Doctors: #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

(Monday 18^th – Friday 22^nd May)

The week began with a hilarious episode and the perfect tonic to the lockdown as Valerie decided to foster kittens. You just cannot not love Valerie. She came in as a part time character and her charm, humour, individuality and compassion just stole everyone’s hearts. She can make you weep with stories such as her cancer diagnosis and she can make you absolutely howl with episodes like this one where she had nobody to look after the kitten so she carried ‘Snowy’ into work in a tiny little bag (possibly the cutest things I’ve ever seen in my life) and roped her colleagues into helping until Ayesha could come and collect her.

Cue the hilarity as Valarie attempted to cover the kitten’s mews in front of Zara as a squeaky shoe, confused everyone when Zara then suggested talcum powder for the squeaky shoe and then ended up letting the ‘squeaky shoe’ wee all over Jimmi!

One of my favourite moments came when Jimmi was expecting Valerie back with his jacket but Daniel appeared and he asked if ‘it’ had come out. Upon his confusion, Jimmi panicked.

“Um… the sun!”

Later, when the truth came out, Zara attempted to cover up her mortification that she had been duped into believing Valerie’s lame story about the shoe and demanded to know how Daniel hadn’t realised.

“Well, you didn’t notice either, Cagney!” he shot back.

All in all, this was another fabulous, quirky, Valerie story. More please! I am always torn in Doctors as to whether my favourite character is Zara or Valerie. I genuinely cannot decide but I think Sarah Moyle, who plays Valerie is an absolute superstar.

The truth about the kittens comes out…
(photo credit: WhatsOnTV)

Meanwhile, Al had problems visiting his mother who suffers with Alzheimer’s when she went shopping and returned home, having forgotten who he was. She called the police on him, thinking he was a stranger in her house. Well, to be honest, if he hadn’t behaved like a complete slob, lying around the house in his pants, eating all her food, playing video games, and refusing to do anything useful, then perhaps it wouldn’t have happened. She probably only went shopping in the first place to get away from him! What respectable adult goes to visit their mother (with or without Alzheimer’s) and behaves like that? Honestly!

Al isn’t exactly the perfect house guest…
(photo credit: WhatsOnTV)

To his credit, he did make up for it during the rest of his stay. First, he threw a party for her and her friends in order to help her spend time with people she loves and helped her every moment she needed him. They took a lovely selfie to put in the frame she had been saving for his wedding day. They then went to a pub quiz, hosted by a very rude drag queen who turned out to be a boy who bullied him at school and continued to bully him during the quiz. Now, I love a drag queen. As a gay woman, I have seen my fair share of drag acts. But I love that we have reached a point where soaps can write LGBTQ characters just as people. They don’t all have to be sympathetic characters.

Meanwhile, Auntie Em had another radio appearance, only to comes to blows after being set up to appear with Su Without an E. That rather unpleasant student who hosts the show, deliberately left them on air so everyone heard Emma laying into Su but thankfully, the two women worked out that they were being deliberately goaded. They endeavoured to work together for the rest of the show. But they are not friends and never will be!

Karen’s marijuana is discovered when she stupidly bakes it into brownies for Jay and leaves them casually in a tin and goes out, assuming that Rob won’t be back until later. Obviously, he eats two and gets stoned out of his tree. It’s actually very funny. But when he comes down, he is absolutely furious with his wife. He draws the line at arresting her but it’s hard to say where they go from here.

Doctors have been brilliant at covering Mental Health Awareness Week, not least with a really harrowing suicide story during Thursday’s episode. Valerie desperately tried to track a woman down, talking to her on the phone, finding her address and eventually sending the police round ahead of her rushing to her house, trying to stop her from killing herself. I won’t lie. I had tears in my eyes as she said goodbye and left a note for her mother. This story really broke me. It was so well written and portrayed.

Other Mental Health stories this week have included: self harm, alcoholism and post-natal depression. Also, in a rather random story at the end of the week, Sid got himself involved with a lady who was being screwed over by her very strange estate agent. It was very peculiar!

Next week, despite Doctors ceasing filming due to the Coronavirus, the show does appear to still be airing every weekday on BBC1 at 1:45pm

Neighbours: The Battle for Aster

(Wednesday 6^th – Monday 26th May 2020)

Things went rapidly wrong for Elly after she took the plea deal but was sent to jail anyway. For three years! Of course, what she and the others don’t know is that devious Claudia has blackmailed the judge. Things backfired when Elly opted to take Aster into prison with her so once inside, Claudia used fellow inmate, Andrea Somers to scare the poor woman into giving her up. She then used every tactic possible to take the baby legally out of the custody of the Kennedy Family.

Elly is sentenced to three years…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

During the custody hearing, she revealed that old enemy, Sam Fitzgerald was her lawyer and Sam ripped Susan to pieces, not that Susan did herself any favours, especially as Claudia had just witnessed her having an unnecessary go at Mackenzie. Although, how anyone decided that the woman who left her son to be tortured so badly that he became a psychopath should be declared a fit parent is beyond me! Sky did warn Toadie about Claudia’s scheming before she and Mark returned to their wives but she played her cards too quickly for it to be any use. (Just as an aside, wouldn’t it just be the best if Sky and Lana returned to Erinsborough for good?)

Susan laid into Mackenzie…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Back in prison, Elly became suspicious of Andrea for whom she had facilitated visits with Dee, as after she got a picture of baby Hugo, Elly began to see quite a different side to her. Only when she attempted to warn Dee, she quickly found herself on the wrong side of Andrea which doesn’t seem to be a place she wants to be!

Now, can we all just take a moment to appreciate the genius that is the creation of Andrea? She is one of the most complicated, insane characters soap has ever seen. I just adore her! Usually with a soap villain, even when the other characters don’t know they are being lied to, the audience can read the scene but this woman is so complex that it’s impossible to tell apart the stories she’s telling.

Andrea is ready to stir things up…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Dee on the other hand, is a bit limp for me, which I know may be an unpopular opinion. I didn’t watch Neighbours back in the day of Toadie and Dee round one and perhaps if I had, I would feel differently but I just adored Sonya and I watched their entire relationship. I’m not saying I don’t want Toadie to move on and be happy and in fact, in soap terms, waiting over a year to get together with someone else is like waiting ten years in the real world. But I feel like hippie Dee is a mediocre version on Sonya. She’s the imitation. The B-side. (Do people have B-sides anymore?) I mean, she’s nice enough but she’s not… Sonya. But because of their history, she seems to be overinflated into something more exciting than she actually is. So now, suddenly, a couple of snogs and she’s moving in! I mean… really?

Toadie is ready to move on with Dee…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Anyway, not content with stealing Aster, Claudia then put in a bid to buy The Island from Pierce and Chloe (who have just rejected a bid from an Escape Room company who basically want to recreate Murder Island). She claimed she wanted to create a summer camp in Shuan’s name for disadvantaged kids and wanted Chloe and Aaron to help her run in. Aaron was very excited while Chloe was worried about hurting Elly.

So, not only did Paul put Aaron in a terrible position by leaving his illegal swag in The Shed but he also made him miss his and David’s first fostering appointment because he had to turn everything into the police. David was absolutely livid, especially as he had just wasted a lot of time persuading Harlow to give Paul another chance. Paul ended up learning quite a lesson in not treating your family however the hell you want and assuming everything will be okay. By the end of this week, he has had to sign over The Shed to the boys and agree to letting Harlow spend two nights a week at Hendrix’s house, as well as attend a sexual health appointment with her to prove he is supportive of her choices.

Kyle and Roxy hit the rocks again due to Kyle’s grief and their general miscommunication, sending him into the arms of fellow grief group member, Jess, who I can’t quite read yet. Roxy was heartbroken to hear of the hook up, being that she really does like Kyle. And it really does seem a shame as they were on their way to making a very sweet couple but once again, Roxy has had her heart broken. Their relationship was further shattered when Roxy bluntly told Sheila that Gary was not a pigeon. Yes, you read that correctly.

Kyle ignored all Roxy’s attempts to make things right and reconnected with Jess instead, who I am starting to think might be a little bit too perfect. Poor Sheila, meanwhile, found that Gary the Pigeon has died. Understandably, she was heartbroken, feeling she has lost her son all over again.

Ned was suddenly promoted from a bellboy to running an entire pool party but pushed and pulled between Pierce and Paul’s ideas, the event didn’t quite go to plan, although to his credit, he really did try his best. He quit the job very quickly, which I don’t blame him for! He was thrust into a position he didn’t really want, had no experience of doing and was provided with absolutely no support! But let’s also take a moment to appreciate just how lovely Hendrix has become. Forget the brash boy he started out as; he is just so sweet to Harlow. When she admitted her lack of body confidence, he jumped into the pool fully clothed to enable her to feel confident to do the same. He so clearly adores her. These two have the makings of becoming one of those legendary Neighbours couples that will be remembered forever, I think. I like that the show didn’t rush their relationship, even though the pairing was very obvious from the start. I really do like them together.

Neighbours has return to filming with episodes airing on Channel 5, Monday – Friday, 1:45pm & 6pm

Home and Away: Ben’s Birthday

(Monday 4^th – Friday 22^nd May 2020)

Firstly, many apologies for how long it’s been since I updated my Home and Away blog! No excuses really. But here’s about three weeks all in one go. Woosh!

So, what started as a lovely party for Ben’s birthday and a celebration of his achievements in overcoming his depression, turned into a complete nightmare for Maggie as Ben’s brother, Marco returned. The story always was that Marco hit on her, Ben punched him and Marco had him arrested. Cue: a big split in the family. As it turns out, what actually happened was that Marco and Maggie had a one night stand. Marco always had feelings for Maggie and having split temporarily (as it turned out) from Ben and feeling heartbroken, nineteen year old Maggie got drunk as a party and ended up in bed with him. Now, Marco has turned up in the Bay claiming to want to mend things with Ben but really, he is blackmailing Maggie into buying into his business. At the last minute, Maggie changed her mind and decided she needed to confess all to her husband. Should be an interesting week next week!

Maggie has a confession to make…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Worried about the state of John and Marilyn’s marriage and her family’s possible role in their split, Gemma succeeded in befriending John and helped the couple at least get talking again, even after he stirred the pot after Ari and Mac hooked up. Oh! Ari and Mac hooked up! No, I didn’t see that one coming either. And nor will Colby when he finds out as he was very much looking forward to getting back together with Mac! Well, he has messed her about rather too much for too long really. Dean should set up a side business as a fortune teller…

Ari and Mac are new, hot couple in town!
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Speaking of Colby, he reluctantly agreed to allow Bella to abandon school and take up photography at TAFE – on the proviso that she continued her counselling (the course being paid for by Dean who only recently had to borrow money from Mac). Of course, she lied and didn’t attend counselling and of course, she was found out. During this time, Bella also became close to Nikau and despite well-meaning but meddling Ryder (who completely crossed the line of confidentiality and friendship) telling him about her experience with Tommy, the pair decided to make a go of things. I can’t say I’m a huge Bella fan but then whose to say how anyone would behave if they had the upbringing and experiences that she has suffered? I do like Nik though I hope that having some joy in her life might calm down this whole Bratty Bella thing we’ve had on repeat for such a long time.

Bella and Nikau get together…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Not that Willow is leading by terribly good example at the moment, not that I blame her either! Utterly shattered by her breakup with Alex (as am I!), Willow took all her heartbreak out on all her friends until Dean couldn’t take it any longer and persuaded her to go away with him for a few days to clear her head. He and Colby couldn’t resist asking if she was ‘gay now’, to which she wasn’t sure why it mattered. The only thing she knew was that when she was with Alex, her life had direction. Well, I’m pleased that the show hasn’t just completely forgotten this story and the relationship, as it did with Charlie and Joey back in 2009. And with Zoe Ventura apparently back based in Sydney, perhaps there is hope yet for the return of Doctor Alex Neilson, now they know just how popular this pairing has been!

For now though, Tori has returned to work with Jasmine by her side mostly seamlessly. However, before long, Jasmine realised that she was very overdue her period and without so much as doing a test, announced to the world that she was pregnant! I feel like this isn’t going to be that simple…

Leah suddenly twigged that she had seen nothing of Mason since her return, prompting Justin to have to break the news that he (and Robbo) had passed away. As if the whole thing had been storyboarded perfectly, that was the week that Mason’s ashes arrived, allowed an emotional private ceremony for Justin, Tori and Leah to say goodbye. So private that not even Brody or Raffy were invited. Charming!

Mason’s family bury his ashes…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

After an epic row where Leah accused Justin of being just like Douglas, thanks to him caring about so much and therefore crowding her while she tried to recover from her ordeal, Justin promised to back off and have some space. But thankfully, they seemed more together than ever before. I’m relieved. They really are a lovely couple and I do hope that Justin is ‘the one’ for Leah after such a ‘colourful’ romantic history.

Home and Away has returned to filming & airs five days a week, Channel 5, 1:15pm & 6pm

There is a sneak peek episode on 5Star at 6:30pm on the same days

These reviews are based on the Channel 5 episodes

Emmerdale: Pants on Fire

(Monday 4^th – Monday 18^th May 2020)

Again, apologies for taking so long to update my Emmerdale blog! No excuses!

So, the ongoing feud between Arthur and Archie came to a head at Rishi’s 70^th birthday when the whole family (including Jimmy, Nicola and the kids for some reason) had a camping event in the garden. Now, don’t get me wrong, I adore Laurel and I think she’s an amazing Mum, especially with everything she has been through, losing Ashely the way she did and everything. I have never been able to fault her or her love for her kids. But the way she has pushed Arthur away recently has been so sad to watch. This kid has behaved atrociously. He’s been a serious bully towards a smaller, vulnerable child. But he owned up to it and he asked for help. Since then, it’s like Laurel doesn’t like him anymore and is completely favouring Archie. The whole reason this started was because Arthur felt shut out and pushed aside. So how is deliberately pushing her son away ever going to help the situation? Arthur needs love and compassion and care right now, not the hard line.

So, after a day of being shut out and pushed away and treated like an outsider and still having the situation with the cabinet and the football tackle where Archie lied about him, playing on his mind, Arthur wound Archie up about starting the campfire they were told not to touch. Of course, it got out of hand and nearly set the tent alight that little Dotty was sleeping in and everything got very intense very quickly. Arthur got into serious trouble, to the point that Laurel contacted the police to frighten him and it was only Gabby that really took the time to listen to him properly and believe that Archie has been telling lies and giving it back to him since the truth all came tumbling out.

Laurel calls the police on her son…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Thankfully, when the police were called, Archie did actually confess to the lies he has told but I worry that the damage has been done to Arthur and Laurel’s relationship. And it really is sad because they were so close and he was the glue that held that family together when they lost Ashley. They have found a genuine little star in Alfie Clarke, who plays him. He’s so earnest and so engaging. Even when he is doing the wrong thing, you can’t help but want the best for him.

Now, I was hoping we had reached the end of ‘Emmerdale goes Gangsta’ as Cain and Billy went out on their ‘job’ for Malone but sadly, it doesn’t seem to be the case. On their way back, they were stopped by the police but thanks to Will managing to send Dawn out to collect the drugs, the police found nothing in the car. Of course, this has major consequences as a) Dawn and Harriet were furious to finally discover what has been going on and b) Malone easily worked out that Will warned the boys and therefore had him beaten to a pulp. Ouchy.

It was left to Harriet to send Malone packing. Well, if only they’d let her in on it at the beginning, we’d have all been saved a lot of hassle. Well, I say that, by Monday of this week, it became crystal clear that the history between them was ready to come rushing to the surface, so to speak. In a move that makes no sense whatsoever, Harriet ended up bedding Malone in the church. So, she’s mad at Will because he is liar and a criminal but this is something that turns her on in Malone? Right. Okay. That must follow someone’s logic somewhere but it’s missed me completely. But that aside, the bad news is that the boring plot is clearly going to continue forevermore.

Harriet gets up to no good with Malone…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

In a more engaging plot, hopefully, Charity and Vanessa have turned a corner at last. When Tracy discovered that Vanessa has overthrown both her and Charity and chosen Rhona to be Johnny’s legal guardian if the worst happens, she royally kicked off and couldn’t understand why Charity wasn’t doing the same. But Charity just seemed uncharacteristically numb until she finally burst out that the reason she hesitated was because she couldn’t bear to consider the idea that Vanessa might die; it was nothing to do with not wanting Johnny. She loves him and considers him to be her child. After a night of not speaking and both of them feeling bad, Rhona looked set to knock their heads together and they set about planning for Charity to adopt Johnny.

Unfortunately, while Sarah brought Diane round to give Vanessa support over suffering with cancer, having survived it twice, Charity hit a snag over the adoption. She can only adopt Johnny with Kirin’s permission and Kirin hasn’t been seen for years, having run off to South America after knocking down Pierce’s wife Tess and killing her. She tried and failed to get information from Priya, who doesn’t know anything. Then Charity opted to lie to Vanessa about her progress, not wanting to disappoint her, although Rhona caught her out, claiming her pants were practically on fire! Charity looked into a private detective to help. I’m intrigued as to where this story is going.

Charity is desperate to track down Kirin…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

In other storylines: Chas supported Paddy over his anxiety regarding Eve, Andrea fought for Jamie, Victoria took a job as Head Chef at the Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Jai caught Al and Priya at it, Cain and Moira began to settle their separation/divorce, Leanna was a brat, Vinny turned out to have a lovely singing voice and why have I never noticed how cute Kyle is before?

I’m not sure Cain and Moira will ever be truly over…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Emmerdale plans to resume filming in June

For now, it airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on ITV1 at 7pm

Coronation Street: I’ve Just Killed My Husband

(Monday 4^th – Monday 18^th May 2020)

Many apologies for the lack of update on Corrie. I have no excuse. I mean, I haven’t exactly been out gallivanting! Emmerdale, Home and Away and Neighbours will follow shortly.

So, we continued to witness Yasmeen’s utter trauma in the wake of stabbing Geoff as Monday 4th’s episode opened. In state of shock, she hardly knew what to do but did eventually do the right thing and call 999. Convinced Geoff was already dead, she didn’t even know what service she needed and brokenly told the operator that she had killed her husband.

The locals in the pub were pulled away from their gossiping when two police cars and an ambulance flew into the Street, straight over to Yasmeen’s. It seems clear to me that Eileen and Peter had been quite troubled by the evening’s events, something not quite sitting well with them about Geoff and Yasmeen’s behaviour that they couldn’t quite put their finger on. However, Cathy and Brian should, quite frankly, be ashamed of themselves. Even after Geoff was taken to hospital and Yasmeen was arrested (by the kindest policewoman ever), they gave a really unhelpful representation to the police about Yasmeen and her relationship with Geoff.

Fragile Yasmeen attempts to explain what happened…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Tim was devastated over what has happened to his Dad and cannot understand why Yasmeen would have attacked him. While he kept a vigil by his bedside (at this point it was touch and go as to whether he would survive or not), Sally was also puzzled as to what has been going on. I’m pretty sure she has been puzzled for a while, again, not quite able to put her finger on what was wrong.

Meanwhile, at the police station, the police took the awful red dress from Yasmeen and gave her a tracksuit to wear. And I’ve never been happier to see Imran before in my life! Ryan had contacted Alya to call her home and also sent Imran over to the station to represent Yasmeen, who panicked that she couldn’t pay him. He was so gentle and so kind to her, reassuring her about the money and begging her to be careful about what she said to the police to not get herself into further trouble. He was exactly what she needed. I am so desperately worried about Yasmeen now. My only hope is that she phoned the police on Geoff’s phone because of course he had confiscated hers so perhaps they will have to take that into evidence and they will discover the evidence of abuse on it…

Yasmeen continues to suffer…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

While Yasmeen suffered terribly in her cell, trying to clean it after the months of control and abuse from Geoff, SOCO examined the crime scene at the house, unaware that they were being filmed by Geoff’s secret camera. Tim and Sally kept a vigil by Geoff’s bed but when he woke up, claiming that Yasmeen tried to kill him, it was clear that Sally was troubled by his version of events. When Alya turned up, having first tried and failed to see her Gran, insisting that Geoff is a liar and an abuser, I am certain that Sally was wavering in her commitment to Geoff. Please follow your instincts, Sally!

Geoff lies, physically and verbally in his hospital bed…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Geoff claimed that they were arguing about her drinking. Yasmeen hit him and he has no idea why she stabbed him but that she has hit him a couple of times before. At the station, Yasmeen was still clearly in shock. She was desperately worried about Geoff (even after everything) and begged to see him (no!). She struggled to explain what happened except that Geoff had a knife. Thankfully, the police officer seemed to be beginning to piece things together and questioned Geoff not only about Yasmeen but also about his ‘violent’ ex, with whom there was the pub incident and also about his ‘violent’ ex, Tim’s Mum. Interesting that he has had so many violent exes with drink problems. Unfortunately, Yasmeen is unable to give her enough to prevent her charging her with attempted murder and the judge refused bail. Honestly, this is more upsetting than that time Diedre went to prison!

While the locals all tried to get their heads around what happened and Yasmeen’s friends begin to realise the truth, Alya made no secret of the abuse Yasmeen has endured and the way people have let her down. Roy has to break up a row between her and Tim in the café. But let’s take a moment to praise Evelyn and Rita who can clearly see though Geoff and know that Yasmeen must have been pushed to the brink to do what she did. If anyone thought this was going to be the climax of the story, they were wrong; I think we are just at the beginning of a long, heartbreaking road.

Evelyn knows exactly what kind of man Geoff is…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Meanwhile, Oliver was rushed to hospital with another seizure and then again with a third, this time landing him in intensive care. While most of the family are sure that he must have epilepsy, it turned out he has a condition called Mitochondrial Disease. So, I went against the Doctor’s advice and Googled and this is going to be a seriously heartbreaking story. Be warned.

Leanne and Steve attempt to wrap their heads around Oliver’s diagnosis…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

While Ed and Michael endured those kind of ‘backhanded’ racist comments as they completed the building work at The Bistro (Danny has moved down south for a new job), Tim had to intervene when James was the victim of homophobia. So, not a great day for the Baileys. Not a great day for society, really.

Ed and his family are due some difficult times…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

In other storylines: Nina protected Asha from bullies and attempted to show her how beautiful she is – I think this could be a really lovely direction for both these characters; Gary persuaded Paul to allow Kelly to continue living with him, Billy and Summer despite her awful behaviour; David continued his reckless behaviour and let Max down; Craig very sweetly reached out to David; Chesney took Gemma to a post-natal depression group, making her realise that she isn’t alone and finally; Evelyn and Arthur went on a date.

Coronation Street plans to resume filming in June

For now, it will air on ITV on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:30pm

Hollyoaks: The Tumour

(Monday 11^th & Tuesday 12^th May 2020)

Tony reluctantly agreed to have the surgery to remove his ‘brain tumour’. Now, I know this is meant to be a really emotive, tense storyline and part of me is crying out at the telly, asking why Tony has to endure yet more trauma after everything he has already been through at evil Breda’s hands – being kidnapped, nearly murdered and losing his son in such a brutal way. Why is he being terrorised by his own father like this? Why can’t he just have some peace? But the glaring plot holes are irritating and distracting me, I’m afraid.

Firstly, why on earth would Edward be Tony’s surgeon? He’s his father. It’s completely inappropriate. But more than that, even if that didn’t matter, Tony wasn’t even speaking to the bloke last week. He’d had an affair with his wife and tried to steal his family. And even before that, they hadn’t been on speaking terms. He waltzed into his life, full of lies, having been absent since he was a child, bedded his wife and shattered his already shattered world. Why on earth would Tony let this man cut his head open and dig around inside his brain? It makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.

Also, he opened him up and then did nothing because there was nothing to do. And yet, nobody even noticed that? Did he hire a load of actors to assist him with surgery? Or make them sign a code of silence? I understand the plot, Edward’s intentions, his vile nature, his determination to get Tony out of the way so he can secure Diane for himself. I understand the reason for the story. But there were more holes in it than Tony’s head and it makes the characters look very ignorant to have ever trusted him or gone through with the procedure.

Poor Tony endures unnecessary surgery…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

However, Verity saw through him immediately and got hold of Tony’s notes so at least one person knows about her father’s lies. He has threatened her into silence but hopefully she will expose him. I can’t quite work out if she is a goodie or a baddie though so we’ll have to keep watching to see what happens…

John Paul made another play for George. I mean, I can’t blame him. I’m a raving lesbian and even I think he’s gorgeous! Moving on… James was not prepared to let John Paul go so easily because he is so desperately in love with him (and Harry and I’m sure there have been several others). He tricked him round to the house under the guise of collecting his stuff and demonstrated the life of luxury he could give him if John Paul forgave him for attempting to murder his sister and they got back together. John Paul was not moved.

With Sid and Juliet on a school trip, Jordan befriended cash strapped Charlie, locking him into this county lines storyline. Charlie agreed to hide drugs for him in exchange for the cash he needed to buy a new games controller, having broken his old one in temper.

Due to the Coronavirus, Hollyoaks has had to suspend filming

Hollyoaks now airs Mondays & Tuesdays, 6:30pm on Channel 4 (sneak peek on E4, 7pm)

These reviews are based on the E4 episodes

In place of normal episodes, Hollyoaks airs ‘Hollyoaks Favourites’, Wednesdays-Fridays, 7pm on E4

Eastenders: Do the Right Thing

(Monday 11^th & Tuesday 12^th May 2020)

In his desperation to make his Dad proud, Ben persuaded Phil to let him join him on what is bound to be yet another ill-advised ‘job’ in order to raise the funds to buy The Vic from Mick and Linda. He headed to the hospital despite clearly having a temperature to have his cochlear implant operation and there, he opted to tactlessly attempt to pump Callum for any information he might have from the police perspective so that he and Phil wouldn’t get caught. Not just a pretty face, Callum worked out what he was doing pretty quickly and quite rightfully, stormed out. Ben is so frustrating sometimes. He has such a nice guy in Callum and yet he constantly pushes him away. Self-destructive doesn’t even cover it!

Ben lets Callum down again…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Kush continued to struggle under the pressure of keeping the Slater household under control, namely Jean who he has been slipping medication to on the sly. Shirley rather rudely told him off for not noticing sooner. Well, she didn’t notice either! He might live with her but it’s not like she hasn’t spent time with Jean since Daniel died. She could have just as easily picked up on the signs that something was wrong. She then stuck her oar in and persuaded Kush that they should increase Jean’s medication to catch her up. This is why these two are not medical professionals!

Their hearts might be in the right place but they left their brains behind. Jean hasn’t been on her medication for weeks. Starting them again should be a careful process. They certainly shouldn’t be increasing the amount she takes! Well, they discovered everything I shouted at the TV quickly enough when she spent the day very out of sorts before collapsing and convulsing in the middle of the Square. It was utterly horrific to watch.

Jean collapses in the market…
(photo credit: Digital Spy)

Perhaps this might lead to the return of Stacey at some point, being that she has abandoned her mother through cancer and the death of the man she loves. It was one thing while she was on the run but she isn’t now so she has no excuse (apart from Lacey Turner’s maternity leave, obvs).

Under pressure from his family, including partner, Denise, Jack managed to get hold of the broken bodycam footage at last and lo and behold, it proved Keegan’s innocence! He showed the footage to Keegan and Tiffany but requested that they stay quiet for now until he could go through the proper channels to evidence it and clear him of his charges. Not trusting that the footage wouldn’t miraculously go missing, Keegan ploughed ahead and put the footage online to show the world exactly what happened. Part of me thinks he is being very silly by going against Jack and part of me is completely supportive. Why would he trust the police (including Jack) at this point? What have they ever shown him but racism and prejudice?

Eastenders will resume filming in June after shutting down for the Coronavirus Lockdown

It currently airs on only on Mondays (8pm) and Tuesdays (7:30pm) on BBC1

Doctors: Ruhma Has It!

(Monday 4^th – Friday 15^th May 2020)

I always love a week that starts with lots of Zara Carmichael! Monday 4^th began with Zara stepping up to support Ruhma at her hearing regarding her suspension from work. Ruhma and her somewhat pointless advocate attempted to explain what happened. While Ruhma does have an exemplary record, apparently some ridiculous people have jumped on the bandwagon and claimed that she was too tactile with them. Firstly, Ruhma is Call the Midwife worthy so anyone that complained, quite frankly, how dare you? Secondly, how hands-off do people want their midwife to be during labour? Do they expect her to stand at the other end of the room and yell out instructions or something? Anyway, Zara was told to keep her mouth shut but let’s face it, this is Zara. When does she ever stay quiet, especially when it comes to standing up for those she cares about? So she said exactly what she thought. Unfortunately, the decision was made to investigate further (how, exactly?) and keep Ruhma’s suspension in place. Ludicrous!

She didn’t, of course and when she received an urgent call from one of her pregnant Mums who was being abused by her husband, she felt she had no choice but to rush to her aid, bringing the vulnerable young woman, Tanya to her home to stay. Zara proved herself to be truly fabulous when she discovered what Ruhma was up to and opted not to roll over on her. In fact, she even provided a prescription for Tanya when she needed it. The moment that Daniel caught Ruhma and Zara together at the surgery and Zara declared that Ruhma had chronic thrush in order to scare him away was pure gold, warning him not to waylay a woman with ‘burning plumbing’! Hilarious.

Tanya’s husband tracks her down at Ruhma’s house…
(photo credit: What’sOnTV)

Unfortunately, Tanya’s husband successfully tracked her down and there was an incredible showdown at the house, thankfully resolved by Shak, although Ruhma really held her own. The scenes were really intense and brilliantly shot. My only criticism is Ruhma’s assertion to Zara that Tanya wouldn’t be eligible for housing support. She’s pregnant and fleeing domestic violence. She would be considered priority need. But that doesn’t take away from a really gripping and emotive story. And the good news is that the police were called so hopefully she can get the help and support she needs. But I do worry that Ruhma is going to get into more trouble at work now…

Speaking of trouble… Rob came home from a bad day at work (he failed his unconscious bias test, suggesting he has racial bias!) to find foster kid, Jay smoking weed in the garden. Hitting the roof, he decided that Jay had to leave despite his explanation that cannabis controls his epilepsy and he doesn’t have entitlement to CBD oil on the NHS. Rob eventually gave in on the promise he wouldn’t smoke but after his fits began again and she failed to get any support from her colleagues over the CBD oil, Karen did possibly the most stupid thing she has ever done, which is to go and by weed from a dealer and supply it to Jay. Firstly, it’s obviously illegal. Secondly, she’s married to a policeman. Thirdly, it’s completely disrespectful, knowing Rob’s position on the matter. And lastly, it’s completely irresponsible to supply marijuana to her foster child, regardless of her good intentions.

Of course, Jay goes through the supply extremely quickly, sending her back to ‘Big Red’ for more. On her way out, she bumped into one of Rob’s colleagues where she completely messed up and got caught with the drugs. Making up a story about chronic back pain, the police officer took pity on her and let her off on the promise that she wouldn’t tell anyone she hadn’t reported the offence. But let’s face it, there’s no way this isn’t going to come out and have serious consequences. I like Karen a lot but she is making a big mistake here.

Karen is stopped by the police…
(photo credit: WhatsOnTV)

Sid and Valerie conspired to get Bear and Ayesha together for Ayesha’s birthday but it didn’t quite go to plan. For starters, while nobody but Jimmi and Emma turned up to the party, Valerie pulled and Ayesha got very drunk. But Sid and Bear didn’t make it at all, as they were pulled over by a disgustingly racist police officer. She had no reason to stop them. She assumed they were up to no good for one reason only and when she couldn’t find them doing anything wrong, she held them at the side of the road ‘doing checks’ for an excruciatingly long time. She wavered when she found out Sid’s occupation and finally let them go when he name-dropped Sergeant Rob Hollins. It was so uncomfortable to watch, as it should have been. To know that this actually happens. And for what reason? She could have been out, catching actual criminals, instead of good, hardworking men off to a party. Both of them ended up too shaken to go to the party but Bear implored Sid to make a complaint.

Ayesha woke up completely confused in unfamiliar surroundings, which understandably sent her into a spin after the last time she didn’t remember the night before. Thankfully, what happened this time was she lost her keys and kind Jimmi took her back to his, where she threw up and he had to get her changed and put her to bed. Ever the gentleman, he went out the next morning and got breakfast. You’ve just got to love Jimmi Clay!

Later in the week, Ayesha suddenly did a full 180 and decided she did like Bear after all when at the beginning of the week, she absolutely hated him. And I genuinely cannot fathom that anything at all happened to make that change. But anyway, they go to the wildest club night consisting of about six people including the DJ ‘DJ Smithy’, who is a friend of Bear’s, at around lunch time on a weekday. I mean, is that what people do now? Clubbing on a Wednesday afternoon? (I mean, not now, obviously, everyone’s at home, watching Doctors, shielding from Covid-19). Or did a night shoot not fit with the interconnecting storylines?

Ayesha supported a family whose father was waiting for a kidney transplant and whose son has offered himself as an anonymous living donor, having been rejected by his Dad for being gay. Wow, that’s a complicated family situation. With her encouragement, Bear made a statement against the racist police officer from last week. I am so relieved!

Ayesha supports a troubled family…
(photo credit: WhatsOnTV)

Emma’s new found fame as an LGBTQ+ advocate puts her in touch with a woman who has kept her sexuality hidden all her life. Mother and grandmother, she was married for years but fell in love with a woman, who she nearly ran away with but couldn’t abandon her daughter, who she now has a difficult relationship with. She has spent her life longing for this woman to come back for her. It’s a really sad, complicated, well written story. I love that from this radio interview and Emma’s bravery has come an influx of questions and people needing advice, to the point that Al has ended up setting up an ‘Auntie Em’ advice website for her! Another string to her bow!

Al spent a day trying to help a woman battling with her memory, trapped in the past on the night when her daughter was murdered, resulting in her attacking a man by mistake. It’s a truly haunting and at times, confusing story, really well written and put together, capturing the sheer bewilderment and distress this woman is experiencing. The following week, he got caught up with an old friend that he clearly fancied who had been sucked into working for the DWP and was manipulated into signing off a patient as being fit to work, as he wasn’t provided with all the information. The man was desperate not to sign on and Al’s friend had quotas to meet. Al stopped fancying her pretty quick.

Next week, despite Doctors ceasing filming due to the Coronavirus, the show does appear to still be airing every weekday on BBC1 at 1:45pm

Hollyoaks: No Kiss

(Monday 4^th & Tuesday 5^th May 2020)

Sally successfully meddled between John Paul and PC George Kiss, although it turned out that she didn’t need to as George was interested in John Paul anyway and asked him out to lunch. I have to say, they do make a rather gorgeous couple. I just hope this doesn’t mean that George doesn’t end up in that body bag.

John Paul bumps into James before his date…

However, perhaps I shouldn’t worry too much as their first date doesn’t go terribly well. First, Goldie informed George that John Paul is related to her mother, infamous serial killer, Breda McQueen. Second, James showed up, having just declared that he is in love with him (wasn’t he still in love with Harry five minutes ago, prompting him to shoot Mercedes as he was so grief stricken?) Picking up on the tension between them, George concluded that John Paul wasn’t yet over his ex and left. These lot do ping from one to the other, don’t they (James, John Paul, Harry (RIP)…?) And it’s only going to get more complicated when Ste returns.

George and John Paul’s date doesn’t quite go to plan…

Mitchell desperately tried to prove himself to uncertain Scott. After one failed attempt, he finally persuaded him of his love and successfully proposed. Scott and Mitchell are engaged! Martine was thrilled and Felix promised to keep things a secret from Walter. Yeah, I’m sure that will last.

Ollie and Brooke got Cindy’s back right up by suggesting she sell vegan burgers. I mean, how dare she offer a vegan option? Ludicrous! You couldn’t possibly expand your range to include the dietary requirements of everyone, could you, especially with the type of people your hippy, recycling market might appeal to?! Ollie broke the rules and he and Brooke took their vegan burger project to Cindy’s market when it was closed and actually, they were really popular. Go figure.

Having stopped his medication, Tony was feeling significantly better, to the point that for Verity’s sake, he even invited Edward to a family lunch. Of course, this turned out to be a big mistake as the first chance he got, Edward slipped some of the medication into Tony’s drink, prompting him to collapse at the table. I really hate this guy! Hasn’t Tony been through enough already? What kind of monster would abuse his own son in this way? He was rushed into hospital with a seizure and for some bizarre reason, Edward was allowed to be his Doctor. He was already proven to be seriously untrustworthy and yet he was entrusted with Tony’s medical care. Hmm… Lazy storytelling or stupid characters?

Anyway, the next day was Luke’s birthday and about four of his loved ones gathered together for a very limp party. Tony, having been dragged to a brain scan by Edward, showed up as if nothing had happened, only for Edward to barge in, break all Doctor/Patient Confidentiality and announce that he had a brain tumour to everyone in attendance. Good job nobody cared enough about Luke to show up, really.

Due to the Coronavirus, Hollyoaks has had to suspend filming

Hollyoaks will now air Mondays and Tuesdays at 6:30pm on Channel 4 with a sneak peek on E4 at 7pm

These reviews are based on the E4 episodes

In place of normal episodes, Hollyoaks will air ‘Hollyoaks Favourites’, Wednesdays-Fridays, 7pm on E4

Eastenders: The Longest Night Out

(Monday 4^th and Tuesday 5^th May 2020)

The cast of Eastenders appear to be enduring the longest night out ever as we pick up from where we left off last Tuesday. Who can even remember that far back?! Goodness me, these episodes are badly spaced out! At least Hollyoaks put something on in between…

Anyway, Whitney ended up the stronger party as Michaela confessed to knowing all about the abuse and her awful relationship with Tony. By the time ‘hero’ Gray showed up, he hardly even needed to save her; she only really needed him for a ride home. Whitney refused to lay charges against Michaela for abduction. While she was unable to forgive her for putting her in danger with Tony, she didn’t want to cause her more pain. However, the way she looked at Gray at the end of the episode was a big concern…

For the whole episode, Chantelle was locked up in the office with Kheerat and for a moment there, it looked like she was going to finally tell someone of the abuse she suffers at the hands of her husband. Unfortunately, it was at that moment that the electricity started working again and she took the moment to leave rather than continue talking. However, I think Kheerat is on the alert now. He knows there is more to Gray and Chantelle’s relationship than meets the eye so hopefully he will pursue a conversation.

Ruby disappointed me terribly by refusing to call an ambulance for Bobby. Instead, they took him into her office to recover from his reaction to the drugs he took. He denied that Dottie had anything to do with anything and Peter and hiccupping Jay (very cute) brought him home. While Peter opened up to Jay about his awkward relationship with Bobby, Lola panicked over the truth potentially coming out about her regretful night with Peter. You’re in a soap. Of course it’s going to come out! Especially now that Jay has taken Peter on as an employee at the Car Lot.

Lola panics when Jay hires Peter to work for him…

The next morning, Bobby was left heartbroken when Dottie let him down gently, explaining that he was too young for her. He then revealed to his family that she was responsible for the drugs he took, although she didn’t sell them to him directly. Peter was left raging at her, despite the fact that previously, he had clearly been attracted to her. Meanwhile, Ian arranged a memorial bench in honour of Denny, prompting a big speech from Kathy and a round of applause from the whole Square. Sadly, Sharon was still away (the bench arrived early) so Ian didn’t get praised by the person he actually did it for.

Phil continued to support Linda over their shared addiction. She braved another AA meeting and despite his attendance, she was finally open up about her problems.

Linda receives surprise support from Phil…

Isaac raged at his mother after discovering that Patrick was his real father. I mean, you could do worse. Patrick is an amazing man. And it wasn’t his fault. He didn’t know until a few weeks ago. Also, count yourself lucky. You’re new to the show, quite dull and very irritating. Patrick is pretty much the only thing you have going for you, quite frankly. Stop whinging and be grateful!

Kush discovered that Jean isn’t taking her medication…

As the Slaters appear to still be celebrating Easter due to the reduced number of episodes (for a moment there, I thought Jean really was confused), Kush became increasingly worried about his loved one’s state of mind, finally discovering that she stopped taking her medication weeks ago. While Jean insisted that she was completely in control, her behaviour told a different story. Completely on his own with Kat and Stacey away and with no help from Big Mo, poor Kush had all the responsibility on his shoulders to support the family. Consequently, he made the decision to slip Jean’s meds into her food. The wrong thing to do but for the right reasons?

Due to the Coronavirus, Eastenders has had to suspend filming

It will air from now on only on Mondays (8pm) and Tuesdays (7:30pm) on BBC1