Tuesday’s episode of EastEnders ended with an explosive showdown between Bea Pollard and Honey Mitchell as the ‘Misery’-esque villain’s past is exposed
Bea’s past exposed(Image: BBC)
EastEnders‘ Bea Pollard’s past has come to light, as the BBC soap aired a dramatic showdown between the villain and her kidnapping victim, Honey Mitchell.
Throughout Tuesday’s episode, Bea (Ronni Ancona) showed how obsessive she had become. The villain, who fans have likened to Misery’s Annie Wilkes, took Honey (Emma Barton) hostage in a cottage out in Fordwich, Kent.
Honey had been unconscious after Bea knocked her over in Albert Square, but she woke up in the cottage and discovered all the doors and windows had been locked.
While there, Bea revealed that the cottage belonged to an ex-boyfriend of her mother. She explained that her mother had always blamed her for the breakdown on her relationships, finally revealing the tragic backstory that may have made her so angry at men.
Bea also tried to convince Honey to run away with her, and forced her to transfer £10,000 from the Minute Mart accounts. But clever Honey made the reference Fordwich, tipping off Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal), Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) and Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) as to her whereabouts.
When a holidaymaker turned up at the cottage, Bea locked Honey in a cupboard, though she was able to get out and escape through a window. After stumbling through the countryside, she was found by Suki, Nicola and Linda, who took her home.
Honey’s ordeal wasn’t over though as Bea snuck into the B&B and held a corkscrew to Billy Mitchell’s (Perry Fenwick) neck. She told Honey that she hated being lied to and the two ended up brawling on the floor. Honey soon got the upper hand and held a heavy ornament above Bea’s head, threatening to beat her with it.
The police then swooped in and arrested Bea. She was carted away in the back of a police car. Fans have been split on whether this is her last episode.
One said: “I don’t think this is Bea’s last episode (either she escapes, trial, or let go due to insanity).” Another agreed: “Not convinced this is the conclusion to the Bea story though.”
But a viewer said they thought this was the end: “I’m guessing it’s a goodbye to Bea in the coming days.” And a commenter added: “An enjoyable episode and good conclusion to the Bea saga. Loved to see Linda, Nicola and Suki banding together to save Honey.”
A fan suggested the ending, with Bea being taken away in a police car, was reminiscent of Janine Butcher. This comes as Charlie Brooks teased Janine may return soon. In a chat with Richard Arnold on Good Morning Britain, it was mentioned that Janine, who has been in prison for her involvement in Mick Carter’s (Danny Dyer) death, is due to be released in a year.
Host Susanna Reid said: “OK! Out in about a year… sounds like Richard knows about the future script!” To which, he cryptically replied that Janine could be released “earlier” and “you never know” with EastEnders.
ROSS Kemp has shared another passionate video raving about England in the World Cup.
The EastEnders star made headlines last week for his hilarious reaction to Harry Kane scoring the winning goal against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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Ross Kemp shared another hilarious video reaction to England playing in the World CupCredit: Instagram/rosskemptvThe EastEnders star raved about England’s win against MexicoCredit: Instagram/rosskemptv
Now he’s gone and done it again, this time sharing his excitement over England‘s win against Mexico in the World Cup.
In a video posted to Instagram, Ross screams to his phone camera about Jude Bellingham scoring two goals while wearing an England football shirt.
The star says: “Come on England, come on England. You just keep it calm.
Jude Bellingham scored two goals for England in the matchCredit: GettyIt follows Ross raving about the goals scored by Harry Kane last weekCredit: Instagram
“Shut them up. Shut that crowd up, shut everybody up.
“Come on England, come on England. Jude, Jude, Jude, Juuuude. I love you. Love you.
“Keep cool heads, keep cool heads and we will shut them out.”
Fans watching the video thought it was just as funny as the last time and took to the post’s comments section to share their delight.
One user said: “Ross Kemp for next England manager.”
A second shared: “Love a Ross Kemp update.”
A third added: “Love your enthusiasm, come on England.”
It follows Ross’ passionate declaration about Harry Kane, which has since been parodied by Olly Murs.
The star ranted: “Yes! Yes! Harry Kane! Harry Kane!
“That’s what we’re talking about. Great changes made – a massive difference. Come on, England! Close it down. Close it down!”
Punching the air in triumph, he went on: “Four minutes! Four minutes! Plus extra time!”
Looking out of breath, the actor added: “My God, why do you do this to me? Come on, England!”
Harryscored two goals in nine minutesduring the match, delivering England to a 2-1 win and sending the Three Lions to Mexico City.
EastEnders is set to welcome a new face to Walford later this summer as Casualty’s Jason Durr makes an appearance and is set to strike up a close bond with Linda Carter
17:48, 05 Jul 2026Updated 17:48, 05 Jul 2026
Casualty’s Jason Durr is joining EastEnders(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
EastEnders is set to welcome a Casualty legend in the coming weeks. Actor Jason Durr, who starred in the BBC medical drama as David Hide, will be making his first appearance in Walford later this summer.
But his arrival in Albert Square will see him cross paths with local businesswoman Linda Carter [Kellie Bright], and it’s fair to say that the pair will see sparks between them both. Durr is taking on the role of Clive, a local councillor, when things start to heat up in the Square.
Local residents will be joining forces to save the Community Centre, Walford’s hub, which is at risk of redevelopment. Linda, who’s known for not shying away from airing her thoughts, leads the charge as things start to heat up.
But while planning to save the Community Centre, she and Clive strike up an instant friendship as he backs the campaign. But both Linda and Clive soon realise that there is more than just a feeling of friendship between them both.
Speaking about joining EastEnders, Jason said: “Few shows command their place in the national conversation quite like EastEnders, so I’m delighted to be joining the cast as Clive Masters.
“Working with the wonderful Kellie Bright has been an absolute joy and pleasure from day one. All the cast, crew and production staff have been incredibly generous, welcoming and good humoured. I’m excited for audiences to meet Clive and see what’s in store.”
And it’s set to be an exciting time for Linda, who has endured her fair share of heartache in recent years. Her soulmate and husband, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), died after Janine Butcher’s (Charlie Brooks) secrets were unravelled, resulting in a feud on the coast. She also battled alcoholism and murdered Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters), following a fight at the Queen Vic as she attempted to save her best friend, Sharon (Letitia Dean).
The Mirror understands that Jason has already started filming his scenes, which will air later this summer. His role comes three years after Jason walked away from Casualty, having left Holby City three years prior.
His character, David, left Wyvern’s emergency department after the death of his colleague, Robyn (Amanda Henderson). At the time, Jason said he was planning to spend more time with his family, as well as explore other opportunities in the industry. His role was open for a possible return in the future.
Confirming his exit on social media, he shared a snap of himself, alongside the caption: “After 6 yrs playing the wonderfully complex #NurseDavidHide @bbccasualtyofficial I’ve hung up my scrubs.
“I’ve forged firm friendships, learnt to pronounce Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty & had my squeamishness thoroughly challenged! Here’s to new adventures (hopefully with less blood & guts).”
Over the course of his time on the show, Jason’s character David was at the centre of a string of huge storylines. One included the death of his teen son, Ollie, who, with a friend, Rob, set out to carry out a mass shooting at their school.
He’s also appeared in the likes of Lewis, Midsomer Murders, Above Suspicion and Shakespeare & Hathaway.
Gray Atkins has made a return to EastEnders as Toby-Alexander Smith reprises his iconic villainous role. He was last seen in the Square back in 2022
Gray Atkins has made a return to EastEnders(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Gray Atkins has made a return to EastEnders as Toby-Alexander Smith reprises his iconic villainous role.
The villain was last seen in Albert Square in 2022 when he was sent to prison for murdering Chantelle Atkins, Kush Kazemi and Tina Carter. The serial killer has not been seen since, with Toby-Alexander Smith now reprising his role for a short stint.
Speaking about his return, he said: “It’s been very surreal returning to EastEnders and stepping back into Gray’s shoes.
“He’s one of the most complex characters I’ve had the opportunity to play and revisiting him after several years has been an exciting challenge to get my teeth into. Exploring who Gray is now has been, fascinating, and I’m excited for the audience to see this version of him and watch the storyline play out.”
Gray is currently serving a life sentence in prison but needs the help of his grandmother Sheila (Sheila Ruskins) to get close to ex-wife Chelsea Fox after Jordan’s harrowing accident.
With motives still unclear, there’s trouble ahead but what does Gray want?
Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Toby-Alexander Smith back to the role of Gray Atkins. Although his character remains in prison, it will soon become apparent to viewers that Gray’s physical separation from Walford is no match for his levels of manipulation.”
However, some fans have been left puzzled by his return and connection to Sheila.
“It’s weird to me how they made it seem like Sheila was still in contact with gray with the way she was stroking his photo in her wallet like she kept in contact with him even though he murdered 3 people. But then when we actually see gray he says she hasn’t visited him in the 4 years he’s been locked up,” one fan wrote.
A second added: “I was a bit confused by this. I thought they would be building toward a story where she’s a bit obsessed and thinks that he’s done nothing wrong. Maybe under his spell, doing what he wants, and maybe seeing him in Jordan. Instead, it seems more like she just wants her grandkid and is going to use him to help her along.”
A third shared: “This confused me too. The impression I got is that they were always in contact and maybe she was going to try and convince Chelsea to let Gray his child. Sheila trying to get Gray to get Chelsea to let her see the kid is strange.”
The Inside Soap Awards are back and they have announced a major change to this years’ event to mark the 30th anniversary
The Inside Soap Awards are back!(Image: PA)
The Inside Soap Awards are back – and are making the move up North for the first time ever.
This year’s event will take place in Manchester and will be the only soap awards ceremony held this year.
Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks will all go head to head whilst Australian soap Home and Away has also been nominated as well as dramas like Casualty and Waterloo Road.
Up for nomination this year is the epic Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover episode – Corriedale – as well as Nigel’s sad death in EastEnders, amongst other dramatic and heartbreaking scenes.
“The Inside Soap Awards are still going strong after 30 years, and we’re proud to be championing all the wonderful work the soaps produce day in, day out. Our readers are just as passionate and loyal now as they were back in 1996, with over 90,000 of them voting each year – and the Inside Soap Awards remain the only accolades of their kind to be voted for entirely by the true experts, the soap fans themselves,” Inside Soap magazine editor Sarah Ellis said.
To mark the awards’ 30th anniversary, there will be their very own Hall of Fame and the first inductee will be announced during the ceremony. She added: “The soap star who receives this prestigious accolade will be someone who’s been closely associated with the Inside Soap Awards since they began in 1996.
“In addition, fans will also be able to nominate their Soap Superstar of 2026, a person they feel has gone above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to providing entertainment.”
Voting opens midday on Tuesday 30 June, and the winners will be revealed in Manchester in September.
The full list of nominations are as follows:
Best Actress
Sue Devaney (Debbie Webster, Coronation Street )
Vicky Myers (Lisa Connor-Swain, Coronation Street )
The former Queen Vic landlord was soon revealed to be in a relationship with George Knight (Colin Salmon), Cindy Beale’s (Michelle Collins) former husband. Over the past three years, Elaine has gotten divorced, opened up her own Bed and Breakfast, and enjoyed a romance with Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt).
Away from EastEnders, the 69-year-old actress has starred in a number of other popular shows, and is famed for playing Carole Parkinson in the 1990s show The Brittas Empire.
She also worked with Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders many times over the years, from starring in eight episodes of their programme French and Saunders between 1987 and 2003 to portraying the recurring role of Fleur in Absolutely Fabulous from 1992 until 2012.
Harriet has held roles in Alexei Sayle’s Stuff, A Bit of Fry & Laurie, Casualty, Material Girl, Endeavour, Midsomer Murders, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, and The Bill.
Away from the small screen, Harriet has appeared in several films, including Calendar Girls, and has worked extensively on stage, with her acting in productions at the Royal National Theatre and in London’s West End.
Harriet previously opened up about her childhood and her relocation abroad with her family.
Appearing on Loose Women in 2024, Harriet discussed all things EastEnders and revealed that she has a famous sister who is an actress.
Talking about her childhood, where her family’s move to Los Angeles, Harriet said: “My sister and I, who is also an actress, Matilda Thorpe, we were little children at a normal state primary school. Do you remember the food? It was all sort of grey? Memories!
“Suddenly I was in Beverly Hills and we went to school and they had an ice cream machine. They had pizza and chocolate milk!”
Who is Harriet Thorpe’s famous sister?
Harriet’s sister, Matilda Thorpe, has certainly followed in her sibling’s footsteps and also has an impressive acting career.
Matilda is best known for her role as Mandy Mosgrove in Desmond’s from 1989 to 1994, before landing the roles of Mother in How to Be a Little Sod and Mandy in Porkpie.
More recent roles include Claire Glass in Sick Note, Nina in One Life, and Auntie Melody in Back to Black, a biographical film about Amy Winehouse.
However, in a coincidence, Matilda’s early career saw her land a role in EastEnders years before her sister Harriet’s debut. Matilda played Rachel Ford on the BBC One soap back in 1998.
Family life
Harriet and Matilda are the daughters of novelist Gillian Freeman, who penned The Leather Boys, and Edward Thorpe, an actor, novelist and the ballet critic of the Evening Standard.
Harriet welcomed two children, a son and a daughter, with her husband, Howard Baker, whom she reportedly married in 1989.
Her son, Jack Thorpe-Baker, previously acted and starred in The Brittas Empire, Life is Sweet, and Ballet Shoes, which also starred Emma Watson.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer
Former EastEnders actress Gurlaine Kaur Garcha, who previously played Ash Panesar on the long-running BBC soap, has married her partner Max after a year-long engagement
Gurlaine Kaur Garcha has married her partner after a year-long engagement(Image: WireImage)
EastEnders star Gurlaine Kaur Garcha has married her partner after a year-long engagement. The actress, 32, is best known known for having previously played Ash Panesar on the long-running BBC soap, but she left the programme just over three years ago.
A slew of Gurlaine’s former co-stars were quick to congratulate her. Former Strictly Come Dancing star Balvinder Sopal, who plays Gurlaine’s on-screen mum Suki, wrote: “Gorgeous baby. Congratulations.”
Emma Barton, known for her role as Honey Mitchell, wrote: “Gorgeous… congratulations beautiful,” whilst Denis Fox actress Diane Parish simply said; “Congrats”
Last year, the actress, who last year was seen in an episode of the Amazon Prime hit The Girlfriend, shared the happy news of her engagement with fans on Instagram, flashing a huge diamond ring while sipping a cocktail abroad.
“v happy & v engaged!!!!!!” she wrote, keeping the caption short and sweet. Although Gurlaine’s kept her partner’s identity private, she confirmed the romantic proposal took place while on holiday in Ibiza.
Gurlaine made her debut in Albert Square back in 2019 as Ash; a confident, no-nonsense doctor who immediately made an impression. She arrived as the first member of the Panesar clan, with her brothers and mum Suki introduced shortly after.
Her character quickly became a key figure in several dramatic storylines from tense family fallouts and fractured relationships to fast-paced scenes at the hospital. She was also part of a same-sex romance with Iqra, making Ash one of the few LGBTQ+ South Asian characters in soap at the time.
Ash wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, often clashing with her mum Suki, whose controlling nature added even more fuel to their fiery dynamic. Her arrival was also seen as a big moment for representation, with viewers praising EastEnders for spotlighting a British Sikh woman in a lead medical role – something rarely seen on mainstream TV.
Gurlaine took a short break from the show in 2022 before officially bowing out in early 2023. At the time, soap bosses thanked her for her contribution, while the actress told fans she was “excited for what’s to come”.
Since then, Gurlaine’s kept a low profile but still shares snippets of her life online – posting travel pictures, moments with friends, and positive messages with her followers.
And while she’s stayed off-screen for now, fans will no doubt be thrilled to see her celebrating such a personal milestone.
EastEnders have welcomed back a familiar face, but fans fear this will lead to dangerous scenes for Chelsea and Jordan Fox after they survived serial killer Gray Atkins
EastEnders welcomes back familiar face
A familiar face has come back to EastEnders – and it spells trouble for Chelsea and Jordan Fox. Chelsea’s sister Libby, played by Belinda Owusu, has returned Walford after hearing about her mother Denise’s cancer diagnosis, but while many were happy to see her, it wasn’t long before she and Chelsea started bickering.
They argued about many things, starting with whether Chelsea should have noticed Denise was ill and called Libby earlier. Soon, the conversation turned to Chelsea’s son Jordan, who was recently in a car accident and may not be able to walk again. As Chelsea broke down, Libby comforted her sister. But, again, their peace with each other didn’t last long.
Libby pushed Chelsea to open up more and fill her in on what was going on. As such, Chelsea revealed that she had received a birthday card for Jordan from his great-grandmother, Sheila, along with a cheque for £1000.
When asked why she hadn’t cashed it, Chelsea said she didn’t want anyone connected to her ex husband Gray, Jordan’s father who was abusive and killed multiple people, involved in her son’s life, in case they were still in contact with Gray. The murderer, who was also physically abusive towards Chelsea, is currently in prison for his crimes. Since Sheila is Gray’s grandmother, Chelsea didn’t want to risk her being involved.
But, Libby later took the card, with the cheque inside. Fans were unsure what Libby planned to do with it, but some felt that if she cashed the cheque, this would put Chelsea and Jordan in danger.
One floated the idea that Libby planned to cash the cheque: “First episode back and Libby has already just slotted in like shes been back for ages, although if she does end up cashing the check I hope its actually to help Jordan and not another ‘I’m in debt and need to pay someone off’ storyline again.”
Another added: “Well I hope not since she did say she was willing to give Chelsea money for Jordan’s wheelchair and other stuff so I doubt they writers will make her do that considering what she said today.
“I also hope before she cashes it in she discusses it with Chelsea first because at the end of the day it’s gonna affect Jordan and Chelsea since it’s gonna be from her ex partner’s family and who knows they might still be in touch with him so it could potentially put both Jordan and Chelsea at risk but that’s just my opinion.
“So I hope she discusses it with Chelsea before doing anything bc if I was Chelsea I’m not sure how comfortable I would feel either taking money from my abusive ex’s family.”
A third added that they thought this could lead to a custody battle that puts Gray back in Jordan’s life: “I really hope she talks to Chelsea too, because if she cashes the cheque, Gray’s family could use to suggest that they take over Jordan’s care entirely – they’re already paying and they’ll say Chelsea let him get hurt.
“And if they have custody, they might take him to see Gray, which isn’t safe for anyone, especially Chelsea when she tries to get Jordan back.”
Belinda Owusu, who plays Libby, has already teased that her return to the Square leads to tough scenes for Chelsea, and what will happen with the cheque. She said: “With Chelsea overwhelmed by Jordan’s care and the financial strain, Libby sees it as potential support. She’s torn – she respects Chelsea’s boundaries but also believes it could offer some relief.”
EastEnders spoilers for next week sees tensions simmer for Suki and Eve Panesar-Unwin, as they feud with ruthless Nicola Mitchell, while Bea Pollard targets Billy Mitchell
A gripping mystery drama featuring an EastEnders icon is now available to watch for free.
Little Disasters, previously described as a “complex psychological thriller with a mystery at its heart”, lands on Channel 5 tomorrow (June 14), after initially premiering on Paramount+ last May.
Based on Sarah Vaughan’s bestselling novel of the same title, the series charts the decade-long bond between Jess (Diane Kruger), Liz (Jo Joyner), Charlotte (Shelley Conn) and Mel (Emily Taaffe).
The story follows four expectant mothers who were brought together with little in common beyond their due dates, yet have supported each other throughout the journey of motherhood, reports Wales Online.
As the synopsis reveals: “The world of seemingly perfect stay-at-home mother Jess begins to unravel when she brings her baby daughter Betsy to the hospital with a head injury she can’t explain.
“Her close friend and on-duty AandE doctor, Liz, must make the excruciating decision of whether to call social services.”
This pivotal moment sets off a chain of events that threatens to tear apart both their friendship circle and their individual families.
The Little Disasters cast also features Ben Bailey Smith from The Split, alongside Patrick Baladi (Line of Duty), Stephen Campbell Moore (The Gold), and JJ Feild (The Peripheral).
Discussing the programme, Jo previously revealed that this style of storytelling not only inspired her to accept the role, but is unlike anything she had previously encountered on television.
She said: “I know somebody who suffered with postnatal OCD and I had only recently found out about it myself. So, I thought it was a really great topic to explore actually.
“Any kind of postnatal depression must be horrendous, I was lucky I didn’t suffer from it myself. I can’t imagine having such intrusive thoughts about your own child and I think that was another brilliant thing to bring up but also serves well for a thriller, doesn’t it?”.
The six-part series remains available for streaming on Paramount+, but will also broadcast on Channel 5 from this weekend, with the opening episode debuting in the 9pm slot on Sunday, 14 June.
Predictably, viewers have wasted little time making their feelings known, with one writing: “Worth the binge! #littledisasters.”
Another commented: “#littledisasters is everything I needed…” Meanwhile a third added: “Good show, oh my days, the suspense got me.”
Little Disasters premiered on Paramount+, and will air on Channel 5 on Sunday, 14 June.
An EastEnders star is set for the exit less than a year after bursting onto the Albert Square cobbles, but they look to be heading out with a gripping story line
EastEnders are ready to say goodbye to a star(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
An EastEnders star is set to say goodbye to Walford following a shocking story line. After signing as a high-profile star on the BBC soap last year, Ronni Ancona is set to bow out of her role in dramatic fashion.
The comedian and impressionist set foot in Albert Square as Linda Carter’s old school friend Bea Pollard. She was first seen on screen in January, but now, less than a year later, her time is said to be up.
After being outed as a villain and a thief, Ronni’s character is ready to bow out in another shocking twist. A source said that the character shone but is now ready to leave.
Speaking to The Sun, the insider said: “She came in for a six month stint but there was talk of it being extended if everyone agreed. Sadly, that won’t be happening and Ronni will be leaving.”
A spokeswoman for EastEnders said: “As we previously announced, Ronni Ancona joined EastEnders for a short stint, which was then extended, for a very dramatic storyline which will unfold over the next few weeks”
Last month things came to blows for Bea. She had had been telling people how besotted she was with Ian Beale, unaware that just days before, he had passionately kissed Elaine after he won the local councillor elections.
While Bea had believed their love was blossoming, Ian clearly didn’t have the same thoughts – and made his feelings very clear.
After the local newspaper branded the duo Mr and Mrs Beale, he was fuming and thought that Bea may have been behind it, as she was a huge driving force in his campaigning.
Raging, Ian Billy and Honey’s to confront Bea. He fumed that she had been “overenthusiastic”, but she didn’t take the signals and explained she was excited for their future, attending fancy dinners and events as the partner of a local politician.
Bea later confirmed that, along with the libellous video she shared of Elaine, she had also purchased more social media followers for Ian in a bid to make him look “more popular”.
She told Ian: “”I do have feelings for you, Ian,” before adding that she didn’t want to jinx anything. But Ian rebuffed her offering and fired back: “I don’t have feelings for you.”
He then told her she lived in “cloud cuckoo land”, adding she was a “deluded, needy fantasist, trying to live her life through other people.”
Bea saw red and instantly marched Ian out of the flat. Grabbing him in an arm lock she then threw him on the street. But as time went on, Ian headed home to pack away his election campaign materials, including posters. But as he was doing so, he noticed something confusing – invoices made out to Susan Mitchell, Honey’s real name.
Former EastEnders star Ben Hardy is returning to screens in an Agatha Christie film that also includes a Game of Thrones actor
21:09, 09 Jun 2026Updated 21:09, 09 Jun 2026
Ben Hardy played Peter Beale in EastEnders more than 10 years ago (Image: BBC)
Former Peter Beale actor Ben Hardy is set to start filming an exciting new ‘whounnit’ based on real-life events.
The new film Eleven Missing Days will also star Vincent Cassel and Felicity Jones and tell the story of Agatha Christie’s real-life disappearance.
The novelist’s disappearance made national and international headlines during the 1920s, with famous names joining the search to find her, including leading politicians and fellow writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle, according to Deadline.
The synopsis reads for the film: “In December 1926, at the height of her fame, Agatha Christie became front-page news when she vanished in bizarre circumstances from her home.
“In a case of life imitating art, this whodunnit explores the investigation behind her disappearance, strangely resembling an Agatha Christie novel itself, where everyone in her life became a suspect.”
A stellar cast joins Ben Hardy in the forthcoming movie, including Say Nothing star Ryan McParland, Game of Thrones’s Alfie Allen, The Brutalist’s Stacy Martin, Nicole Elizabeth Berger from He’s Watching You, and The Gorge actor Oliver Trevena.
Currently in pre-production, the picture is on course to shoot this summer in the UK.
Who did Ben Hardy play in EastEnders?
The 35-year-old found fame on the BBC soap in 2013 when he arrived in Walford as legendary character Peter Beale. He had taken over the role from Thomas Law, who had played the part between 2006 and 2010 before returning in 2023.
Ben’s version of Peter was most memorable for being caught up in the ‘Who Killed Lucy Beale?’ saga and for dating Lola Peace (Danielle Harold) before rekindling his romance with Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa).
After finding out his own brother Bobby (Eliot Carrington) had killed Lucy, Peter struggled with life in Walford and moved to New Zealand to start a new life in 2015.
In an interview with The Independent, Ben said that he had “been battling it for a year, how to make things work” before ultimately deciding to leave the show.
“I have so much respect for everyone who works on that show, I felt myself getting lazy as an actor,” he explained. “I felt myself constantly going, ‘This scene doesn’t work’.”
Ben went on to say: “That laziness scared me. I said, ‘I have to get out of here’.”
He has since traded in his fruit-and-veg market stall for the bright lights of Hollywood and landed a role in the 2016 film X-Men: Apocalypse.
He also played Roger Taylor in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody and portrayed the role of Four in the Netflix movie ‘6 Underground’ alongside Ryan Reynolds.
Ben also played Frank McCulled in the film Pixie, Seb in The Voyeurs, Simon in The Girl Before, and Tre in Tagged.
Most recently, he starred as Oliver Jones in the Netflix movie Love at First Sight (2023) and the 2025 horror movie The Conjuring: Last Rites.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer
The soap star previously opened up about the “breathtakingly hard” final moments of his life, but explained how she was left so inspired looking after him that she has now trained as a carer.
In a new BBC programme, Natalie Cassidy: Caring Together, the actress shines a light on Britain’s struggling care system, and focusing on topics like autism, first aid, dementia, childhood diabetes, and working in placements in a care home and St John Ambulance after returning to school to get a Level 3 BTEC in health and social care.
Viewers were left in tears by the eye-opening programme, with a clip recently shared on social media.
One person wrote: “Fantastic series showing the very important things that all carers and health care professionals have to deal with day in and day out! Good luck to everyone involved. I hope all the students who were in the series get the jobs they want to do! Well done @natcass1.”
Another said: “Just finished watching this. Loved it. Congratulations @natcass1.”
A third wrote: “I cried every day watching this series. It was so beautifully done with amazing respect and understanding for everyone on the show.”
Someone else added: “This has been a most wonderful programme x I can’t wait to hear if you passed x I’m sure you did x the episode about dementia [was] invaluable as my husband was diagnosed with vascular dementia recently x I’ve kept that episode.”
Another wrote: “Loved this series. @natcass1 was so honest about her own life and the job.”
Speaking in the programme, Natalie remarked how much she had loved her training, saying: “This course has been fantastic. The people I’ve met, the placements I’ve been on. I would like to continue this care journey.
“I feel like I’ve scratched the surface. I’ve loved it. I’ve loved every minute of it.”
“Caring for Dad right up until the end of his life, and losing him, was one of the most painful things I’ve ever had to do,” Natalie previously told the BBC.
“But the people I met have changed my life and are so inspirational. That’s what spurred me on to do this.”
“I’ve only ever had one job, but I’ve always wondered what I would have done if I wasn’t an actress,” she added.
Natalie’s father died in April 2021, and she went on to say that filming elements of Caring Together did make her miss him, adding: “Grief never stops – you don’t grieve for someone and then it’s over. It just changes.
“You change as a person – it shapes who you are, it shapes how you look at the world. You just get better at coping with it.”
Natalie left EastEnders last year after 32 years, saying that it was time to move on and adding: “EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show.”
She later explained she was “ready for a change”, telling Bella Magazine: “I adore EastEnders but you can’t do everything. EastEnders is a factory with 60 cast members and 300 staff.
“They can’t cater for someone who says, ‘By the way, I need two months off to do this, I need another three months off to do this’. It’s not fair.”
Executive producer Chris Clenshaw had also said, at the time of Natalie’s announcement: “Over the last 31 years in EastEnders, Natalie has been involved in some of the show’s most iconic and explosive storylines. Her portrayal of Sonia has made her a firm fan favourite amongst the viewers.”
Natalie Cassidy: Caring Together is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Emmerdale will not air in its usual slot tonight, and isn’t on ITVX owing to the football, and fans of the long-running ITV soap have slammed the decision to take it off air
Emmerdale has been pulled from the schedules to make way for the football and soap fans are furious
Emmerdale will not air in its usual slot on Friday night, and isn’t on ITVX either.
The long-running ITV soap, which began in 1972, has been a weeknight staple for much of its time on air, and, earlier this year joined forces with fellow soap Coronation Street to launch the “power hour” amid budget cuts at ITV.
Whilst it normally airs Monday to Friday at 8pm, the Yorkshire-based serial has been pulled to make way for the Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, which will from 7:30pm until 9pm and see Spain go head-to-head with England.
In recent years, ITV has made Emmerdale and Coronation Street available on ITVX from 7am on the day of linear broadcast, and, in this case, the new edition will be released on Sunday morning.
With numerous inevitable schedule changes set to take place over the forthcoming World Cup, soap fans flooded social media with complaints. One wrote on Reddit: “Can’t they just stick all the football on, oh I don’t know, the football channel?
“So silly that broadcasters just ignore loyal viewers, some of whom who have been with them for decades, just to shove a sport on – the results of which will be beamed across every platform in real life. TV bosses always treat soaps as bottom of the pile when it comes to these things.” Another said: “Four weeks of disruption nightmare,” and added a string of rolling eyes emojis.
A third raged: “Yes I love the football but as a soap opera fan it’s gonna piss off a lot of people especially who hate football and like Emmerdale and Coronation street and EastEnders and of course Hollyoaks who won’t be affected by this and yes I get it important for the whole world but don’t u think we should have a channel for the world cup not on BBC or ITV.”
Another wrote: “International football should remain on free to view channels and not hidden behind a pay wall like the Premier league and champions league has become,” and a third suggested: “The simple solution is they just air the episodes on streaming regardless if it goes out over the airwaves. It’s kinda defeating the point if streaming platforms follow a schedule where only one thing can be on at once.”
It comes as fans recently predicted something of a bombshell could crop up in the relationship between Robert Sugden and Aaron Dingle, known as Robron, as little has been said since they got engaged in the Corriedale crossover. While viewers will likely have to wait to find out, Robert’s faced backlash from Aaron’s family and friends, and other villagers, due to the drama with Joe Tate and the farm.
One of those people currently against him is Aaron’s best friend Mackenzie Boyd. But in a bizarre turn of events, a new theory from a viewer has sparked much confusion.
A soap fan took to Reddit to ask when Robert and Mack’s affair was going to air. Naturally, the post that seemed so sure it was on the cards left fans confused, as it’s not something that has been remotely hinted at, let alone confirmed on the show. Fans ended up replying, with some needing answers as others questioned if a mix-up had occurred. The original post read: “When do Robert and Mack have their affair?
“Have been hearing about it for ages that it’s happening. Guess they’re waiting for things to blow up with the baby.” Again, as fans pointed out, there has been no suggestion on or offscreen that this is happening.
So where the “talked about” theory has come from, no one knows. This led to fans actually asking the poster what they had heard, to which there was no reply.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
EastEnders spoilers for next week have teased the fallout to the big episodes airing this week, hinting at Jordan’s fate as well as Denise getting a sad update on the BBC soap
There’s some huge moments ahead on EastEnders(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
There’s some huge moments ahead on EastEnders, with spoilers for next week confirming bombshells and worrying scenes.
It’s the fallout to the show’s big week that “changes everything”, with new details confirmed about what happens. Not only that, but we see characters struggling in the fallout, and reacting to some big discoveries.
George clashes with Nicola about her deal with Eddie, leading to him heading to the boxing gym. A friendly session with Mark takes a turn though, when Mark punches George and he falls unconscious.
Phil reveals to a stunned Mark that George should never have been boxing due to his brain injury. A groggy and confused George refuses hospital treatment, so Phil takes him home and informs Nicola about George’s CTE.
Harry worries that George might tell Gina about Nicola’s deal with Eddie, fearing it will end their relationship. He does encourage Nicola to tell Gina before someone else does, while Nicola tries to get through to George.
Denise is shocked when doctors insist she be admitted immediately for treatment. Despite Jack’s pleas, Denise is determined to be there for Chelsea after Jordan’s accident involving Ian.
When Denise’s condition worsens, Jack shares the doctor’s warning with Yolande in a bid to encourage Denise to start her treatment. Denise refuses still, while later in the week Chelsea learns that Jordan’s rehabilitation may not work.
Kat plans a birthday dinner for Jasmine, while Oscar secretly juggles time seeing the twins separately. When Oscar finds out the circumstances around the death of the twins’ foster dad, and Jasmine’s departure from the family, he asks Jasmine about it, causing her to lash out.
Josh and Oscar give into temptation, but Kat spots them kissing. Kat confronts Oscar and tells him to stay away from Josh and Jasmine, before she tells Alfie what she saw.
Unaware of the situation, Zoe invites Oscar to the meal for Jasmine and Josh. It looks set to be another drama-filled week in Walford next week then!
Joe Swash says discovering family history has made him complete after taking part in Who Do You think You Are? for the BBC
Joe finds out his family on his father’s side moved over from Italy at the start of the 20th century.(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC / Wall to Wall Media Ltd / Stephen Perry)
Joe Swash says he feels “galvanised” after learning about the Italian roots of his family. The actor and husband of Stacey Solomon appears on Who Do You Think You Are? hoping to learn more about his family tree.
Former EastEnders star Joe, 44, tells the programme he lost his own dad Ricky when he was aged 39 and Joe was just 12 which had a big impact on his upbringing.
He explained: “My house was full of life and life. And then, when my dad died, for a long time, it was a house full of sadness and grief. So, you know, a lot of the time it was just trying to get through that period. Growing up in London, I was quite vulnerable, not having a father figure, and I had dyslexia and ADHD that wasn’t diagnosed, so I do struggle when I read something, and a lot of the time I was misunderstood as being quite naughty and mischievous.”
Joe says thanks to some “strong women” in his life he stayed on track, and that he feels like he has got some “Italian traits” including wearing his heart on his sleeve. His mum Kiffy tells him that on his father’s side his great grandmother’s part of the family tree were Italian.
At this stage Joe doesn’t know anything beyond his grandad Charlie but his parents were Joe’s great grandad also called Charlie Swash and Maria Raimo. A 1921 marriage certificate shows Maria living at home in Lox Gardens in London with her parents, Giuseppe, Italian for Joseph, and Rosa, Joe’s great great grandparents.
Joe’s great great grandfather Guiseppe Raimo moved from Italy to London and worked his way up from a street performer in poor living conditions to a job crafting Street pianos. He also spoke alongside Sylvia Pankhurst in 1923 at a Communist Workers’ Movement meeting in London. A letter in his name was published in weekly newspaper The Worker’s Dreadnought, condemning the brutality of the fascist regime.
Historian Alfio Bernabei said: “Giuseppe wasn’t simply attending the meeting, he was actually speaking alongside Sylvia Pankhurst. He could see what was going on, he was following events in Italy, and everything was leading towards a catastrophe. Giuseppe would have run terrible risks had he been in Italy, and he was running terrible risks in London.”
Hearing this detail, Joe said: “It really does fill me with a great, great deal of pride to think that he was struggling through life anyway, being Italian, living where they were living, but he still was concerned about what was happening in the world and fascism, so he must have been a man with great moral compass, someone that really stood by what he thought.
“I had so much pride when I found out about him. The journey he went on, the morals and the things he stood up for, the people he rubbed shoulders with, and the way he got out and worked through poverty to make himself and make his family’s life better, just shows real tenacity. Learning about his speech was emotional, it was a total surprise. I think in that moment I felt really close to my relatives, to Giuseppe. It was such a lovely thing to find out.”
Joe also goes to Naples and traces his ancestors back to his five times great grandfather Donato who was born in 1762 and was living in the now largely abandoned but picturesque mountainous town of Senerchia. The family were peasant farmers but did have a brush with crime after being wrongly linked to the Italian brigands in 1867 during the Italian rebellion.
Back in the present day Joe also finds a ‘Raimo bar’ nearby to Senerchia, and is delighted the family name lives on in Italy. Reflecting on everything, Joe said: “For a lot of my life, I’ve never really known who I am, what I am, where my roots are. I don’t know if that’s due to losing my dad at a young age, but being on his journey, it really has sort of like galvanised who I am, where I’m from, the people that made me, how strong they are, they never give up. Hopefully a bit of that tenacity has come down the line to me.”
He added: “I think what I’ll carry with me from this experience is just the importance of where you come from and knowing who you are. As well as the things that I found out about my relatives, especially about Giuseppe. Traits and things from them that I hope I have as well, or that I’d like to introduce into my life, you know. It just made me feel a lot more attached to my heritage, which I’ve never really felt attached to. I very much knew nothing about it before, but after this journey, I feel like I’m part of something.”
* Who Do You Think You Are? With Joe Swash airs on BBC1 at 9pm on Tuesday June 9. The series is available to stream on BBCiPlayer.
