The cast of 'Coronation Street' are reportedly set for a Twitter and mobile phone ban on set to stop them from revealing plot details. 'Emmerdale' boss Kate Oates is due to take over from the soap's producer Stuart Blackburn in 2016 and she is determined to protect the show's storylines which means a social media blackout for the soap's top stars with phones banned from the set. Top tweeters like Brooke Vincent, Antony Cotton and Kym Marsh will all be expected to tow the line and stop uploading photos or teasers or face punishments. An insider told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''With any...
- 11/9/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' stars have been warned there's no guarantee their contracts will be renewed next year. It was announced last month that 'Emmerdale' boss Kate Oates will be taking over from 'Corrie' producer Stuart Blackburn in the new year and stars of the ITV soap are now said to be terrified they'll be axed. A source shared: ''With a new boss coming in and the threat of certain cliques being suddenly under threat, it's made people a bit panicky. ''A few people have been raising the tentative question about their contracts being renewed or extended, but the answer has been it will all...
- 10/13/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Jenny Bradley will be as ''manipulative'' as ever when she returns to 'Coronation Street'. Rita Tanner's stepdaughter - who is played by Sally Ann Matthews - will be back in Weatherfield next year and though she initially shows remorse for kidnapping Kevin Webster's son Jack, it won't take long before she is back to her old self. 'Corrie' boss Stuart Blackburn told The Sun's TV Soap supplement: ''When Rita comes across Jenny, she is very broken and full of guilt. ''Rita still looks on her as a daughter and, despite the protestations from everyone around her, she gives her a roof over her...
- 10/12/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' stars have been warned there's no guarantee their contracts will be renewed next year. It was announced last month that 'Emmerdale' boss Kate Oates will be taking over from 'Corrie' producer Stuart Blackburn in the new year and stars of the ITV soap are now said to be terrified they'll be axed. A source shared: ''With a new boss coming in and the threat of certain cliques being suddenly under threat, it's made people a bit panicky. ''A few people have been raising the tentative question about their contracts being renewed or extended, but the answer has been it will all...
- 10/11/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Sean Ward is ''gutted'' to be leaving 'Coronation Street'. The 26-year-old actor, who joined the soap last October, wasn't surprised when producers informed him his character Callum Logan would be dramatically murdered and buried under the cobbles by the Platt family during tonight's (23.09.15) live episode, but admits it feels ''bittersweet.'' Discussing his departure, he said: ''It's bittersweet. I'm going to be gutted to leave 'Corrie,' but at the same time it's completely right for the character and as an actor that's the goal, that's what makes me happy. ''I got called up to a meeting with Stuart Blackburn, the producer. I thought...
- 9/23/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Sean Ward is ''gutted'' to be leaving 'Coronation Street'. The 26-year-old actor, who joined the soap last October, wasn't surprised when producers informed him his character Callum Logan would be dramatically murdered and buried under the cobbles by the Platt family during tonight's (23.09.15) live episode, but admits it feels ''bittersweet.'' Discussing his departure, he said: ''It's bittersweet. I'm going to be gutted to leave 'Corrie,' but at the same time it's completely right for the character and as an actor that's the goal, that's what makes me happy. ''I got called up to a meeting with Stuart Blackburn, the producer. I thought...
- 9/22/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Simon Gregson has been signed off sick for three months. The 'Coronation Street' star - who has played Steve McDonald on the ITV soap since 1989 - is due to take some time out after depicting his character's battle with depression over several months. A source said: ''He put everything into [the storyline]. It had a big impact on him because it helped to raise awareness of a condition which affects thousands of people. ''He's decided to take a bit of time out and has the support of everyone on the show.'' Meanwhile, producer Stuart Blackburn's exit from the soap is said to have...
- 9/17/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street's producer Stuart Blackburn has quit the soap. The show's boss has revealed he is leaving his role on the ITV show in the New Year and will be replaced by 'Emmerdale's current producer Kate Oates. Speaking about his departure, Stuart said: ''I've loved every minute of producing 'Coronation Street'. What a rollercoaster ride the last three years has been. We've met every challenge along the way and I can't praise the cast, crew and writers highly enough for rising to the occasion with each storyline ... ''I'm in awe of everyone I work with and can't thank them enough for the...
- 9/17/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street's Carla Connor is set for even more drama. The factory owner, played by actress Alison King, has already developed a gambling addiction after struggling to overcome the sense of guilt caused by the fire in her flat that led to the deaths of Kal Nazir and Maddie Heath but things are set to get even more dramatic. Carla's problems will increase when her cousin Aidan Connor (Shayne Ward) arrives in the street, swiftly followed by his father Johnny and sister Kate and they will bring big news for Carla. Show producer Stuart Blackburn said: ''The Connors are looking great. I think...
- 8/12/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street's Bethany Platt is set for a ''world of trouble'' because of her crush on drug dealer Callum Logan. While 15-year-old Bethany's mother Sarah-Louise is dating the bad boy, producer Stuart Blackburn said he will have no problem exploiting her feelings for him to get what he wants. Blackburn said: ''Sarah Lou is involved with Callum and her daughter Bethany also has a crush on him. Callum will use this crush and Bethany will become his insurance policy if things go wrong. ''Bethany (Lucy Fallon) thinks she is grown up, but she is just a 15-year old kid. She is naive and...
- 7/2/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Sarah Harding has been invited back to 'Coronation Street'. The former 'Girls Aloud' singer ''wangled'' her way into the ITV soap after meeting the show's boss Stuart Blackburn and having impressed with her four-episode cameo, she has been welcomed back to film for a longer time period, following the release of her debut solo record. Speaking at The Pink Ribbon Charity Lunch at Champneys Tring Health Spa last week (09.06.15) she said: ''I went there (to the set) late last year for 'Good Morning Britain', and they could see straight away that I was a fan. They gave me a grand tour...
- 6/16/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Sarah Harding has been invited back to 'Coronation Street'. The former 'Girls Aloud' singer ''wangled'' her way into the ITV soap after meeting the show's boss Stuart Blackburn and having impressed with her four-episode cameo, she has been welcomed back to film for a longer time period, following the release of her debut solo record. Speaking at The Pink Ribbon Charity Lunch at Champneys Tring Health Spa last week (09.06.15) she said: ''I went there (to the set) late last year for 'Good Morning Britain', and they could see straight away that I was a fan. They gave me a grand tour...
- 6/14/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' bosses have issued an apology after long-running character Kevin Webster forgot the death of his baby. The mechanic - who's played by actor Michael Le Vell - told his daughter Sophie that it must ''be hard burying one of your kids'' as he helped her to organise the funeral of her lover, Maddie Heath. However, some viewers observed the script ignored the fact Kevin did exactly that when he and his wife Alison - who later threw herself under a lorry - saw their days-old baby Jake die from an infection in 2000. Stuart Blackburn, a producer of 'Coronation Street', told...
- 6/13/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' bosses have issued an apology after long-running character Kevin Webster forgot the death of his baby. The mechanic - who's played by actor Michael Le Vell - told his daughter Sophie that it must ''be hard burying one of your kids'' as he helped her to organise the funeral of her lover, Maddie Heath. However, some viewers observed the script ignored the fact Kevin did exactly that when he and his wife Alison - who later threw herself under a lorry - saw their days-old baby Jake die from an infection in 2000. Stuart Blackburn, a producer of 'Coronation Street', told...
- 6/11/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Jimi Mistry is to leave 'Coronation Street'. The actor will exit the soap later this year after his character, gym owner Kal Nazir, is embroiled in a dramatic storyline with a ''fantastic'' twist. Speaking about his departure, Jimi said: ''When I was told about this storyline I felt it was a brilliant way to say goodbye to Kal and I am really looking forward to filming my departure scenes.'' 'Corrie' producer Stuart Blackburn is keeping details of the plot close to his chest, but it is believed Kal will walk away from Weatherfield as part of the recently revealed storyline which will see...
- 3/18/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street's Leanne Battersby is to be abused by her step-son Simon. Bosses of the ITV soap have decided to tackle the issue of parent-child domestic abuse by introducing a dark new storyline in which Leanne, who is played by actress Jane Danson, will be abused by her ex-husband Peter Barlow's son Simon (Alex Bain). Speaking about his plans for the Manchester-based drama, producer Stuart Blackburn announced on ITV's 'This Morning': ''This summer is going to see 'Coronation Street' at its classic best. It's going to be a mixture of romance, of comedy and of drama, and out of that drama...
- 3/10/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street's Leanne Battersby is to be abused by her step-son Simon. Bosses of the ITV soap have decided to tackle the issue of parent-child domestic abuse by introducing a dark new storyline in which Leanne, who is played by actress Jane Danson, will be abused by her ex-husband Peter Barlow's son Simon (Alex Bain). Speaking about his plans for the Manchester-based drama, producer Stuart Blackburn announced on ITV's 'This Morning': ''This summer is going to see 'Coronation Street' at its classic best. It's going to be a mixture of romance, of comedy and of drama, and out of that drama...
- 3/9/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street star Bill Roache will lead the tributes to Anne Kirkbride at the National Television Awards tonight (January 21).
This evening's event at London's O2 will honour Kirkbride following the sad news that she has passed away at the age of 60.
After 42 years as Deirdre Barlow on the ITV soap, Nta organisers were naturally keen for Kirkbride's long career to be recognised at the ceremony.
When the event's producers entered talks with ITV and Coronation Street yesterday, it was decided that Roache - better known on screen as Deirdre's husband Ken - should take to the stage and make a speech about the much-loved star.
Coronation Street's producer Stuart Blackburn told Granada Reports: "Bill's going to be saying a few words paying tribute to Annie. We know that's going to be difficult for him because they were very dear friends. It's just our chance to support him and...
This evening's event at London's O2 will honour Kirkbride following the sad news that she has passed away at the age of 60.
After 42 years as Deirdre Barlow on the ITV soap, Nta organisers were naturally keen for Kirkbride's long career to be recognised at the ceremony.
When the event's producers entered talks with ITV and Coronation Street yesterday, it was decided that Roache - better known on screen as Deirdre's husband Ken - should take to the stage and make a speech about the much-loved star.
Coronation Street's producer Stuart Blackburn told Granada Reports: "Bill's going to be saying a few words paying tribute to Annie. We know that's going to be difficult for him because they were very dear friends. It's just our chance to support him and...
- 1/21/2015
- Digital Spy
Coronation Street's Kylie Platt is to become embroiled in a drugs storyline. The outspoken wife of David Platt (Jack P. Shepherd) - played by Paula Lane - is to become involved in a drugs scandal when her son Max is diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (Adhd), as rather than giving her son the medicine prescribed by doctors to control his behaviour, Kylie will be seen taking the pills herself. Corrie producer Stuart Blackburn told the Daily Star newspaper: ''Over the weeks we see a real change in Max's behaviour and what we are going to learn is that he is suffering...
- 7/8/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' boss Stuart Blackburn says Michelle Keegan's exit is going to be ''spectacular''. Barmaid Tina McIntyre will be killed off later this year in a sensational new storyline and the show's executive producer has promised the character's death will lead to some explosive episodes around autumn and winter. Speaking to Bang Showbiz backstage at the National Television Awards last night (22.01.14) - following the soap's victory in the Best Serial Drama category - Stuart said: ''We've got some massive stories coming up that are really different. Everybody knows Tina's going; it's going to be an incredible, spectacular exit and it's going...
- 1/24/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' boss Stuart Blackburn says Michelle Keegan's exit is going to be ''spectacular''. Barmaid Tina McIntyre will be killed off later this year in a sensational new storyline and the show's executive producer has promised the character's death will lead to some explosive episodes around autumn and winter. Speaking to Bang Showbiz backstage at the National Television Awards last night (22.01.14) - following the soap's victory in the Best Serial Drama category - Stuart said: ''We've got some massive stories coming up that are really different. Everybody knows Tina's going; it's going to be an incredible, spectacular exit and it's going...
- 1/22/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' are looking to cast a Liam Gallagher-type character. The ITV soap's boss, Stuart Blackburn, is on the lookout for a newcomer similar to the outspoken Oasis frontman who could bring some mischief to the cobbles and become a heartthrob for the ladies of Weatherfield, as well as for older viewers. Stuart told Soap Squawk: ''We do need a hunky new man. Someone with the swagger of Liam Gallagher, but with less swearing.'' The Manchester-based soap provides plenty of eye-candy for their younger viewers in the form of brothers Jason and Todd Grimshaw, played by Ryan Thomas and Bruno Langley, but...
- 1/15/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
'Coronation Street' is set for a destructive and deadly 2014. The soap's chief Stuart Blackburn has revealed Michelle Keegan's character Tina McIntyre might not be the only one to be killed off next year, and their on-screen deaths will be bigger than ever. He told the Daily Star newspaper: ''The next time I blow something up the fire engine can come steaming down the street. ''The next time I kill someone the ambulance can also come down at pace.'' It is important for the show to get the balance between comedy and drama spot on. Stuart explained: ''What we've got have in 'Corrie' is humour,...
- 12/28/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Michelle Keegan's 'Coronation Street' exit will leave viewers needing ''a cold shower'' because of a raunchy affair. The soap's executive producer Stuart Blackburn has said her farewell storyline will feature some intimate scenes between her character Tina McIntyre and Peter Barlow, played by Chris Gascoyne. He told the Daily Star Sunday newspaper: ''The chemistry between Tina and Peter is off the scale. ''I've watched some of the scenes that have just been shot and, man, do you need a cold shower afterwards. She is seriously sexy.'' The brunette beauty has played the barmaid since 2007 and her exit will bring together a number of...
- 11/28/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Jimi Mistry has joined the cast of 'Coronation Street'. The 40-year-old actor - who is known for playing Dr Fred Fonseca in EastEnders - will grace the screens in November after landing the role of ''roguish'' ex-squaddie, Khalid, who has been tipped to ''send tongues waggling and pulses racing.'' Bosses are remaining tight-lipped on story lines, but Khalid - known as Kal for short - is the pal of Gary Windass (Mikey North) and looks set to stir trouble among male residents on the Cobbles after his ''wandering eye'' goes astray. Show producer Stuart Blackburn said: ''I'm thrilled to welcome Jimi to...
- 7/2/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Jimi Mistry has joined the cast of 'Coronation Street'. The 40-year-old actor - who is known for playing Dr Fred Fonseca in EastEnders - will grace the screens in November after landing the role of ''roguish'' ex-squaddie, Khalid, who has been tipped to ''send tongues waggling and pulses racing.'' Bosses are remaining tight-lipped on story lines, but Khalid - known as Kal for short - is the pal of Gary Windass (Mikey North) and looks set to stir trouble among male residents on the Cobbles after his ''wandering eye'' goes astray. Show producer Stuart Blackburn said: ''I'm thrilled to welcome Jimi to...
- 7/1/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Bruno Langley is returning to 'Coronation Street'. The 30-year-old actor - who originally starred on the ITV soap from 2001 to 2004 - will reprise his role as Todd Grimshaw, the programme's first openly gay character, and show bosses have promised his alter-ego will cause ''heartache for more than one 'Corrie' resident''. While exact details of Todd's reasons for leaving London to return to Weatherfield are being kept under wraps, his mother Eileen Grimshaw (Sue Cleaver) will be delighted to see him back on the Street unlike some others. 'Coronation Street' producer Stuart Blackburn - who recently signed 10 of the...
- 6/6/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Bruno Langley is returning to 'Coronation Street'. The 30-year-old actor - who originally starred on the ITV soap from 2001 to 2004 - will reprise his role as Todd Grimshaw, the programme's first openly gay character, and show bosses have promised his alter-ego will cause ''heartache for more than one 'Corrie' resident''. While exact details of Todd's reasons for leaving London to return to Weatherfield are being kept under wraps, his mother Eileen Grimshaw (Sue Cleaver) will be delighted to see him back on the Street unlike some others. 'Coronation Street' producer Stuart Blackburn - who recently signed 10 of the...
- 6/6/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Beverley Callard is returning to 'Coronation Street'. The 56-year-old actress will stepping back onto the cobbled streets of Weatherfield as her character Liz McDonald two years after she left the soap in 2011 because of health reasons. Viewers will see Liz come back in October and she will be quick to find out what's going in the life of her son Steve (Simon Gregson) and will be surprised to discover he has rekindled his romance with Michelle Connor (Kym Marsh). The show's producer Stuart Blackburn has given Beverley - who quit the programme because she feared she was slipping back into the...
- 5/30/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Anne Kirkbride has been promised a job for life on 'Coronation Street'. The 58-year-old actress - who plays Deirdre Barlow - has been re-assured by the soap's bosses after her co-star and on-screen husband Bill Roache's arrest for allegedly forcing a 15-year-old girl into sex in 1987 left her shaken and tearful. Stuart Blackburn, the ITV show's new executive producer, is quoted by The Sun newspaper as telling her: ''You are here for as long as you want to be.'' A source added: ''Anne is a sensitive person and she was incredibly upset when Bill was arrested. ''They are very close and have known...
- 5/28/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Anne Kirkbride has been promised a job for life on 'Coronation Street'. The 58-year-old actress - who plays Deirdre Barlow - has been re-assured by the soap's bosses after her co-star and on-screen husband Bill Roache's arrest for allegedly forcing a 15-year-old girl into sex in 1987 left her shaken and tearful. Stuart Blackburn, the ITV show's new executive producer, is quoted by The Sun newspaper as telling her: ''You are here for as long as you want to be.'' A source added: ''Anne is a sensitive person and she was incredibly upset when Bill was arrested. ''They are very close and have known...
- 5/28/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
'Coronation Street' will be rocked by a racism scandal storyline. The ITV soap's Paul Kershaw (Tony Hirst) is going to be accused of racist comments by cab driver Lloyd Mullaney (Craig Charles) after he uses the phrase ''playing the white man'' in conversation with Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson). Stuart Blackburn, 'Coronation Street's producer, told the Daily Star newspaper: ''There's a point when Paul, in a moment of stupidity and stress, makes one wrong remark. ''It's a remark he dismisses as nothing but what it takes us into is something of pride, loyalty and principle.'' The remark is overheard by Lloyd's daughter Jenna Kamara (Krissi...
- 5/22/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street producer Stuart Blackburn has said that EastEnders has not had a good year and that Corrie deserved a BAFTA instead.
EastEnders won the 'Soap and Continuing Drama' award at the ceremony last Sunday (May 12).
However, Coronation Street won 'Best Soap' at the British Soap Awards on Saturday (May 18) as well as scooping seven other awards. EastEnders went home with one.
Speaking to The Mirror, Blackburn said: "EastEnders has not had a brilliant year and Corrie's at its best. But them's the breaks.
"There were six, seven people on that panel, they made a decision. They were clearly wrong."
A Coronation Street insider also added that the ITV show actors felt "vindicated".
The source said: "How EastEnders won the BAFTA is a mystery to the Corrie cast. As far as they're concerned, it's normal service resumed. Corrie continues to go from strength to strength."
EastEnders' only victory...
EastEnders won the 'Soap and Continuing Drama' award at the ceremony last Sunday (May 12).
However, Coronation Street won 'Best Soap' at the British Soap Awards on Saturday (May 18) as well as scooping seven other awards. EastEnders went home with one.
Speaking to The Mirror, Blackburn said: "EastEnders has not had a brilliant year and Corrie's at its best. But them's the breaks.
"There were six, seven people on that panel, they made a decision. They were clearly wrong."
A Coronation Street insider also added that the ITV show actors felt "vindicated".
The source said: "How EastEnders won the BAFTA is a mystery to the Corrie cast. As far as they're concerned, it's normal service resumed. Corrie continues to go from strength to strength."
EastEnders' only victory...
- 5/20/2013
- Digital Spy
Peter Gunn has been axed from 'Coronation Street'. The 49-year-old actor - who portrays Brian Packham in the ITV soap - will leave the Weatherfield cobbles later this year after three years on the programme following a ''shock'' decision by new producer Stuart Blackburn. An ITV source told The Sun newspaper: ''Brian goes down well with the viewers. They love his light-hearted banter. Peter has done a brilliant job in developing the character. ''Most of the staff thought his position was as safe as houses. So when the news came out of the blue that he was getting the chop, people...
- 2/18/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Peter Gunn has been axed from 'Coronation Street'. The 49-year-old actor - who portrays Brian Packham in the ITV soap - will leave the Weatherfield cobbles later this year after three years on the programme following a ''shock'' decision by new producer Stuart Blackburn. An ITV source told The Sun newspaper: ''Brian goes down well with the viewers. They love his light-hearted banter. Peter has done a brilliant job in developing the character. ''Most of the staff thought his position was as safe as houses. So when the news came out of the blue that he was getting the chop, people...
- 2/15/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Natalie Gumede and Nigel Havers are to be axed from 'Coronation Street'. The brunette beauty's violent character Kirsty Soames and the 61-year-old star's alter-ego Lewis Archer are reportedly being written out of the ITV soap - which won the Serial Drama prize at last night's (23.01.13) National Television Awards - in what is feared to be part of a cull by new boss Stuart Blackburn. A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''There have already been rumours the new boss will want to put his stamp on things, but these two big changes are certain.'' It is not yet known how Kirsty's...
- 1/22/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Coronation Street's new producer Stuart Blackburn will ensure that the soap retains its "warmth and optimism". Blackburn recently moved over from Emmerdale to replace Phil Collinson as boss of the ITV show. "Corrie is in an incredibly strong position at the moment. The viewing figures are great. It started the year at 9m to 9.5m. It's rarely below 8.5m and more often than not it's beating EastEnders," he told the Manchester Evening News. "My vision of Corrie is really simple. The first episode wasn't whimsical, it wasn't a comedy, it wasn't a nostalgic love-fest. It was gripping urban drama done on popular television for the very first time. "It (more)...
- 1/20/2013
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
Langford's Picks And Pans
River City
I really enjoyed this past week’s River City. First of all, I have to admit that Robbie and Will are growing on me as a couple. No, you won’t see me going all fangirl on them, but I like them much more than I used to. I also think that the pairing has really suited Robbie as a character and has helped to ground and mature what used to be a really flighty and sometimes annoying character. He still can be flighty and annoying, but his relationship with Will has fleshed the character out and softened his more bothersome traits.
I continue to love that River City has this gay couple in lead stories that usually isn’t about them being gay. Yes, Will’s father disapproves of his son's relationship with Robbie, but their lives and stories are much bigger than...
River City
I really enjoyed this past week’s River City. First of all, I have to admit that Robbie and Will are growing on me as a couple. No, you won’t see me going all fangirl on them, but I like them much more than I used to. I also think that the pairing has really suited Robbie as a character and has helped to ground and mature what used to be a really flighty and sometimes annoying character. He still can be flighty and annoying, but his relationship with Will has fleshed the character out and softened his more bothersome traits.
I continue to love that River City has this gay couple in lead stories that usually isn’t about them being gay. Yes, Will’s father disapproves of his son's relationship with Robbie, but their lives and stories are much bigger than...
- 1/9/2013
- by Anthony D. Langford
- The Backlot
Emmerdale's outgoing series producer Stuart Blackburn has shared a number of storyline teasers for 2013 in a new video interview. You can see the full chat with Stuart at itv.com, but below we've included the main points character-by-character for Soap Scoop readers.
Debbie
Stuart: "The Chas, Cameron and Debbie story has just been brilliant. Right now what we're seeing is a struggle for Chas and Cameron - it's about how they can finally come to terms with it. "But there's still a love story involving Debbie. Debbie's still just as heartbroken, and I think we'll see over the coming months, her response is going to be actually quite terrifying. If you thought Cain was bad, Debbie's so hardened… she really is going to become daddy's girl." Dingle Family
Stuart: "There's big stories (more)...
Debbie
Stuart: "The Chas, Cameron and Debbie story has just been brilliant. Right now what we're seeing is a struggle for Chas and Cameron - it's about how they can finally come to terms with it. "But there's still a love story involving Debbie. Debbie's still just as heartbroken, and I think we'll see over the coming months, her response is going to be actually quite terrifying. If you thought Cain was bad, Debbie's so hardened… she really is going to become daddy's girl." Dingle Family
Stuart: "There's big stories (more)...
- 12/31/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Tabloid reports today (December 30) are tipping Tina O'Brien for a return to Coronation Street. The Sunday Mirror claims that Corrie's new producer Stuart Blackburn wants O'Brien to reprise her role as Sarah Platt in 2013. Meanwhile, it has also been suggested that Sarah's daughter Bethany would be back with a new "wild child" persona. Fans may want to take the newspaper story with a pinch of salt for now as a Corrie spokesperson told Digital Spy this morning (more)...
- 12/30/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Langford’S Picks And Pans
Hollyoaks
I liked the idea of the guys getting together for Riley's memorial service, even if Doug and Riley’s friendship was very contrived and never really utilized that often. If I recall correctly, Riley was close friends with Ethan and Noah and Doug was the drug dealing lowlife who moved into Noah’s apartment. Doug and Riley's close bond was an off camera creation of the writer, so their supposed friendship never rang true to me. Still I enjoyed the scenes, even if they were bad manipulations of the plot at best.
But even more contrived was Ally being invited to the memorial. Ally and Riley were not friends and I don’t think they ever had much to do with each other. There was no reason for him to be there other than to stir things up with Ste, when there were other ways to accomplish that.
Hollyoaks
I liked the idea of the guys getting together for Riley's memorial service, even if Doug and Riley’s friendship was very contrived and never really utilized that often. If I recall correctly, Riley was close friends with Ethan and Noah and Doug was the drug dealing lowlife who moved into Noah’s apartment. Doug and Riley's close bond was an off camera creation of the writer, so their supposed friendship never rang true to me. Still I enjoyed the scenes, even if they were bad manipulations of the plot at best.
But even more contrived was Ally being invited to the memorial. Ally and Riley were not friends and I don’t think they ever had much to do with each other. There was no reason for him to be there other than to stir things up with Ste, when there were other ways to accomplish that.
- 11/7/2012
- by Anthony D. Langford
- The Backlot
Coronation Street bosses have denied claims that ten characters are facing the axe from the soap. A report in The Sun today (November 3) claims that a string of cast departures are already being planned by the show's new producer Stuart Blackburn, who takes over from current boss Phil Collinson in January. Karl Munro (John Michie), Marcus Dent (Charlie Condou), Izzy Armstrong (Cherylee Houston), Rob Donovan (Marc Baylis) and newcomer Mandy Kamara (Pamela Nomvete) are among those who were tipped as five of the ten supposedly (more)...
- 11/3/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Coronation Street bosses have denied rumours that Toyah Battersby could be heading back to Weatherfield. A report in The Mirror today (October 31) said that Georgia Taylor was being lined up to reprise the role of Toyah next year, as part of several plans from new producer Stuart Blackburn. However, a show spokesperson told Digital Spy that there is "no truth whatsoever" in claims that Toyah is returning. Taylor (more)...
- 10/31/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Georgia Taylor has been tipped for a return to Coronation Street as Toyah Battersby next year. The actress is said to be in the frame for a comeback on the ITV soap in 2013 as part of several plans from new producer Stuart Blackburn. Taylor played Toyah Battersby for six years before leaving the soap in 2003. She then went on to play Dr Ruth Winters in BBC One's Casualty until last year. "There has been talk for a few months now that Toyah's character could return â“ which would be Âbrilliant news for Georgia who loved being in Corrie all those years ago," an insider told The Mirror. "There is endless scope for terrific storylines with her stepsister Leanne." After arriving with her family in 1997, Toyah left Weatherfield (more)...
- 10/31/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Kate Oates has been appointed as the new series producer of Emmerdale, ITV has announced. Oates, a former producer of Radio 4's The Archers, will take up her new position in January when current boss Stuart Blackburn moves to Coronation Street. The new chief already has experience at Emmerdale as she worked as the programme's story editor from 2010 until earlier this year, when she landed the job of assistant producer at Corrie. Oates commented: "I always thought I'd love to go back to Emmerdale but I never expected it to happen so quickly. I'm delighted to be Emmerdale's new producer as I'm passionate about the programme and everyone who works on the show. "The last block of storylines I worked on before my recent move was the 40th birthday week, so I'm very excited to see the stories (more)...
- 10/15/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Langford's Picks And Pans
Good Times, Bad Times
I don’t have a lot to say here other that I actually enjoyed this past week’s drama, mostly because of the acting. I really think Sinan Eroglu has done an excellent job showing Bilal’s conflict over his sexuality, he’s probably given the best and strongest performance during this storyline. That final scene between Lucas and Bilal where they said goodbye was nicely done and I like that we’re seeing Lucas be mature enough to accept a situation for what it is, even if he may not like it.
I must admit I didn’t much care for Lucas’ attempt to ambush Bilal with his gay Muslim pal, as I think someone should never be pressured to come out, but I did like that the reality of Bilal’s situation wasn’t sugar coated in that coming out...
Good Times, Bad Times
I don’t have a lot to say here other that I actually enjoyed this past week’s drama, mostly because of the acting. I really think Sinan Eroglu has done an excellent job showing Bilal’s conflict over his sexuality, he’s probably given the best and strongest performance during this storyline. That final scene between Lucas and Bilal where they said goodbye was nicely done and I like that we’re seeing Lucas be mature enough to accept a situation for what it is, even if he may not like it.
I must admit I didn’t much care for Lucas’ attempt to ambush Bilal with his gay Muslim pal, as I think someone should never be pressured to come out, but I did like that the reality of Bilal’s situation wasn’t sugar coated in that coming out...
- 10/10/2012
- by Anthony D. Langford
- The Backlot
Stuart Blackburn has been appointed as the new producer of Coronation Street, succeeding current boss Phil Collinson in the role. Blackburn, who has been working as Emmerdale's series producer since early 2011, will take up the position in January.
[Left: Stuart Blackburn / Right: Phil Collinson] Collinson, meanwhile, will remain at ITV in a new role working with Kieran Roberts to develop new drama from ITV's base in Manchester. Speaking of his new post, Blackburn commented: "I'm in the very privileged position of producing Emmerdale's hour-long live episode to celebrate the programme's 40th birthday, and I get to produce Coronation Street too. Life just couldn't get any better. "Emmerdale is a very special programme to me, as I was born and brought up in West Yorkshire. (more)...
[Left: Stuart Blackburn / Right: Phil Collinson] Collinson, meanwhile, will remain at ITV in a new role working with Kieran Roberts to develop new drama from ITV's base in Manchester. Speaking of his new post, Blackburn commented: "I'm in the very privileged position of producing Emmerdale's hour-long live episode to celebrate the programme's 40th birthday, and I get to produce Coronation Street too. Life just couldn't get any better. "Emmerdale is a very special programme to me, as I was born and brought up in West Yorkshire. (more)...
- 10/8/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Stuart Blackburn has said that wet weather won't hinder the filming of Emmerdale's live episode next week. However, the show's series producer admitted that he is "dreading" the prospect of strong winds for the show's 40th anniversary special. Blackburn told BBC News: "A bit of wind and lots of rain, I'd be happy with that - it's the gale force that we're dreading." Emmerdale's special edition will mark the first time a live soap episode has been shot completely on location. Reflecting on the outdoor challenge, he added: "All the other live episodes have been based around a studio so obviously all their resources were there - all the equipment's there, all the power's there, the canteen's there. "Things like the make-up and costume departments are there. They're not (more)...
- 10/8/2012
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
Footage of Emmerdale's Homefields - a live music festival created to celebrate the soap's 40th birthday celebrations this month - has been released online. Clips show cast members and musical performers enjoying the sunshine in scenes filmed over the summer on an outdoor set. Sammy Winward - who plays Katie Sugden - said that the shoot "[felt] like a real festival". "It's so exciting," she said. "There's huge tents, VIP areas, the stage, people walking round... It looks brilliant." Emmerdale's series producer Stuart Blackburn had previously described the scenes as "technically... one of the biggest challenges" the show had ever faced. "This festival represents the modern countryside - vibrant, young and energetic," he added. "It was an amazing feat to put together an entire festival (more)...
- 10/6/2012
- by By Alison Rowley
- Digital Spy
Former Emmerdale star Samantha Giles has announced that she is returning to the soap. The actress will start work at the ITV1 drama again next month, reprising the role of Ashley Thomas's ex-wife Bernice Blackstock. Giles, confirming her comeback, told the Daily Star Sunday: "It's so lovely to be asked back to Emmerdale. The show is on top form and I'm really looking forward to being part of the team again." Meanwhile, Emmerdale's series producer Stuart Blackburn told the newspaper: "Bernice Blackstock (more)...
- 9/8/2012
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
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