#soapfan

Hello again folks, I know I’ve posted once already this evening, but some exciting news has just been announced that I can barely contain my excitement and had to share with you all!!! Within the last few minutes, EastEnders have announced that Charlie Brooks will be reprising her role as the iconic soap bitch Janine Butcher!!!!!! Yep, you heard me right, Janine is returning to the Square!!! 

Fans will know that Janine was last seen in Walford way back in 2014 when she left Albert Square after getting away with the murder of her then husband Michael Moon. I, for one, am SUPER excited about this news! I have always hoped that one day Janine would make a return, she is one of EastEnders’ iconic bad girls and the soap hasn’t been the same without her.

It’s been announced that Janine’s return will air later in the year, possibly late summer. I am really interested to see what will bring Janine back to the Square! What has she been up to since her departure? Considering its been an astonishing 7 years since she’s been in Walford, I’m sure she’ll have some news to share with the locals. It’s said that her return is to be part of a huge storyline and her return will be for the long haul, possibly full time! But what will be the big reason that will bring her back to Walford?!

Monday 10th May 2021

Hello again folks! I'm back again with another post. I just want to recap on Thursday's and Friday's episode and applaud the phenomenal performance from Lorraine Stanley! Her portrayal of Karen Taylor has been absolutely stunning and powerful over the last few weeks during Bailey's disappearance and during the aftermath of her losing her job at the laundrette. I do also want to mention how the community and neighbours rallied round her to support their friend and neighbour in their time of need. I found completely touching and was overwhelmingly powerful.

But regarding this week, it's the week the majority of us have all been waiting for since Ben and Callum got engaged! This is the week of the highly anticipated Ballum wedding! Now the big question is, will Ben meet Callum at the alter after he's learnt the truth about him being a grass! (From what the new trailer is to go by, Ben does actually decide to marry Callum) - but oh my goodness, it looks like we're in for some super dramatic scenes this week! For those of you who haven't seen the trailer yet, where have you been? Gray is once manipulating Whitney in to believing that the Mitchell's (particularly Ben) are to blame for Kush's death.

But as Whitney’s grief gets the better of her, she takes it into her own hands to deal with the Mitchell's once and for all, taking a pair of keys, getting into a car and heading straight for them. As this is happening, Phil happens to have learnt the truth about Callum grassing up his family and is eager to have a confrontation with Callum himself, but as Kat tries her best to stop Phil from making a huge mistake - Phil, Callum, Ben and Kat all get caught in the headlights of Whitney's car - who will she hit? And will they be okay?! - I know a few are speculating that it could be Callum or Ben who gets hit, or even Whitney herself getting hurt, but honestly - my biggest fear is Phil getting hurt. Don't get me wrong I love all these characters to appear to be in the frame, but I would be immensely heartbroken if it was Phil to get hurt and possibly be killed off? Hopefully none of them will get killed off - but what are your predictions? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this one!

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So looking at Monday's episode and of course it's all about Ballum!!! But before we focus on the main event I'm going to mention Bailey. Sadly she is still sleeping rough after running away from home. The only company she has is her dog Banjo (who can I just say is the most adorable dog that EastEnders has had for a very long time!) It appears that the only bit of food she has available is a packet of biscuits and of course being a hungry puppo, Banjo longingly stares at Bailey for the biscuit she's about to eat. Bailey willingly gives Banjo the biscuit, but as she begins to gather her things together and move along, a bunch of youths rob her only bag of belongings. Being the hero, Banjo quickly chases after them as Bailey following along behind.

However, meanwhile on the Square as Keegan and Bernie continue to search for Bailey and begin to discuss their concerns about where they're going to find her. Bernie tries to keep positive, informing her brother that Bailey will be found and eventually their luck will change. Of course Keegan is doubtful, but of course we know that Bernadette has offered to be Stuart & Rainie's surrogate, so eventually she will come into some money for the family, but it'll be interesting once her family find out. I'm intrigued on how Keegan is going to react - considering that it was his wife who originally agreed to be their surrogate, now it's his sister!

As Bernie takes her leave, the next thing we see is little Banjo running towards the Square, however the poor little doggo is covered in blood. Keegan understandably relieved to see Banjo, but as soon as he sees the blood coming from the family pet, he begins to question where Bailey is. As Bailey continues her search for her beloved dog, she stumbles across an elderly man named Reg claiming to be a friend of her parents, Mitch and Dinah. Could Bailey perhaps be in danger or is this gentleman genuinely who he says he is?!

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Elsewhere on the Square, Linda appears to be concerned for Nancy's whereabouts. She reveals that Nancy didn't come the previous evening, even though Mick seems more calmer about the situation, he tries to reassure Linda that Nancy had probably just stayed at a friend's house and would most likely be home by lunchtime, however unbeknown to them, poor Nancy had actually kipped in the gym overnight. It seems that things have gotten that bad between Nancy and her Mum, she could no longer bare to stay in the Vic overnight. As Sharon finds her as she opens up the gym, Nancy promises it's not going to be a long-term thing.

I guess Sharon kind of sympathises with Nancy as she too has felt the raff of Linda, but of course Sharon could be possibly using Nancy to get back into Linda's good books? She offers Nancy to use her shower back at her place and willingly gives her the keys to her apartment. Unfortunately, this is where Nancy once again passes ways with Zack and his awful flirtation. Sorry, but it is a bit cringe-worthy! Zack smooth talks his way with Nancy, claiming that once she's done in the shower he'll treat her to some breakfast!

I have to say I love Nancy's lack of enthusiasm, well I guess you could call it sarcasm also! Honestly though, how would you feel if Zack and Nancy were to become a new couple? I'm not sure how I'd feel about it, as much as I love Nancy, I haven't really made my mind up yet on Zack, I think we need to see a bit of him before I can make a decision. Anyway, they both end up in Ruby's club and Zack is once again flirtatious and eager to get a second date with Nancy, even though she even states that this is anything but a date! As she mentions how she's currently stuck in a ruckus with her Mum, she frets about not even being able to brush her teeth properly as she hasn't got a tooth brush, plus she wants to avoid going home to fetch her one and be confronted by her Mum yet again.

I think in an attempt to win Nancy round he promises that somehow, someway he will make all her problems disappear, but she scoffs at his claim and heads towards to the bar to grab some snacks. But while she's not looking Zack sneaks off and eventually finds himself in the Vic, nosing through all the Carter's belongings, is he simply just trying to find Nancy's toothbrush for her, or perhaps something else? Unfortunately his search doesn't last very long as he's walloped over the head with a frying pan by Linda! Almost like a scene from the Disney movie Tangled!

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Right focusing on the main story at hand, as Callum and Stuart prepare themselves for the wedding, Callum voices his concern as to whether Ben will truly show up to their wedding. Stuart also voices his concern as to whether his brother should actually go, he can't bare to picture his young brother being left stood up at the alter. But the interesting thing is on the other side of the Square, as Kathy and Phil are discussing the wedding and the fact that Ben would be making a huge mistake if he didn't turn up, Ben is sat on the stairs in the hallway listening to their every word.

Kathy is all dressed up in her wonderful wedding outfit and of course little Lexi looks beautiful in her bridesmaid dress, rehearsing her steps for the wedding ceremony. Phil informs Kathy that Ben is adamant that the wedding is off, but Kathy urges the Father of their son to talk Ben round and make him see sense! Eventually as everyone gathers in the Vic waiting for Ben to show his face, Phil appears all dressed up his suit and breaks the news that Ben has gone missing, he's simply left his suit on his bed and disappeared, much to the family's shock.

While all this chaos appears to be happening in the middle of the Square, poor Callum and Stuart have made it to the register's office and are waiting anxiously for Ben's arrival! As they hear someone bursting through the doors, they look with hope and desperation, but it appears to be Jay. But as much as Callum is happy to see him, Jay gives him the devastating news that Ben has gone AWOL and no one can find him anywhere. Eager to make sure that his brother marries the man he loves, Stuart takes it upon himself to go back to the Square and find Ben and bring him to Callum.

Although it appears that Phil has managed to find Ben before he can. Phil eventually finds his son in the Arches working away on a car, almost as if he's trying to avoid the day itself and carry on as normal. Phil tries once again to reassure his son that marrying Callum would be the best thing he's ever done, even admitting that it took him a long time to come round - this moment really touched me - but also claiming that if Ben was to marry Callum today, it would Phil the proudest he has ever been of his son. I have to say those words really moved me, and to be honest I think it moved Ben - almost to the point where it nearly broke him and he almost revealed what Callum had done.

Ben gets so overcome with emotion, tears are slowly falling from his eyes. He almost breaks as he informs his Dad that Callum had betrayed him, all of them! Phil looks to his son with confusion in his eyes. What does he mean, all of them? But Ben stops in his tracks and makes up the excuse that Callum actually cheated on him. Although it seems as though Phil doesn't believe this explanation, he takes it on the chin and leaves Ben to it. However, once he's back on the Square he comes face-to-face with Stuart ... now this is where everything goes completely wrong! Of course Stuart has no idea what's been happening on the Square, he's just concerned about his little brother waiting at the alter for the man he loves.

As they cross paths, Stuart pleads Phil to inform her where Ben has got to, but Phil seems eager to defend his son after the explanation he's been given, as soon as Phil mentions that he welcomed Callum into the family, Stuart completely gets the wrong end of the stick and reveals everything. Claiming that Callum never wanted to go undercover, claiming that all he did it for was for Ben, putting his career on the line for Ben, even if it meant going behind Phil's back and reporting everything to the police. But you can see from the look in Phil's face that this is all news to him and this is the first he's hearing about Callum's betrayal. Once Stuart realises his mistake he warns that if Phil ever lays a finger on Callum he will come back and kill him!

Returning to the Arches, Ben is once again alone with his thoughts, is he questioning himself whether he should marry Callum? But it seems like another visit from a little lady changes his mind. Lexi finds him in the Arches and comments that it's the same place she finds him every time when Ben decides to take some time on his own. Now this moment I absolutely loved, Lexi questions her Father about love, What does it mean? What's it all about? She claims that she doesn't believe in love, considering that her Mum has had 3 different boyfriends since she's been home and her Grandparents have been married "300 times!". Her exaggerations make Ben giggle, but he tries to reassure his daughter that she should believe in love, because it's the one thing in life that you can't describe the feeling of. It can hurt but it's also wonderful too to be in love. He claims that being with that one person who trusts you and believes in you is the best feeling in the world and with them by your side, you face the world together, forever. As he explains all this to his daughter, she then asks the very important question, "Then why aren't you marrying Callum?"

Listening to his own words and realising that it's been his daughter who's made him see sense, Ben rushes to the wedding reception. As the guests almost sit themselves up and get ready to leave as they believe Ben isn't showing up, Stuart arrives back at the wedding reception eager to inform his brother about what's happened on the Square between him and Phil. But before Stuart can begin to explain himself, both Lexi and Ben burst through the door just in time for the ceremony, to Callum's absolute happiness and relief.  

Only unbeknown to them, back at home, Phil is seen listening to a voice message from Kathy, informing him that the wedding appears to be back on. Ben has arrived at the wedding reception and she urges him to get there before he misses his son getting married. As the voice message ends, Phil notices a picture of Callum on the shelf, all dressed up smartly in his police uniform. Reeling from the news he's learnt from Stuart, he smashes Callum's picture to pieces. What is Phil going to do now?

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Tuesday 16th March 2021

Part One

Hello again everyone, hope you're all doing well! I wanted to share some personal news with you, I received my first Covid-19 vaccine yesterday, we're slowly on the path on getting things back to some form of normality! Who knows, maybe soon EastEnders might be able to go back to its original 30 minutes, even though I'm enjoying it and don't care how long the episodes are, it'll just feel normal, right? Anyway, I've seen a few spoilers regarding these two episodes, I'm really intrigued to write about these episodes. Tuesday aired two episodes of EastEnders so I'll be doing two posts to review each one.

Monday's episode ended on such a cliff-hanger, it's only right that I start this blog with mentioning Lucas and Chelsea first. The episode opened right there Monday left off, Chelsea and Lucas are at the airport preparing to go to Ibiza with suitcases full of drugs. Chelsea's suitcase is currently being checked, she's stood in absolute panic about what the security guard is going to find. Only when he reveals a bottle being over the correct amount she's allowed to take, I got really confused! I was completely and utterly convinced that Lucas had given Chelsea the drugs as a way of teaching her a lesson, and not in a bad way but in a cruel-to-be-kind kind of way. But as soon as Lucas begins to walk through with his suitcase, Chelsea hears commotion from behind and Lucas is surrounded by armed guards. The interesting thing is, Lucas doesn't hesitate, calmly and willingly, he drops the suitcase, opens it up to reveal the amount of drugs stored inside it, Chelsea watches on in dismay as her Father basically gives up on the whole job. Lucas looked over at his daughter, but the look on his face, I couldn't quite tell what he was doing? Was he doing this to save his daughter?

Frantically, Chelsea later arrives home, informing her Mum that Lucas has been arrested and he plain and simply gave up the drugs as if he'd planned it. Denise is visibly shook to hear but she's more relieved to know that Chelsea is safe and no harm has come to her, as far as she's concerned, Lucas can look after himself, whereas Chelsea needs her family around her. However, Chelsea seems to think that Lucas has given up the job on purpose, and now because the job hasn't gone through, Chelsea and the rest of the family could be in danger.

Returning to the airport, Lucas has been taken to side room, there he is begging the officer to allow him one phone call. At first the officer seems to think he's part of a drug gang and is wanting a call to let his comrades know about his arrest, however when Lucas mentions that it's to do with his family and that they could be in danger, it looks as if the police officer suspects he could be telling the truth and allows the phone call. As Denise and Chelsea are at home, Jack is there trying to keep them calm and discuss what actions could be taken due to Lucas's arrest, but of course his main concern is to keep Denise and Chelsea safe, if Caleb finds out the job hasn't been done, he knows that the Fox family could be in huge danger, he instructs them to not go on their phones and don't answer any calls or answer the door to anyone but himself. It's then that he receives a phone call from Lucas, pleading to for his help. What on Earth could Lucas be asking of Jack? Will Lucas be okay? (Of course some of you may have already seen the second episode, but as I haven't, I'm going to be speculating, please no spoilers, thank you!)

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The next thing I want to mention is Bailey and Bernadette. The sisters are still deeply saddened by Bronson's passing, but as they sit in the park with Mitch, they continue to discuss Bronson's personality and his favourite foods. Always the best way to remember a happy doggo! Unfortunately, as the family reminisce about their beloved pup, Mitch has devastating when he hears a job opportunity had fell through, which he was hoping would keep him going until the winter. Are the Taylor family falling on hard times? Are they really struggling for money so much right now?

Bailey however tries to reassure her Dad, informing him that he has to keep positive as something will come up eventually, but she also drops the bombshell that he wouldn't have to pray for Astronomy Camp for her as she didn't win her competition, both Bernie and Mitch voice their disappointment for Bailey as she begins to feel sorry for herself.  But suddenly a little surprise makes the young girl begin to smile, a little dog approaches her as she holds food in her hand, it appears to not be wearing a collar and no one is around to claim the dog, must be a stray. Happily Bailey interacts with dog and smiles to her Dad that it's a sign from Bronson.

Seeing the little pup bring a smile back onto his daughter's face, he later approaches Karen about the possibility of keeping the new found dog. I also just want to mention how adorable the new dog is, I know not many dog last for long on the Square, but it would be nice for them to fill the void of Bronson. I don't think EastEnders have ever had a better dog since Wellard. They need a pet who's going to become memorable, and with one as adorable as this new pup, it could really work. Karen unfortunately is against the idea of getting a new dog, mainly because they can't afford it. But something tells me that maybe she's just not ready to get over Bronson, maybe? I feel if you've been able to afford a dog before, there's no reason why you can't get another one after? Right?! Mitch really wants to cheer his daughter up, I'm hoping Mitch will go and find the new dog, adopt him and bring him in to their family.

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The next thing I have to mention is Ash and Suki, after finding her daughter at home alone with Peter, Suki takes it upon herself to confront Ash about the fact that she's been suspended from work, of course she has no idea why, but we all know it's because of Peter begging her to give him pain medication whilst off duty. As the ladies begin to argue, Ash tries to reassure her Mum that everything will be fine when she attends the hearing, she'll be able to explain and she'll get her job back. But Suki begins to fret, considering how much she cares for her family, and more so their reputation, I reckon?

Peter takes it upon himself to interrupt, informing Suki that Ash wouldn't have been suspended if it wasn't for him, this makes Suki realise that it's all Peter's fault, but the devastating blow is that her daughter could potentially lose her job because of a boy! Later on, as things begin to cool off, Suki is alone at the family business as Ash visits her, without Peter in tow. She begs her Mum to not worry and let things slide as she and Peter have a plan of way of getting her job back, but Suki seems to really struggle as the realisation sinks in, she voices that the reason she's so upset is that was she so proud of her daughter for getting so far with her career, for the job role she took on in life, how she has become successful in life, and now she fears that because of Peter, everything could be taken away from her! For me, I found it interesting to see this side of Suki, we know she loves the idea of power and success, but to actually hear that she's proud of one of her children, seems that maybe she really just wants the best for her family.

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Okay, now the main event! After hearing the news that Gavin has passed away, Kathy and Sharon are discussing whether to attend the memorial. Of course, Sharon isn't interested in sharing memories of her biological Father, needless to say she doesn't have any fond memories of him, Gavin did have a bad reputation after all. Kathy however, considering as she was married to him once - I'm assuming, we know for sure she loved him and/or dated him, is considering going, whether Sharon joins her or not. As far as Sharon is concerned he can "Rot in hell!"

However, after a few wise words from Callum about Dad's in general, regardless whether they were pigs or not, it's always best to be the bigger person, Sharon then decides to tag along with Kathy and attend the memorial. As the arrive Kathy realises that she recognises a few faces, where of course Sharon knows nobody. Sally, Gavin's sister approaches them and thanks Kathy for coming, regardless of the awful things Gavin did, she makes the valid point that she did love him once.

As they look around the room, there is one bloke in particular who seems to be downing a lot more alcohol than others, he seems to be banging to people and knocking into the bar, eventually this man decides to make a speech, but it's not one of the speeches you'd expect. But however, to Sharon's interest, he seems to be saying things which she would actually agree with. Gavin was the scum of all scumbags. This speech however doesn't sit well with other family members and the young man dashes over chairs and tables to escape the angry mob!

As Kathy and Sharon make their exit, they watch as everyone gathers in the parking lot. However Sharon seems to have somehow managed to get her hands on Gavin's urn, without a second thought she simply dumps it into a litter bin, much to Kathy's shock. Looking for the drunken, suspicious man who rudely corrupted the memorial, both Kathy and Sharon seem to notice that their car has been left un-open. Realising that the young man could be hiding in their car, they make a subtle entrance and sit in the front seats. This scene looked like something out of a comedy, the young man appears between them in the backseat, shushing them not to give away his hiding place. Unfortunately, for the young man, the angry mob begin taking their anger out on his sports car - I did find this pretty comical as Kathy and Sharon both describing the damage being made to his car as he hides on the backseat. After the angry mob seem to finish off the last of their damage and head back into the building, Kathy asks the young man his connection with Gavin, how did he know him? Why was he at the memorial? Were they business partners or something?

But then as he walks away, he drops the big bombshell, introducing himself as Zack and that Gavin was in fact his Dad! As he walks away to his damaged car, both Kathy and Sharon look at each other in their shock as they come to realise Sharon has a brother she never knew existed!

Now I just want to say, most of us recall what happened when Sharon found out about another long-lost brother, however, I have to make the valid point that Dennis was in fact an adoptive brother. Den Watts was her adoptive father, so technically Sharon and Dennis were never really blood related, which I guess is why their romance can be looked to one side, however, Zack would be Sharon's Half-Brother! People might think history will be repeating itself if Zack was to become Sharon's new love interest, but I'd hope that EastEnders wouldn't go down the route of incest. It would be interesting though to see how Sharon will come to terms with knowing about her secret brother, will she want to build a relationship with him? Will he want to know her? Could they bond knowing that they've both had such a horrid man for a Father? Who knows?

Tuesday 14th July 2020

Hello everyone! After a wonderful week away with my partner, I am now back and posting! I realise it's been a while and I'm aware I've missed a few episodes, I'm looking forward to jumping into them as soon as I can. But firstly, I have managed to catch up on last week's iconic episode, the most recent iconic moment so far ... Walford Pride! I remember watching this episode and thinking "Wow" to all the rainbow colours! I am not a homosexual, but I fully support Gay-Rights! I believe in gender equality and I believe it doesn't matter what the gender is, love is love! This brilliant episode was aired just last year on 5th July 2019!

If I remember rightly, this episode focused on multiple people ... Bernadette, Callum, Ben ... Callum still reeling and coming to terms with his sexuality, and still deeply hiding the fact that he's gay from his fiance' Whitney!

Bernadette knows she's gay, during her time on the square she befriended Tiffany and after a while, it became clear that she was developing feelings towards her friend. Unfortunately Tiffany didn't feel the same, as much as she wanted to be close to her friend, he feelings never escalated that far. I remember their fall out was a pretty bad one, Tiffany pretended to be someone else online to get Bernie to think someone was interested in her, even though I think Tiffany's heart was in the right place, to prove to her friend that she could meet someone, it kinda backfired. Bernie was hurt once she realised it was all a lie and she felt Tiffany had made a fool of her. Tiffany realised her mistake and knows it's Bernadette's first Pride and she wants to make it up to her friend and make it special for her. I love how much Karen is supporting her daughter and getting everyone involved, her whole family has been brought around her, wearing feather boa's and rainbow themed clothes and painted rainbows on their faces! It's cute how overwhelmed she was with the whole experience. I love the scene between Bernie and Tina, it's like Tina is kinda helping Bernie feel comfortable. Tina can relate as she says "My first Pride, I just kept staring!" She can understand how Bernie must be feeling ... weird, uncomfortable, nervous. It's nice for Bernie to have a friend there and help her realise it's okay to be feeling these emotions, but she has even more reason to celebrate with everyone else.  

It's amazing how far Ben and Callum have come, looking back on this episode, you can see how hard it was for Callum to try and ignore Ben. When you look at Callum now, he's a hell of lot happier now he's accepted who he is and he's now dating Ben. After their first encounter together, Ben made it difficult to Callum to forget what had happened between them, he was there at his every move constantly reminding him. I feel sad watching this a bit as this was sad time for Callum, having to deny who he was and living a lie. All the Pride celebrations were just going to make it 10 times harder! Even Stuart questioned him whether there was something he wanted to say to him, after seeing him helping out at The Prince Albert. Stuart knows that his brother is hiding something, it's only when Callum goes to leave and he notices a gay couple walk into the restaurant and looks at them longingly, wishing he could be happy like that, Stuart clicks and Callum can no longer hide. He tells his brother that he and Ben are not "Just mates" and something has happened between them, even though he pushes the belief that he loves Whitney and wants to be with her, it's horrible to Callum lying to himself, I am just so relieved he's in a much happier place now. In this episode, Ben is flaunting himself over every man he sees and Callum is just deeply trying to ignore it all, even though his eyes are drawn to Callum over and over again.

Can I just also say how amazing Tina is in this episode? She is completely in her element, she absolutely glows in this episode. I don't think Tina gets enough credit, she is part of one of the most epic families on the Square, and I feel like she kinda gets forgotten about, or maybe pushed to the side-lines a little bit? Has she really had a big story-line since arriving on the Square? I mean there was one where her girlfriend Tosh appeared on the square, that didn't last very long ... and then there was the story with Stan and Sylvie, then her brief story with Stuart and how he turned out to be the one who bullied her as a child. I feel it would be lovely for Tina to have a big story-line, whether it's something to do with her family or whether she meets someone and begins a romantic relationship with someone. Do you guys agree? Do you think Tina should be getting more screen time and a bigger and better story-line of her own? Let me know what you think! I'd love to hear your thoughts!

What an amazing atmosphere it must have been filming this episode. The music was fantastic, the colours, the people! I, for one, would've loved to have even been an extra in this episode! I feel it must've been incredibly fun! I love the ending song "Proud" by Heather Small, I believe it's huge anthem for the gay community, that song made the episode for me. Bernie embracing everything and enjoying her time with her family and friends in the Square taking part in the parade. Yet, on the more devastating side, reflects the agony that Callum is feeling. Ben getting attacked by Stuart and being threatened to stay away, while Callum and Whitney are dancing in the street, Whitney is looking incredibly happy, while Callum is really choking back tears. It was so so powerful to watch! It's lovely and yet heartbreaking at the same time, for different characters. I remember watching it being so overwhelmed by it all. Am I right in thinking that this was the first Gay Pride event in a soap? I possibly could be wrong, but I am thrilled that the writers put this together, it is iconic and deserves to be in the list of EastEnders Iconic Episodes!

Monday 31st August 2020

Good Evening folks! I realise it's been a while since my last post, but I've been away from my laptop and my blog for the past week. I just wanted put up a post seeing as we are exactly one week away from EastEnders being back on our screens!

During the past few days there has been news and spoilers released, firstly regarding the arrival of a new character to the Square! Mica Paris has joined the EastEnders cast and will be given the role as Ellie Nixon! It has been revealed that Ellie will have something to do with Denise!

During lock-down and since EastEnders has been off-screen, we've been given the revealing documentary Secrets From The Square. I'm sure the majority of you will recall that it was revealed that Denise was going to be given a dark story-line and that her past will come back to haunt her. What has Ellie got to do with Denise? Is she some kind of long-lost relative or an old friend or colleague of some kind? I'm really intrigued to see what the story with Ellie and Denise is going to be! 

There is so much that we've got to look forward to when EastEnders returns, from what I've seen and heard over the past few days, it all looks incredibly exciting! During SOTS, Linda Henry who plays Shirley Carter also admitted that she has another brilliant story-line in the works for her! I absolutely LOVE Shirley! She's an amazing character to have on the soap and I feel like she's not had a major story-line since the reveal of Mick actually being her son. This is another story-line i'm looking forward to seeing and what the soap has in store for the fellow Carter family. 

Also new promo pictures have been released of both Sharon and Ian in the Vic! Fans will remember that the last thing we saw in EastEnders was that it was revealed that Sharon and Ian had bought the Vic off Mick, stopping Phil in his tracks. EastEnders have also made the announcement that Adam Woodyatt will be taking a much longer break it may seem compared to other cast members, this will also be down to another huge story-line. Is Ian going to be hiding away due to his guilt of leaving Dennis on the boat and primarily being the one to blame for his death? I can't put into words how exciting all this news is, but it's brilliant to see pictures of the cast back together, of course having to follow the social distancing rules, but i'm sure it's going to be so good to see how things have changed for all our favourite characters.

I know it sounds silly but one of the main things I am looking forward to is seeing both Kat and Stacey back on the Square where they belong! Lacey Turner has been away due to maternity leave and Jessie Wallace has also been absent due to being suspended for 3 months, but they are both going to be making a huge return to the Square. I'm sure you guys will all be aware that since Stacey's departure, it's been made clear that Martin and Ruby have gotten a bit cosy with each other. Ruby and Stacey have always been such good friends on the soap, but I'm sure some of you will agree that Ruby has kinda stepped over the mark by becoming romantically involved with Stacey's Ex-Husband! I mean - technically, they're still married, i'm pretty sure neither of them signed divorce papers, and Stacey left because she feared the police would come after her, after she attacked Phil in the Arches. Fans will remember that Martin left with Stacey but come back on his own, and he got himself caught up in such a downward spiral with Ben's dodgy dealings, he couldn't let Stacey see him in that state. So to keep her safe and out of harms way, he lied to her ... saying he slept with Sonia! Fans will know that was untrue, in a way he was being cruel to be kind, to protect the woman he loves. Deep down, I believe that Martin and Stacey do still love each other, Stacey is going to be heartbroken when she finds out what he and Ruby have been up to in her absence. Plus there's the issue regarding her Mum's mental health! Poor Jean has been left to look after herself after she threw out Kush, after realising he had been putting her medication in her food. How is Kush going to explain himself to both Kat and Stacey?? Oooooo so many questions that i'm really looking forward to finding out the answers too! 

Tuesday 30th June 2020

Good evening everyone! Sorry for the late post, I haven't found time to write about #Sharongate this week as I've been constantly working! But tonight I've actually managed to sit down and watch the iconic episode! I've been really looking forward to seeing this one, seeing Letitia Dean, Steve McFadden and Ross Kemp all together and looking so young in such an historic EastEnders moment! This is one of those episodes that people still talk about today, how memorable it was, and with good reason! It was the start of the most iconic and memorable relationships in EastEnders history, with Sharon and Phil!

This episode originally aired on 25th October 1994! Oh wow! I had no idea the soap was going to start right at the very beginning where Grant was listening to the cassette tape in his car! It's like right there, straight away!!! Poor Grant in tears listening to his fiance, i'm assuming, listening to her confess to sleeping with his brother, while everyone in the Vic is completely oblivious! 

I can't get over how young people look, Carol, Kathy, Pauline, Ricky and Bianca ... everyone! They all look so young! It's terrible to know just what is about to unfold - Grant walking into the Vic and ...  YES, playing the cassette tape for everyone to hear!  Oooooh did Grant and Sharon ever marry? In the tape there it said "Sleeping with his brother's wife!" I had no clue Sharon and Grant actually married ... so does that mean that Sharon had actually been married to both Mitchell brothers then? I never knew that! It's amazing this is coming to light to me just now! I must've been too young to watch EastEnders when this was going on with it being broadcast in the early 90's, but I am so happy to have seen this properly! It's always been one of the main story-lines I've heard about and yet never got to watch, I'm glad I've been able to view this iconic episode! Oh look how broken Grant looks as he's looking with tears falling down his cheeks, both Sharon and Phil know they've been caught out and nothing can be taken back now! They can't even deny it! Oh gosh, that's right! Phil married Kathy didn't he, makes sense now! I love that slap that Kathy laid on Sharon ... from what I remember, Letitia Dean actually mentioned in the recent documentary, EastEnders: Secrets Of The Square, that that slap was actually real, and you can easily tell if you rewind it and double check, it was a good wallop! I think the way Sharon reacts, it is actually a genuine hiss through the teeth from Letitia, which I think is just brilliant! 

I love how everyone is gossiping outside the Vic after hearing the reveal of the big secret, I didn't realise it was actually meant to be Kathy and Phil's engagement party, what a way for a secret to be revealed in such an iconic, typical EastEnders fashion! ! I loved Sharon and Kathy during the discussion, Phil also trying to convince Kathy that nothing had happened. Everyone is in unison saying exactly the same thing, "How could he do that to his brother?" "They're a right pair those two!" .... Actually, I've just noticed something, it's meant to be the night of Phil and Kathy's engagement party right, but where the hell is Ian? I mean it's true both Phil and Ian have never seen eye-to-eye, but you would've thought Ian would be there to congratulate his Mum. Also, I would've loved to have seen Ian's reaction after he learns that Phil cheated on his Mum, I feel like that is possibly another iconic moment, where Phil and Ian are concerned ... it's kinda also a momentous moment in their history also. It is a huge mystery to where Grant has disappeared to, he was there right at the very beginning, then when as soon as it's about to kick off, he walks out and disappears! Phil on his own looking around the Square for him, where the heck could he be? Oooooh gosh, Phil walking around and hearing a massive crash come from somewhere! Is there going to massive fight between Phil and Grant? Is there going to be an epic fist fight between the brothers? Oooooo his car has been smashed in, he makes his way into the Arches and very sharply Grant follows! Needless to say a stunning performance from Ross Kemp, those tears rolling down his cheeks and asking Phil whether Sharon was worth it, I think this is brilliant performance from both Ross and Steve McFadden, I so wished I could've watched this when it first aired along with everyone else! 

Oh wow! Even Grant wasn't even prepared to lash out at Phil until he goaded him to, shoving him and forcing him to breaking point. Phil wanted that, he wanted the anger and the fury to come out so they could get it over with. I am impressed as to how Grant was throwing Phil about the Arches, very well done choreography. Although, Nigel has now gone looking for them both, is he going to get caught up in the fight and become the victim of a nasty outcome? Or will he be able to tear the Mitchell brothers apart before one kills the other? Oooooo, I loved that silent ending! Nigel walking in and seeing Grant sat on the floor looking down, only to then see Phil lying bleeding and unconscious. What a cliffhanger that would've been back in the day, I'm guessing everyone had taken a huge gasp and be thinking would Phil be alive or dead?!  

I can completely understand why this episode is such an iconic episode and why it goes down in EastEnders history, it's truly one of those ones that keep you on your toes, constantly thinking what's going to happen to Grant? What's going to happen to Phil? What's going to happen to Sharon? Everyone involved in this story-line, it's affected pretty much everyone, which is why it was so big! Even the likes of Michelle were dragged into it. I am so happy I've been able to see this episode from the very beginning, I now understand where the term Sharongate comes from! A fantastic episode!

I believe, the next iconic episode to be shown is the wedding of Syed and Amira, which I am SO excited for. I shipped Chryed for such a long time, and I still do! I pray every day that eventually Christian and Syed will come back together, I'm guessing not now that Masood has left, but I can always live in hope. It's nice that we have Ballum now, but Chryed was the first for me, the first and BEST gay pairing EastEnders have had ... I think it was mainly down to Syed's religion and also the fact he was meant to be getting married to Amira that the storyline went on for so long as I did, but I loved every second of it, even the aftermath of Syed coming out was just brilliant, I feel that episode - along with this wedding episode - was fantastic! Everyone involved put on a phenomenal performance! I can hardly wait to write about one of my favourite EastEnders episodes!