EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has been suspended by the BBC after using a slur against people with disabilities on the set of Strictly Come Dancing.
The offensive remark was made last November during filming for the BBC dance show’s flagship Blackpool week, the Sun on Sunday reported.
The BBC said his language was “entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect”.
The newspaper said that Borthwick, who plays Jay Brown – a key long-running character on the soap – apologised for “any offence and upset”.
BBC News has approached his representatives for a comment.
Disability charity Scope said Borthwick should reflect on what he said and educate himself.
“We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people’s lives,” said the organisation’s media manager Warren Kirwan.
In his statement to the Sun on Sunday, Borthwick said: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.”
He added: “It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.
“That is on me completely.
“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did.”
Borthwick rose to fame for his portrayal of Jay Brown (previously Mitchell) in BBC soap EastEnders.
He has starred in it since 2006, making him one of the longest-serving actors on the show.
He has won a British Soap Award for best dramatic performance from a young actor, and an Inside Soap Award for best actor.
The 30-year-old took part in the latest series of Strictly, where he was paired with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas.
It marked a return to the ballroom for him, after he won the 2023 Christmas special.
He made it through to Blackpool week – seen as a key milestone in the contest – but was voted off later in November, making him the ninth celebrity to leave the show.
EASTENDERS star Jamie Borthwick has been dramatically suspended by the BBC for using a vile disabled slur on the set of Strictly.
The actor 30, apologised for “any offence and upset” after aiming the sick jibe at Blackpool locals.
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Jamie Borthwick was dramatically suspended by the BBC for using a sickening disabled slur on the Strictly setCredit: BBC
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EastEnders star Borthwick issued a grovelling apology after his offensive comment emerged on a videoCredit: BBC
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The Sun on Sunday understands Jamie has been suspended by the BBC from his role playing Jay Slater on EastEnders
Disability equality charity Scope said the remarks were “ignorant and hurtful”, adding: “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable.”
The EastEnders star was suspended by the BBC after a video emerged of him on the Strictly set using the term “m********s” to describe the people of Blackpool, the seaside town where the show was being filmed.
Blackpool Council’s Tory group leader Paul Galley blasted: “Everyone will be shocked at such a horrible comment and I join them in condemning it.”
And the BBC told The Sun on Sunday: “This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. We have robust processes in place for this.”
Read More on JAMIE BORTHWICK
The Sun on Sunday understands Jamie has been suspended by the BBC from his role playing Jay Slater on EastEnders.
Jamie made the offensive remark on a mobile phone video while the Strictly cast and crew were at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom last November for the flagship BBC1 series live show.
He was backstage during rehearsals with his Strictly co-star Wynne Evans who said “Oh my God” on the footage sent to a pal of Jamie’s.
Jamie, who has been on EastEnders since 2006, said in a statement to The Sun on Sunday: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.
“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.
“It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.
Strictly’s Jamie Borthwick cheated on me during the show and then used co-star to try and smooth it over, ex tells pals
“That is on me completely.
“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did.
“It was wrong.
“When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment.
“Again, that is no excuse.
“But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views, or who I am.
“I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself.
“The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers and cast members.
“I know they will be again for this year’s show and those in years to come.
“I am truly sorry.”
The actor and Wynne were sharing their excitement after being told they were selected for the lucrative Strictly tour – which was staged nationwide earlier this year.
Jamie, laughing, says on the video: “Blackpool by the way. “Absolute m********s’.”
The soap star and his professional dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas were lauded in Blackpool after dancing the Jive to The Ketchup Song by Las Ketchup in the live show on November 16.
Borthwick pictured with dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas on StrictlyCredit: PA
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The comments sparked an angry reaction from disability campaigners and the people of BlackpoolCredit: Alamy
And it follows The Sun on Sunday revealing in April how Jamie and Wynne were rapped by BBC bosses for sharing a joke over a sex toy video backstage at the Strictly tour in Birmingham – which happened before the latter’s suspension.
Now Jamie is at the centre of a new storm after The Sun on Sunday alerted his team and the BBC to the latest video.
It sparked an angry reaction from disability campaigners and the people of Blackpool.
Warren Kirwan, Media Manager at disability equality charity Scope said: “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable.
“It’s not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people, it has wider consequences.
“Negative attitudes hold disabled people back in all areas of life from getting a job to shopping on the high street.
It’s not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people, it has wider consequences. Negative attitudes hold disabled people back in all areas of life from getting a job to shopping on the high street
Warren Kirwan, Scope
“Mr Borthwick needs to reflect on what he said, educate himself and do better.
“We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people’s lives.”
Councillor Paul Galley, Blackpool Council’s Conservative group leader, condemned Jamie Borthwick’s comments.
He said: “Blackpool’s best asset is its amazing people, along with the millions of people from around the UK who genuinely love the town.
“Everyone will be shocked at such a horrible comment and I join them in condemning it.”
Meanwhile, a source explained how the Blackpool show is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Strictly series – with celebs and pro dancers often saying how much they enjoy performing there.
The source added: “This will be considered a real blow and hugely embarrassing to the BBC and the show’s very warm relationship with the people of Blackpool and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.”
Coronation Street legend Jack P Shepherd has opened up about his feelings after he missed out on a gong at the British Soap Awards as he admitted “it was a shock”
Jack P Shepherd with fiancée Hanni Treweek at the 2025 British Soap Awards (Image: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
Coronation Street’s Jack P Shepherd has expressed his “shock” at missing out on a British Soap Award last weekend (Saturday, May 31).
The actor, who has played David Platt since he was just 12 years old in 2000, is a key part of the Platt family and recently celebrated his 25th anniversary on the show.
Jack’s character has had several near-death experiences on Corrie, including a terrifying incident in 2003 when Richard Hillman attempted to kill the Platt family by driving them into a canal.
Despite these dramatic moments, Jack was nominated for Best Comedy Performance at this year’s British Soap Awards, alongside Patsy Palmer (EastEnders), Nicola Wheeler (Emmerdale) and Nicole Barber-Lane (Hollyoaks).
Jack P Shepherd (R) with co-stars Colson Smith (C) and Ben Price (L) (Image: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
Having previously won Villain of the Year in 2008 and Best Actor in 2018, Jack was hoping to add a third award to his collection, reports Leicestershire Live.
In response to his On The Sofa co-star, Colson Smith, Jack joked: “I’ve been trying for years to get a nod for comedy because I’ve never been nominated for it before.”
Reflecting on his disappointment at not winning, he admitted: “It was a shock.
“If you watched it the other night, you will notice that my reaction is genuine. And I’m completely blown away that I didn’t win.”
In an earlier episode of the show, Jack had admitted he would have been especially “devastated” if he had lost out on the award to Patsy Palmer.
Despite the potential disappointment, the 37 year old emphasised that there was never any “hatred or rivalry” when watching stars from rival soaps take to the stage for their prizes.
Jack has previously won several awards for his Coronation Street role(Image: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
Corrie’s Jack P. Shepherd certainly didn’t hide his shock during the recent ceremony, as Coronation Street actors left with little to toast, compared to EastEnders which dominated the evening by sweeping up seven awards.
Only David Neilson managed to snag a trophy for the Weatherfield regulars at the eventful night.
Coronation Street returns this evening (Friday, June 6) at 8pm on ITV.
Michelle Collins has opened up about her upcoming break from playing Cindy Beale on EastEnders and even admitted that playing the character was ‘exhausting’
Daniel Bird Assistant Celebrity and Entertainment Editor
08:28, 05 Jun 2025
Michelle Collins has revealed that playing infamous Cindy Beale is “exhausting”. The actress left EastEnders fans gobsmacked when she returned from the dead in 2023, and since heading back to Walford, she’s left no stone unturned in her plan of destruction.
Since returning, Cindy has certainly made her mark – reuniting with her former husband, George Knight, and their children, Anna and Gina, after completely vanishing from their bar in Marbella, and even leaving her mother-in-law, Kathy Beale, speechless when she first appeared in her kitchen.
Cindy also found herself having an affair with George’s son, Junior, leaving the Knights’ and Beales’ in a state of disbelief when the bombshell was announced. Over Christmas, she was almost killed when Kathy hit her around the head with a shovel, leaving her for dead in the middle of the square.
Michelle Collins admits playing Cindy Beale is ‘exhausting’(Image: GMB)
Now, she’s opened up about playing the controversial character and admits she finds Cindy “exhausting.” Speaking to Ed Balls and Kate Garraway on Good Morning Britain, Michelle said: “I am loving it, Cindy has taken over The Prince Albert which is really fantastic, so we’re kind of seeing another side to Cindy, a lighter side – which I think, Cindy can be exhausting for people to watch and exhausting for me to play.
“Which is why it’s nice to go off and do something nice. Years ago, they didn’t let people go off and do many things – maybe the odd panto or something but we have a very new lovely producer and I was very quiet.” Speaking about taking a break to pursue another project, Michelle said: “When I broached the idea, he said ‘Maybe we can make it work’ and he has made it work, which is really exciting.
The actress is taking a break from her role on EastEnders(Image: GMB)
“You go off and I am going back, you go back and feel re-engergised, you bring something else to the table.” Michelle added: “You’re doing a continuing drama, continuing throughout the year, it’s good for the soul. It’s good to go and do something else.”
But now, the actress, 63, is heading towards taking a break from the BBC One soap opera and will be turning her hand to a live stage production at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Michelle will be taking part in a one-woman show, which she says is “exciting.”
Michelle will be performing in Motorhome Marilyn, a dark comedy following Denise, an aspiring actress, who had an obsessive relationship with the late Hollywood pin-up.
The show has been inspired by Michelle’s real-life encounter with a woman known in Hollywood as Motorhome Marilyn, who is often spotted on Hollywood Boulevard cosplaying as the movie icon.
But Michelle admits she “wasn’t obsessed” with Marilyn. Speaking about her break, Michelle told the Mirror at the British Soap Awards: “Well I’m going off in the summer. I’m doing my one woman show at the Edinburgh festival, called Motorhome Marilyn.
“I don’t think she’s anything like Cindy. It’s a play about a woman impersonator lookalike who lives in a trailer and dresses as Marilyn Monroe. But she’s 60, it’s kind of strange. It’s about failure, lost dreams, and feeling like life has passed you by. She’s an interesting character. I’m really excited to play it. EastEnders have let me have a month off so I’m very excited.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX. EastEnders airs at 7.30pm each weekday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
EastEnders actress Kitty Castledine has teased what’s ahead for Penny Branning, with her co-star Jacqueline Jossa hinting at a love triangle with Harry Mitchell
There could be a big love triangle on EastEnders, with one star teasing things could get awkward for Penny Branning.
The actress playing her, Kitty Castledine, has confessed huge storylines are on the way, hinting the soap was about to get “better and better”. With that, her co-star Jacqueline Jossa hinted Kitty’s character Penny would be caught up in a love triangle.
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror at the British Soap Awards, Kitty addressed whether Penny and Harry Mitchell would give romance another go. But amid another character possibly also getting involved, it seems a triangle is on the cards.
As we asked Kitty and Jacqueline about the Penny and Harry romance, both appeared to confirm the storyline would be revisited. It’s then that Jacqueline told us: “I can sense a little triangle coming. I say no more.”
Pressed for who the other character was who might be involved with Harry, both stars declined to reveal all. But when asked if romance could be on the cards, Kitty told us: “It’s EastEnders so probably!”
There could be a big love triangle on EastEnders, with one star teasing things could get awkward(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
We also got Kitty’s take on Nicola Mitchell amid her villainous ways. But the actress isn’t put off from having Penny go head-to-head in scenes with Harry’s mother, after recent drama in Walford.
In fact, Kitty confessed that while it might not be the best idea for Penny to dabble with the Mitchells, she thinks conflict between the women would be “great”. Jacqueline confessed she’d love to see Penny in with the family, battling with Nicola over Harry – while it wouldn’t exactly end well given what happened to Harry’s ex Shireen.
Kitty told us of wanting to work more with Nicola actress Laura Doddington: “Scenes with Nicola could be great. The thing is, they butt heads because they are quite similar. They’ve got similar attitudes.”
Ready for the action, Jacqueline added: “I think we would want to see it. I’d wanna see it.” As for what’s coming up on the BBC soap as a new Executive Producer takes over, Kitty teased there would good things to come.
Kitty addressed whether Penny and Harry Mitchell would give romance another go(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
She shared: “The show is in a good place, and it is only going to get better from here.” Jacqueline also teased big returns on the way amid rumours that Max and Oscar Branning will be back.
Jacqueline told us: “I’ve heard some rumbles. I heard Kate Oates’ source say maybe there are gonna be some returns and for me that excites me, whoever it is.” While she did not give away who was coming back, she seemed to give away it’s more than one character.
The actress also hinted there were massive plots on the way, teasing where the show will be at in six months time. She teased: “I’m a massive fan of the show. I am so excited for [what’s happening], cut to 6 months time, where the show will be [in six months time]. It excites me. You don’t know but we know, it’s very exciting.”
It’s set to be a huge series of Celebrity Race Across the World as a Hollyoaks and Derry Girls star is the latest celeb to join the line-up, according to reports
22:39, 03 Jun 2025Updated 22:39, 03 Jun 2025
It’s been reported Dylan Llewellyn is the latest signing to the hit show(Image: WireImage)
A former Hollyoaks star is the latest famous face to sign up for BBC’s Celebrity Race Across the World, according to reports. Fans of the Liverpool based soap will remember Dylan Llewellyn as cheeky character Martin “Jono” Johnson, as he’s set to appear on screens once again.
Since leaving the soap in 2016, the star has appeared in a number of high profile TV shows including Derry Girls, Big Boys and Beyond Paradise.
Dylan’s latest venture will now see him racing across the globe with a team mate in hopes to beat his competitors, without the help of a phone or credit card.
The Mirror has contacted a representative of the show for comment.
Dylan Llewellyn has reportedly signed up for the show(Image: Hoda Davaine/Dave Benett/WireImage)
Despite his TV success, Dylan previously admitted to going through a rough patch in his career. While chatting on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, he shared his near brush with giving up acting: “I was struggling a bit and I was almost like going to give up on acting, you know?”
“And I just wasn’t getting any auditions, and yeah, it was just a really quiet period and I was working in a coffee shop and just grafting because that’s like the realities of acting. You’ve got to graft, you know, it’s a really tough industry.”
He revealed to the Guardian that his breakthrough role as James in Derry Girls came just in time. “It was emotional, really. I was about to give up. It really meant the world to me. It saved me,” he said.
Molly Rainford and Tyler West have reportedly also signed up(Image: Getty Images for Lionsgate UK)
Earlier this week it was reported that Molly Rainford and Tyler West have signed up for Celebrity Race Across the World, according to reports.
The EastEnders star, 24, and Kiss FM presenter, 29, who met on BBC dance show Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, are said to have already filmed the smash-hit series in which a bunch of celebrities partake in an epic race across the world without their phones or credit cards to help.
The last series, which aired last summer saw stars, including Kelly Brook, Scott Mills, Jeff Brazier and Kola Bokinni race across South America.
Speaking on the reported signing of the Strictly couple, a source told The Sun: “Molly and Tyler are a huge coup for the show. They’re popular with millions of viewers from their stints on Strictly, and Molly will bring in loads of EastEnders fans too.”
Molly and Tyler’s relationship blossomed during the Strictly Live Tour in 2023, and things have been going from strength to strength ever since.
EastEnders fans are over the moon as spoilers reveal a ‘return’ for one missing Walford resident next week
20:00, 03 Jun 2025Updated 20:09, 03 Jun 2025
EastEnders confirm ‘return’ for Patrick Trueman(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Spoilers for next week’s EastEnders tease plenty of drama to come including a return for one ‘missing’ resident. There’s trouble in paradise for a number of couples next week, as Kat and Alfie face wedding day drama. But will the day go ahead?
The BBC soap have also confirmed a rocky patch for George and Elaine as Elaine learns where her husband really was on Christmas night. The final couple confirmed to be having trouble are Patrick and Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter).Although fans are gutted the two are having marriage troubles, they’re also overjoyed that Patrick will be making his return.
Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker) has been notably absent from the soap lately, although his partner Yolande has been seen in a number of storylines. She’s been a big support to Nigel Bates who has been suffering from dementia.
There’s trouble in paradise for Patrick and Yolande(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
However, next week, the soap has confirmed Patrick will be back onscreen, but it’s not good news for him or Yolande, as she confides in Denise about their struggles. It all starts off next week with Patrick refusing to give Yolande a massage – but things quickly escalate when she raises her concerns with Denise.
She opens up about the state of her relationship with Patrick, as she fears things will never be the same between them – but will they be able to get on track?
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter upon seeing the spoilers, one fan wrote: “Patrick and Yolande are back next week I prayed for their return!”
The couple tied the knot in 2004(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Patrick and Yolande tied the knot in 2004, however, things came crashing down five years later when they got divorced. The pair rekindled once again in 2023 after Yolande returned to Walford from Birmingham.
The couple recently won a British Soap Award for Best On-Screen Partnership. The soap scooped up eight awards on the night, including Best British Soap, Best Single Episode and Scene of the Year for Angie Watts’ surprise return.
On the night, fans claimed there was an apparent mixed reaction to Rudolph and Angela’s win. However, fellow star Colin Salmon has now had his say on the incident.
Colin, who plays the role of George Knight in the long-running soap, voiced his opinion on X/ Twitter. Trying to explain exactly what had happened, he said: “Just want to clarify; No one was booing Rudi and Angela at the@SoapAwards we were singing RUUUDI , RUUUDI , RUUUDI. “
He added the interaction had “obviously confused some people”. “Appreciate some were concerned, as we should be, but it’s all good,” he added before signing off: “‘#NoDrama#WeLovePatrickandYolande @bbceastenders.”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
EASTENDERS actor Paul Clayton is set to return to the soap after more than a year as he reprises the role of Drew Peacock.
Drew was revealed as the ex lover of the husband of Queen Vic landlady Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe).
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Actor Paul Clayton is returning as Drew – and it spells heartbreak for ElaineCredit: BBC
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Harriet Thorpe who plays Elaine on EastEnders, with fellow actor Paul ClaytonCredit: Instagram / hatdorable
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Junior Knight also returns to stir up trouble between Elaine and GeorgeCredit: BBC
The character made their debut last year when they arrived as the drag artist hired by the Carter’s to perform at Elaine’s hen-do.
Things soon took a dramatic turn when Elaine recognised him and ordered him to leave.
The landlady was then forced to reveal to her daughter Linda (Kellie Bright) that Drew was the mystery person that her father had an affair with all those years ago.
And while Elaine and Drew managed to talk things over and put the past behind them it looks as though more drama is on the way as Drew makes a shock return in upcoming episodes.
The character is featured on the cast list for next week’s episodes meaning that his return isn’t far away.
The guide hints that it is a huge week for the character of Elaine as she makes a shock discovery before making a decision about her marriage to George Knight (Colin Salmon).
She starts to suspect husband George is cheating on her.
Things go from bad to worse when Junior Knight turns up and reveals George kissed his mum Sabrina on Christmas day.
It’s another blow to their marriage after the drama with Cindy Beale, after George helped her relaunch The Albert.
Actor Paul, who played Sophie’s dad in Peep Show, sparked rumours of a potential return after posing for a photo with Harriet, shared to the actress’s Instagram, back in March.
Watch the moment EastEnders’ George Knight calls off wedding to Elaine Peacock after deceit is exposed
Elaine hasn’t had an easy time since arriving in Walford.
EastEnders icon Diane Parish took to social media over the weekend to share a fun-fuelled video of highlights from the 2025 British Soap Awards – which did not give away any of the winners
Diane Parish shared behind-the-scenes content from the British Soap Awards 2025(Image: @officialdianeparish/Instagram)
Diane Parish was in a celebratory mood on Saturday night as she joined her EastEnders castmates and headed to Hackney for the British Soap Awards 2025. The 55-year-old soap icon, famous for playing Denise Fox on the BBC show since 2006, had been on the long list for one of the show categories.
The star had been initially nominated for the Best Leading Performer gong, but did not advance to the second round of nominations for the prestigious award. Instead, EastEnders co-stars Lacey Turner and Kellie Bright were nominated for the gong alongside Emmerdale stars Beth Cordingly and Eden Taylor-Draper.
Diane gave fans a glimpse behind the scenes(Image: @officialdianeparish/Instagram)
With this in mind, Diane took to social media on Sunday to share her own highlights from the night, which did not give anything away. She shared a two-and-a-half-minute-long video from the celebrations, which included footage of her partying with fellow soap stars before, during and after the event.
Uploading the footage to her main grid, Diane wrote: “NO SPOILERS for those who don’t wanna know. But I am sooooo PROUD of everyone who works on @bbceastenders What a night!”
Diane, who plays Denise looked sensational(Image: @officialdianeparish/Instagram)
Clips showed her laughing and chatting with co-stars, encouraging members of the public in the live audience to cheer, spotlighting Anita Dobson in the crowd, and partying at the after party. Soap stars were thrown into a panic at the party, however, as the after-show venue was hit by a bomb hoax.
The event was held at London’s Hackney Town Hall after the main awards. But attendees were suddenly asked to leave the venue shortly before 1am after the event had reportedly received a bomb threat.
“We all got evacuated just before 1am. No reason was given at first and security came round and told us we had to leave immediately,” a source told The Mirror – recounting the nerves shredding experience.
She was seen posing with her co-stars(Image: @officialdianeparish/Instagram)
“As we all waited in the street outside, security told us there had been a bomb threat. We weren’t allowed back in the building so people started making their way home.”
In a video shared with The Mirror, some of TV’s biggest soap stars can be seen waiting outside the venue as more evacuate – with the likes of EastEnders’ Tameka Empson and former Hollyoaks star Emmett J Scanlan among them.
A show source also told The Mirror: “Owing to a security alert after the recording of the awards, it was necessary to evacuate the after party venue. Everyone was cleared from the building safely.”
Meanwhile, fans of soaps took to social media to slam ITV for failing to broadcast the event live – with many annoyed that they would have to wait until Thursday before being able to see who would take to the stage.
Taking to X to slam the delay in broadcast, one fan raged: “It’s ridiculous that the British Soap Awards isn’t live… there’s more hype for the soap stars arriving outside for something not even airing on tv for another week than there is the Britain’s Got Talent final… sort it out for next year please @itv.”
The British Soap Awards 2025 will be broadcast via ITV1 and ITVX on Thursday 5 June 2025 at 8pm.
EXCLUSIVE: EastEnders actor Shane Richie has hinted at a major new storyline on the cards for Alfie Moon and Kat Slater amid a wedding for the pair, with the reports Zoe Slater is returning
22:34, 31 May 2025Updated 22:37, 31 May 2025
EastEnders actor Shane Richie has hinted at a major new storyline on the cards for Alfie Moon and Kat Slater (Image: Getty Images)
Alfie Moon actor Shane Richie may have shared hints at the rumoured EastEndersreturn of Zoe Slater. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror at The British Soap Awards 2025, the Walford legend revealed there were huge scenes on the way. He promised a massive new storyline that would top the soap’s 40th anniversary.
Not only that, but he revealed the storyline would run for months, continuing into next year. He remained coy over what and who the storyline involved, but teased “fireworks”.
He hinted it would involve Alfie and Kat, amid reports Kat’s daughter Zoe will finally make her return to the show after decades. Michelle Ryan is tipped to reprise her role for the first time since 2005, so perhaps this is what Shane was referring to.
Teasing all, Shane revealed new producer Ben Wadey had huge things planned for the show. The actor told us: “He has told me some things. I said let me sit down.
“There’s fireworks, there’s Kat and Alfie. There is a story that is about to kick in, which will carry on through to after Christmas. Honestly it’s a big story. If you thought the 40th was big wait until you see this story. That’s all I’m saying.”
Alfie Moon actor Shane Richie may have shared hints at the rumoured EastEnders return of Zoe Slater(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Shane also told us about his hopes for a Spencer Moon return. Spencer was mentioned recently on the show after his partner Vicki Fowler made her own comeback after more than 20 years away.
Now, Shane is hoping Alfie will be reunited with his brother but maybe not too soon. He explained: “I would like him to come back. One of my sons keeps in touch with Christopher [Parker], but he’s a lawyer now.
“He flies between LA and London. I would love to think that one day they might bring back Spencer, but so much is going on at the moment. Alfie could probably do without that.”
It comes amid The Sun reporting that Michelle Ryan would be reprising her role as Zoe, while the BBC soap have yet to confirm the news. According to the publication, a source claimed it was “the perfect moment” for the return and the timing “felt right”.
It comes amid reporting that Michelle Ryan would be reprising her role as Zoe(Image: Press Association Images)
They said: “Bosses have repeatedly reached out to Michelle over the years, but the timing has never been quite right. People are still talking about her character, so it’s a real coup to bring her back.
“She feels like now is the perfect moment — and there was an exciting script on the table.” It comes after other returns being teased in the coming weeks and months.
Max Branning has been teased to make a comeback, as well as his son Oscar Branning. When asked by The Mirror about this, EastEnders cast members including Jacqueline Jossa and Scott Maslen declined to comment.
EastEnders and Emmerdale were the joint shows to beat at the 2025 British Soap Awards as both had an impressive 13 nominations over 12 categories each – but the BBC soap proved triumphant on the night
21:11, 31 May 2025Updated 22:57, 31 May 2025
The full winners list of the British Soap Awards 2025 has been unveiled(Image: PA)
EastEnders were the big winners at tonight’s British Soap Awards, taking away the top gong. Named Best British Soap, they beat Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks to the coveted accolade.
Walking away with eight awards in total, Steve McFadden picked up Best Dramatic Performance and Best Single Episode for Phil Mitchell’s psychosis. It comes in the soap’s 40th anniversary year.
Hollyoaks got three awards, Emmerdale got two and Coronation Street walked away with one – the Outstanding Achievement Award to David Neilson, who has played Roy Cropper for 30 years. The biggest names in soapland dazzled on the glitter carpet – with Hollyoaks actress Jorgie Porter and Corrie favourite Tina O’Brien both looking sensational in the same dress, a sparkly Oh Polly number.
EastEnders icons Gillian Taylforth and Anita Dobson were in attendance at the awards(Image: PA)
Speaking before she was presented with the scene of the year award, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson said: “It was just perfect.” And asked if she could return again, she said: “I don’t think so, although I should say never say never, it would have to be something extra special.”
Gillian Taylforth, who plays Kathy Beale, added: “It was just brilliant, although none of us knew that she was coming back! We’ll need Ange back if anything ever happened to Kathy, not that I want it too.”
Hosted by Jane McDonald, telly favourites Sir David Jason and Larry Lamb presented awards at London’s Hackney Empire.
The awards were back after being cancelled last year. Watch the British Soap Awards 2025 on Thursday 5 June via ITV1 and ITVX at 8pm.
The British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full;
BEST BRITISH SOAP
EastEnders
BEST LEADING PERFORMER
EastEnders: Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater)
VILLAIN OF THE YEAR
EastEnders: Navin Chowdhry (Nish Panesar)
BEST COMEDY PERFORMANCE
Coronation Street: Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt)
BEST FAMILY
Hollyoaks: The Osbornes
BEST DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE
EastEnders: Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell)
BEST SINGLE EPISODE
EastEnders: Phil’s Psychosis: The Mitchells In 1985
Joe Absolom is joining Emmerdale as a ‘dark and villainous’ characterCredit: ITV
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The actor played Matthew Rose in EastEnders for three yearsCredit: BBC
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Joe said he is “grateful” to be part of EmmerdaleCredit: Rex
Joe, 46, is joining Emmerdale this summer, playing the role of newcomer Ray,.
Introduced as old acquaintance of Mackenzie’s (Laurence Robb), Ray arrives at the farm claiming to be selling farm machinery.
But it’s not long before the character’s true, drug dealing ways come to light.
While he possesses a calm and collected exterior, it’s clear a menacing strike hides just below the surface.
Discussing his new role, Joe said: “Well what an honour to join such a talented team at Emmerdale!
“It’s an iconic show and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
He added: “I can’t wait to see what’s in stock for Ray!”
Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw says: “We are thrilled to welcome Joe Absolom to the cast.
“It’s fantastic to have such a high calibre and immensely talented actor join our wonderful team to play the role of Ray.
“Charming, charismatic and effortlessly likeable, Ray is an extremely complex character who very quickly shows his dark and villainous side to some of our most loved villagers, leaving them in no doubt as to what he’s capable of.”
A Confession episode three sees EastEnders star Joe Absolom reveal true extent of evil killer Christopher Halliwell
EASTENDERS star Molly Rainford is a familiar face on telly after landing a role as Queen Vic’s pretty barmaid.
The star has won a legion of fans playing Anna, the daughter of Cindy Beale.
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Molly Rainford is a regular on our TV screensCredit: AFP
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She is currently a regular in EastEnders, playing Anna Knight – pictured with Colin Salmon and Michelle Collins playing her onscreen parentsCredit: BBC
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Molly met her boyfriend Tyler West when they both starred in StrictlyCredit: PA
But talented Molly has been working in showbiz for over a decade, and first shot to fame as a finalist on the sixth series of Britain’s Got Talent in 2012.
Molly became BGT’s youngest-ever finalist at the time, at age 11 performing Ave Maria in the final and finishing sixth.
After finishing school, Molly went on to star in the lead role in CBBC series Nova Jones and released two EPs, including her single Commitment.
It set her on the path to stardom and she continued to win big opportunties.
Talented singer Molly played the lead in Nova Jones, in the CBBC comedy about the life and adventures of a galactic pop star.
She later joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2022 and came runner up with dance partner Carlos Gu.
And talent runs in Molly’s family.
She grew up in Essex living with her dad Dave Rainford and mum Sarah.
David is a former Chelmsford City FC midfielder and was an assistant football manager.
He started at Colchester United and returned to the team during his senior career in 1997.
EastEnders’ Molly Rainford chats to the Sun’s TV Mag
He also played for Slough Town, Heybridge Swifts, Bishop’s Stortford and AFC Hornchurch.
From 2012 to 2013, Dave was assistant manager for Chelmsford City after joining the team in 2008, and he now works for the Premier League in a top job.
Some EastEnders fans have just figured out who her famous dad is, and took to Reddit to discuss it.
“That’s a lot of nepotism,” one said.
Another rushed to defend Molly, writing: “None of it is nepotism – it isn’t family connections that have helped her out she was just lucky enough to have been given a massive opportunity at a young age.”
One more said: “You keep believing that, you’re telling me she got into eastenders for her acting talent?! Everyone knows it’s her dad that helped.”
He played a major role in the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary episodes when his wife Cindy’s Christmas Day attacker was revealed.
They couple were reunited after Adam’s hiatus from the soap in 2021.
When he returned to Albert Square last year, Ian was reunited with his presumed dead wife Cindy (Michelle Collins), who was revealed to have been in witness protection.
Throughout his long tenure in Walford, Ian has been married six times to five women and had two failed engagements.
He has also fathered three children and acted as a father figure to much younger half-brother, Ben Mitchell.
You know those smug, perfect mums? How well do you really know them? What if they’re not that perfect after all? Little Disasters, airing today (Thursday 22 May) on Paramount+, is a deliciously gripping psychological thriller. Based on the novel by Sarah Vaughan, it follows a group of four women whose friendship implodes.
When Jess (Diane Kruger) takes her baby to hospital with an unexplained head injury, her close friend and on-duty A&E doctor Liz (Jo Joyner) must make the excruciating decision of whether to call social services.
It starts with Jess taking her screaming baby to hospital. It’s A&E on a Friday night and only Liz is available to check baby Betsy. When Liz finds a significant bump on Betsy’s head, she asks Jess what happened – but Jess is sketchy on the details. “She slipped,” she says. Turns out the 10-month-old has a skull fracture and significant bruising. The action flashes back to when she and Jess met 11 years ago at a class for expectant mums, along with two other women.
Exploring themes of motherhood and friendship, the series looks at what happens to this group of women after Liz sets off a catastrophic chain of events. Liz says: “I always thought that Jess was the perfect mother, but then something happens, some little disaster and suddenly you ask yourself, what else is she hiding?” Also starring Shelley Conn, Emily Taaffe, Stephen Campbell Moore, Ben Bailey Smith, Patrick Baladi, Robert Gilbert, Chizzy Akudolu and JJ Feild, this thriller will have you questioning everything. All six episodes are now available to binge.
*Little Disasters is airing now on Paramount+
There’s plenty more on TV tonight – here’s the best of the rest..
THE HORNE SECTION TV SHOW, CHANNEL 4, 10pm
Riotous, wacky, sublimely silly, this sitcom revels in taking a swipe at popular culture and definitely doesn’t take itself too seriously. Written by and starring Alex Horne, with an appearance from his real life wife Rachel, playing his wife (who else!), this is a second run for the quirky comedy.
Struggling with his newfound fame, the pressures of filming live from his family home, and a subsequent lack of money, Alex is determined to prove to the nation that he’s a credible leader of his band, while trying not to be overshadowed by the real musicians he works with.
It starts with an unsuccessful appearance on Sunday Brunch, during which Alex is irritated by the presence of ‘proper musician’, James Corden’s band leader Reggie Watts. Producer Thora (Desiree Burch) then books Reggie as a guest on The Horne Section TV Show, while C4 exec Ash (Georgia Tennant) commissions talent contest, World’s Strongest Musician, which gives Alex a chance to prove himself. Or not.
NINE PERFECT STRANGERS, PRIME VIDEO
Nicole Kidman returns as the creepy, mysterious wellness guru Masha, who has invited nine new strangers to a transformational retreat in the Austrian Alps. With her ageless face, white blonde hair and bewitching eyes, Nicole is made for this role and this is another thrill-ride of a series.
The nine people have been chosen under bizarre circumstances for a healing retreat – they think they’re heading off to a spa, but they are connected in ways they could never imagine. Over the course of a week, Masha takes them to the brink. She says: “I invited you all here because sometimes you shouldn’t deal with pain gently.”
The first series included vials of blood and digging your own grave, so we know that something sinister is definitely going on. An excellent cast includes Henry Golding, Annie Murphy, Christine Baranski, Lucas Englander, Murray Bartlett, Mark Strong and Aras Aydin. “You have to trust me,” says Masha. They definitely shouldn’t…
EMMERDALE, ITV1, 7.30pm
With Mack being ostracised by sister Moira and mortified over his actions, he backs out of being Aaron’s best man. Belle tells Sam that Nate never arrived at his job in the Shetlands. Suspicious, Belle vows to get to the bottom of his sudden disappearance. John pushes a flashback of Nate’s dead body out of his mind and focuses on relaxing. Sarah slips away to her hospital appointment alone where she’s forced to face her potential cancer diagnosis.
EASTENDERS, BBC1, 7.30pm
Stacey leaves the house for the first time in weeks. However, Kat is concerned when Stacey invites them for a big family meal, fearing that she’s trying to do too much too soon.
Everything comes crashing down later when Stacey realises that her coat and mobile phone have accidentally fallen into the laundry bag and Freddie has taken everything to be washed. The phone contains voicemails, photos and texts from Martin and if the phone is damaged, they will be lost forever.
EASTENDERS has accidentally leaked a major spoiler in a now-deleted post and it’s bad news for one Walford family.
Eagle eyed fans of the BBC soap are convinced that a huge change is coming on the soap as they notice major clue in a now-deleted post shared to the show’s TikTok account.
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Fans noticed that a for sale/auction sign had been placed on the side of the Queen VicCredit: TikTok / @bbceastenders
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Is Linda Carter about to lose the pub?Credit: BBC
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Some believe that George Knight could have something to do with itCredit: BBC
In a post uploaded to the account on Tuesday afternoon, fans noticed that a for sale/auction sign had been placed on the side of the Queen Vic – suggesting that current owners Linda Carter and the Knight family are set to lose the pub in a shock new storyline.
Taking to the EastEnders Reddit, many fans suggested their theories as to how Linda and the Knights could lose the pub – with some believing that George Knight (played by Colin Salmon) could have something to do with it.
One wrote: “There was a rumour before that George was going to mess up the insurance on the pub and they were going to be forced to sell it, so I wonder if that’ll be what’s happening here.”
A second asked: “Interesting. I wonder if Linda and the Knights are selling the Vic in an auction.”
A third questioned: “The Knights were so happy to get it back, I wonder why they’ll lose it?”
“Perhaps they can’t afford the Vic, and I’m predicting if Phil and Linda do get closer, like a lot of people are saying that he’ll bid on it and own it while they run it,” this person speculated.
This viewer suggested: “Oh dear. Why do I have a sinking feeling it’ll go to the new Mitchells?”
The Sun have reached out to EastEnders reps for comment.
The iconic pub at the heart ofAlbert Square underwent a recent transformation following the devastating explosion that rockedWalford.
EastEnders star’s secret romps revealed as they’re caught on camera and blackmailed in shock twist
With a shiny new sign, fresh windows, and a sleek new front, the Queen Vic was ready to welcome punters once again.
EastEnders viewers know that the iconic Queen Vic pub went up in flames as part of the show’s 40th anniversary last month.
Fans were left horrified as the huge explosion ripped through the square, which resulted in Martin Fowler (James Bye) dying in the arms of his ex-wife Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).
The Queen Vic pub was destroyed as the windows broke, ceiling structure beams fell down, walls collapsed and upstairs furniture crushed residents.
The Knight family were forced to move out until renovations were complete after they received the good news that the insurance would be paying out.
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Is the Queen Vic getting new landlords?Credit: BBC
The 40-year-old actor is returning to the ITV soap as Jason Grimshaw after nine years away, while Carole Anne Ford has also made her Doctor Who after 32 years – but they are not the only stars who reprised their roles after a long time away
Jason Grimshaw is heading back to Coronation Street(Image: ITV)
Ryan Thomas will be back on our screens in Corrie tonight as he returns to play Jason Grimshaw for the first time in nine years tonight. But that’s nothing compared to the time some other stars have spent away from iconic roles – before getting back into character once more.
On Saturday, Carole Ann Ford returned to Doctor Who 32 years after she was last seen on screen as the Time Lord’s granddaughter, Susan Foreman.
Ryan, 40, said he thought he’d never return to the soap but that “it felt right” for co-star and close friend Sue Cleaver’s emotional exit. Sue will bow out as Jason’s mother Eileen Grimshaw after more than 20 years in the role in upcoming episodes.
Carol Ann Ford (far right) inside the tardis(Image: BBC)
Meanwhile Carole, AKA Susan Foreman, was the Doctor’s very first companion, boarding the TARDIS alongside Hartnell’s First Doctor, before departing the show in 1964. She claims was “fan power” that brought her back, saying: “I think fans have been saying, ‘Where is she? What’s happening other than her? Are we going to see her again?’
On how the Doctor Who set compares to the rather more quaint version back in the 1960s, she adds, “This is like a universe of its own. It’s stunning. I feel very honoured to be here.”
But they’re not the only stars of TV and films who reprised their roles after a very long time away. Here are some of the others…
David Tennant (The Doctor in Doctor Who) – 13 YEARS
Tennant’s run as the 10th Doctor from 2005 to 2010 is the stuff of sci-fi legend. With his skinny suits, wild hair, and “Allons-y!” catchphrase, he quickly became a fan favourite – so much so, that his departure in a tear-streaked Christmas special left the nation heartbroken.
Tennant returned to Doctor Who alongside Catherine Tate(Image:
BBC
)
Fast forward to 2023, and Tennant – by then a huge star of stage and screen – stunned audiences by returning – not just for a cameo, but as the 14th Doctor, alongside Catherine Tate. It was a fan-pleasing twist for the 60th anniversary, mixing nostalgia with fresh Time Lord chaos.
Tony Adams was a fan favourite in Crossroads as smooth-talking businessman Adam Chance, first appearing in the original run of the motel-set soap back in 1978. Known for his charm, affairs, and ever-changing fortunes, he stayed with the series until its 1981 cancellation, leaving behind a legacy of big collars and bigger drama.
Tony Adams and Jane Rossington in a scene from the television programme Crossroads (Image: PA)
In a move that delighted loyal viewers, Adams returned to Crossroads in 2002 when ITV revived the show after more than two decades off air. Picking up where he left off, Adam Chance was once again stirring the pot in King’s Oak, but was later killed off in a fire. Tony, now aged 84, went on to star in the West End stage version of Chitty Chatty Bang Bang as Grandpa Potts.
Paul Bradley (Nigel Bates in EastEnders) – 26 YEARS
Back in the ‘90s, Paul Bradley’s Nigel Bates was the lovable oddball of Albert Square—soft-spoken, cardigan-clad, and endlessly unlucky in love. A single dad with a heart of gold, Nigel brought warmth and awkward charm to even the grittiest EastEnders storylines. When he left Walford in 1998 to start a new life with girlfriend Julie, fans were sad but glad to see the gentle soul get a happy ending.
Nigel Bates became one of EastEnders’ best-loved characters(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Paul went on to firmly establish another much-loved character, playing heart surgeon Elliot Hope in Holly City from 2005 to 2015. Then, in 2024, and after 26 years away, Nigel made an emotional return for Dot Cotton’s funeral, thrilling fans with his brief return.
David Hasselhoff (Michael Knight in Knight Rider) – 22 YEARS
In the 1980s, David Hasselhoff was the epitome of cool as Michael Knight – the leather-jacketed crime fighter with a talking car. Knight Rider became a cult classic and turned The Hoff into a global icon.
After the series ended in 1986, his career soared: he patrolled the beaches as Mitch Buchanan in Baywatch, starred in films like Dodgeball and The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie, and even became a chart-topping pop star in Germany.
Knight Rider turbo-boosted Hasselhof’s career(Image: NBC via Getty Images)
Hasselhoff returned to the driver’s seat in 1991 for Knight Rider 2000, a futuristic TV movie sequel. Then, in 2008, he delighted fans once more with a cameo in NBC’s short-lived Knight Rider reboot, which pulled in over 10 million viewers. He also lent his voice to KITT again for a video game.
David Jason (Granville in Open All Hours) – 29 YEARS
David Jason was the shy, long-suffering shop assistant Granville in Open All Hours, working under the tight-fisted Arkwright, played by Ronnie Barker. The show became a British sitcom classic during its original run from 1973 to 1985, with Jason’s quiet charm and comic timing helping it win generations of fans.
David Jason’s Still Open All Hours ran for six series(Image: PA)
Nearly 30 years later, Jason returned to the corner shop in Still Open All Hours, this time as the owner – older, grumpier, and very much following in his uncle’s penny-pinching footsteps. The reboot aired in 2014 and ran for six series.
Sir Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek) – 26 YEARS
Sir Patrick played Jean-Luc Picard, the commanding officer of the Federation starship USS Enterprise, in 178 episodes of the sci-fi television series between 1987 and 1994, and in four feature films. He went on to star in countless movies, TV dramas and stage shows, including Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise.
Sir Patrick Stewart made an epic comeback(Image: CBS)
But in 2020 the veteran actor boldly went back to where he had been before, reprising the role of Picard in Star Trek: Picard. Delighting fans with the news, he said: “When we wrapped that final movie in the spring of 2002, I truly felt my time with Star Trek had run its natural course.
“It is an unexpected but delightful surprise to find myself excited and invigorated to be returning to Jean-Luc Picard and to explore new dimensions with him.”
Bonnie Langford (Mel Bush in Doctor Who) – 36 YEARS
Bonnie Langford first joined Doctor Who in 1986 as Mel Bush, the bright and bubbly companion to the 6th and 7th Doctors. Known for her upbeat energy and iconic scream, she left the TARDIS in 1987, going on to forge a hugely successful stage and TV career, including a memorable stint in EastEnders and acclaimed turns in the West End.
Bonnie Langford alongside Ncuti Gatwa’s 15th Doctor Who(Image: James Pardon/Bad Wolf/BBC Studios)
Three decades later, Bonnie surprised fans by stepping back into Mel’s shoes for The Power of the Doctor in 2022, later explaining she was sent a script “out of the blue” by Russell T Davies with an offer to return. And this year she made a second comeback, and is currently playing Mel again alongside Ncuti Gatwa’s 15th Doctor in the new series.
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CORONATION Street and Emmerdale are set to join forces for the very first time next year in an epic crossover episode.
The unmissable stunt will see both soaps side-by-side for the first time, with consequences for the residents of both the Dales and Weatherfield.
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Emmerdale and Coronation Street are set to join forces next year
But it’s not the first time stars of the shows have appeared in both soaps – many have crossed over several times.
Here’s a list of soap stars that have made their presence known in both Corrie and Emmerdale:
Claire King
Claire King played the role of Kim Tate in Emmerdale from 1989 until 1999. She then took on the role of Erica Holroyd in Corrie from 2014 until 2017.
In September 2018, Claire reprised her role as Kim Tate in Emmerdale after nearly 20 years away, for a special week of episodes in October 2018. She then returned permanently in 2019.
She is known as one of the show’s most iconic characters.
Daniel Brocklebank
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Daniel playing the role of Billy Mayhew in CorrieCredit: ITV
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Daniel played the role of Ivan Jones in Emmerdale from 2005 to 2006Credit: Rex
Daniel played the role of Ivan Jones in Emmerdale from 2005 to 2006, appearing in 107 episodes in total.
Ivan was originally introduced as a minor role in a storyline about the character of Jarvis Skelton and was only meant to appear in three episodes.
But he was kept on and was seen embarking on a relationship with Paul Lambert, the brother of Nicola King.
More recently, Daniel took on the role of Billy Mayhew in Corrie in 2014 and has remained a regular on the soap ever since.
He takes on the role as vicar at Emily Bishop’s parish and dates barman Sean Tully on the soap.
Chris Bisson
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Chris Bisson played Vikram Desai in Corrie from 1999 to 2002Credit: Rex
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Chris Bisson as Jai Sharma in EmmerdaleCredit: ITV
Chis is most known for his roles as Vikram Desai in Corrie from 1999 to 2002 and Jai Sharma in Emmerdale, which he joined in 2009.
In Corrie, he portrayed Vikram, the cousin of Dev Alahan, but after a four-year stint, he decided to leave the show to relocate to Mumbai.
In Emmerdale, Chris plays businessman Jai, who has taken on various storylines, including a bitter split from his wife Laurel.
Rebecca Sarker
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Rebecca playing Manpreet Sharma in EmmerdaleCredit: ITV
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Rebecca played the role of Nita Desai in Corrie from 1999 to 2000Credit: Rex
Rebecca played the role of Nita Desai in Corrie from 1999 to 2000. As her first acting role, she starred alongside now co-star Chris Bisson, who played her on-screen brother Vikram Desai.
In her role, she was seen managing the Corner Shop and having a fling with Steve.
She has since played Manpreet Sharma in Emmerdale from July 2018.
Taking on the role as the village doctor, she has been at the centre of many major storylines, including being the sister of serial killer Meena Jutla.
Zoe Henry
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Zoe is most known for playing the role of Rhona Goskirk in EmmerdaleCredit: ITV
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Zoe first showed up on the cobbles in 1998 as Log ThwaiteCredit: Rex
Zoe is most known for playing the role of Rhona Goskirk in Emmerdale but many forget that she also appeared on Corrie as Casey Carswell between March and September 2007.
Zoe first showed up on the cobbles in 1998 as Log Thwaite, Spider Nugent’s vegan girlfriend.
Despite just appearing in six episodes, Zoe’s character made quite the impression, especially when Toyah Battersby tricked her into eating a bacon sandwich.
This ultimately led to Spider breaking up with her.
In 2007 she returned as Casey Carswell, who became friends with Claire Peacock before having an affair with Claire’s husband, Ashley.
Meanwhile on Emmerdale, Zoe’s character is currently involved in a dramatic storyline.
Rhona’s stepdaughter April Windsor suddenly went missing on Christmas Day.
It is still unclear what happened to the girl, and viewers are worried her mysterious disappearance may be the result of a kidnapping.
Sally Ann Matthews
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Sally Ann Matthews as Sandra Briggs in EmmerdaleCredit: Rex
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Sally Ann Matthews as Jenny Bradley in CorrieCredit: ITV
Sally Ann is known for playing Jenny Bradley, daughter of the villainous Alan Bradley, in Corrie, from 1986 to 1991.
She then joined the cast of Emmerdale in 2005 as farmers wife Sandra Briggs, but left less than a year later.
In 2015, she returned to Corrie as Jenny.
Ryan Prescott
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Ryan is known for playing Ryan Connor in CorrieCredit: ITV
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Ryan playing Flynn Buchanan in EmmerdaleCredit: Rex Features
Ryan is known for playing Ryan Connor in Corrie and Flynn Buchanan in Emmerdale.
Ryan joined Corrie in 2018 and is part of a major storyline amid the acid attack on the soap and is stuck in a love triangle alongside Daisy Midgeley.
Before this he had his first big soap role in Emmerdale in 2011, Ryan played Flynn Buchanan, a love interest for Aaron Dingle.
The soap first, which will be broadcast in January 2026, teases that characters from both shows will depart and exciting new faces will join as the cast from each of the long-running ITV programmes come face-to-face for the first time.
The hour-long episode is to mark the start of the new ‘soap power hour’ – a schedule change taking hold from early next year.
Emmerdale and Corrie will each broadcast a 30-minute episode every-day back-to-back as part of the new programming changes with the huge stunt set to kickstart it all.
ITV tease that the one-off mash-up will have “everlasting consequences for everyone involved” and will rock Weatherfield and the Dales forever.
Both shows producers, scriptwriters and production teams have worked together to create the record-breaking episode with the impact then being felt as both programmes return to their own hubs for months to come.
Bosses from both shows also say that whilst the soaps will only be seen on-screen together for the one episode, the communities will be forever linked as a result of the as-yet undisclosed stunt.
There will also be an interactive twist for fans to determine one part of the episode.
A vote will be opened allowing soap fans to choose which Emmerdale and Coronation Street character will share a carefully-written scene together as part of the episode.
The schedule change sees both soaps lose one episode a week amid dwindling ratings.
Both programmes currently enjoy six outings a week but this will be down to just five following the epic stunt episode.
Emmerdale will air at 8pm followed by new episodes of Corrie at 8:30pm.
The programmes will continue to upload their episodes to ITVX at 7am each morning.
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The epic crossover episodes will be shown in January 2026Credit: Rex
Coronation Street and Emmerdale fans are in for a treat as ITV have announced a special crossover episode between the two popular soaps – with some iconic characters expected to return
23:34, 14 May 2025Updated 23:56, 14 May 2025
Denise in her first soap role as Natalie Barnes in Coronation Street in the 90s(Image: Granada TV)
The Loose Women star is now 13/8 to walk the cobbles, a fall which comes just as ITV has announced a special crossover episode of its two soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Chatter among fans on social media includes hopes favourite characters will return – but ITV has kept tight-lipped about who will star in the episode.
It is understood, though, one character – potentially past or present – from each drama will meet face to face. Although Carla Connor from Corrie and Charity Dingle from Emmerdale are currently the favourites (11/8) to meet face to face, odds suggest Denise’s character Natalie Barnes may be in the running.
But Carla’s potential meeting with Kim Tate (Claire King) is placed at (2/1). Could there be a business deal brewing between Yorkshire and Manchester?
Denise appeared in Emmerdale as Heidi late last year, and is also known for appearing as Alison Slater in Eastenders(Image: BBC)
It seems that the Cobbles might witness the return of Loose Women star Denise Welch (13/8) for this crossover event. Denise played Natalie in Corrie between 1997 and 2000, and made an appearance in Emmerdale as a juror named Heidi late last year.
James Leyfield, Entertainment expert at Gambling.com, suggests another popular pairing could see Corrie’s Kirk Sutherland (Andy Whyment) and Dales legend Sam Dingle (James Hooton) team up, with odds of 6/4 for them to meet, reports the Daily Record.
Denise also played Alison Slater in EastEnders back in 2016. She’s also well-known for her role as Steph Haydock in the BBC school drama Waterloo Road, a role she is set to reprise this year in a reboot.
ITV chiefs have yet to reveal how fans will vote for which two characters, one from each soap, they would like to see interact in the crossover episode. One of the most anticipated pairings between Corrie and Emmerdale is Corrie’s Carla Connor, portrayed by Alison King, and Emmerdale’s Charity Dingle, played by Emma Atkins.
It would be a delightful nod to soap history if Ken Barlow, played by Bill Roache, were to share a scene with Emmerdale stalwart Eric Pollard, portrayed by Chris Chittell There are odds of 5/2 for the duo to join forces, but it’s nearly as probable for Corrie and Emmerdale’s villains to share a scene. Gary Windass, played by Mikey North, and Cain Dingle, portrayed by Jeff Hordley, have odds of 3/1 to meet.
Steve and Jai have odds of 6/1 to encounter each other in the crossover episode, and a similar scenario could occur between Corrie’s Nick Tilsley, played by Ben Price, and Dales matriarch Kim Tate. Claire and Ben had an on-screen romance on the cobbles when their characters Erica Holroyd and Nick got together. The odds are 8/1 that they’ll reunite from separate soaps in the special episode.
Natalie Anderson’s new Corrie character Danielle Silverton has odds of 10/1 to meet up with Emmerdale’s Jacob Gallagher, played by Joe Warren-Plant, after Natalie previously played Joe’s mother Alicia Gallagher in the Dales.
EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater’s loved ones are deeply concerned after worrying scenes on the BBC soap, while there’s also an emotional storyline for baby Jimmy
00:01, 13 May 2025Updated 00:01, 13 May 2025
EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater’s loved ones are deeply concerned(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
There’s some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week according to the new spoilers.
Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break from the BBC soap later this year. There’s also concern for Lauren Branning as she grows convinced something isn’t right with her baby son Jimmy.
But when she rushes him to the hospital, her and her family are rocked by a diagnosis. Also next week there’s news from former character Whitney Dean as Zack Hudson takes action after threats from Nicola Mitchell.
It’s a big week in Walford, with some highly emotional twists and turns. One of the big storylines of the week is baby Jimmy’s diagnosis, with the soap confirming he will be diagnosed as severely sight impaired.
When Lauren grows concerned for her newborn baby son, her panicked behaviour leaves partner Peter Beale and their family worried she might be struggling. When her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she’s relapsed after her painkiller addiction.
There’s some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week (Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Prior to this, Lauren is struggling with her baby boy and is convinced something isn’t right with Jimmy. She’s urged to investigate, but her health visitor is soon telling Peter that Lauren may be experiencing symptoms of post-natal depression.
As tensions rise, there’s a worrying moment when Lauren notices something concerning when looking at Jimmy’s eyes. Struggling to get an appointment with the doctor she heads to the hospital and demands to be seen.
Lauren’s midwife calls Peter who joins them at the hospital, and soon Lauren’s fears are taken seriously. When a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired.
The soap is working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on the storyline, with the scenes set to show how the diagnosis will impact Jimmy and his family as a whole. Elsewhere there’s concern for grieving Stacey, as she refuses to leave her bedroom.
Lauren Branning grows convinced something isn’t right with her baby son Jimmy(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Stacey has been in a bad way ever since her ex Martin Fowler died in the Queen Vic explosion back in February, just after he asked her to remarry him. Her daughter Lily Slater tries to cover up what’s going on despite things taking their toll, but soon Stacey’s loved ones find out.
As Kat Slater heads to the house she is left worried by what she uncovers. She tries to take control of the situation and calls a family meeting, with Kat, Alfie, Suki and Eve planning to help with childcare, as they question whether Stacey needs professional help.
As Stacey continues to hide away in her bedroom, Lily breaks down. Soon, Stacey, who is taking a break from the show, takes her first trip out of the house in weeks, but she worries Kat with her plans for a family meal.
When Stacey’s phone is misplaced and she realises it’s in the laundry bag which is now on its way to the laundrette, she panics as she explains it contains voicemails, photos and texts from Martin and they’ll be lost forever if the phone is damaged.
She rushes off to find it before it’s too late, and in her absence her son Arthur shocks Alfie with a secret. Meanwhile as Stacey reaches the laundrette her behaviour concerns Kat and Lily who fear she’s experiencing a bipolar episode.
Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Soon, an incident between Stacey and Lily leaves their relationship at breaking point. Also next week, it seems Nicola Mitchell will go to any lengths necessary to stop Zack from telling Barney that he’s his biological father.
Nicola will target Whitney it seems, as Whitney tells ex Zack that she’s found a safe place for her and the girls to live, somewhere Nicola won’t find them. Zack is encouraged to go and visit them, but he soon sparks concern when he plots to take Barney with him.
Finally, Nigel Bates is urged to reconnect with his estranged daughter Clare to build bridges by Yolande Trueman. But she soon gets on the wrong side of him. Also Harvey Monroe is sacked by Kat after he moves on with Kathy Beale.
