#ianbeale

Tuesday 18th May 2021

Hello again everyone! Hope you're all doing okay, I'm back with another post and tonight I'll be reviewing Tuesday's post episode. However before we get started I have a little bit of news to share, which I'm sure the majority of you might've heard by now. Adam Woodyatt has announced that he's not going to be returning to Albert Square until at least 2022! So of course, for me, that raises the question - What has Ian been doing all of this time? Where did he go when he wondered off into the night? I know that there's going to be some major questions to be asked. We all last saw Ian leave the Square after he realised that his new wife, Sharon was poisoning him after she found out about his involvement in her son, Dennis's death. I hope Ian's return will be a big one, considering the way he left - with no money, no phone - just the clothes on his back, I'm eager to see where he has been and what he's been doing. What do you guys think?

Anyway, focusing on the episode at hand, firstly I'm going to begin with Katy and Frankie. Considering that Monday's episode ended with Katy returning to the Square, it wasn't going to be long until she crossed someone's path. Unfortunately for Frankie, it turns out her Mum has come back to the Square to see her. As Frankie is sat quietly in the club, she's startled as she looks up to see her Mum standing over her. Katy tries to plead with her to have one last drink with her before she gets locked up, but Frankie is having none of it. Although when she escapes from her Mum arrives back at the Vic, she realises that Mick's victim statement is all placed in an envelope and ready to be read out loud in court. 

To me it seems that Frankie was struggling whether to go and see her Mum or not, because at the end of the day, she is her Mum. Eventually Frankie agrees to meet with her Mum in the park, without anyone else around. At first it looks as if they're bonding as Katy recalls about the time she took her daughter to the beach around Christmas time. It looks as if Katy is still holding onto the hope that she can be seen as a good person in her daughter's eyes. Eventually it becomes perfectly clear what Katy is wanting from her daughter, she questions whether Frankie will give her a character reference so the court can see what kind of person she can be. But Frankie realises that once again she's being used by her Mum, she walks away completely ignoring her Mother. I do feel for Frankie as she is kind of in the middle of all of this, but she needs to realise that she has no blame in any of it, all the blame leads directly to Katy. 

Returning to the Vic, Frankie confides in Shirley, informing her of her Mother's request but she makes it known that she completely refused, much to Shirley's delight. Shirley claims she's proud of Frankie for doing the right thing and how she always knew she was on their side. I think as much as Frankie is wanting to stand by her Dad and help him through this ordeal, I guess a part of her is also thinking that she's also losing her Mum in all of this. I think I do feel for Frankie right now, but I am really intrigued to see the court scenes when they air. Will Mick be able to read his statement in court with Katy sat right there in the room?!

--

Elsewhere on the Square, Sharon is prepping herself for the launch of her new gym, however she's getting very little help from Zack. As she voices her ideas to him, he's insulting every single suggestion. He informs her that she needs to think bigger and advertise on social media and consider that people are going to be wanting to join the gym, so she should have some fresh smoothies made etc etc. 

As Zack tries to, once again, show off, Martin and Ruby happen to be walking with Lily across the Square. Is it me, or does this Zack think that he's God's gift to women? Showing off and flirting with anything that moves, but it seems his eyes are focused on Ruby at the moment - and Martin is really noticing which is making him incredibly jealous and possibly even cautious. Only did you guys happen to see the look on Lily's face? Do you think she has sussed out that her Dad may be jealous of Zack? 

Later as Zack is trying out a new cocktail, I'm not 100% sure whether it was something new for the club or something he was working on for the gym launch, but regardless he gets Ruby to be his guinea pig. However, lurking in the corner, sitting and watching everything unfold in front of her, is Lily. Ruby happens to notice her step-daughter and questions why she's not in school. Lily makes up an excuse and instantly asks her step-mum whether she has a crush on Zack, which of course Ruby firmly denies and informs her not to get involved in "Adult Business!" 

However, it looks as if the cogs are turning in Lily's mind. I'm assuming she still really doesn't look Ruby and will do anything to make her life a misery, maybe even split her and her Dad up. As she returns him and is sat watching TV with her Dad, Martin asks about what she's been doing whilst he's been away. It's then that Lily spins a web of lies, telling her Dad that Ruby wasn't around much and she was hanging around with Zack a lot, even mentioning that Zack had stayed over. Knowing full well how this would make her Dad feel, I think it's simply to do with Lily getting back at Ruby, purely for her Mum's sake. Is there anything Lily won't do to ruin Martin and Ruby's marriage?!

--

Another thing I have to mention is Bernie! Now Bailey has returned home, the Taylor family are slowly getting back to normal and having the family together again. Even though the family are terrified to let Bailey out of their sight. Bailey overhears Karen shouting for her in a blind panic, but once Karen realises that she's still safe and sound in the apartment, Bailey realises how worried her family were about it, claiming that she's seen all the online posts about her online. Does Bailey now feel guilty for running out on her family? Did she really believe that her family would be better off without her? The poor kid! 

But it seems that Karen isn't the only one who's concerned about Bailey's whereabouts, it looks as if Keegan is eager to keep a close eye on her also. He mentions to Tiffany that he and Bernie will be taking Bailey out for some lunch. Later as they all gather at McKlunky's, Keegan asks his sister about this "bonus" she'll be getting from Kheerat. But Bernie reassures her brother that he doesn't have to match her money, and he doesn't have to pay her back either. As a sweet and joking gesture, she informs him that as soon he has made his first million, that he can pay her back! 

However, the previous episode, Rainie informed Bernadette that she and Stuart are going to be finding another surrogate, so if Bernie is eager to make some quick cash for her family then she needs to act fast! Desperately she approaches Rainie begging her to give her a chance, to the point where she pushes herself to inform Rainie that she can lose the weight within a month! Rainie realises that Bernie is deeply serious about her surrogate and agrees to give her the one month deadline for her to lose weight so she can be their surrogate and carry a baby safely. 

Now I fear that this is where Bernie's eating disorder is going to come in, I know what it's like to lose weight, it can be a long and hard process - weight does not simply drop off you within a month! I fear that Bernie may make some drastic and hard decisions when it comes to her eating now. Will she perhaps start making herself sick? Or will she not eat at all and eventually go light headed and pass out? There could so many different and dark roads this storyline will take, I just hope there will be no lasting damage to both Bernadette, and the soon to be baby she'll be carrying - if it ever gets to that point! What do you guys think of this current storyline? I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts on this one! 

--

The final thing I have to mention is Sonia! Oh poor Sonia! After overhearing Dotty and Tiffany taking the mick out of her and calling her horrendous names, it looks as if Sonia is feeling as if she's aged since leaving the Square. Almost to the point where she feels it's time for her to change her look, she approaches Denise in the salon and asks her to give her a new do - from what we gather, something along the lines of what Dua Lipa has! 

Now Denise questions Sonia's decision and can see that maybe Sonia is having some kind of breakdown. She swiftly talks her into having a drink with her at the Vic. I have to say though, this scene between Sonia and Denise I absolutely loved. We don't get to see these two women socialise enough, it was just so lovely to see Denise reassure Sonia that she's not as "Boring" as some people think she is! She is a very important part of the community and mentions rightly how much Sonia has had to cope with over the last year, being a nurse and regards to the pandemic. It made it feel quite realistic for me, everyone knows how much we have needed the NHS this last year or so and how hard every single NHS employee has worked to keep us all safe! Even though the pandemic is real and Sonia is a fictional character, it was just nice for someone to reassure her that she is important and she is deeply loved within the community. I also have to say how much I love Denise also - I don't think Diane Parish gets the recognition she deserves! 

However as the drinks begin to flow, Denise and Sonia begin talking about Dotty. Denise informs her that she shouldn't listen to anything Dotty has to say, but unfortunately lets slip that Dotty has been performing as a hostess at the club. Learning this news, Sonia storms right over to the club and instructs Dotty to stop doing what she's doing, flaunting herself over middle aged men for money! However, she happens to insult a man standing by the bar, calling him a pervert! Dotty is left absolutely humiliated, but personally - it felt good to see Dotty be told straight! Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike Dotty, but I think becoming a hostess and dragging Tiffany in to doing it also, just doesn't seem right. I don't think she's no where near as bad as her Father, but I think she'll always have a rebel side to her! 

Oh so finally Brian Connelly has made his first appearance on the Square as Terry Cant. His first encounter was accidently bumping into Rainie. But as he continued to wonder Walford, he found himself in Ruby's club, working up an audience telling them a really interesting story, from what I could make out! However, he happened to be the one who was caught up in Sonia's confrontation with Dotty, being the one called a pervert. 

As Sonia returned back to the Square and began chatting once again with Denise and Tiffany, she was horrified to see that the "Pervert Man" had followed her back to the Vic. As she makes herself scarce by hiding underneath the table, Terry begins to ask for Sonia Fowler. But as Denise questions what he wants her for and whether she's done anything wrong, Terry informs them that she in fact hasn't done anything wrong, but called her Dad a pervert! Yep, that's right! Terry Cant is Sonia's Dad!!!! Where has he been all this time? How will Sonia react to her Father rolling up on the Square?

I know that Thursday's episode has already aired, but I'm looking forward to reviewing that episode tomorrow! Do you hope that Terry will become a permanent member of the cast? What else will bring him to Walford other than reconnecting with his daughter? I have to be honest, I'm looking forward to seeing what Brian Connelly will bring to the Square. I know he's well known for his comedy, but I'll be interested to see if they bring a more serious and maybe dark side to his character. I just think it'll give Brian Connelly that chance to shine and prove he can be a brilliant actor as well as a brilliant comedian! What do you guys think?? 

Tuesday 2nd February 2021

Hello again everyone! Hope you're all having a good week so far! I apologise for this post being a bit late, but for the next 2/3 days I'm going to make sure I'm fully up to date! Monday's episode ended on such a high, I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next! But let's not waste anymore time and jump straight into it!

The episode of course finishes off where we left off on Monday, after Max's announcement to the whole Vic that Sharon was blame for Ian's disappearance, everyone is completely stunned by what he's saying. It seems only Linda is sticking up for her friend, whereas Mick just sits in utter silence, listening to everything that's going on around him. When Max reveals the information about Ian locking Dennis in a room on the boat, Dotty acknowledges that what she revealed to Sharon all those months ago actually stuck to her mind! But obviously it was only when Sharon heard the voice message from Dennis herself that it become clear that Dotty was telling the truth.

Whilst all these allegations are flying around the room towards Sharon, she tries her absolute best to stick up for herself, claiming that she loves Ian and that he's her oldest friend, why wouldn't she want him back safe and sound? However she does kind of overstep the mark as she acknowledges that Ian has had breakdowns in the past and has just disappeared without a word to anyone, she mentions he might be having another one? Kathy doesn't take this statement lightly, as Sharon recalls Ian standing on the edge of a bridge once, Kathy lashes out and slaps Sharon right across the face! The locals are completely stunned by her outburst, Kathy states that she believes Sharon is lying and knows exactly where her son is!

Being the strong woman that she is, Sharon stands firm, informing Kathy that she has no idea where Ian has gone, and then she turns to Max, basically stating that the only reason he's accusing her is because he wants to clear Tina's name, for Linda. She claims he thinks that if he can clear Tina's name, Linda would come running back to him, regardless of the fact that Linda is now back with her husband. She also points out the Max has no proof to follow up his allegations. Realising that this is an argument he's not going to win, he storms out of the pub, following Kathy and other local residents. Interestingly, Mick hurries after Max, desperate to find out whether he's telling the truth not. If there's even the slightest chance that they could prove Tina to be innocent, they need to find out what Max knows.

--

Whilst this whole drama is taking place on the Square, behind closed doors, Jay and Honey are waiting for Billy to turn up for an arranged talk and chat between themselves and the children. However, Honey becomes irritated when Billy doesn't show up. She takes it upon herself to explain to both Will and Janet that even though things may seem strange and confusing for them right now, hopefully in time they get used to their Mum's romance with Jay. Jay even takes it upon himself to explain that he would never do anything to hurt them or Billy - I have to say I love how gentle he is with the children, he knows exactly how to speak to them and go to their level for them to understand. He explains that he wants their Mum to be happy just as much as them. Suddenly Billy bursts through the door, without even acknowledging that he's late or even everyone sat at the table waiting for him. He seems to take it out on the children first by stating that they've chosen sides - which I thought was really uncalled for and out of order! Honey states to her ex-husband that there are no sides and they should be able to sit down as adults and talk things through, however Billy doesn't even want to know and announces that he's going to collect his things and move out. Honey knows that she needs to talk to Billy one her own, she asks Jay to take the children out for ice cream. Once they're out of sight, Honey confronts Billy, stating the fact that he needs to learn to accept her relationship with Jay, as far as he's concerned Jay stole Honey from him, but she makes it perfectly clear that she wanted Jay as much as he wanted her, and for the first time in a long time, she's happy! I'm eager to know what you guys think of this current storyline, do you feel sorry for Billy? Or do you actually ship Honey and Jay together? I'm really intrigued to what viewer's opinion is?

--

Elsewhere on the Square, Chelsea is rummaging for a suitcase for her Dad, (unbeknown to Denise). In an attempt to help her daughter, Denise gives her one with a faulty zip, but Chelsea is grateful nonetheless. I did feel this whole section with the Fox/Johnson family was brilliant! Denise states that she's jealous that Chelsea has suddenly decided to fly to Ibiza with a friend at such short notice, especially considering the fact that she's just returned to the Square and come back into her life. Trying to show an interest, Denise questions Chelsea on who the person is that she's going with, however Chelsea shrugs the question off insisting she doesn't know the person. But something obviously doesn't sit right with Denise and asks her daughter again, but when Chelsea can't simply look at her Mother in the eye, Denise clicks on straight away who she's holidaying with. Demanding that she's not going to let her daughter go on holiday with Lucas, Denise storms over to Lucas's apartment. However, after Denise furiously states that Lucas has no right to walk out of prison and convince her daughter to take him to Ibiza, Lucas informs her that he simply can't go because he's not allowed to leave the country. This is where things take an interesting turn as Chelsea still tries to convince her Dad to go, she informs him that she's managed to get things covered for him so he can go on holiday with her. Of course, Denise is devastated, she point out that she hasn't seen her daughter in years and it hurts her that as soon as she's back in her life, she wants to disappear again with her Dad. But then Lucas insists that perhaps Chelsea should take Denise instead, much to her surprise. We can see clearly that Chelsea's plan is beginning to fall apart, as cruel as it sounds she informs her Mum that she simply doesn't want to go on holiday with her, and pleads to her Dad that she wants to spend time with him after everything they've been through and make up for all the lost time they've had. We know that Lucas is aware that his daughter is up to something, but what remains to be seen - he questions whether it's what she really wants. Will he actually agree to go with her? Or will her somehow manage to figure out her plan?!

--

Returning to the main focus of the episode, Sharon decides to take a visit to Phil, informing him that now everyone is going to be thinking that she has something to do with Ian's disappearance, thanks to Max's outburst. It looks as if Sharon is in too deep now and she has no idea how to get out, she realises that it's not just Ian and Kathy she's hurting, but also Mick and Linda. Phil informs her that it was her own decision to kill Ian and states that she should've finished the job before anyone could've asked any questions. Suddenly she gets a call from Tracey, notifying her that the police have turned up at the Vic to question her, Phil informs her to simply keep her mouth shut!

After Max's outburst earlier on, it seems that his words seem to play on Mick's mind. He mentions to Linda what if what Max is saying could be true? What if they can find proof and clear Tina's name? He pleads to wife to go and talk to Max and find out everything he knows, even though he has deep hatred for the man who tried to steal his wife, if there's any chance that Tina could be innocent of attacking Ian, they need information. Linda reluctantly agrees and goes to visit Max, insisting that she's just there for Tina, nothing else. It's then that Max informs his recent flame that Ian was in fact scared of Sharon, after his attack he was convinced that someone was poisoning him and he assisted in taking him to the doctor's for some tests, however the results of those tests were never discovered. He states that there couldn't been no one else other than Sharon who could've poisoned Ian, plus he shares the fact that Sharon lied, informing the Doctor's that Ian couldn't make his appointment because they were going on their honeymoon. Linda at first finds it hard to believe her best mate could betray her in such a way, but after listening to Max's words, something deep inside her tells her that he could be right.

Eventually, she makes her way to the pub, finding Sharon alone after the police had been to interview her. I have to say I found the awkward silence between them really powerful, both of them just simply tidying away empty glasses, not a word between them is spoken for the first few seconds. You can definitely sense the tension! Sharon is the first one to break the silence informing her friend that the police had just been to question her again on Ian's disappearance. Even though she was behind his attack, its fair to say that she really doesn't have any idea where Ian has gone. Linda takes it upon herself to open up to Sharon - I found this touching and yet very interesting, as if she was coaxing Sharon to admit the truth to her - she states that Sharon is the closest thing to sister that she's ever had, she treasures her friendship more than she explain. But softly explains to her friend that the one thing equivalent to her friendship with Sharon is the relationship of her family - gently she questions her best friend whether what Max was saying is true - Is Tina innocent?!

Clearly we can see the tears in Sharon's eyes, it looks as if she too treasures Linda's friendship and she now knows she can no longer hide her secret. She nods slowly, admitting the Tina is innocent of attacking Ian and what everything Max said was true. As she turns to her friend, tears filling her eyes, she begins to explain everything - how she discovered her son's voice message from the night he died on the boat and how it simply ate away at her knowing what Ian did, how unfair it was that her son died and Ian lived. She informs her that Phil was also in on the plan and in fact he was the one who attacked Ian in the first place, whilst she made herself scarce. She tries to appeal to the Mothering side of Linda, insisting that with her being a Mother also, how would she react if it was one of her children? She apologises that Tina got caught in the cross fire and it was never their intention, but she panicked. As tears begin to roll down Sharon's cheeks she questions her friend "What was I to do?"

Whilst Sharon finally confesses the truth, Linda stares at her without saying a single word. For a split moment it looks as if Linda can understand her friend's actions - the Motherly side of it, but to have the blame passed on to her family, betraying Linda's trust and having a member of her own family take the rap for something she didn't do! That's pure betrayal, something possibly Linda may never be able to see past. She shames Sharon, insisting that she's clearly disappointed and devastated with her friend's choices, she leaves the pub leaving Sharon teary.

Monday 1st February 2021

Hello again everyone! Hope you've all had a brilliant weekend! Before we get into the subject of today's episode, I have some exciting news I have to share with you all. EastEnders announced over the weekend that there is to be a new character appearing on the Square! James Farrar has joined the cast of EastEnders to play the new role of Zack Hudson. What brings him to Walford remains to be seen, but the exciting news that EastEnders have shared is that there is going to be plenty of drama in store, but in typical soap style, there's always trouble waiting just round the corner. The character of Zack Hudson is to make his first appearance in March! Are you excited about the new addition to the cast/soap? I'm really excited to see what brings him to Albert Square and who of our loveable characters he'll come to be involved with! Exciting times for EastEnders that's for sure! Are you excited to see his arrival in Walford?!

Now following the episode, I'm going to start with focusing on Billy, Jay and Honey first. Billy is still struggling to come to terms with the fact that Jay and Honey are now involved romantically. I think it's fair to say that since Billy had a one night stand with Tina, it seems he has regretted it ever since. I think it's a bit like a Kat and Alfie situation, I do think Honey will always be Billy's true love. What do you guys think? He's bound to feel a little betrayed, but Jay more so than Honey I think as obviously he was the one who brought Jay up, to a certain extent, when his Dad passed away. But seeing him sulking, you just want to shake him and tell him to snap out of it! Poor Honey tries to keep the peace, explaining to him that she and Jay want to tell the children together when the time feels right. But when Billy states the fact that she is old enough to be Jay's Mum, Honey retaliates and delivers a brilliant comeback, also stating that she is in fact old enough to be Billy's daughter! Proving that simply age is just a number! Feeling a little sorry for himself, Billy eventually takes it upon himself to visit his cousin, Phil, to see if he can offer him a job. I sometimes feel that regardless of the predicament or situation Billy may be in, he always turns to his cousin for advice or for some help. In this case, it seems he no longer wants to work on his stall with Jay, so hopefully Phil can offer him a way out. But much to his disappointment, Phil reveals he has nothing for him, but doesn't hesitate to mention that he has nothing much going for him, after revealing to us that Billy is actually 60/61 years of age!! (I would never had guessed that! He looks nowhere near 60 in my opinion!) He also points out the very valid point that he and Honey haven't been married for a very long time, so why shouldn't she and Jay give it go? Jay deserves a bit of happiness just as much as Honey does! However, after his confrontation with Phil, Billy spends time with his children, Will and Janet in the Cafe. Only when they start mentioning that Jay was helping them with a game, Billy looks as if he can't hold it in any longer, and with no regard to Honey's wishes about informing the children when she's ready, out of spite, he informs the children himself. At first the children seem a little bit disheartened, as during their meal time Will lashes out at his Mother and Jay for keeping their relationship a secret, however I have to mention that I love how both Jay and Honey dealt with the children. Explaining it calmly that they shouldn't have kept it a secret and they shouldn't have found out the way they did, even Jay apologises to young Will and Janet. Honey is clearly deeply angered by Billy's actions, what is Honey going to do now?! Will she possibly stop him from seeing the kids, who knows? Could that be what leads Billy onto a downward spiral? 

The second thing I want to mention is Gray and Whitney. After receiving a message from Gray, informing her that she can take the afternoon off from looking after the kids, something tells me that Whitney isn't feeling all that good about having her afternoon off. It's blatantly obvious that it's Gray's retaliating after she denied his advances. Something doesn't sit right with Whitney. Anyway, later on in the episode, Karen makes a visit to the Minute Mart, and the first thing I have mention about that is new look and refurbishment that shop has had! Personally, I think it looks really pretty, really modern! Of course I can't stand Suki, but I love it when soaps revamp well known businesses and properties, I think it makes it more realistic, interesting and of course keeping with the times. I hate to say it but I always hated the sharp green colour of the Minute Mart, of course it had been iconic and that way for years and years, but I feel it was outdated. I love the look of the new Minute Mart, what do you think?! Apart from it's new look, I have to say the new prices are extortionate! As Karen enters the shop and acknowledges the new style of the shop, she's shocked at the prices of the new stock Suki has ordered in store, £4.20 for nuggets, well specifically "Southern Fried Chicken Bites" - I felt this scene was a really enjoyable scene, very relatable! However, when Whitney enters the shop and notices Karen buying "Posh Nuggets" shall we call them, Karen reveals to her that Gray has asked her to look after the kids, making Whitney think even more that Gray is doing it just spite her! She decides to confront her employer, and of course he acts all sweet and innocent, claiming that something came up and he didn't want to mess her around. I fully believe he was just doing it to get back at her for rejecting him the previous day. I believe there is going to be a rumour however that perhaps Whitney and Kush are going to start having feelings towards each other? I'm unsure whether that's true, but I'm sure it's something that will not make Gray happy! What do you guys think?! 

The third thing I'd like to mention is regarding Chelsea and Lucas. Over the past couple of episodes, we've been let to believe that Chelsea hasn't really forgiven her Father as we initially thought. Although her big secret hasn't been yet revealed, it's still clear to tell that she's up to something to get revenge on her Dad. From what I gather, it looks as if Chelsea is involved with some kind of group or gang who smuggle drugs, how she got involved with them remains unknown, however she has slowly been trying to worm her Father in on her dirty work. Lucas has been noticing his daughter's suspicious behaviour, but when she proposed the idea of going away to Ibiza for a while, just the two of them, Lucas knows that something isn't right. In this episode, Chelsea is voicing how excited she is to be going on holiday with her Dad after such a long a time, she mentions that he deserves it after everything he's been through. Interestingly, Lucas asks his daughter to accompany him to church before they make their departure, but he's make sure that his visit is strictly urgent and it simply cannot wait! Chelsea seems to reluctant to go, but eventually agree to keep her Father happy. Once they arrive, Lucas begins to pray, Chelsea on the other hand appears very bored, almost as if she doesn't want to be there. Suddenly, whilst her Father is mid-prayer, her mobile phone starts to ring aloud, even thought Chelsea is extremely apologetic, straight away you can see the annoyance on Lucas's face. It's clear he's feeling disappointed in his daughter for having mobile phone on and on loud whilst visiting the church. As Lucas continues to pray, Chelsea makes a comment for her Dad to pray for the exit row whilst their on the plane, but Lucas refuses to see the funny side of her comment. This is where the anger first appears in Lucas since his return, he turns to his daughter and questions whether she's trying to be funny. Then, without a warning, he grabs his daughter's arm with the firm grip and drags her towards the stand of the church, pretty much forcing her to pray alongside him. The look in Chelsea's eyes for a slight moment is fear, for a small moment, she feared her Father. Eventually after Lucas finishes his prayer, he apologises to his daughter for acting abruptly, but then he interestingly drops the bombshell that, regardless of his daughter buying flights to Ibiza, he's unable to go as the conditions to his license stops him from going abroad, plus he doesn't even have his passport as he had to hand it in to the police. This information appears to really crush Chelsea, but she eventually comes to understand and states that they don't need t go on a holiday, as long as their together, nothing else matters. Something tells me that Chelsea is more annoyed that her plan isn't going to work, maybe she's going to have to find another way to get revenge on her Dad? What do you guys think?!  

Finally, we have to focus on Max and Sharon don't we?! During Ian's illness and attack, Max has managed to build up his suspicion on who could be behind his attack and why he was feeling so ill afterwards. He notices that from across the Square, Bobby is talking to the police. As he confronts the teenager, Bobby informs him that there is still no sign of Ian. It's almost as if he's completely vanished as there appears to be no activity on his mobile phone or his bank card. This seems to make Max even more suspicious to Ian's disappearance. Meanwhile, he notices Mick and Linda enjoying time with Ollie as they wonder through the gardens, as he approaches Linda she questions him whether he's close to finding out who really attacked Ian so they can clear Tina's name, interestingly Max informs her that he is working on it. Later on in the episode, Linda takes a visit to Sharon, as they discuss Ian's disappearance, Sharon claims that just because she's his wife, people are quick to assume that she knows more than she's letting on, but she promises her friend that she doesn't know any more than anyone else. Of course, Linda believes her friend, I mean, why wouldn't she? But then she drops the bombshell to her that Max is close to finding out the truth in the hope to clear Tina's name. This seems to catch Sharon's ears loud and clear, and later on she takes it upon herself to give Max a visit as she grabs the opportunity to deliver his vegetables for the restaurant. It's then that Max informs her that Ian went to the doctors and the he went with him for some tests before he disappeared, this seems to really shock Sharon. I think for a split second she thought he knew it was her who was behind his attack, however when she asks what his results showed, he can't seem to answer the question. I'm guessing as he simply doesn't know! But this seems to relax Sharon that maybe he doesn't know for sure, but when she questions him why he's so desperate to clear Tina's name, it becomes clear to her that he's simply only doing it for Linda. She toys with him, informing that no matter what he does to win Linda back, her heart will always belong to Mick. Much later, as everyone gathers in the Vic - Mick, Linda, Dotty, Vinny, Max - Kathy rushes in with a handful of "Missing" posters of Ian, desperate to hang them up to gain public attention and knowledge of her son's whereabouts. As she does so, even though Sharon tries to keep things civil, informing her that they all want to find Ian, Kathy once again is cold with Sharon claiming that she's simply after his money and the pub and doesn't care in the slightest of him being found or not! Everyone in the pub watches and listens to Kathy's outburst, Linda tries to defend her best mate, but then surprisingly Max speaks up "She wants him back! -" ... almost looking as if he's actually sticking up for her, Sharon thanks him for his kind words, but then what happens next shocks everyone to the core as Max continues to speak ... "Just so she can finish him off!" ... Everyone's faces drop at this allegation!! In front of everyone in the Vic, with Sharon stood behind the bar with a face of pure fear, Max finally confronts her, "It wasn't Tina who attacked Ian ... It was you!" 

Monday 25th January 2021

Hello everyone! Hope you've all had a good relaxing weekend!  `We're back with a fresh new week of drama and anticipation. After what happened during Friday's episode, I'm really excited to see what will be the aftermath of Sharon's attempt on killing Ian. What will the neighbours and community think about Ian disappearing all of a sudden? I genuinely can't wait to see what happens.

As I predicted, after Ian's disappearance, Kathy appears to be hunting high and low for her son. Concerned that no one has seen him since the previous night, and he's not responding to any of her phone calls, Kathy is getting more and more concerned for her son. I'm sure you'll remember that when Ian decided to flee Walford, he chucked his phone into the bin, and without a word to anyone, disappeared into the night after realising that Sharon was behind the attack and wanting to kill him after learning the truth about Dennis's death. Kathy decides to confront Sharon about her son's disappearance, but of course Sharon can't reveal what's really happened and informs Kathy that Ian has probably gone for a walk to get some fresh air. To be fair, Sharon also has no idea where Ian has gone, before she makes her way back to the Vic, she asks Phil whether anything happened between him and Ian the previous night. Phil admits that Ian was no where to be seen, but makes the valid point that if he had seen him, he wouldn't be walking around right now. But it's not just Kathy who is questioning Ian's absence, Max also confronts Sharon later in the Vic. Max eventually got suspicious of Sharon and voiced his concerns to Ian, I do feel that maybe people are going to point the finger and blame Sharon for Ian going AWOL. But in all fairness, Sharon didn't go through with her plan, the last she saw Ian he was alive, she has no idea when or where he has fled. I do feel though that Kathy isn't going to let it lie, she'll be wanting answers from Sharon that's for sure!

The second thing I want to mention briefly, has anyone got any idea what Chelsea is up to? I'm still unsure as to what is happening with her, what her story is. I feel like it's going to be a long time until we learn what "The job" is that she's supposed to be doing. Since her return we've been made to believe that she has built bridges with her Father and decided to give him a second chance, however front of sticking up for her Dad, completely changed when she started getting phone calls from an unknown person. In this episode we see her getting a call from someone named "Caleb" and eventually a face is given to this person's identity. Chelsea seems really stunned to see him, who is this Caleb and what has he got over Chelsea? Is she working for him maybe? As they sit together in the Vic, Caleb seems to compliment on the clothes that she is working, pointing out that it was with his money that she paid for those items. Chelsea informs him that he will be getting the money back, but as soon as he mentions Lucas, Chelsea informs him to let her deal with him. Is Chelsea using her Dad to perhaps pay this Caleb back? Who knows? Either way, I'm looking forward to finding out more of Chelsea's story. What do you think it could be? Do you understand what's happening more than I do? If so, please enlighten me, as I am finding this a little bit confusing and quite difficult to follow. I'm hoping as time goes on, more will be revealed and everything will make sense.

Thirdly, I have to mention Ben and Callum, don't I? I have to! After hearing news that Lexi isn't feeling too well at school and with Ben being busy and Lola being stuck at the salon, Callum appears to be the only person available to help and pick the young girl up. However, as soon as he gets there, Isaac refuses to let Lexi go with him, as his name isn't on the Parental and/or Guardian list for who the school should contact when their child is ill. As far as Isaac is concerned, the only people who are on that list are Lola and Ben, even though Callum fights his corner, informing him that he's not a stranger and Lexi will be safe in his hands if she was to go with him. But, to be fair, Isaac is only doing his job - if he was to let Lexi go with an unknown member of the public (which is how the school will see him) - he could be in huge trouble. This specific event seems to surprise everyone, Ben even pleads to Lola to allow Callum onto the list, but Lola admits that just because Callum is another one of Ben's boyfriends, she can't allow him on the list and strictly informs him that the list is just for family members only! Clearly, this seems to play on Ben's mind. Later, whilst Ben and Callum are discussing the situation together in the Mitchell household ... and in the most unaffectionate, non-romantic way possible, Ben proposes to Callum saying that he can sort the whole thing out if they sign a few papers at the registrars office! As the way proposals go, I have to say that has to be the worst one I have ever seen! Callum is completely and utterly stunned by his boyfriends words, and not in the most happiest way. I mean, fair enough Ben has never really been good with words, but come on!!! Later on, Ben is looking after his daughter as Lola approaches and they once again begin chatting about the day's events. It's then that Ben reveals that he had a way of sorting it and revealing to them both that he proposed to Callum, but when they realise there was no romantic gesture and it literally happened in the Mitchell's kitchen - both Lola and Lexi aren't surprised that Callum walked off. They inform him that if he's truly wanting to get married to Callum, then it needs to be for the right reasons - not just so his name can be put on a list! Plus he needs to show more feeling and romance towards his proposal! Let's hope that the next time Ben proposes to Callum, that he actually does it right!!

The final thing I need to talk about is Frankie and the Carters! The Carter's seemed to have welcomed Frankie into their family after the learning the truth about her identity. In this episode, Frankie is waiting very patiently for Mick and Linda outside of their apartment, as the couple approach her she informs them that today is the anniversary of her little brother's death, (Harry). Before mentioning that she'll be going to the cemetery with her Mum, she also uses this time to once again plead to them to not report her Mum to the police. Mick takes it upon himself to reassure his daughter that they won't mention anything to the police. Interestingly later on, Shirley confronts Linda, informing her that she's been told everything about Mick's past and how he doesn't want to involve the police, however she feels that they need to do something so Katy could never do the things she did to Mick to anyone else. Linda seems to completely understand Shirley's concern, but she also states that they need to stay strong for Mick and go with what he says, as they need to stick by him and do what's best for him. A little bit later, Linda meets Frankie in the Cafe, after a brief discussion Frankie introduces a man named Jed to Linda, informing her that she think he's a type of step-brother to her. (Harry's brother, on their Dad's side!) As Linda looks up this man, she asks Frankie whether she could also attend going to the cemetery, regardless of Katy being there she also wants to pay her respects to the young boy who died so young, Frankie is really touched by her gesture and agrees for her come along. However, later on after they've all returned from the cemetery they decide to go for a drink at Ruby's club. As Linda buys a round of drinks, Stuart is sat as the bar and they begin to discuss Frankie. Stuart is surprised to hear that Frankie is the daughter of Katy Lewis, suddenly Linda begins to question his experience of being in care with Katy, it's then that Stuart reveals that other than Mick, she did have a few favourites that she used to look after. These words seem to really shake Linda to the core, as Frankie dismisses herself to use the lavatory, Linda takes it upon herself to approach Jed. Trying to be as subtle as possible, she begins to dig and find out more information from him, asking about his Dad not being involved with Harry, even though he was, even informing Jed about her and Mick's connection to Frankie. It's the she takes the big step in asking him questions regarding whether Katy kept things secret from him, it looks as if Jed suddenly clicks on to what she's talking about and becomes really uncomfortable. Frankie returns to see Jed leaving the club, Linda being completely apologetic thinking she may have got the wrong end of the stick. But as they venture out in the cold evening, Jed confronts Frankie saying that he's never said anything to anyone about his relationship with Harry, but poor Frankie has no idea what's talking about. Suddenly everything becomes crystal clear to Linda - Jed was Harry's Father! Jed is another victim of Katy's sexual abuse! But he happens to mention "Any of us!" - it looks as if he's claiming that there are other victims of Katy, other young men she's preyed upon!

At this moment I feel so so sorry for Frankie, learning that her Dad was abused by her Mum, and now who she's always believed to be her step-brother, revealed to be her younger brother's Dad! Putting into perspective that her Mother is a sexual predator, a paedophile! Poor Frankie's world has been turned upside down. Surely Linda sees now that Katy needs to be reported to the police, will she reveal to Mick that there are other victims of hers out there? Will she and Shirley maybe bring it upon themselves to search for other victims and begin to build evidence or a case for the police to investigate?! Katy needs to get her comeuppance! As dark as this story is, I think it's one of the best I've seen in a long time. I'm really excited and intrigued to see where this story is going to go!

Friday 22nd January 2021

Hello again everyone! I hope you're all doing okay. I'm really looking forward to writing about this blog, I think this is the moment everyone has been waiting for! The build up to this point has been massive! I'm sure the majority of you know what's happened already, but I truly can't wait to jump right in.

Wow! What an absolutely fantastic episode! Everything has finally come out! Before I even mention the main event, let's focus on Frankie and Katy to start off with. After finally reconnecting with her Dad, in the previous episode Frankie called up her Mum informing her that she wants nothing more to do with her. Tonight, Katy desperately approaches her daughter, claiming that everything she's been told is a lie, however as soon as Frankie mentions she's going to get a DNA test done to prove who her Father is, Katy knows she can no longer hide the truth from her, she admits that Mick is in fact her Dad. Frankie is absolutely disgusted with her Mother, as she's claiming that they were in love. Regardless if that is true or not, the fact she had sexual intercourse with a child, plain and simply makes her a paedophile. Frankie turns and walks away, leaving her Mother crying in the middle of the Square. As she settles back into the Carter household, both Mick and Linda are talking about the excitement to introduce her to the rest of their family, including all her brothers and sister. Even though Frankie questions if they would be happy with that, it looks as if her Mum is still on her mind. Was she really naïve and confused?! Both Linda and Mick fully understand that Katy, at the end of the day, is her Mum and it'll be hard for her to move on knowing what she knows. Frankie pleads for them not to report her to the police, even though she doesn't condone her Mother's actions, she fears it will absolutely destroy her.

This episode also seems to show that it's Phil's birthday, and he's celebrating his 60th! Even though his family have organised a special birthday at home, it's fair to say that Phil has his mind focused on other things.

Which brings us to the main event of the episode! Firstly I just want to say that the performances from both Adam Woodyatt and Letitia Dean were absolutely incredible! They absolutely carried this episode! After realising that Sharon lied to him about Dennis's phone being broken, it seems that Ian is starting to believe that Sharon could be the one behind him being unwell. As Sharon calls him that his dinner is ready, Ian's phone pings notifying him that he's got a voice message, as he hears it - it appears to be the Doctor he visited with Max, he mentions that in regard to his tests there appears to be some cause for concern. It looks as if this brings it all full circle for Ian and he knows that Sharon has been the one behind it all. As his wife calls him to get settled, he sees the lovely meal she's prepared - a beautiful candlelit dinner with a bottle of wine on the table.

--

As they get comfortable and Sharon plates up his food, you can see he is watching her every move, wiping her hands on her napkin etc. He attempts to make small talk with his wife, talking about the people they've lost in their lives and how its just those two together now. As he really tries to make conversation, its easy to notice that he's not touched a single piece of food on his plate, not even drunk any wine! He questions her why she had used separate pans to prepare their food, to which she simply explains that she doesn't want to put on any weight, and with Ian being so unwell recently, he needs all the energy he can get. Ian attempts a smile at his wife response, but you can see deep down that he knows something isn't right, he still reluctant to touch his food. Instead of causing a fuss, he suggests to Sharon that they have something else instead and they could reheat this food for another day. Sharon, at this point is visibly getting frustrated, she pleads for her husband to a least take a bite, as she's worked so hard to make it for him. She informs him that she wants to make this night special for him.

It looks as if Ian can't hide his suspicion any longer, out of blue and getting straight to the point he asks his wife "Where's the poison, Sharon? Is it in the wine or the sauce?" - Instantly, Sharon denies any wrong doing, informing her husband that he's gone mad due to his paranoia since his attack. But Ian doesn't believe a word she says as he scoops a fork full of food and directs it in Sharon's direction, informing her to eat it instead. In an attempt to prove a point to her husband, she takes the fork from Ian, knowing full well the poison is in the food, she slowly raises the fork to her lips, but before it can get any closer into her mouth, she takes it away, leaving Ian knowing everything he needs to know. In absolute devastation, he questions his new wife "Why?" - Sharon leaves the table, knowing her plan has been sussed, all you can hear is Ian's pleads of an explanation as to why she tried to poison him. Deep down, part of me thinks "How dare he asks her "Why?"" - but Sharon turns sharply informing him that he knows EXACTLY why she tried to poison him. In response, Ian simply says the name "Dennis!"

It's at this moment that everything comes flooding out, Sharon forces Ian to listen to the voice message her son had left her on the night of the boat crash, instantly they both start crying, floods of tears falling down their faces. (Once again, I have to say fantastic performances from both Adam and Letitia). It's then that Ian attempts to inform his wife that he never killed Dennis, but Sharon doesn't want o hear it and gives him a huge smack across the face, calling him a "Liar!". To be fair, he probably did deserve that slap, but he begs once again to explain everything to Sharon, the full details of what happened that night. All this time, Sharon has believed that Ian locked her son in the room and left him to die, but Ian pleads to her to let him explain. He reveals that he never knew the boat was going to sink, if he had he would never have locked him in in the first place. He explains how Dennis was acting that night and wanted to teach him a lesson for bullying Bobby, however when things started to get more dangerous he realised he had to go back and try and save Dennis. He continues to explain to Sharon that he actually attempted to save her son, recalling that he got him out of the locked room, they went down the corridor with the water rising up to their necks, she recalls there being a loud noise and huge wave came out of nowhere, unfortunately this caused Ian to lose hold of Dennis, even though it was dark he tried to find him but he simply couldn't - very sadly, Dennis got swept under and drowned. Both of them are in floods of tears at this point as everything revolving around how Dennis died comes to light.

Regardless of this Sharon informs her husband that everyone around him hates him, the fact that he had so many suspects out to kill him. She mentions that his children hate him also, how is it fair that Dennis is dead and that Ian gets to live? All her anger and grief once again comes flooding out, attacking Ian with harsh words of truth. Suddenly, Ian seems to agree on everything she's saying. He looks back on his life, how many wives he's had, have any of them really loved him? He's sadly lost two children and his remaining children hate him - to him, it all kind of makes sense, why should he carry on living? This is where things, I thought took an interesting turn - he started actually eating the food placed in front of him, much to Sharon's shock. At first, she questions what he's doing, but when he carries on eating and eating, she shouts that he should eat every bite and die alone. She scurries out of the room, leaving Ian alone eating. However, it looks as if everything gets too much for Sharon, would she really let Ian die, knowing full well his food was poisoned? It looks as if the guilt gets to her, she hurries back upstairs and pushes the plate of food away from him, although he attempts to carry on eating it, she forces him to be sick and bring it all back up. Interestingly, instead of attempting to kill her life-long friend, she does a complete 180 and tries to save him.

After everything that has come to light and Ian bringing up all the poison food, he still desperately tries to apologise to his wife. To be fair, Sharon has never been a killer, if she's wanted someone dead she's always asked someone else to do it for her, or even backed out at the last minute. Something tells me that she thought "Enough is enough!" - both she and Ian have suffered enough due to the circumstances of Dennis's death. Sharon then decides to take off her wedding ring, it's true she never loved Ian. He begs her to put it back on, but she simply says "I've just tried to kill you!" but Ian pleads for her to reconsider and they can work things out. But in all honestly, it's not going to really is it?! After everything they've been through the past few months, how could they ever come back from this? Plus the valid fact that Sharon never loved him and was only doing it to get her revenge. She simply says goodbye and leaves him alone in the Vic.

--

While all this has been happening at the Vic, Phil has been waiting urgently to hear news that Sharon has gone ahead and killed Ian. During his birthday celebrations, the doorbell goes and Phil rushes to the door to see Sharon. He asks her straight out whether the job was done, she bows her head and simply states that if he really wants Ian dead, he's going to have to do it himself. Phil looks completely disappointed that she's backed out of their plan, he takes it upon himself to walk directly to the Vic. Without anyone seeing, he sneaks up the stairs, searching every single room for Ian. But he's nowhere to be seen, he's simply disappeared, scarpered, in pure frustration and anger Phil screams Ian's name, as if it could be heard from all over the Square!

The final clip we see is Ian, slowly making his way to the train station. Has Sharon's words really hit home for him? Is he really not wanted by his family? Do his children really hate him to the core? As his phone rings, he doesn't even take a look at it a flings it into the bin. He turns and takes one last look at the Square and heads off to places unknown.

I have to say, this has been one of my favourite episodes! The script writing, the performances from everyone involved was absolutely incredible! EastEnders at it's absolute best! Where has Ian gone? the one thing that comes to my mind now is that people will instantly be asking questions to where Ian has fled? Max? Kathy? Peter and Bobby? Even Phil? People are going to be curious to his disappearance? Will Kathy blame Sharon? What is going to happen between Phil and Sharon now? Honestly, I really can't wait to see the aftermath of this episode, it's going to be really interesting that's for sure. I do have mention though that we have not seen the last of Ian. Adam Woodyatt has simply taken a well deserved break and will be back later in the year! From what I believe, I think there's going to be a massive twist which will see him return, but who knows what that's going to be?!

Monday 11th January 2021

Hello again everyone! Hope you've had a great weekend and doing well! I have seen a few spoilers over the past couple of days and honestly, I'm so excited to blog about it. I believe this episode in particular is a belter! I'm not going to waste any of time and simply jump straight into it!

Ooooh Wow!!! So there's a lot I want to talk about but firstly, I'm going to focus on Sharon. She's still poisoning her new husband, however I do feel like she's kind of struggling to keep it together. Obviously she's having to live with a person who she has grown to despise after learning about his involvement in her son's death. We've already seen her fall off the wagon a couple of times, almost putting little Ollie in danger and also stealing medication from Jean to carry on her plan. She seems more determined than ever to get her revenge and justice for her son. As the days and weeks go by, Ian is visibly getting more and more unwell, I find myself wondering how long it's going to take before he realises that the reason he's unwell is down to his wife. You'd think that if he was taking medicine and taking a lot of rest, and if he hasn't prepared any food or drinks for himself, surely you'd put two and two together? I don't know, who can say for sure?! In this episode, it looks as if Ian is gradually getting worse, as he becomes slightly light-headed and loses his balance, causing him to fall to the floor and knock a considerable amount of glass over. Unfortunately, he does this in front of the whole pub. One of the main people who sees this happen just so happens to be Dotty, the person who warned Sharon about Ian in the first place. Part of me is also questioning, has Sharon actually believed Dotty from the very beginning? I mean, why would she make something like that up? Something is telling me that maybe after what Dotty told her, maybe it played on Sharon's mind and she had to find out for herself whether her claim was true! Personally, I'm looking forward to the moment when Sharon reveals to Ian that she knows about Dennis, it's going to be a powerful woman getting her justice with Ian practically on his knees, begging for forgiveness! Oooo it's going to be great viewing for sure!

Seeing as we've already mentioned Dotty, its been quite a while since she's been in the soap. Tonight she reappears announcing that she's throwing a party whilst Sonia is away! She questions both Ash and Iqra whether they'd like to come, at first they decline the invite, explaining that they're both up early for work the next day. Suddenly, Dotty's phone pings and she's excited to reveal that Peter will be attending her party, surprisingly, as soon as she mentions Peter's name - Ash instantly looks interested and changes her mind, announcing that they will attend Dotty's party after all, much to Iqra's annoyance at the sudden change of mind. Now, why would Ash be interested in Peter? Was there a bit of flirtation going on between them a while back, if I'm not mistaken? If that so happens to be the case then I would really feel for Iqra, especially how her sister warned her of the Panesar family before she left the Square! Could Iqra and Ash's relationship fall apart thanks to Peter? Who knows? What do you think is going on between Ash and Peter? I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this one!

The next thing I want to talk about is the Fox/Trueman family. As Denise, Kim and Isaac continue to worry about Patrick, it seems that Sheree does a disappearing act. At first, I think to myself, why on Earth would Sheree flee whilst her husband needs her at such a desperate time in his life! Even when Kim and Denise visit poor Patrick at the hospital, he slowly wakes. It's clear he's very groggy, his speech is still slurred as he asks for his wife. Poor Denise doesn't know what to say and tries to reassure him that she'll be there at his bedside very very soon! Later, both the Fox sisters confront Isaac, questioning where his Mum is, he takes it upon himself to go and search for her. Eventually he finds her drowning her sorrows in Ruby's club, but what she says really shocks me - it's like she's already given up on him. Now, I'm sorry to sound harsh, but if you loved someone, regardless of their health, you'd do everything in your power to support them and be there for them. It may be hard, but you'd find the strength to be there for them. I'm shocked that she stated that she couldn't do it and be there for him - when he is in his hospital bed, desperately asking for her. I don't know, it doesn't sit well in my head. If she states she can't cope, think of poor Patrick, his second major stroke within the space of 7 years (with his first major one happening in July 2014!) Isaac speaks firmly to his Mother, informing her that now he knows for certain that he's his Dad, they need to make more effort with him more than ever and they need to be with him, now, when he needs them the most. I just hope Sheree will come to her senses and realise that her son is right!

The next thing I want to talk about is, Jean! Oooh poor Jean! We saw at Christmas that during the family celebrations, whilst getting changed into a gorgeous new dress, she found a new lump forming. Since then it looks like she's been suffering in silence, not informing her family about her discovery. In this episode, we see her have a check up at the hospital, I do feel for her during this scene. The poor woman breaks down into tears as she checks herself under her hospital gown, it's only when the nurse enters the room that she attempts to put on a brave face. Even though the nurse is trying to be polite and put her at ease, Jean just wants to get straight to the point and questions whether her cancer has returned. I hate to say it but when she stated that she could be "Riddled with it!" - my heart did sink for her, I pray to God that that will not be the case. I absolutely LOVE Jean, she's been one of my favourite characters, Gillian Wright is just a credit to the soap, I know it might be jumping in too deep here, but I pray to God that they don't kill her off. Jean has been through so much during her time on the Square, I think, she more than anyone, deserves a happy ending! I just want to point out that NOTHING has been announced or confirmed regarding Jean's cancer story or whether Gillian Wright will be leaving, I am just voicing my personal thoughts and views. Lets just all hope and pray that our beloved Jean will be okay! Regardless of the sadness of Jean's current story, I want to acknowledge also the comedy between her and Laila Morse - AKA Mo. Can I just comment on the eyebrows - brilliant comedy!

Now the main focus of the soap, the Carter's!! At the beginning of the soap, they are all gathered at Mick and Linda's apartment with Gray. This specific day happens to be the day which Tina is supposed to be attending her court hearing for the attack on Ian! However, we all know full well that Gray has gotten rid of Tina, unbeknown to the Carter family. They all seem to be worrying due to the fact that she hasn't been in touch with any of them, and they all seem to think that this would be the day she'd reach out to them. Shirley seems to be worrying increasingly as she keeps a tight hold of her phone, hoping to hear from her younger sister. But when she proposes trying to contact her instead, Gray panics and instantly informs Shirley that it would look bad on her and also Tina if she did. With Shirley informing Gray that her little sister always gets in touch in the end, Gray takes it upon himself to lie to the Carter family even more by sending a message to Shirley from Tina's phone. Meanwhile, while the Carter's continue to worry about Tina, Katy is at home with Frankie, it has come completely clear to Frankie who and what her Mother is! Katy pleads to Frankie to believe her and forget about Mick, but it's something that she just can't do! She tells her Mother to state who her Father is, if Mick isn't, but Katy can't bring herself to answer. Eventually Frankie leaves the house, leaving Katy worrying and panicking, but it's only when the police turn up at her house, she flees out the back of the house. (Even the police state that they have come for Frankie!). Making a silly and dangerous decision, Katy takes it upon herself to give Mick a visit and returns to the Square, it's there she informs him that Frankie has called the police on her own Mother. Even though Mick wants nothing to do with Katy anymore, after informing her to leave, they eventually enter the Carter's apartment. Katy once again attempts to get inside Mick's head, asking him to keep everything between them a secret, that Frankie shouldn't have to suffer. Only as she's asking Mick these things, unbeknown to them, Shirley has entered the flat is slowly approaching the room they're in, overhearing everything she's saying. Now THIS, THIS is the moment where you realise that Shirley has learned the truth about everything!! She's found out what's been bothering her son for all this time, this is the moment we've all been waiting for! It's when Mick uses the word "Paedophile" to describe Katy which completely grips Shirley! She eventually lets herself be known by slowly walking into the room, both Mick and Katy's faces drop! I think this next moment was absolutely brilliant!!! No speech between them, only Mick pleading for his Mum not to act! Shirley attempts to chase Katy around the kitchen table, but she scarpers down the stairs and out of the front door out onto the Square. Without words and without any hesitation, Shirley follows her like a determined bull chasing it's pray - eyes daggered toward Katy, when she finally catches up to her, she gives her a good ole slap around the face and beats her as she lies in a heap on the floor. I do not condone violence but, YES SHIRLEY!!!!! YES!!!!!! I'm sure every single viewer was applauding her as she was doing this!!! Finally everything that Mick has suffered has come to light and finally Katy can get the comeuppance she deserves! The neighbours on the Square however, witness Shirley's assault on Katy and shout for her to stop. Katy makes her escape as Shirley looks back to her son, as everyone takes themselves inside, Shirley pulls out her phone and decides to report an assault. But who's assault exactly? Hers upon Katy? or Katy's upon Mick?!

Monday 14th December 2020

Hello again everyone! Hope your week is going well so far. I believe there is so much going on in the soap that I have missed so many important moments, I'm hoping over today and tomorrow I'll be able to catch up! Firstly, I want to reveal two pieces of news which I have found out recently. I'm not too sure how much truth there is in these reports, but one being that there will be an episode where Ian has a flashback of the night of his attack, interestingly the flashback will revolve around Ben!! What is it that he'll remember? Also, again I'm not too sure what truth there is in this but Ian's attacker will be revealed on Christmas Day! Christmas is always an exciting time for soaps, its when secrets are revealed, hearts are broken and the drama is absolutely explosive! I also believe that Christmas Day will also see the return of Lucas Johnson and Chelsea Fox - THAT I am incredibly excited for!!

But before we get over our heads, lets focus on Monday's episode. Wow! Another brilliant episode! I'm going to start with Ian and the rest of the Beale family. Ian has finally been allowed to leave the hospital, as he arrives back in Walford in a taxi, everyone watches him as he arrives back on the Square. I just want to mention how amazing this opening scene was. Everywhere he turned he saw a possible suspect - Max, Ben, Tina, Suki, Kheerat, Peter, Stuart and Rainie! His eyes are in complete panic as he realises that it's someone he knows who attacked him. It's brilliant how every suspect stares at him with evil eyes, making it even more unnerving and leaving the viewers guessing who the hell the guilty one is! I don't know why but I just really loved the opening scene, I thought it was absolutely brilliant!

Is anyone else loving the fact that Kim is back? Sorry but I just have to mention how much I love her character, I have truly missed her bubbliness, her banter, everything! Every scene she's in she just sparkles! She's absolutely fabulous! I am thrilled to have her back on the Square. I love how "subtle" she is when it comes to her asking Denise for a job at the salon. She makes this brilliant statement that she's ready to come back and focus on her "Career", especially now little Pearl's Christmas list is miles long! Unfortunately, Denise is unable to give Kim her job back straight away, and of course in typical Kim style, she laughs it off and insists she didn't mean straight away, just at some point in the future! However as much as she puts on a front to her sister, deep down we can all tell she's a little bit disappointed. Only later on when she's in the Cafe, again brilliantly she has a word with Kathy regarding the possibility of Tina going to prison (which we can't even say for sure yet!), Kathy may be stuck with staff. But when Kathy suggests her working at the Cafe, Kim lets out that brilliant squeaky laugh and proposes she has a role at the Prince Albert instead, to her surprise, Kathy agrees and tells her to go there the following day. Is it just for a trial? Something tells me that Kim would look fantastic working at the Prince Albert, it's completely up her street and she'd fit in perfectly! I can't wait to see scenes of her working there!

Another important moment I want to reflect on, revolving around the Beale family, is Bobby. Kathy approaches her Grandson and asks why he confessed to crime that he didn't do. You can see that she's trying her best to understand her Grandson's actions, what thoughts are going through his head? What made him confess? As she tries ask him many questions, Bobby seems to get frustrated, he seems to think his Nan will ever be able to understand his ways. Even when she tries to get Callum in to help talk to her Grandson, Bobby isn't interested at first but Callum puts him completely at ease - as he's pretty much just talking to a mate - Bobby finally feels comfortable in telling them about his feelings. Callum recalls his fellow army cadet having PTSD that it would cause him to act in the way Bobby does, count, check things multiple times before leaving the house, but when Callum suggest it could be OCD - it kind of makes me think that Bobby could have either of those conditions. OCD or PTSD - to say Bobby hasn't experienced trauma would be completely and utterly wrong, so it would make sense that it could be PTSD. (I'm hoping the true meaning for his condition will come to light very soon!) But interestingly, when it comes to his "Convulsions", I believe that's the term Kathy used for it, she questions whether it has something to do with his religion or whether it's something else, however Bobby admits to his Nan that he feels it's just something he has to do. But when Kathy suggests he tries to speak to his therapist about it, Bobby reveals that his brother thought it wasn't a good idea. This news shocks Kathy, that her Grandson knew about his brother's condition and did nothing to help, not even mention it to any of the other family members. She rushes to find Peter, finding him on the Square. Now this is where everything takes a horrible, yet interesting turn - As Kathy confronts Peter, he reveals that he actually enjoyed seeing Bobby suffer, he admits he can't forgive his younger brother for what he did to Lucy, and to watch Bobby suffer by tearing himself apart, he secretly loved it! Peter has gotten completely dark since he returned to the Square, he clearly has a deep hatred for his brother - then again, is hatred the right word?! Either way, Peter seems to be holding a lot of anger towards his family right now, as all the commotion is happening on the Square, Ian and Sharon run out to see what's happening, it's then that Peter focuses his anger towards his Father, revealing to everyone that he stole money from his supposed favourite child! Of course finding out your twin sister being your Dad's favourite must be devastating to hear, but he can't believe his Dad would stoop so low to steal from his own dead daughter. But interestingly, he then turns to Kathy - blaming her for everything that's happened to the Beale family, stating the fact that she left and everyone assumed she was dead - whilst Peter is having his rant in the middle of the Square, Ben notices the commotion from a distance and sees Peter insulting his Mum, Ben takes it into his own hands to confront Peter and pushes him to the ground. Now this is where things get increasingly tense!! Ian watches in pure fear as he watches his brother stand over his son! Ahhhh so this is where the flashback I was speaking about earlier happens, Ian has a flashback of the night of his attack, we see Ben standing over him (although not holding a weapon I have to add) and stating the words "You had it coming!". Suddenly Ian seems to instantly put two and two together and states that it was Ben who attacked him! Not long after Ben is arrested for attempted murder, Ben tries to voice his innocence but he's quickly forced into a police car and he informs Jay to get hold of Ritchie as soon as he can!

In other parts of the Square, Kush has been released on bail after giving himself up to the police. Kat is pleased to see him, but livid that he gave himself up behind her back. Kush admits he's literally trying to do the right thing for his family and maybe after a couple of years behind bars, he and Kat might be able to move away and start a fresh away from the Square. However, when Kat delivers to him the devastating blow that Phil only paid them half of what they're owed from the robbery job, Kush isn't happy! He takes it upon himself to pay Phil a visit, but what happens next is very intriguing. Kush informs Phil that he hasn't reported any of the Mitchell's and it's only right that he pays the rest of the money they're owed. However he does want one thing from him, he wants support from Phil - I'm assuming that means money or something of that kind? - to help him and Kat build a future for when he leaves prison. But Phil insists that if he's going agree to help him, then Kush has to do something for him in return. Later on when Kush reunites with Kat, he informs her that Phil has given them the rest of the money they're owed, but there's a catch - for them to be able to receive his support for a better future once Kush leaves prison, Kush has to take the rap for other dodgy dealings and other petty crimes that they've taken part in, which could mean that Kush might be behind bars for a lot longer than first anticipated.

The final thing I want to focus on is the Carter family. At first, Mick's day seems to start off happily as her gets ready to take little Ollie to school. (Again, I just need to mention how bloody adorable the little lad who plays Ollie is! He's so cute!!!) Only as soon as he gets ready, Linda walks in and insists that she takes their son to school, they make very little small talk as she mentions that she's working. Mick questions her whether Max can't handle working on his own, in way making small dig at her co-worker. She then informs her husband that Max in fact has a day off, insinuating the fact that she probably wont be any where near him. With that Linda leaves with Ollie and Mick is left alone once again as he tries calling Katy. Whilst Linda and Mick get on with their day - Mick trying to get hold of Katy and Linda working, and very much flirting, with Max (even though he's not supposed to be there) - Tina is trying her absolute best to track down this mystery pizza boy, who turns out to be the only one who can give her an alibi. She's searching high and low, calling all sorts of different companies in an attempt to locate this pizza boy. However, it's only when Shirley suggests she tries approaching local companies, she may have a better chance of finding him. Taking her sister's advice, she approaches Max in his restaurant asking whether he may have some knowledge about who the boy may be, Max tries to be considerate and help her out but acknowledges that he's busy but may not find the time. As Tina takes her leave, she notices the body language between Linda and Max as she watches them from a distance, she notices how cosy they look and how flirtatious they're being together. Something doesn't sit right with her, so she takes it upon herself to inform her brother, of course being sisterly she thinks she's doing the right thing in informing him that his wife could possibly be having an affair. However, when it comes clear to hear that Mick is already aware about his wife's fling with Max, she's become more shocked at the fact that he's not doing anything about it, and just letting it happen. She voices her concerns to her brother, informing him that she's done everything she can to help him because she loves him, but every time she reaches out he throws it back in her face. She leaves, leaving Mick desperate to speak to Katy once again, this time he informs her he's going to reveal everything to Linda about what he's feeling.

On the Square, as Mick makes his way to find his wife, Katy stops him in his tracks and asks him to get her drink before he makes any rash decisions. Something doesn't fit right with me, why did Katy rush to meet him? He's been calling her all day and yet all of a sudden, when he reveals he's going to open up to Linda, she comes running! However what happened next really shook me, Katy is even more evil as we first anticipated. Mick reveals that his marriage hasn't been good for months, how he and Linda don't even speak to each other anymore. There used to be a time when they told each other everything, but since Frankie and Katy turned up on the Square, things have changed drastically. Mick reveals he wants to get things back on track with his wife, he's fretting of loosing her to Max, he wants to save his marriage before it's too late, and maybe if he was to finally come clean to his wife about his recent feelings and emotions, it may help. But Katy completely and utterly manipulates him by stating that there isn't anything left of his marriage to save. She voice that Linda has already moved on, the fact she's cheated on him with Max means that their marriage is already over. I am completely stunned to what she's telling him, feeding lies into his ear - completely manipulating his thoughts. She's twisting things so her evil dark secret won't come out, that's what it is!!! I do fear though that Mick will agree with her, at this moment in time, Katy seems to be the one he's counting on - not realising her dark evil twisted ways.

I feel like there are so many twists and turns at the moment, I have no idea what's coming next! I, personally don't think Ben attacked Ian, or at least I'd like to think it wasn't him. Something tells me Ben wanted to confront Ian but my guess is that Ian had already been attacked when Ben arrived at the Vic. Ben was the first to see him on the floor, he didn't act to help his brother - hence why he said "You had it coming!" - as he was out for revenge also, but to keep himself away from the crime scene, he quickly left the pub. That's my theory anyway! I do think it could be Peter, Kheerat or Sharon! Regarding Katy - I hope her evil past is revealed soon - I don't know how much more I can take of seeing Mick looking so depressed and lost. Not in a fed up way, but how horrible it is watching a character who's incredibly well liked by the community and all his family, just deteriorate so much and push all his loved ones away and dealing with something so horrendous all on his own - and not talking!! I mean, Danny Dyer has been fantastic during this storyline and I honestly can't wait to see how it all comes to light!

Friday 11th December 2020

Hello again everyone! Hope you've all had a good weekend. I apologise this post is late, I feel over the weekend the news about Barbara Windsor's death got me more than I had expected and I just didn't feel up to writing anything, also working 2 jobs as well can get in the way of writing this blog. But I'm now going to focus on getting this blog up to date. Hopefully come Thursday this week, I will all up to date with the blog and EastEnders. Thank you all for your on-going support and patience.

So let's jump into the episode - oh my it was another jam packed one wasn't it! Firstly, I just want mention Bobby and what such a brilliant actor Clay Milner Russell is! The beginning of the episode I found really intriguing. Bobby stood in the police station, waiting to be questioned, he is absolutely convinced that he's to blame for his Father's attack. At first you seem to think it really was him - he confesses by basically saying that it's his fault that his Dad got attacked. However as Jack continues to question him, it becomes aware that Bobby truly isn't the one to blame for the attack on his Dad. I don't know whether it has something to do with his mental health or OCD or religion, but he truly believes that because he didn't count the correct amount of numbers, he's to blame for his Dad's attack. I can't applaud Clay Milner Russell enough, having to come into a new role (even though he's been in the soap for a while now) without having any previous acting jobs, and to have been given such a gripping storyline - it's pretty impressive I have to say! I think it's easy to say that Bobby can be cleared a suspect, as it's come to clear to us a viewers and to Jack, being a police officer, Bobby is mentally unwell and maybe needs to be assessed, why does he think he's to blame? Just because he's gotten into a ritual of counting and he firmly believes that if he counts to a certain number, everything will be okay. It must be his OCD making him believe it? I hope he'll eventually get the help he needs as it's quite clear he needs it.

The second thing I want to mention is Rainie!! She's finally returned to the Square after disappearing for about 48 hours (or maybe more)! Her poor husband has been going out his mind with worry, leaving her countless phone calls and text messages, you can understand his relief when he's finally reunited with her. However it's not long before a police officer approaches them and inform them they're needed at the station for questioning. Firstly, Rainie appears to have no idea what has happened on the Square in her absence, she appears to be shocked after hearing the news about Ian. Only the interesting thing is, later on in the episode, she's on her own walking to the Cafe, when Callum spots her and hurries to have a word with her. When they're sat together and Callum is asking her all sorts of questions, it becomes clear that she's knows more than what she's letting on. She informs her Brother-In-Law that she told the police that during the night Ian was attacked, she was in fact at home with her husband watching Deal Or No Deal - (Is that even still on TV?!). But when Callum asks her further questions she responds with "No Comment!" - as if she doesn't want to give out any more information, or maybe to hide the fact that she does know something? Later on in the episode, Rainie appears to have cleaned herself up and had a wash as Stuart returns home from the police station. Rainie starts to beg forgiveness from her husband after leaving him in the lurch the way she did, and also not responding to his messages, I think we can all tell that she simply hasn't been with her Mum's - had she been sleeping rough? Or maybe gone to a hostel of some kind? Her face is in complete worry and concern as she panics her husband might've thrown her under the bus. Stuart softly questions her statement to the police, about them being home together, she nods tearfully. He then drops the bomb that he in fact gave the police the exact same statement - he was at home with his wife watching Deal Or No Deal! They both jump for joy in unison as they believe that they're alibi's are clear and that they've helped each other.

This episode seems to be all about alibi's doesn't it? Another person who's fretting about their alibi is Max. After pleading Linda to tell the police that they were together on the night in question, he seems to be having second thoughts? He visits her at the laundrette and she informs him that she told Jack that Max with with her. However, Max reveals the one thing that we didn't know earlier, that they didn't spend the whole night together, just part of it. So in all fairness, what did he do for the rest of the night? Where did go? Who did he see? As much as he seems grateful to Linda for giving him the alibi, later he informs his brother Jack, not to listen to a word she has said. It's quite interesting that he's chosen not to accept her alibi, as Jack states, the whole entire Square will be pointing at him and questioning him! Max admits that he can live with being looked at and gossiped about. Part of me is thinking is he doing this for Linda?! Is he doing it for her sake as he doesn't want to be the reason for her and Mick to call an end to their marriage?! It is an interesting one - why would Max not snatch up the alibi whilst he can? Or is he really a proud man and is certain that he has nothing to hide - so why would he need one? I don't know, I am simply guessing at this point. I'm just simply giving out my thoughts on what Max could be thinking.

Meanwhile, whilst all this is going on in the Square, sweet Honey has come up with an idea to hold a community Christmas dinner for those who have very little on Christmas Day. After what happened with her son, Will, shoplifting for his poor friend, she feels that maybe this should be the time when everyone rallies round together and help the community. She pulls in Jay and Isaac to help and even Billy agrees to help by asking Max if they could use the restaurant as a venue. I think this is a lovely idea and it seems only perfect for Honey to be the one behind it, as Jay explains she can cook and she seems to be the only one who cares. If this community Christmas Dinner takes place, it'll be very interesting to see on Christmas Day, that's for sure. Either way I'm looking forward to seeing it come together and have Honey be right in the centre of it, as she well deserves to be after what she's recently been through! Could this Christmas Dinner in fact be the start of her blossoming romance with Jay? (Yes! I'm still convinced it's going to happen - sooner or later!)

Looks like there are still people who are still needing an alibi, specifically Tina and Ben. Even though Tina admitted to hitting Ian, the main thing is is that their encounter happened at the Beale household and not the Vic. After being questioned, it was revealed that Tina went straight home after her punch up with Ian and the only person who will be able to vouch for her for would be a pizza delivery boy who delivered pizza to the wrong house. Since then, Tina has been trying to track down the pizza boy but to no avail. She spots Jack on the Square and asks him about Ian's condition, which we then find out is that he survived his operation, much to her relief. However it's then that Jack states that Ian isn't out of the woods yet, plus the main fact is, if Tina can't find the pizza boy for give her the alibi she so desperately needs, she will remain a suspect. Whereas Ben's story hasn't been mentioned yet - as far as we're concerned, no one knows when Ben was when Ian got attacked, the only thing that's known for sure, is that Ben did leave the pub that night - but did anyone see him? Will anyone really be able to give him an alibi? Callum perhaps? If it comes to it that Ben doesn't have an alibi, will Callum fight for his boyfriend and possibly give him a false one? Who knows? Things still yet remain to be seen when it comes to Ben, what do you think?!

Does anyone else think Sharon is acting very shifty?! Since agreeing to marry Ian, I am so convinced that she has something to do with Ian's attack - or maybe she knows more than what she's letting on. the thing that really stood out for me was when she and Kathy were talking to Ian just before he was due to go in for surgery. She happened to mention something along the lines of "I'm waiting for my wedding ring!" - what a thing to say just as someone is about to go into theatre! The thing that pops into my head as soon as she says that, is that as soon as she gets the ring on her finger, she'll basically own half of what Ian has - I'm guessing. I am still SO convinced that she's learned the truth about Ian's involvement in Dennis's death, that she is definitely out for revenge. If killing him hadn't worked, she will go to the next best thing and take him for everything that he's got! Even later on the in episode, Kathy questions whether Sharon will have their marriage annulled, as everyone knows she doesn't love him the way he loves her. However, interestingly, Sharon admits to Kathy that after seeing Ian pleading to her to marry him, she explains that it's become clear how much they need each other, and especially him during this tough time he's having. For her it's not a case of she won't annul the marriage, but she can't. In all seriousness - what's the difference?! Or am I just missing something? Don't you guys agree though? Why on Earth would she marry her best friend after just a few weeks prior to rejecting him?! She must be out for revenge or something?!

Right so, the Panesar's are also looking shifty! On the Square, it looks as if a van has some interesting with regards to Ian's attack. Kheerat is walking along the street as he watches with great suspense at the police investigating the vehicle. However it's only later on when Jack visits the shop to question both Suki and Kheerat about their whereabouts on the night in question, Suki reveals that she was at Ruby's club. Which, I guess is try - as we saw she was sat at the bar, but how long was she there for? Could she and Kheerat have cooked up the plan to attack Ian together?! However, when Jack takes an interest in Kheerat's whereabouts, Kheerat reveals that he wasn't even on the Square at the time of the attack and just happened to be out of time in a meeting. But then, to his surprise, Jack questions the vehicle in which he drove to the business meeting and whether there was some kind of accident. He then drops the bombshell that the van has been taken for testing as there had traces of blood found on the vehicle. Instantly you can see Suki and Kheerat have a panicked look in their faces, as Jack leaves the scene, Suki seems to lay into her son about being careful, however Kheerat informs his Mother not worry as he will sort it. Later on in the episode, we see a hooded figure enter some type of building after entering it in some kind of alley way. As Kheerat enters his office we see a hooded figure sat in a chair waiting for him, he mentions to the unknown figure that the police are sniffing round and asking them dodgy questions. Suddenly the figure removes his hood and we see that it's actually Peter!!! He asks why the police would go the Minute Mart, but as their conversation continues it looks as if Peter and Kheerat are more involved together as they are in the attack than we first believed. They agree to give each other alibis!

So what the heck does this mean?! The only thing I can think of is that both Peter and Kheerat had it out for Ian and they both went to the Vic for the same reason, but maybe things got out of hand and one witnessed the other attacking Ian? I'm unsure. I don't think they would've planned anything together, I do think they crossed paths purely by accident and because of their mistakes of getting caught, they basically have no choice but to give each other an alibi. So - who do I think attacked Ian?! Sharon, Peter and Max are on the top of my list. However I could be wrong, as we still yet to hear/see Ben's encounter of the evening. My opinion could change over the coming episodes, I do not however, think it was either Bobby or Tina - I feel I can positively rule them out! I'm feeling a little unsure when it comes to Stuart and Rainie, I'd like to think it's not either of them, but like I said - who knows? My views could change.