The week’s biggest soap news.
Fans of soap opera spoilers are in for a great treat this week. Some of our fave cast members joined in the fun as well, sharing subtle teasers while walking the red carpet at the National Television Awards, in addition to the customary press releases and plot announcements.
If you missed any gossip, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with our weekly Sunday summary of the top stories of the week.
In Friday’s episode of Emmerdale (September 13), Moira Dingle’s diagnosis was finally made clear after weeks of uncertainty around her concerning symptoms. The well-known figure was informed that her brain tumour, a meningioma, is not malignant.
Future episodes of Emmerdale will examine Moira’s anxiety over her future and her concerns about the potential of surgery and various therapies, the show’s official press release said.
“Moira’s diagnosis comes as a huge shock to both her and her family and Moira faces an emotional and challenging time ahead,” said show producer Sophie Roper.
“The research and support we’ve received throughout this storyline has allowed us to depict the realities of the condition and though at times it may be distressing to see the symptoms Moira’s experiencing, we’re keen to explore the hope and resilience Moira finds as she comes to terms with her diagnosis.”
EastEnders goes live again
This week, EastEnders made its first significant announcement in honour of the show’s 40th anniversary. Exciting preparations for a live episode to coincide with the historic week in February 2025 have been confirmed by show executives.
A love tale that is featured in the live special of a soap opera will have an interactive component that lets viewers vote on the resolution. On the evening of the public vote, the cast will respond by portraying the selected option.
Cast members were nervous and excited about the task ahead when Digital Spy met up with them this week on the red carpet at the National Television Awards.
Actor Scott Maslen, who portrays Jack Branning, is always a good sport. He even made jokes about his line-flipping during the 2010 live 25th anniversary show. Scott, we have no doubt that it will be a case of second time lucky.
Ross Kemp is reportedly planning to do a special documentary for the show’s 40th anniversary.
significant departure confirmed by Hollyoaks star; significant spoilers coming
This week, Hollyoaks broadcast a heartbreaking scene for those James Nightingale devotees (including us!), when he was tragically killed by a car bomb, caused by the mischievous actions of Blue and his sidekick Rex.
James’s actor Gregory Finnegan confirmed shortly after that he had really departed the Channel 4 serial opera, citing his excellent book about his playing career, his time on Hollyoaks, and his exit from the program as reasons for his confirmation.
As part of Hollyoaks’ dramatic cast reduction for the show’s new period, Gregory was written off by the producers—a unexpected decision considering his character’s continued popularity.
Gregory recently spoke with Digital Spy in-depth and surprisingly candidly about his leaving; you can read that interview starting on Monday at 7.30 a.m. on the website.
Sair Khan’s return to Coronation Street
Sair Khan, a star of Coronation Street, has been hinting at her comeback to the show following her maternity break.
May saw Sair, who gave birth to a son, post a picture of a Corrie letter on Instagram Stories along with the declaration, “I am Backstreet.”
When Alya gets back, may the love spark between her and Adam Barlow resurface?
Star of Emmerdale teases a dramatic twist for Tom and Belle
This week, Eden Taylor-Draper, star of Emmerdale, provided an update on Belle’s plotline, dropping the biggest clue yet that Tom could be facing consequences for his misdeeds.
Eden discussed the significance of justice being carried out following the ongoing plot, which has received feedback from actual charitable organisations.
Eden stated to The Mirror: “We’ll see, but it’s going to rock a few boats because the Dingles are the most devoted family.
“In a plot like this, I think justice is necessary. Everyone will be content if justice is done, in my opinion.”
Time-jumping mysteries of Hollyoaks exposed
The Hollyoaks cast has been quite active this week promoting the new period of the show, which has generated a lot of curiosity as we keep getting teased about the much-awaited one-year time shift.
Producer of the show Hannah Cheers ignited some rumours when she said she would be bringing the iconic Mercedes McQueen a “bold” new plot that would be unlike anything the character has ever encountered.
At the NTAs, Ashley Taylor Dawson, who plays Darren Osborne, discussed the future of Frankie and JJ’s narrative of sexual assault by their siblings with Digital Spy.
Ashley forewarned that even if JJ’s misdeeds are public knowledge, the Osborne family’s situation would get “a lot harder” after a year since some significant decisions must be made.
Ashley gave us a hint about a major conundrum when she said, “I would ask everyone who is watching it, ‘What would you do in that situation?'” I believe that everyone will have self-doubts, which is what makes the future fascinating.”
Is Mick going to be back on EastEnders?
This week, former EastEnder Danny Dyer made a public plea to bring back Mick Carter live on television, which had several of the NTAs wag their mouths.
That may be a tempting offer for the BBC soap opera’s executives, who are eager to bring back as many well-known characters as possible to help mark the show’s 40th anniversary.
Coincidentally, only about an hour before, on the red carpet at the event, Digital Spy had discussed with Kellie Bright (Linda Carter) the potential of Danny making a comeback.
“I would love to do anything with him, and I would love to see Mick and Linda together again,” Kellie said to us.
“He’s a busy lad going about his business, and I’m supporting him virtually. I’m sure everyone would adore it. Let’s see. Though we’ll see. I’d be shocked.”
Alf’s health worry at home and away
Alf Stewart, the show’s original character, is about to have another serious health crisis. In the most recent teaser, which is presently airing in Australia, he is seen being rushed to the hospital.
Another heart crisis prompts Alf to be admitted for emergency care, which is related to Bree Cameron’s persistent problems at work following her failure to save another beloved Summer Bay character.
There could be serious repercussions for Alf’s care as Bree tries to rebuild her professional confidence. Is she able to gather herself before it’s too late?
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