliftonville district has been dubbed one of the ‘coolest’ in the UK, and TimeOut has listed the town among the top places to visit.
It’s no surprise that Margate has become a hotspot for celebrities and Londoners, leading to a boom in property prices. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot famous faces such as Lilly Allen, Sam Mendes, Olivia Coleman, and even some cast members from EastEnders.
For unique sights, Margate is the destination, with standout attractions including the Margate Museum, the quirky Crab Museum, the enchanting Shell Grotto, and the underground wonders of Margate Caves.
Margate Old Town serves as a charming centre for boutique museums and a diverse collection of shops ranging from vintage to contemporary. Staying true to its heritage as a coastal resort, Margate offers all the classic seaside attractions: plenty of fish and chip establishments, ice cream vendors dotting the seafront, beachside pubs, and opportunities for mini golf.
Dreamland, merely a brief stroll from the shore, stands as the retro theme park cherished by families. It boasts classic funfair attractions, stages musical performances, and houses the Scenic Railway – Britain’s most ancient wooden rollercoaster.
Dreamland, a theme park suitable for all ages(Image: Publicity Picture)
For visitors wanting fish and chips following a beach day, Peter’s Fish Factory at 12 Royal York Mansions in Margate comes highly praised. Yet for those desiring a more upmarket meal, Margate also shines with venues like Angela’s and Bottega Caruso, plus emerging favourites including Sargasso and Fort Road Hotel.
Selecting standouts proves challenging, yet Sargasso distinguishes itself with its stunning ocean panoramas and recently earned recognition in SquareMeal’s Top 100 UK restaurants for 2023, a compilation highlighting the “highest calibre of restaurants” across the country.
Alternatively, you might be drawn to the authentic Italian atmosphere at Bottega Caruso, where you can not only relish cuisine from the proprietor’s native Italian village, but also buy fresh pasta, house-made tomato sauce, and other Italian delicacies. They also run pasta-making classes and organise Supper Club nights for a taste of Italy in Britain, reports Cambridgeshire Live.
Those seeking a cultural adventure should make the Turner Contemporary gallery a priority, featuring diverse art exhibitions that rival London’s cultural scene. Guests can join guided tours and activities or unwind in the café whilst taking in harbour vistas.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, don’t miss Margate’s spectacular four-acre tidal pool, located just 1.4 miles from Margate Main Sands. The Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, beloved by swimmers and families year-round, is Britain’s largest and also boasts “fresh water springs rising from the beach” within its boundaries.
It’s an ideal spot to soak up the sea air and enjoy a dip or simply lounge beside the water.
Mark Womack is back on our screens tonight in Unforgivable but he previously played a major villain in one of Britain’s top soaps.
Mark Womack previously starred on Emmerdale as corrupt copper DI Mark Malone
Mark Womack is back on our screens tonight in Unforgivable, and will be seen alongside Anna Friel and Anna Maxwell Martin when the new drama premieres on BBC Two. The actor, 64, is no stranger to the small screen, having appeared in episodes of Judge John Deed, Vera, and Silent Witness over the years.
Throughout 2020, he appeared as DI Mark Malone on ITV’s Emmerdale and turned up in the village to investigate the shooting of Nate Robinson (Jurell Carter). Over time, it became apparent that his character was corrupt and, as the boss of Will Taylor (Dean Andrews), decided to blackmail his colleague, along with Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) and Billy Fletcher (Jay Kontzle), into joining forces with him. He later started up an affair with Harriet Finch (Katherine Dow Blyton). When Harriet is about to get married to Will, Will decides to try framing Will for possession of drugs, but Will found out and bludgeoned his boss with a spanner.
He spent six months in the Dales during 2020 before being killed off
Speaking about his character at the time, Mark said: “In a different world he would quite like Dawn, he probably thinks she is ballsy. That relationship has never been given the chance to form, and what he hates is people who betray him.
“Even though there is no relationship with Dawn, in his head once someone betrays you especially in the way that she does it, she compromises everything, his future, his plans it’s unforgivable.”
His final appearance on the show came in August 2020, and Mark has since been seen in an episode of Moving On and then became a regular in The Responder opposite Martin Freeman, Adelayo Adedayo and Shameless star Warren Brown.
Unforgivable is a powerful new drama penned by the legendary Cracker and Time screenwriter Jimmy McGovern and amongst its stellar cast also features Adolescence child star Austin Haynes. The drama arrives on BBCiPlayer from 6am on Thursday 24 July, with episodes kicking off on BBC Two, from 9pm that same evening.
Mark Womack and Samantha Janus(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Set in Liverpool, the production follows the lives of the Mitchell family, who have been dealing with the aftermath of grooming and sexual abuse. After serving a two-year jail sentence, Bobby Schofield, the person who committed the disturbing crimes, was released from prison. Bobby is ordered to carry out a residential rehabilitation programme upon his release, to understand through therapy what may have led him to commit such an awful crime.
The series aims to understand all viewpoints and how abuse can impact every single person within a family setting. “Unforgivable examines the extensive ripple effect of abuse from multiple perspectives and how those involved can try to move forwards in the midst of the devastation,” explained the BBC.
Its synopsis reads: “Having served his prison sentence, Joe (Bobby Schofield) arrives at St Maura’s, an institution which offers him a home and rehabilitation after his release.
With the support of Katherine ( Anna Maxwell Martin ), an ex-nun, Joe undertakes therapy sessions in the hope of understanding what led him to commit the abuse.” The overview further states: “Simultaneously, his sister, Anna (Anna Friel), is dealing with the enormous impact that Joe’s crime has had on her family – her sons, Tom (Austin Haynes) and Peter (Finn McParland), and her father, Brian (David Threlfall).”
Unforgivable will air on BBC Two at 9pm this Thursday and will be available on BBC iPlayer from the same day.
Emmerdale has signed up EastEnders and Slow Horses actor Chris Coghill who will play new character Kev, who has a secret link to another villager paving the way for huge scenes
A new Emmerdale character has been confirmed, with a former EastEnders star signing up for the role(Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
A new Emmerdale character has been confirmed, with a former EastEnders star signing up for the role.
New mystery character Kev will debut on the ITV soap in September, and it’s soon revealed he is linked to another villager. Not only that, but more than one character will feature in big scenes as Kev’s arrival has “major repercussions”.
Actor Chris Coghill, who played EastEnders villain Tony King, has confirmed he will be playing Kev as he teased what was on the cards. Soap producer Laura Shaw also promised big scenes ahead, as the character first appears to be someone who is lost.
He’ll be shown looking for directions, and soon enough we learn who he is looking for and why he wants to see them. The character, yet to be revealed, is said to have “a strong connection” to Kev in a storyline yet to be detailed.
There’s clearly a past between them, but fans will just have to wait and see who it is and what Kev wants. Fans can expect “shockwaves” to hit the village in another big plot for the ITV soap.
Emmerdale has signed up EastEnders and Slow Horses actor Chris Coghill who will play new character Kev(Image: ITV)
Speaking about joining the show, actor Chris teased his mysterious character would “shake things up”. He said: “I am really happy to be joining the cast of Emmerdale. Kev is definitely going to shake things up a bit and I’m looking forward to getting cracking!”
Soap producer Laura spilled: “We are delighted that someone of Chris’ calibre has joined our cast. I think the viewers will be intrigued to see how the character of Kev will cause shockwaves this autumn.
“Kev has a strong connection to one of our characters and it’s safe to say his arrival is going to be a massive surprise that will have major repercussions for some of our villagers.” More will be revealed closer to the time.
As well as his well known stint in EastEnders, actor Chris has also had other big roles in shows including Slow Horses, The Bay and Shameless. He’s now heading to the Dales, and fans can see his debut at the end of September.
Actor Chris Coghill played EastEnders villain Tony King(Image: BBC)
He isn’t the only new face in the village, with recent arrivals including new villain Ray played by actor Joe Absolom, and new farmer Celia played by actress Jaye Griffiths. Both characters have brought trouble to the village, and this is set to continue over the next few months.
There’s also a big episode on the way featuring characters Aaron Dingle and Mackenzie Boyd this September. A huge plot will air across a big week of episodes, with it said a special set has been built for filming.
Soap fans were thrilled by the unexpected return of EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison to TV screens after she opened up on her financial struggles since leaving Walford
EastEnders’ Cheryl Fergison has returned to screens(Image: BBC)
A fan-favourite EastEnders made an unexpected return to TV, leaving viewers thrilled. Cheryl Fergison, who played the iconic Heather Trott on the BBC soap, has been open about her lack of work in recent years.
She shocked viewers when she rocked up in BBC Two’s comedy series Mandy. The actress made a guest appearance in the show, which is written by Diane Morgan.
It follows the goings on of permanently out-of-work Mandy Carter and her best friend Lola. Mandy was forced to attend a restart scheme at her local job centre, where she encountered an unimpressed Stella, played by Cheryl.
Cheryl made a guest appearance in BBC Two’s Mandy(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Richard Harrison)
Stella only said one worked to Mandy, as she called her “dirty”. Cheryl’s fans were thrilled by her return to screens as one said: “Obsessed with Cheryl ‘two words’ Fergison. She did a cracking job.”
Another added: “Congrats Cheryl!” Someone else commented: “Can we talk about the amount of cameos in Mandy cuz what do u mean Cheryl Fergison and Martin Lewis casually popped up within the first ep of series 4?”
A fourth declared: “Ar Cheryl is in the new season of Mandy.” While on EastEnders, Cheryl racked up a huge fan following until her character was sensationally killed off.
Ben Mitchell smacked her over the head with a picture frame, causing her to hit her head on the way to the floor. Life after the soap hasn’t been quite so straightforward, with Cheryl opening up on her struggles earlier this year.
The actress told Casino.org: “My health is good, but my finances will take a long time to recover. Until I have steady work, I’m not rich or comfortable—I’m just surviving.
“I’ve been saying yes to everything for no money, but I need to start valuing my work and asking for fair pay. Even my agent insists on it.”
She added: “Still, I’ll never give in. I want to keep singing. If people criticise me for singing in small restaurants, so be it. At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer. Community has always been important to me, and I’ll perform no matter the crowd.”
Once at the top of her game as a primetime BBC star, Cheryl fell into dire straits after she was conned out of a ‘humungous’ amount of money. She said on This Morning: “There is a circumstance that started this, which I can’t talk about at this moment in time, but it started to spiral.
“The only way I can say it is I was conned out of a humongous amount of money. That led to the cancer thing and everything spiralled. I was robbing Peter to pay Paul. I ended up having to sell my house. Now I am living up north and renting.”
EastEnders spoilers have teased plenty of action and drama in Walford next week, with the BBC soap airing a return, concern for one Albert Square legend and danger for more than one character
EastEnders spoilers have teased plenty of action and drama in Walford next week(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
There’s plenty of action happening on EastEnders next week according to new spoilers for the BBC soap.
More than one resident faces danger, and ongoing issues come between a couple. Another pair face drama as concern is sparked about a Walford legend.
Amid this there’s a comeback for one character ahead of another big return, while there’s also big decisions, risks taken and sad moments on the way. Starting off next week, Alfie Moon returns to the show after weeks away.
The character headed off to find his missing stepdaughter Zoe Slater who fled after revealing she was in trouble. Keeping this from his wife Kat Slater, with her cousin Stacey Slater doing the same, things get tense next week.
Kat slams Alfie for lying to her about where he’s been after his story about his brother Spencer was proven wrong. Alfie promises never to lie to her again, while he refuses to tell her the truth about what’s been going on.
There’s plenty of action happening on EastEnders next week according to new spoilers(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Meanwhile it’s an emotional time for Stacey and her kids, as they celebrate tragic Martin Fowler’s birthday months on from his death. Elsewhere, there’s more drama for the Branning family as Oscar faces danger.
Lauren Branning finds out thug Mike was at the house threatening her brother, after Oscar grassed him to the police up causing a feud. Later, Oscar is alone when Mike and his friend Harrison show up and attack him, only for Jack Branning to save his nephew from further harm.
Lauren confronts her sibling and tells him he’s on his last warning. When Oscar is alone and he sees a hooded figure in the house he goes on the attack, not realising it’s Lauren’s partner Peter Beale – leading to Peter demanding he leaves.
The incident leads to Lauren trying to get her brother to open up, and he soon tells her more about his time in the youth offender’s centre. Determined to help Oscar, Lauren tries to get Peter to give him a chance leading to a huge row between them.
More than one resident faces danger, and ongoing issues come between a couple(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
There’s more trouble from Mike later in the week too, so will Oscar manage to move on? Also next week, pregnant teen Avani Nandra-Hart prepares to attend her appointment, while her grandmother Suki Panesar is keen to track her down but will she find her?
Harry Mitchell panics next week over the drugs hidden at Kojo Asare’s flat, with the latter’s brother George Knight almost finding the stash. Harry continues to work for Ravi Gulati, and soon Harry is forced to agree to let newcomer Okie conduct illegal business at Kojo’s flat.
Needing to distract George so he doesn’t find out, he enlists the help of his mother Nicola Mitchell who’s worried her son is in too deep with dangerous people. He refuses her help though, while Nicola offers George the job of Head of Security at Harry’s Barn.
Finally next week there’s concern for Patrick Trueman, ahead of the return of his son Anthony Trueman. Yolande worries her partner is gambling ahead of their wedding, and she tells him to stop.
Nicola offers George a job(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Patrick is determined to carry on placing bets in secret, and when he wins big on the horses he convinces Howie Danes to hide it from Yolande. Amid his own money issues Howie is embarrassed that his son Denzel is relying on Kim Fox, Howie’s partner, when he needs money.
As Howie tries to get work, there’s drama at home when Yolande tells Patrick that the wedding is off if he places another bet. Soon Howie offers a solution and suggests he can place the bet for Patrick instead – but will he agree?
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