Coronation Street fans are desperate for Carl Webster to face his downfall for his recent villainous ways, including a sickening twist with his sister Debbie Webster
Coronation Street fans are desperate for Carl Webster to face his downfall for his recent villainous ways(Image: ITV)
Fans of Coronation Street think a downfall is set for villain Carl Webster, as he sunk to new lows this week.
The brother of Kevin and Debbie Webster has been up to all sorts, from dodgy car stealing schemes and fake MOTs, as well as his affair with sister-in-law Abi Franklin. With Carl also having a secret romance with James Bailey behind Abi’s back, and him also being behind the hit-and-run that injured Tyrone Dobbs, fans are eager to see him punished.
But his latest dark behaviour could be his cruelest decision yet, and it’s left sickened fans wanting him gone. Carl has been getting closer to his sister Debbie, and clearly wants access to her business accounts at the hotel.
Amid Debbie’s dementia diagnosis and her becoming forgetful, vile scenes have shown Carl tricking her and trying to get her out of the way. Wanting access to the accounts no doubt for the money, fans fear he will end up fleecing his own sister.
This and the fact he’s cruelly using her diagnosis against her at a time where she’s vulnerable, has left fans horrified. Many have called it the final straw and are hoping he gets found out soon.
The ongoing storyline has sparked speculation that it will lead to a big comeuppance for Carl, perhaps at Christmas or beyond. Fans are now trying to figure out who will expose Carl and who will bring him down.
As Kevin and Abi were named as potential suspects behind his downfall, other fans wondered if Debbie or her partner Ronnie Bailey, or even fling James, will stop him for once and for all. Taking to social media, one fan said: “Cant stand him. Someone has to catch him.”
Another viewer said: “Is he going to get caught out for EVERYTHING at Christmas? Tyrone, Debbie, Abi, James, they’ll all want a piece of him!”
A third fan wrote: “Debbie must have accountants checking the hotel books. Surely there will be investigations if things don’t add up. What about the other hotel staff too? They would notice dodgy goings on.”
Another fan said: “I think Debbie has her suspicions about him wanting access to the hotel’s finances. She should give him limited access and give the same access to Ronnie so he can keep an eye out for anything dodgy. Then when she confronts Carl, with Ronnie backing her, he can’t claim she’s confused because of her dementia.”
Coronation Street fans are convinced Cassie Plummer and Becky Swain are linked in some way, and now a scene on the ITV soap featuring a phone call has added fuel to the theory
22:41, 05 Nov 2025Updated 22:42, 05 Nov 2025
Fans think there’s a secret link between two Coronation Street characters(Image: ITV)
Fans think there’s a secret link between two Coronation Street characters, and the latest episode may have ‘confirmed’ this.
Cassie Plummer spoke about helping someone with business in Spain, before speaking in Spanish on the phone. With fans already suspecting prior to this that Cassie could be somehow linked to villain Becky Swain, this scene left fans wondering if it was a given now.
After all, Becky returned from the dead months ago and it was revealed for the past four years, she has been hiding out in Spain. She’s now being told she has to return there to stop her cover being blown, with Becky wanting daughter Betsy to go with her, as well as her ex Lisa Swain.
All the sudden talk about Spain, and a scene last week that involved both Cassie and Becky, has sparked a theory that they secretly know each other. So when Cassie spoke in Spanish and revealed all about her link to the country, fans wondered if this was proof that she and Becky know each other, and that Cassie knows all about her dodgy dealings.
Taking to social media, one fan said: “Cassie speaking Spanish and knowing someone in Spain… helped him with his business… she must know Becky!! The links are starting to link.”
Another fan agreed: “If this isn’t a clue to Cassie knowing or recognising dodgy business in Spain *couch* Becky I don’t know what is. Surely this isn’t coincidence.”
A third fan added: “So Cassie can speak Spanish and helped an ex out with his ‘business’ in Spain. Oh she is so gonna be the one to reveal backhand Becky’s dodgy dealings!”
A final comment read: “So, Cassie’s talking about a Spanish boyfriend, Peter’s name being dropped recently, and Becky’s been living in Alicante. Is this all a coincidence??”
It follows another theory suggesting Cassie might know Becky, and could trigger her downfall. Fans noted her watching as Carla Connor confronted Becky for kissing Lisa Swain, and she seemed very interested.
Viewers may recall Cassie was sleeping rough while she was taking drugs. She’s now in recovery, but could Cassie and Becky have crossed paths when Cassie was on drugs?
One theory is that Becky was her dealer as others wondered if she arrested her. A fan commented: “Cassie looked like she thinks she’s seen Becky somewhere before!”
Another said: “Right it can’t just be me, it’s going to transpire Cassie knows Becky somehow isn’t it? ISN’T IT?!” A third fan wrote: “That was a look of recognition for Cassie surely. Has Becky arrested her in the past?”
A theory suggested: “Oh she’s come across her before in her past… drugs?” as another read: “I reckon she was a mate of that Tia and was in the shadows and witnessed her murder/death.” A further tweet said: “Sold her drugs is more like it.”
The theories kept on coming with one reading: “Has Becky arrested her at some point?” as someone suggested they met in Spain. A final tweet said: “I’m thinking Cassie may have had some dealings with Rebecca in the past.”
Emmerdale’s April Windsor is set for worrying scenes on the ITV soap, as a villain of sorts, Callum, ‘returned from the dead’ in a twist on Wednesday, and April has no idea
There was a dark twist on Emmerdale on Wednesday, as a murdered character was confirmed to be very much alive(Image: ITV)
There was a dark twist on Emmerdale on Wednesday, as a murdered character was confirmed to be very much alive.
It’s bad news for April Windsor to some degree, as she’s been allowed to believe the person is still dead. This will continue too, with her kept in the dark about the character’s true fate.
Last week we saw April left in danger, as drug dealer Ray Walters sent her on a job with a client. When he tried to force her into sleeping with the client to pay off her debt, she was horrified.
When April told Callum, the client, she couldn’t go through with it, he turned on her. Grabbing her and trying to force himself on her, he said there was no escape and he’d “do it anyway” even after her stating she did not want to have sex with him.
Fighting for survival, April ended up slamming him over the head with a vodka bottle in self-defence. Shaken, she escaped and told Ray and Celia Daniels that Callum was dead.
Ray headed to his home to check on Callum and when he returned to the village, he confirmed to a distressed April that he was in fact dead and she’d killed him. Both Celia and Ray taunted April about her being a murderer and said she’d go to prison.
When she declared she needed to report her crime and threatened to expose them, the criminals made it clear that if April spoke out, she and her family would be in danger. So April is now struggling to come to terms with being a killer.
Of course she has no idea, and fans didn’t either until Wednesday, that Callum isn’t dead. He’s injured but he’s absolutely fine, and survived the attack.
So Ray’s claims that he disposed of Callum’s body and that April killed him are a lie, and he and Celia know it. They’re now using it against April to keep her doing as they say, meaning more bad news ahead for April when she has to stay in line, but also if Callum reveals his fate, he could get her in serious trouble.
In a twist at the end of the episode, Callum was with Ray in his car and he talked about his head hurting. Ray told him to stay silent and take some pain relief, making it clear he couldn’t do anything about April.
Viewers were stunned by the twist but many said they “knew it”, having figured out Ray would lie to April to target her. Taking to social media, one fan said: “I knew it, I f***ing knew it.”
Another fan said: “I didn’t think he would be.” A further fan posted: “I KNEW he wasn’t dead!!!!!”
Coronation Street fans believe Becky Swain may have bugged Carla Connor’s home in a bid to get dirt on her and split her and Lisa Swain up, with her intent on getting her family back
07:00, 05 Nov 2025Updated 07:07, 05 Nov 2025
Viewers are concerned for Carla Connor on Coronation Street(Image: ITV)
Viewers are concerned for Carla Connor on Coronation Street, with fears that Becky Swain is targeting her.
While it’s clear Becky is trying to oust ‘love rival’ Carla from her ex Lisa Swain’s life, in a bid to win her back, new scenes have teased she could be planning something sinister. A scene on Monday night left fans baffled, and alarmed after Becky made an odd comment.
Becky was winding Carla up, trying to tell her Lisa was still in love with her and that they would get back together. Carla very calmly made it clear to Becky that Lisa only had eyes for her, and they would stay together as Becky’s old life was gone.
It seems Becky is a little delusional though, smugly telling Carla that “it was all in the eyes” and that Lisa kissed her, even wearing a top she bought her years ago. Carla was stunned at just how wrong Becky was getting it all, reminding her that she and Lisa were together in their new home, and that Becky was her past.
It’s then that Becky started making jibes at Carla’s own past, referencing stuff about her exes and her alcohol issues. It’s stuff Becky and even Lisa were not around for, and Becky shouldn’t really know about.
She is a police officer so perhaps she did some digging, but chances are she’s not allowed at the police station. Perhaps Betsy told her about the stuff, if she knows any of it.
Becky also made a comment in a different scene, this time to Lisa where she commented that if Carla wasn’t around, they’d be back together. The way Becky said it was almost the same as what Carla had said to Lisa prior.
It left fans wondering if Becky had bugged Carla’s house, and was listening into conversations. One fan posted online: “Oh so Becky’s bugged No.6 then… ‘if she wasn’t around…you don’t have to say it, it’s enough for me just to know’. HOW DO YOU KNOW?????
“And using that very specific wording that… the same that Carla used the night before?? That can’t just be coincidence?” Another fan agreed: “Ohhhh, you could be into something with this!!”
A third fan said: “Oh she has defo planted bugs 100% there is no way she said that line the exact way Carla said it as a coincidence.” A fourth fan added: “That is why we have the bedroom set? Scene of her watching them and listening in.”
The comments kept being repeated, with one fan said: “Exactly… How else would she know those words plus knowing full well Carla said this to Lisa, she heard it.” A final tweet said: “Wouldn’t be surprised.”
Eva Price has burst back onto Coronation Street and much-loved actress Catherine Tyldesley says the future couldn’t be more exciting for the soap as she opened up on her anxiety
Coronation Street’s Catherine Tyldesley has spoken about her big return as Eva Price(Image: ITV)
Soap favourite Catherine Tyldesley feared her chances of ever returning to Coronation Street were in danger after she kept saying no to bosses – but now she thinks the show going in an ‘old school’ direction will keep the critics at bay.
Catherine is back on the Cobbles as feisty Eva Price following a seven-year absence, and admits she was incredibly nervous about reprising her role. The actress finally told producers yes after hearing their plans for the future and telling them she didn’t want her character involved in any cheating scandals.
Eva left Weatherfield behind in 2018, but now she’s back with some new faces. Joined by husband Ben Driscoll, played by Aaron McCusker, mother-in-law “from hell” Maggie [Pauline McLynn] and their blended family she is also the queen of the Rovers Return – and said the pressure of following in the footsteps of legendary landladies also added to her anxiety.
She said it was the perfect time to come back to the ITV soap and was sold as soon as producer Katie Brooks explained where the programme was heading. Catherine spoke to the Mirror as she juggles being a working mum and missing important family moments.
The 42-year-old said: “It’s been incredible to be back. You are like a family when you work at Corrie. We’ve all really make the effort to stay in touch, cast and crew, so it’s I just feel incredibly lucky and I’ve been made to feel super welcome. I needed that because I was really nervous. I was genuinely, really nervous because it’s been a long time.
“I’ve had to say no a few times. I was worried they’d just stop asking! That’s why I emailed them after having to reject the chance those times. I just said ‘I love the show and said I loved playing Eva, so please, please always ask me… and at some point, further down the line, hopefully the time will be right’.
“Kate [Brooks] is passionate about bringing a new golden era and kind of looking to the old school Corrie days for inspiration, which is what people seem to love – and what Kate is brilliant at, alongside our writing team. The route she envisioned Corrie going in is everything that I’m about, as soon as we spoke I was inspired and motivated.
“They really know how to do that, and that’s how she worded things to me. I want to bring Corrie into this brilliant new era. It’s a very exciting time, and I felt excited by everything that she was saying to me and how passionate the character and really exploring strong women.”
The show has faced criticism, with Charlie Lawson, who played Jim McDonald for decades, hitting out over ‘woke’ plots before claiming viewers are switching off. It was revealed that Corrie didn’t make it into the ten most-watched TV shows on Christmas Day last year but Catherine says things are looking up.
“They’re putting everything into it,” she said. “I think, if there has been criticism over the show, everything is peaks and troughs in life, you can’t be perfection day in, day out. It is important for shows like this to experiment with things and look at relevant topics that are things that are happening around us, and sometimes the audience like that, sometimes they maybe don’t.
“The only way you can learn is if you take risks, mixing things up and different producers have different ideas. It just so happened for me that I felt very, very aligned with Kate, and everything that she was saying, and her new vision for the show in terms of finding that old school era.”
But while her return has been a pleasure, it’s also been painful. The star added: “Obviously Eva is older and wiser, I wanted Eva and Ben to be tight, to be loyal, to be this power couple at the forefront at the pub. We were very passionate about the fact we wanted her to retain that childlike quality that she has, that really fun side. “I’ve been super happy to have Pauline and Aaron to bounce off. They are such wonderful human beings in real life. So we’re having the best time. The other day, I came up to my dressing room and I remember thinking, gosh, my face is hurting from smiling! Pauline is hysterical. I could just put her in a room and watch her and she just got comedy bones. Yeah, they’re both brilliant.”Mum-of-two Catherine has linked up with O2 to help launch an incredible 5G book that connects families for bedtime, even when they have to be apart. The unique book transforms a traditional children’s story into a shared, interactive experience and she says it’s a must for parents.
“I wanted to get involved in this campaign because, for me, a bedtime story is a ritual – it was always my favourite part and still is. That opportunity to kind of talk about their day with them and then to you, delve into a story is just so special.“O2 told me that through their research, I think it was more than half as parents also agreed with that statement that that was their favourite time of the day. So, for me to have the opportunity to do this connected storybook with Iris, who is three, was just amazing.“Whilst nothing can replicate being snuggled up in bed reading with your little one, seeing technology used in this way to make that special moment of connection still possible is just amazing. The book is beautiful and to see the look on Iris’ face when I popped up in the story was a very special moment. She loved being able to see me and read through the story together even though we were apart.”
Strictly Come Dancing fans have reacted to news of the latest elimination after a spoiler leaked online following an eventful Halloween Week on the BBC competition
23:06, 01 Nov 2025Updated 23:07, 01 Nov 2025
The judges were all dressed up for Halloween week(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing fans have been left ‘heartbroken’ after a spoiler revealed who has been eliminated from the BBC dance competition. Fans will know that the results show traditionally airs on Sundays but is pre-recorded immediately after the live show on a Saturday evening, and news is often leaked online.
This time around, it was Halloween Week on Strictly, and it was eventful from start to finish. With judges Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Motsi Mabuse all dressed up in spectacular spooky gear, and the contestants all embodying creepy and kooky personas for the evening, it was Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope who topped the leader board with a perfect score of 40, a first for this series.
Just before the result was confirmed, rumours had already started to swirl and one fan wrote: “Genuinely worried this will come true again. Why are my faves always in danger?” Another said: “ffs I hope this is wrong,” and one fan admitted: “I ain’t sleeping until that spoiler drops, I’m on EDGE”
Another admitted: “got strictly spoiled for me last week bc someone updated the wikipedia page by like midnight based on the leaked spoiler while me and my sister were in depth examining the judges evil scoring HOWEVER this week im looking intentionally bc im getting nervous.”
A fourth fan said: “I wish there was a poll on X where we can see a live accurate version of what the votes look like cause waiting for the strictly spoiler poll is painful.”
At the end of Saturday’s show, it was revealed that Shirley would have the deciding vote when it came to deciding who would survive the dreaded dance off.
While the Mirror have decided not to leak the spoiler, fans have already been reacting online to the leaked elimination news. One simply wrote: “Noooooo,” and left a sad emoji and a broken heart with their tweet.
Another said: “the strictly spoiler. omg,” whilst a third admitted: “I had a feeling this was going to be the result. Devastated for the parson who left but it was the correct result sadly. Heartbroken for the other person too but I hope this means they’ll come back fighting next week.”
Last week, footballer Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink and Lauren Oakley were sent home following a tense dance-off with musical theatre star Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin.
Speaking after the elimination, Jimmy said he never expected to enjoy the show so much. “I can only say thank you very much for letting me have this experience and to my daughters for pushing me to come here and do this.
“I never expected that I would enjoy it this much. The people behind the scenes, from the wardrobe people to the hairdressers to the make-up people, are absolutely magnificent – thank you very much.
“This experience is going to live with me forever. Most importantly, [to Lauren] this girl, she is just absolutely incredible. She has been absolutely amazing with me. You are a diamond,” he told Lauren.
A former Strictly Come Dancing contestant has said they want to return to the BBC show
Anita Rani says she was “robbed” on Strictly(Image:
BBC
)
Anita Rani, the Countryfile star and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, has confessed she’ll “never get over” her time on the dance show. The 48 year old telly favourite took part in the BBC competition a decade ago, narrowly missing out on the final by just two weeks.
She was partnered with professional dancer Gleb Savchenko during her stint on the show, which saw The Wanted’s Jay McGuiness and his partner Aliona Vilani take home the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
Soap stars Georgia May Foote of Coronation Street and EastEnders‘ Kellie Bright were the runners-up that year. However, Anita is still convinced she was “robbed” of a place in the final alongside Aliona.
In a chat with The Sun’s TV Magazine, she revealed: “I wish I could do it again – I think they should bring back ‘the robbed’! I’ll never get over it, I should have got to the final.”
During the semi-final, Anita found herself in the dreaded dance-off against BBC presenter Katie Derham. Despite giving it her all, it was Katie and her partner Anton Du Beke who progressed to the grand finale, reports Wales Online.
Anita confessed that she used to turn down reality shows like Strictly, but has recently decided to say “yes” if the “offer arise”. Since then, she’s appeared on popular programmes such as Celebrity Gogglebox, The Chase, and Blankety Blank.
She even hinted that she’d consider joining the cast of Celebrity Traitors if the BBC decides to commission a second series. Meanwhile, Anita and her dad Bal are gearing up for their appearance on Celebrity Race Across the World.
She added: “I used to say no to other reality shows, but now I’m like: ‘If an offer arises, why not?’ The Traitors, I’m A Celeb… But I’ll tell you what me and Dad want to do next – Antiques Road Trip. Let’s put that out there!”.
Before taking part in the travel programme, Anita confessed she wanted her father to enjoy “an adventure”.
She told the BBC: “We get on, he makes me laugh and if I ever want help in making a decision, dad’s the person I call.
“Also, I want dad to have the experience. It’s about my dad having an adventure – he’s never had one before. I think we’re competitive, but I think we’re just really keen to have an amazing experience and give it our best shot.”
The Woman’s Hour presenter reveals she’s currently in a “new era” following the “confirmation” of her fresh romance with partner Alex Lavery.
This comes two years following her separation from spouse Bhupi Rehal. The former pair had been wed for 14 years before they ended their marriage.
Following their break-up, she revealed to Love Sunday Magazine: “‘Life is good, I’m in a good place. I’m focusing on myself and my own wants.
“It’s nice to be able to think about the second phase of my life. I’ve been calling it Chapter Two.”
An underrated period drama based on one of the most influential books of all time is available to watch for free
‘Must-watch’ period drama based on classic book is free to watch(Image: ITV/PBS)
Viewers shouldn’t miss out on this incredible four-part drama based on a classic novel, as it’s available to watch without spending a penny.
This breathtaking adaptation was originally aired in 2023 on ITV and PBS Masterpiece in the US and has developed a passionate cult following despite not receiving critical fanfare at the time.
Based on the novel by Henry Fielding, Tom Jones brings the seminal 1749 novel to life like never before with an ensemble cast of British legends.
William Tell’s Solly McLeod portrays the titular downtrodden hero, a young man with mysterious parentage who falls in love with his spirited neighbour Sophia Western (played by Sophie Wilde).
Sophie decides to flee her arranged marriage to be with Tom, but the pair are kept apart by a series of increasingly fraught misadventures.
They’re accompanied by some of the most recognisable names from the British screen, including Coronation Street’s Lucy Fallon, Harry Potter’s Shirley Henderson, New Tricks’ Alun Armstrong and Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham.
Many viewers consider the drama an essential watch and it’s still currently available to stream for free on ITVX.
One 10/10 review from an IMDb user declared it “Gorgeous viewing with a top notch cast”.
They continued: “The cast list is like a who’s who of the cream of British talent, topped by two lovely and good looking leads.
“The episodes fair gallops on its way, cutting through the boring exposition and getting quickly to the important stuff, the love story between Tom and Sophia.”
The review continued to particularly praise Waddingham’s performance as Lady Bellaston, declaring “Seriously, put this woman in EVERYTHING”.
“If you get a chance, watch it in one go, it’s perfect lazy weekend viewing,” the reviewer concluded.
Another warned that fans of the book should expect some changes to the narrative, but admitted: “Even though the story is not like really really the one from the book is one pretty entertaining and very fun to watch. The choice of actors was really good and they did a great job.
“I really recommend for you to watch it if you want some light series combined with romance, a bit of jealousy and of course some British scenery.”
And a 9/10 review said: “This is what you want from English costume drama – and more. I really liked it.
“Fans of historical dramas and literary adaptations will find Tom Jones a must-watch, as it stays true to the spirit of the novel while making it accessible and enjoyable for modern audiences.”
In the mood for a cosy period romance with plenty of laughs and scenery-chewing performances from British greats? Look no further.
Emmerdale may have aired a brutal and unexpected death on Thursday night, as one teen committed a violent act in self-defence as the County Lines plot escalated
Emmerdale may have aired a brutal and unexpected death on Thursday night(Image: ITV)
Another death could be looming on Emmerdale, months on from multiple characters facing grim demises.
Thursday’s episode hinted a character had been killed off without warning, while another villager could face a grim fate too. A character was attacked with a glass bottle, and left lifeless and bleeding in dramatic scenes.
There was also concern for missing teenager Dylan Penders who had not been seen since another run-in with villain Ray Walters. As for the possible death victim, newcomer Callum was attacked in self-defence by teenager April Windsor.
She was left shaken when she saw Callum slumped on the bed after she hit him, with blood pouring from his head. He looked dead if not seriously injured, while fans will have to tune in on Friday to find out his fate.
He had just forced himself on April, attempting to rape her after she tried to flee the room they were in. She’d been sent there by Ray and evil Celia, who are heading up a dangerous drugs scheme which April and Dylan have been drugged into.
Convincing April and Dylan they are in serious debt, Ray and Celia have made it clear that they expect 16-year-old April to have sex with their clients to pay the money back, and to keep their clients returning. The grim storyline has also seen the pair getting closer to other villagers linked to April to put on the pressure.
April is terrified, and reluctantly agreed to meet with client Callum knowing he was paying Ray and Celia to sleep with her. As the episode went on, a scared April decided she didn’t want to go through with it.
Callum turned on her though, claiming he didn’t care what she did or didn’t want and he was “gonna do it anyway”. He then warned her there was no escape as he’d locked them both in.
As he began to undress the teenager, April freaked out and pushed him away only for him to grab her. As she managed to get him off, she picked up the vodka bottle and slammed it over his head.
Callum landed on the bed lifeless, with blood pouring out from his head. April gasped as she watched on terrified, but has she killed him? If she has, how will Celia and Ray react?
It comes as Mark Charnock, who plays April’s father Marlon Dingle, teased a massive twist is on the way. He said something that happens in a special episode with April and Marlon left him “thrown”.
EastEnders fans are worried about Letitia Dean after her character Sharon Watts was written out during Tuesday night’s episode just weeks after making a much-anticipated comeback
EastEnders fans worried for Sharon star EastEnders fans worried for Sharon star Letitia Dean as exit confirmed as exit confirmed(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
EastEnders fans are worried about Letitia Dean after her character Sharon Watts was written out during Tuesday night’s episode. The actress, 57, has been on the BBC soap on a sporadic basis since 1985 and whilst her latest stint has lasted more than 14 years in total, the star has only appeared in a handful of episodes this year, prompting some viewers to worry about her well-being in real life.
Towards the end of last month, Sharon headed back to Walford after spending some time in America visiting her sister Michelle and missed the much-anticipated return of Zoe Slater during her time away. Once she had got home, she was shocked to learn that Zoe had given birth to her twins during her time away from Albert Square, and agreed to help her son down when she told Sharon that her late husband Dennis was the father, which was a lie.
Fans instantly took to social media to speculate on what was going on, given that the iconic character has only been seen nine times since her return.
One fan wrote: “I hope Letitia Dean’s alright. Before she came back it was said she had lots coming up and now she’s left again after only a month onscreen. Makes me think it was a last minute exit,” whilst another said: “I really hope Letitia Dean is ok she’s only just back and Sharon is gone again let’s no speculate about her real like person business but let’s hope she’s ok and back soon x”
A third said: “i hope letitia dean is ok… sharon’s exit around the time of matins death and her subsequent exit again now r really peculiar in terms of plot direction… not like being nosey or anything just hope she’s ok” (sic)
A fourth added: “What on EARTH is going on with Sharon Watts. She completed 9 episodes since coming back after a 5 month break and she’s gone again in another hastily written exit. Worried for her.” Sharing in the concern, another fan said: “I genuinely hand on heart really hope she’s okay! It’s so sad to not see her on screen.”
After one of the twins died, Zoe left the other behind and lied to Sharon about their father in the hopes that she would provide cash to help her track the child down. However, in tonight’s episode of EastEnders, Kat (Jessie Wallace) revealed the truth to Sharon’s sister Vicki, resulting in a furious clash.
Now, fans are convinced that there’s a much sadder reason behind Zoe’s cruel methods for finding her long-lost child, and that it could result in the recently returned character leaving the Square for good. Taking to X, some fans speculated that Zoe may be desperate to find the child as she’s secretly suffering with a life-limiting illness.
“I think there’s more to Zoe’s state of mind than meets the eye. I don’t think she can get out of this one #Eastenders,” one viewer wrote on social media.
Another replied: “Yeah imagine if Zoe has had some sort of secret diagnosis before returning to Walford. Not cancer but maybe some other health condition.
This may explain why she’s so eager to find her son after all these years because deep down she knows she may not have much time left #EastEnders.”
After watching Zoe look for a cat throughout the episode, another fan said: “You saw earlier in her scenes with the Cat and her reactions that something looked off with Zoe. #Eastenders.”
Others were bewildered with Zoe’s unhinged behaviour, with another writing: “Why is Zoe so obsessed with this cat??? # EastEnders.” A fifth said: “Zoe is a MESS #EastEnders.” Another tweeted: “Zoe is all types of messed up #EastEnders.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Timothy West died last November and now his wife Prunella Scales has tragically passed away. The pair spoke fondly of one another in their final ever interview
11:40, 28 Oct 2025Updated 11:40, 28 Oct 2025
Timothy West and Prunella Scales in a BBC Breakfast interview in 2023(Image: BBC)
Prunella Scales and Timothy West spoke of their deep love for another in their final interview together. The EastEnders actor revealed that he had spotted a potential sign of his wife Prunella’s dementia years before her diagnosis was confirmed.
In November, it was confirmed that Timothy – known for his roles in shows like EastEnders – had died at the age of 90. Prunella’s death was announced today, just months after her husband’s sad passing.
In what is believed to be one of his last interviews, conducted in 2023, Timothy opened up about his wife Prunella’s battle with dementia. The couple appeared on BBC Breakfast for an interview together, in what would be their last appearance on TV.
Prunella, who is most recognised for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the classic sitcom Fawlty Towers, received her dementia diagnosis in 2014. However, Timothy suggested that he first noticed signs of the condition as early as 2001.
Reflecting on the moment he first observed his wife’s decline, he shared: “I came to see a play that Pru was doing in Greenwich. I went to see the first night and it was good, much enjoyed by the audience, and then I went to see it again a bit later on and I thought ‘Pru’s not … it’s strange. She’s not totally with it.'”
Despite these early signs, her official dementia diagnosis didn’t come until over a decade later. Timothy recalled: “We went to see a specialist who just said ‘I’m sorry this is just something that happens to you when you get older’. It’s not going to get any easier but you can cope with it. We manage.”
Despite the tough landscape they found themselves in, Prunella said: “I have got to know him better and better and better.”
Timothy added: “I know that things are going to change a little bit, but it has been a long time and we have managed pretty well really. I don’t think we ever think ‘oh no.'”
Prunella then shared: “I have been asked to live the rest of my life with somebody I respect very much and agree with a lot of things and argue with about a lot of things quite happily.”
During a chat with the BBC, which was conducted prior to the launch of Timothy’s book, he was questioned about his wife Prunella’s vascular dementia diagnosis. He said that “somehow” they have “coped” over the years.
“Pru doesn’t really think about it,” he added. Timothy and Pru have been husband and wife since 1963. The couple have two sons together, actors Samuel West and Joseph West. Their family also includes Timothy’s daughter Juliet West from a previous marriage.
Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks fans are convinced they know who shot Tony Hutchinson after he was left fighting for his life on his wedding day
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
10:15, 26 Oct 2025
Tony fell to the floor after being shot in Hollyoaks(Image: Channel 4)
In a shocking turn of events on Hollyoaks, Tony Hutchinson was shot on Wednesday (October 22) episode, leaving viewers in suspense about his fate.
The drama unfolded during a crossover episode with Brookside on Channel 4, where a plane piloted by serial killer Jez (Jeremy Sheffield) crashed into the village, causing a massive explosion.
However, the chaos didn’t stop there. On what was supposed to be his wedding day to Diane (Alex Fletcher), Tony (Nick Pickard) found himself confronted by Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) for having an affair with his wife Nancy (Jessica Fox).
Darren was livid upon discovering that Tony is the biological father of his daughter, Morgan, following a past fling with Nancy. Their heated argument was briefly interrupted by the plane disaster, but quickly resumed, much to the dismay of Tony’s son, Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio).
Adding to the confusion, Tony believed he had got Marie Fielding (Rita Simons) pregnant, only to find out she was wearing a fake baby bump. Meanwhile, Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) was also expecting his child, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Tragedy struck when Mercedes lost her baby in the aftermath of the plane crash. Tony had left her trapped under debris as he rushed to save Marie, a decision that will haunt him.
Diane (Alexandra Fletcher) stepped up to rescue Mercedes, mirroring how Mercedes had previously saved her. Now, both Mercedes and Diane are furious with Tony – Mercedes for her heartbreaking loss, and Diane for her groom’s reckless behaviour.
In a later scene, Darren was seen in tears as he pointed a gun at Tony, who pleaded for his life. Suddenly, a gunshot echoed from behind Tony, and he collapsed to the ground after being shot.
Now, Tony’s fate hangs in the balance.
Hollyoaks viewers are now speculating about who could have shot Tony, with some suggesting that his own son Ant might be the culprit following their earlier disagreement.
One fan took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to ask: “So…Who shot Tony? My guess is Ant! #Hollyoaks.”
Another declared: “I’m calling it ant was the one who shot Tony! He was pretty mad at his dad #hollyoaks.”
A third joined in, saying: “My early theory for who shot Tony in #Hollyoaks: It was Ant!”.
“I feel like Ant was probably the 1 that shot Tony #hollyoaks”, another viewer added.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am
EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who plays Suki Panesar, has paid tribute to Strictly Come Dancing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman
Balvinder says this is an “end of an era” as Tess and Claudia step down from hosting duties at Strictly
Strictly matriarchs Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly will be sorely missed, says EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal. This week the presenting duo shocked everyone when they announced they would be departing the show at the end of the current series. Balvinder, 46, paid tribute to the “caring” and “supportive” pair.
“People are sad to lose them and their iconic presence on Strictly,” said the actress, who plays Suki Panesar. “They’re so brilliant. They’re powerful, they’re funny, they’re sexy. They’re sassy, they look amazing, they’re of a certain age and they still power through. They’re engaging, they draw audiences in, people tune in sometimes for them. It’s incredible what they’ve done for the show and for us.”
“They’re the best of friends and they come across like that. How lucky are we to be able to absorb that energy and be taken care of? They’re the matriarchs of the show, they really have taken care of Strictly Come Dancing in the best possible way. And what an inspiration for us as well, to be looking up to such women like that.”
Soap star Balvinder – who danced the quickstep to Texas Hold ‘Em by Beyoncé last night with partner Julian Caillon – described is an “end of an era” and said it’s a privilege to dance in their final season.
“They are of the old school of Strictly, the time of Len Goodman and Bruce Forsyth. They bring all of that legacy. So now when they depart, we’re going to have two new people that are going to provide the show with a different direction. Things come to an end and we just have to reinvent and move on. Let’s see what happens. They’re big boots to fill.”
Tess and Claudia announced their departure from the show on Thursday (23 October) in a joint video, where they said: “After 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly, we have decided that the time is right to step aside.”
They added that they have a pact to leave together. In a separate statement, Tess referred to Strictly as her “third child” and “second family” and promised she wasn’t going to stop watching Strictly but felt it was time to “hand over the reins”.
“We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time. We will have the greatest rest of this amazing series and we just want to say an enormous thank you to the BBC and to every single person who works on the show. They’re the most brilliant team and we’ll miss them every day. We will cry when we say the last ‘keep dancing’ but we will continue to say it to each other. Just possibly in tracksuit bottoms at home while holding some pizza.”
Sources close to the pair, who always had a pact to leave together at the same time, suggested they had told the top show execs of their plan some weeks ago, but their video on social media caught many of the Strictly cast and crew off guard. Insiders said privately Tess and Claudia have been discussing the idea of leaving for around a year.
A TV source said: “The feeling is Tess and Claudia wanted to go out at the top and whilst the show is still huge and shortly after they received MBEs. Announcing it mid series also gives them a bit of a swansong and doesn’t take the spotlight away from the winner.
“Claudia is right at her career peak with The Traitors and other TV offers flooding in. Tess has been hosting the show for more than two decades and like that idea of more weekends with her family and her friends.
“The recent scandals around the show have also impacted the ratings a little bit and there might be more around the corner, so they weighed it up and feel it is the right time to quit.”
Another source close to the duo said: “They always said they would go together when they felt right and it just feels right this year.”
Michelle Gayle played Hattie Tavernier in the BBC One soap and also had a pop career – and, unbelievably, she hardly seems to have changed more than 30 years later
Michelle was part of the groundbreaking Tavernier family(Image: BBC)
EastEnders’ Michelle Gayle appears to have defied the ageing process, looking as youthful as ever despite her stint on the BBC One soap being more than three decades ago. The London-born actress, now 54 years old, was part of the groundbreaking Tavernier family – the first Black family to join the soap.
Her character, Hattie, was a waitress and then Ian Beale’s PA at his catering company, The Meal Machine. She was a hit with EastEnders viewers, navigating through intense storylines involving miscarriage and sexual harassment – famously kneeing Ian in the groin. She also frequently clashed with Cindy, Ian’s wife, who was jealous of their close working relationship.
But the star left Albert Square in 1993 to pursue a music career, enjoying seven top 40 singles on the UK Singles Chart, including hits like Sweetness, Looking Up and Do You Know. She also released two top 40 albums before parting ways with her record company in 1997.
Michelle stepped out at a charity ball last year, looking super-glamorous as she sported a black satin dress paired with a chic black bag, red lipstick and gold earrings, posing against a beautiful floral backdrop.
Previously, Michelle had set X, formerly Twitter, buzzing with her age-defying photos, prompting comments such as: “I’ve literally just had to google how old you are……as you look about 20! ! You look amazing! ! X,” and, “There is no way you’re in the 50+ bracket! ! My goodness.”
She went on to appear on stage at Mighty Hoopla 2024 at London’s Brockwell Park, singing a few of her biggest hits.
After EastEnders, Michelle made a return to television, making guest appearances on Doctors and Holby City, before landing a role in Channel 5’s short-lived soap Family Affairs in 2005. She’s also been a familiar face on various reality TV shows, such as ITV’s Reborn In The USA, where she competed against 80s popstars Sonia and Tony Hadley, and Channel 4’s The Games.
In 2007, she became a guest panellist for ITV’s Loose Women and ventured into writing in 2011, releasing her debut novel titled Pride and Premiership.
In 2019, she went on to play the role of Hermione Granger in the West End production of the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. At the time, Michelle revealed the hardest part of her job was her unusual working hours, saying: “My ‘weekend’ is Monday and Tuesday and all my friends outside of the show are working.”
She was married to ex-professional footballer Mark Bright for 13 years, and they have a son, Isaiah, together. Michelle also has another son, Luke.
Hollyoaks fans were left floored at a cameo in the soap’s Brookside crossover episode
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
21:41, 22 Oct 2025
Brookside fans were left ecstatic as a soap legend appeared during Wednesday’s episode (Image: Channel 4)
Hollyoaks delivered a spectacular crossover episode with Brookside, leaving viewers spotting a truly remarkable cameo appearance.
E4 broadcast a special one-off Brookside episode on October 22, marking the legendary soap’s return to television after a 22-year absence to commemorate Hollyoaks‘ milestone 30th anniversary.
Soap enthusiasts were delighted with a nostalgic journey as iconic characters made their comeback to Brookside Close, featuring Ricky Tomlinson, Sue Johnston, Paul Usher, Philip Olivier, Suzanne Collins, Michael Starke, Louis Emerick and John McArdle.
Both cherished Channel 4 series were the brainchild of Grange Hill genius Sir Philip Redmond, with Brookside later serving as inspiration for the Chester-based Hollyoaks.
In a masterstroke, Sir Philip himself appeared in the Channel 4 drama on Wednesday, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The scene unfolded when Mick Johnson (Louis Emerick) made his return to Brookside Close following a lift from Chester courtesy of Thomas Sweeney, better known as Sinbad, portrayed by Michael Starke.
Whilst taxi driver Sinbad reconnected with former neighbours Nikki Shadwick (Suzanne Collins) and Tinhead (Philip Olivier), an enigmatic figure strolled down the street.
Nikki questioned Sinbad: “Is that your fare?”, to which he swiftly replied: “I think so, yeah.”
Sir Philip then enquired: “You going to Chester, mate?”, prompting Sinbad to ask: “You’re not from around here, are you?”.
In a touching tribute to bygone days, Sir Philip responded: “Used to be, but you know. Do you know the Dog In The Pond pub?”. “There’s been a big to-do there today”, Sinbad chimed in as Sir Philip, cheekily replied: “Story of my life, mate. From one drama to another.”
Fans of Hollyoaks and Brookside were quick to express their delight at seeing the soap’s creator, Sir Philip, make an appearance on screen.
One fan took to X to share their thoughts, writing: “Had to watch the #Hollyoaks #Brookside mashup. Phil Redmond’s cameo is genius especially the “… one drama to another” line. I join the call to bring back #Brookie!”.
Another viewer exclaimed: “Phil Redmond cameo! #Brookside #Hollyoaks #Hollyoaks30.”
A third added: “Omg Phil Redmond making a cameo too, omg, i cannot cope! So proud to be scouse right now #hollyoaks #brookside.
“This is just too good. Mick, Sinbad, Sheila, Tinhead, Nikki, Bobby, actual Phil Redmond! #Hollyoaks #Brookside”, one fan gushed.
“Phil Redmond saying “from one drama to another”.. see what he did there! Brilliant! ! #Hollyoaks #Brookside”, another fan pointed out.
The Hollyoaks and Brookside Crossover is available to stream on Channel 4.com
Brookside icon Tinhead is returning to the famous close for a one-off episode twinned with Hollyoaks, and actor Philip Olivier has opened up about the character’s nickname.
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
15:43, 22 Oct 2025
Philip Olivier is returning as Timothy ‘Tinhead’ O’Leary (Image: Lime Pictured)
Brookside legend Tinhead is making a comeback to the renowned close for a special one-off episode alongside Hollyoaks.
Both beloved Channel 4 dramas were created by Grange Hill mastermind Sir Philip Redmond, with Brookside subsequently inspiring the development of Chester-set Hollyoaks.
To celebrate Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary, the shows are joining forces for a landmark crossover episode, with Philip Olivier returning to his memorable role as Tinhead.
Tim “Tinhead” O’Leary made his debut in 1996 as the offspring of Carmel and Tommy O’Leary, portraying a wayward pupil at Brookside Comprehensive High School.
Throughout his storyline, Tinhead formed an intricate relationship with beloved character Sinbad, portrayed by Michael Starke, who served as a mentor figure for the rebellious youngster, reports the Manchester Evening News.
However, Tinhead was compelled to transform his ways following a devastating incident that nearly claimed his sister Melanie’s life.
His future seemed promising when romance blossomed with Emily, portrayed by Jennifer Ellison, and the couple wed in 2001.
Yet marital happiness wasn’t destined for the pair.
Following further involvement in unlawful activities, Emily perished during a burglary in 2002, leaving Tinhead bereaved at a young age.
Philip Olivier, 45, last appeared as Tinhead in November 2003 when Brookside broadcast its concluding episode.
However, over two decades later, he’s reprising his role as Timothy O’Leary, alongside Suzanne Collins as Nikki Shadwick, for a special Hollyoaks and Brookside episode.
How did Tinhead earn his nickname?
Despite the character’s actual name being Timothy, soap fans will recognise him by his unusual moniker.
Ahead of the rebooted episode, Olivier shed light on how his character acquired the nickname, revealing it was purely coincidental.
The actor shared: “There was a pretty rough school in my area with a really hard kid who everyone knew as Tinhead. This was before I got the part. The name was spray-painted on the side of a building near the school.
“I know a lot of Brookside writers used to live round that area so they must’ve drove past and remembered the name. People thought I’d suggested it but it was a coincidence.”
Olivier also disclosed that he had initially auditioned for a different role in the show before landing the part of the teenage troublemaker.
He elaborated: “Originally, I went up to play the character of Danny Simpson, then ended up playing the kid that bullied him at school.
“I auditioned for Danny then got a call a month later about this character called ‘Tinhead’.”
The Brookside and Hollyoaks crossover episode airs on Wednesday (October 22) at 7pm on E4.
Jeremy Sheffield has played Patrick Blake and his twin brother Jez in Hollyoaks, but the actor also appeared in Coronation Street
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
22:31, 21 Oct 2025
Jez Blake arrived in Hollyoaks as the twin of his deceased brother Patrick(Image: Channel 4)
Hollyoaks actor Jeremy Sheffield previously appeared in Coronation Street before securing his memorable parts on the Channel 4 drama.
The 59-year-old actor is recognised for portraying Chester’s Patrick Blake between 2012 and 2016, and has recently returned to the enduring soap as the character’s twin sibling Jez.
Jeremy initially left Hollyoaks in 2016, when his character met a shocking end at the hands of killer granddaughter Nico Blake (Persephone Swales-Dawson).
Discussing his character in 2024, actor Jeremy hinted at a troubling history between Jez and his late twin, reports the Manchester Evening News.
He revealed to Inside Soap magazine: “A huge event blew the brothers apart and Jez disappeared – whatever went on was so traumatic he just had to escape. I imagine Jez was Patrick’s first victim.”
However, before the actor set foot in Chester as Patrick or his wicked serial killer twin Jez, Jeremy featured on competing soap Coronation Street and contributed to a beloved character’s exit.
In December 2011, Jeremy joined the Cobbles as Danny Stratton, who became a fresh romantic prospect for unlucky-in-love Becky McDonald (Katherine Kelly).
Danny, working as a hotel manager, initially encountered Becky at a perfect moment as she attempted to move forward from her collapsed marriage to Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson), who had swiftly begun a fresh relationship with Tracy Barlow (Kate Ford).
Becky and Danny’s romance hit a rocky start when she discovered a woman and a young lad at his house, leading her to believe he was a married man.
However, Danny quickly clarified that the individuals were his sister and son, Billy.
When Tracy accused her romantic rival of causing her miscarriage, the Weatherfield locals turned against Becky.
But, Danny, being the good soul he is, stepped in to clear Becky’s name and expose Tracy as a fibber.
Just as things seemed to be looking up for the new couple, Danny and Becky, they were left heartbroken when his hotel company moved him to Barbados, putting their relationship in jeopardy.
In a surprising romantic turn, Becky chose to join Danny and Billy in their new life overseas, bidding a final farewell to Weatherfield in January 2012.
Apart from Hollyoaks and Corrie, soap star Jeremy has featured in several other telly shows and films, including Murder in Suburbia, Hotel Babylon, Creep and The Wedding Date.
He also portrayed Alex Adams in Holby City from 2000 to 2003. In 2010, he took part in the ITV series Dancing On Ice.
According to IMDB, Jeremy’s first acting gig was as a dancer in Queen’s iconic music video for the chart-topping ‘I Want To Break Free’. He also played the man in Natalie Imbruglia’s music video Torn.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am
It’s Halloween in Walford next week, and it’s a spooky time for the Slaters as Kat shocks the Square as she blurts out Zoe’s huge secret – but what is it?
It’s set to be a spooky Halloween over in Walford(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
Next week in EastEnders, the Square continues to reel from Zoe’s shock revelation, Julie and Nigel face more struggles, and it’s a spooky Halloween over in Walford.
The soap are still keeping quiet about what Zoe’s bombshell revelation is until later this week – but what we do know, is that whatever it is isn’t going to go down very well.
A few weeks back, we heard Zoe made the shock admission that Dennis Rickman was the father of her son, with Sharon left devastated. Nevertheless, she offered to help Zoe find her son.
But things have taken a back burner since Joel’s horrific attack on Vicki. Next week, Ian about Zoe’s son and seeing how much it means to Sharon, Ian transfers her some money to help…
We start off the week in the Vic Quiz night, but Kat is distracted as Zoe’s revelation continues to play on her mind, although Alfie warns her to stay out of it. However, of course, Kat doesn’t listen and blurts out Zoe’s secret – causing commotion and Quiz Night comes to an abrupt end.
Kat later gives Zoe and ultimatum and things get worse at a spooky Halloween, when Alfie discovers a VHS tape from 1980s. Despite Kat attempting to keep the footage from Zoe, she later discovers it and throws everyone out of the Vic as a result. But what is on the video?
Elsewhere, Zoe accuses Kat for smashing a photo of the pair, but when she denies it, she later accuses Vicki of being responsible but Anthony steps in to calm her down.
Halloween week continues to get worse, as Zoe grows increasingly paranoid that someone is out to get her and accuses Anthony after arguing with him earlier in the week. He shares his concerns for Zoe with Kat, but it’s unclear whether she believes him. But what are the concerns?
It’s not all that’s kicking off in The Vic, as Kat overhears Vicki speaking to Ross – and makes a decision.
Suki and Eve are still looking to adopt, and despite Suki holding back at first, they go ahead and arrange a meeting with an adoptive family. However, the timing couldn’t be worse as Avani, Ravi, Priya and Nugget return from their holiday, as chaos ensues.
However, it seems like they later come round to the idea as they try to support the couple, who hit another hurdle as Eve panics when she learns she will need a reference from her mum to proceed.
Ravi has other problems on his hands, as he’s left feeling guilty about lying to Priya following their family holiday. He later meets with Okie and hands the business over to him after he assures him that Harry and Kojo have been released. But have they?
Catherine Tyldesley says her returning Coronation Street character Eva Price is set to lock horns once more with nemesis Maria Connor, while a ‘scary’ new arrival will also see a clash
21:00, 19 Oct 2025Updated 21:11, 19 Oct 2025
There’s set to be plenty of drama on Coronation Street as Eva Price makes her big return(Image: ITV)
There’s set to be plenty of drama on Coronation Street as Eva Price makes her big return.
Catherine Tyldesley reprises her role very soon, and it seems there’s more than one character she will clash with. Viewers will recall Eva’s feud with Maria Connor over Aidan Connor, with catfights and even a fight in a water fountain on Eva’s wedding day.
Well, we can confirm that conflict between the characters is still very much there, and it will be reignited when Eva makes her comeback. But it isn’t just Maria that Eva is set to clash with, as a “scary” new character features in dramatic scenes with the new Rovers Return landlady.
Catherine told The Mirror: “I was so thrilled when Kate Brooks said we’d be playing that out [between Eva and Maria]. Kate referenced Gail Platt and Eileen Grimshaw, which I just absolutely loved.
“She is a dog with a bone, she will lock onto things in the same way that Maria does. And Eva really loved Aidan, she really loved him. Although she’s moved on and she loves Ben, she finds that very hard to let go of and she loves a grudge, so I think that’s going to be a long-term thing. Don’t let them near any water features, I think.”
Then there’s Eva’s “mother-in-law from hell” Maggie Driscoll, and the pair do not get on. Catherine spilled: “I’ve watched a lot of what Pauline McLynn’s done and when I’m watching what she’s doing on set, sometimes I’ll just watch the monitor and I know I am seeing a Corrie icon.
“The writers have structured things for our characters, it’s hilarious, it’s constant jibes. But I think deep down, there’s a moment that we did not so long ago where Eva, in a roundabout way, says ‘If I wasn’t with Ben and I’d just met Maggie, I think we’d be mates.’ There’s a lot of similarities.
“They both love the family, they’re both striving for the same thing, it’s just that now and again they come to blows. But that’s great fun to play.” Things will get heated between them, with Catherine hinting that scenes will reveal just how “scary” Maggie can be.
She explained: “It’s an interesting one, because early doors, I wouldn’t say she’s scared of her, she’s more irritated by her. But as time goes on, Eva does start to see this side to her that’s like ‘Wow, okay, I’ve got your number’ and I think that element develops where she goes ‘Yeah, I am a little bit scared of her now and intimidated’, yes.”
There’s more nostalgia too when Eva bumps into her ex Adam Barlow, but Catherine says Eva’s new partner Ben has nothing to worry about. She told us: “The day that Eva left Weatherfield, Adam was slightly heartbroken but said ‘I really care about you.’
“They’ve maintained that and they’ve stayed in touch. You know when you can be friends with an ex – it’s rare, but it happens – and they’ve kept that. Ben doesn’t have anything to worry about there.”
Catherine also offered a glimpse of what we can expect with Eva being the new landlady. She shared: “I think it’s easy to underestimate Eva as a dizzy blonde. She does have that side to her and she’s great fun and can be dizzy and spontaneous but she is a very strong woman and we start to see even more reasons why, as time goes on, why she has got this inner strength.
“And also, she’s her mother’s daughter, Stella was a really strong woman, and that is probably part of the reason why her and Maggie clash so much, they’re such strong personalities. But again, to bring that fun dynamic into The Rovers, especially with Sean and Glenda, has just been an absolute scream.”
Catherine’s also thrilled to be reunited with co-stars Jane Danson and Georgia Taylor, who play Eva’s sisters Leanne and Toyah Battersby. She teased: “I’ve pretty much stayed in touch with everybody, so it’s extra lovely to come back to. That dynamic, the three witches reunited, it’s great.
“It’s strong women, again, and when they’re together, they’re even stronger, they’re a real force to be reckoned with. They’ve got each other’s backs, it’s that solidarity, it’s such a joy to play as an actress. The three concubines of Nick Tilsley, and the girls are just a dream and we’ve stayed in touch. I felt really welcomed by everyone, especially my sisters, so it’s great that we’ve got lots of stuff coming up together.”
Coronation Street Becky Swain works on getting close again with her ex Lisa Swain next week, amid her plan to ‘oust’ Carla Connor out of the family on the ITV soap
00:00, 18 Oct 2025Updated 00:09, 18 Oct 2025
Becky Swain gets to work on winning over her ex Lisa Swain on Coronation Street next week.
A new preview reveals the moment the pair grow closer again, as they reminisce about the past and discuss the moment that tore them apart. Becky faked her death four years ago and fled to Spain, with it revealed someone was after her.
DI Costello helped cover it all up and now it’s been teased the pair are hiding much more, and that Becky is “a villain”. Corrie boss Kate Brooks has revealed that we’re yet to see just what Becky is fully capable of, but she’s out to “oust” Carla Connor from the family.
Lisa was ‘widowed’ after Becky’s fake demise four years ago, and in the past year she’s grown close to new partner Carla. Just months ago the pair got engaged, only for Becky to rock up – and now it’s clear she’s out to ruin it all.
While it’s not known what she has up her sleeve, we do know she’s desperate to have her wife and their daughter Betsy Swain back. She wants the family back together again, and Carla is stopping that.
Carla’s existence alone proves difficult for Becky’s agenda, never mind the fact Carla is clearly suspicious of her ‘rival’. So perhaps with Carla in Ireland, we’re about to see Becky make her first move.
In a new preview clip, Becky spends some time alone with Lisa amid trouble with Betsy after her arrest. The pair are on the sofa having enjoyed a curry and a glass of wine.
Lisa is a little tipsy, and the pair are debating whether or not to watch Game of Thrones “like they used to”. Becky very quickly reminds Lisa of the life they once had, and how they’d spent nights often at home with a takeaway and watching the telly.
Lisa is thoughtful as she remembers this well, but she quickly points out the reason it all stopped was because Becky died, or at last she thought. Becky guilt trips Lisa with a comment about it not being fun and games for her, having to hide out from criminals.
As she tells Becky how hard it was without her, Becky tells her she wishes she could turn the clocks back to a time that they were together as a family, wishing she could have stopped everything that led to her fleeing. Caught up in the emotions, Lisa agrees with her that she too wishes they could go back.
As Lisa appears emotional, Becky strokes her hair, leading to Lisa grabbing her hand and placing it against her face. This, and the fact that Lisa misses the way things were, leaves Becky smiling, no doubt believing she may have a chance of winning Lisa back.
But what will Lisa do, and is the moment on the sofa not what it seems? After all, Corrie boss Kate hinted Swarla, Carla and Lisa, could survive the drama with Becky, with twists ahead for the newcomer – but how far will Becky go to get what she wants?
