Showing posts with label Eastenders. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Eastenders. Show all posts

Ab Fab and Albert Square just weren't in the same class as Downton Abbey

Monday, December 26, 2011

Ab Fab and Albert Square just weren't in the same class as Downton Abbey


By Jaci Stephen

Last updated at 1:01 AM on 26th December 2011


What was it about Downton Abbey on ITV1 that stirred my soul and made it the highlight of my Christmas schedule?

What was it about EastEnders that made me turn to it with a heavy heart?

Why did the Absolutely Fabulous celebrating the comedy’s 20-year anniversary dissatisfy me in a way I would not have believed possible when the brilliant show hit our screens two decades ago?

'Dissatisfying': Jennifer Saunders as Edina and Joanna Lumley as Patsy
'Dissatisfying': Jennifer Saunders as Edina and Joanna Lumley as Patsy

Nothing reflects the changes in our lives as much as what appears on our screens. Yesterday, I watched these three shows that have been hugely hyped in the build-up to Christmas — the shows that will have attracted the largest proportion of the audience.

It is my job as a soap critic to watch EastEnders for two hours (sometimes more) a week. It has an extraordinary cast, brilliant writers and, in Bryan Kirkwood, an imaginative producer who pushes boundaries. But even with all this, I still found myself screaming at the screen yesterday. Could somebody not smile — just once — at a pathetic joke in a Christmas cracker? Could the florist not have a Christmas off without at least two people dying?

Ab Fab was even more depressing, not least because I remember the first ever episode when the show aired. My friend and I rang each other up with joyous cries of: ‘It’s us! We’re Patsy and Edina! (pictured left).’ It was one of the greatest sitcoms of all time. But at a time when economic worries and the dangers of alcohol and drugs are so much in the headlines, is it that funny any more?


Anniversary: Ab Fab celebrated 20 years on our screens, but not in a memorable way
Anniversary: Ab Fab celebrated 20 years on our screens, but not in a memorable way

How can I laugh along with the canned laughter dubbed over ‘jokes’ about drug abuse and excessive drinking, and not think about Amy Winehouse’s family spending their first Christmas without their daughter? She was a victim of the very culture Absolutely Fabulous celebrated. It is extremely difficult in an economic downturn to celebrate Edina’s constant thirst for Bolly.

And even though Absolutely Fabulous tried to bring the material up to date, it remains a show about one thing: people who indulge and couldn’t give a damn about anyone else.

This just isn’t the time in which to be doing that.


Merry kiss-mass: Downton Abbey was full of optimism
Merry kiss-mass: Downton Abbey was full of optimism

But when it came to Downton, I found the show ticked boxes in ways I could not have imagined. It was the perfect Christmas Day TV. The show also brought us a love story — would Lady Mary end up with the love of her life, once he had got over his dead fiancée?

Now here’s the interesting thing: Downton and EastEnders have exactly the same themes: love, jealousy, hate, power, revenge, despair.

But what Downton delivers is the feel-good factor. It offers escapism — and, in its inherent optimism, the possibility that better times might just be around the corner. Let’s hope Downton is right. Here’s to 2012.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2078608/Downton-Abbey-different-class-EastEnders-Ab-Fab.html#ixzz1heAkUiL4

Fire burning! It'll be a toasty Christmas in Albert Square... but which EastEnders will survive to see the New Year?

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Fire burning! It'll be a toasty Christmas in Albert Square... but which EastEnders will survive to see the New Year?


By Holly Thomas

Last updated at 1:44 AM on 24th December 2011


It's fires blazing for a second time in Albert Square this Christmas, as the B&B goes up in flames for a sizzling 2011 finale.

Masood Ahmed, played by Nitin Ganatra, does all he can to save his ex-wife Zainab (Nina Wadia) from the influence of the evil Yusef Khan- played by Ace Bhatti- but sadly his efforts are met with a terrifying revenge from the evil doctor.

It's still anyone's guess who bites the dust, but it certainly looks as though this will be the last Christmas at least one EastEnder sees.



Ruthless: The evil doctor Yusef (played by Ace Bhatti) sets fire to the B&B in a bid to kill arch-rival Masood (Nittin Ganatra) during the explosive EastEnders Boxing day episode
Ruthless: The evil doctor Yusef (played by Ace Bhatti) sets fire to the B&B in a bid to kill arch-rival Masood (Nittin Ganatra) during the explosive EastEnders Boxing day episode


Left to burn: It doesn't look hopeful for Masood as the fire creeps closer to his unconscious body
Left to burn? It doesn't look hopeful for well-meaning Masood as the fire creeps closer to his unconscious body

Events come to a head when Masood discovers that she has been drugged by Yusef.

Masood bravely confronts Yusef, however the villain manages to escape, and heads straight to the B&B to wreak his devastating revenge.


He is hotly pursued by Masood, however a fight between the pair leaves Zainab's would-be savior unconscious.


Horrified: Syed (Marc Elliott) and boyfriend Christian (John Partridge) hold back Zainab (Nina Wadia) as she desperately tries to enter the B&B to save Masood
Horrified: Syed (Marc Elliott) and boyfriend Christian (John Partridge) hold back Zainab (Nina Wadia) as she desperately tries to enter the B&B to save Masood


Yusef then starts a fire in a ruthless attempt to put an end to his arch-rival.

Realising what has happened, the rest of the family rush over to try to save Masood and extinguish the blaze.

Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, has his own demons to battle meanwhile.



Fireworks: Christian, Patrick (Rudolph Walker) and Kim (Tameka Empson) watch as the B&B explodes
Fireworks: Christian, Patrick (Rudolph Walker) and Kim (Tameka Empson) watch as the B&B explodes
Cowering: The EastEnders draw back in alarm as the blaze gets out of control
Cowering: The EastEnders draw back in alarm as the blaze gets out of control

Driven mad with signs that he is being followed by someone who knows a dark past secret, he also visits the B&B in a desperate bid to retrieve a package containing incriminating evidence which could bring him down.

The tension builds as water dripping throughout the house meets the exposed electrics, sparking fireworks which see the B&B explode with Phil, Denise, Yusef, Tamwar and Masood all trapped inside.

This isn't the only tragedy afoot for the beleaguered EastEnders, as on Tuesday, Pat collapses and on Thursday finds herself in hospital, awaiting the results of a CT scan.


Double tragedy: It's not looking good for Pat Evans as she takes to her sick bed over Christmas
Double tragedy: It's not looking good for Pat Evans- played by Pam St Clement- as she takes to her sick bed over Christmas


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2078260/EastEnders-Who-survive-New-Year.html#ixzz1hRtal3W6

Video Danielle Harold AKA Lola Pearce pictures

Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Uploaded by on 26 Jul 2011
:)

Eastenders : Mandy Salters (Nicola Stapleton) is back with a Bang

Sunday, December 18, 2011
Back with a bang!

Watch out, Walford. A blast from the past is set to rock the Square as Mandy Salter returns

Nicola Stapleton
 

EASTENDERS fans will be more than a little familiar with the name Mandy Salter. Dubbed "poisonous", "loathsome" and "a manipulative force of nature", she was the soap's original holy terror; the character viewers loved to hate.

For two explosive years from 1992 to 1994, wild child Mandy ran rings around Pat Butcher, Ian Beale and Pauline Fowler; led Aidan Brosnan (played by Nineties pin-up Sean Maguire) into a life of ecstasy abuse and sleeping on the streets; and was even responsible for the death of Sharon's beloved poodle Roly – who was hit by a truck when Mandy took him for an ill-fated walk round the Square.
Unflinchingly played without make-up or a hint of vanity by Nicola Stapleton, Mandy, in short, was dynamite. Her one and only act of goodness - talking Aidan out of jumping off a roof on Christmas Day in 1993 - had 23 million of us glued to our TVs.

Now, 17 years after she left Walford, the EastEnders hellraiser is back after unlikely hero Ian rescues her from a life of lap dancing and Lord knows what else. But he could end up regretting it as she wraps him round her little finger. And the rest of the Square had better bolt their doors, lock up their boyfriends and change their PINs, as money-grabbing Mandy takes no prisoners.
As South Londoner Nicola, 37, slips into a body-con dress and menacingly clutches a stick of dynamite for TV buzz's exclusive cover shoot, she's raring to reveal all about her hugely-anticipated return. Brace yourself, Walford - there's a storm brewing...

Nicola Stapleton on TV buzz cover
Here we are, 17 years on - what's taken you so long to return to the Square?
[Laughs.] It had been discussed before, but then I was invited to watch the filming of last year's live 25th-anniversary episode. Later on I spoke to [executive producer] Brian Kirkwood, who I'd worked with on Hollyoaks Later. As soon as he started telling me all these storylines he wanted to do with Mandy, I was buzzing. I always thought at some point I'd be back - I just didn't think it'd take 17 years! Mandy is such a brilliant character - I'd never want to play the pretty girl next door. On the surface Mandy's a bitch, but she's had it hard. Growing up she had a life of abuse, so it gives her lots of undertones.
What was your favourite story back in the Nineties?
Dog lovers won't like me, but Mandy killing Roly was quite funny. I am a dog lover - I have a shih-tzu named Mr Lopez after J.Lo, because he's got a big a**e – but Mandy should never have been allowed to walk the institution that was Roly. I got a few animal-rights letters after that...
When you returned to the set, did you get that 'new girl' fear all over again?
A bit, but only for a day. I'm never nervous, though. Ever. I get excited instead. It's more positive than thinking: 'I hope everyone's going to like me!' So I was well ready.
What can we expect from Mandy when she returns to Albert Square?
She's incredibly guarded, but gradually she'll let her barriers down so viewers will see what's been going on in her life. Of course, because Ian finds her at a strip club, everyone will assume she's worked as a prostitute. Ian won't know what's hit him - Mandy's all knickers and water pistols! And I've got plenty of time to shake things up.
What's Mandy's style now?
She dresses very skimpily and uses her body to get what she wants. She's an overtly sexual character - very minxy and incredibly flirty.
How have you changed in the past 17 years?
I haven't changed that much, I just love what I do for a living. I know that sounds corny, but I've never done anything else. I've been a working actress for 31 years now, from the Royal Court Theatre and movies to TV shows like Bad Girls and Emmerdale. I absolutely love it.

Nicola Stapleton
Sounds like you have a strong work ethic. Does that help you understand why so many young people are getting into trouble today?
Young people are frustrated because there aren't many jobs and kids are living in pretty s***ty areas. But I came from a pretty s***ty area. You have to make your own destiny. There's a huge amount of pride that comes from doing a hard day's graft.
Who first encouraged you to act?
My primary-school headmaster, Mr Owen. I was in the school play and he told my parents: "She's a natural, you should enrol her in acting classes." Where I grew up, in Elephant & Castle in London, kids didn't go to private school, so everyone laughed when my parents said I was going to stage school. I went to the Sylvia Young Theatre School from ages 12 to 17. By the time I was 16 I knew what I wanted to do with my life.
Who were your mates at Sylvia Young's?
I was in the same year as Keeley Hawes, Denise Van Outen, Emma Bunton and Danniella Westbrook. Me and Danniella were really naughty - we used to flick chemicals at our biology teacher to make his coat burn! She was already playing Sam Mitchell in EastEnders and I remember thinking: 'If I get this job, we're gonna have such a laugh.' So when I got there I already had a friend. This time I've got Tameka Empson [Kim Fox] with me - whenever I'm in a bad mood I just have to look at her and she'll make me smile.
Wasn't your first ever role in a Bond film?
Yes, I was an extra in Octopussy. I was around six at the time and had a couple of teeth missing, but I was in the circus scene when there's a bomb in the cannon. There were lion cubs and elephants on set - I was mesmerised by it all.
You've also worked with Charlie Sheen...
Yes, I starred alongside him in the film Courage Mountain in 1990. He was a lovely guy. I've worked with a few big stars and they can be quite rude, but Charlie went out of his way to make it an amazing experience for all the kids. He was an absolute gentleman.
Now you're back in EastEnders, how long will you stick around for?
A while - at least until sometime next year. It's great because I love playing Mandy.
And who do you think Mandy will hook up with?
She ain't fussy! Young, old, whatever - she don't care, that girl. Mandy will have a go at anything! She does toy with one of the younger boys, but I couldn't possibly say who...
Do you have a partner?
No, I'm single at the moment. But I'm always looking [grins]. I'd like a guy who has his own thing going on, not someone who just follows your career. But I'd never judge a guy by his job. That way, there's more to choose from!
Would you like to have children?
I'm quite happy for now. When I do have kids, I want to stop working. Not that I've got anything against working mothers - I take my hat off to them - but I've been working my whole life so I think that by the time I have kids, I'll deserve a few years off.

Meryl Fernandes (Afia Masood) Eastenders Profile page

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Afia Masood
played by Meryl Fernandes

A free-spirit that knows what she wants and how to get it...
First appearance: 01.10.2010
Marital Status: Married
Address: 41 Albert Square
Occupation: Co-owner of the Argee Bhajee/ Opticians receptionist
Most likely to say
You must agree

Afia Khan

Actor profile

About Meryl Fernandes

Eastenders was Meryl's first professional acting role, although she has also appeared in the show as a schoolgirl extra!
She has also starred in a variety of television shows including the smash hit drama 'Doctor Who' and 'Minder' along side none other than resident cheeky-chappy Shane Richie!
In theatre, Meryl has dazzled audiences at the National theatre in 'The Man of Mode' and 'A Matter of Life and Death'.






Character Profile

Afia is adventurous and straight to the point, doesn't sugar-coat the truth, and doesn't follow everyone else. Life is too short to just be part of the crowd and she wants to stand out!
The closest person she has is her father, Yusef, after losing her mother at a young age.
She knows what she wants and cunningly knows how to get it, which she proved by bagging the Square's local nerd Tamwar Masood. But can they live happily ever after with the past that lies between both their families?

Family

Yusef Khan

Yusef Khan

Father

Love

Tamwar Masood thumbnail

Tamwar Masood

After meeting by accident, Afia and Tamwar began a romance which was

EastEnders star Danielle Harold wants Lola and Fatboy romance

'EastEnders' star Danielle Harold wants Lola, Fatboy romance

Published Thursday, Dec 1 2011, 16:42 GMT | By Daniel Kilkelly
EastEnders star Danielle Harold has revealed that she would like to see a romance develop between her character Lola Pearce and Fatboy Chubb in the future.

Fatboy, played by Ricky Norwood, has developed feelings for Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) in recent months - but Harold confessed that she wants him to become interested in Lola one day.

Lola Pierce (Danielle Harold) from 'EastEnders'
© BBC
Fatboy in EastEnders
© BBC


Harold told Inside Soap: "I get on really well with Ricky Norwood and would love to work with him a bit more. I'm also really close to Shona McGarty and Jacqueline Jossa. We always go out when we can."

Asked who Lola's next love interest should be, she replied: "That's a very hard question, because Lola's not one for relationships. I know Fatboy is a bit old for Lola, but they both have similar attitudes as they're really streetwise. I actually think they'd bounce off each other quite well if they ever did get together."

The actress also said that she is thrilled with Lola's current pregnancy storyline.

"It's been absolutely brilliant," she explained. "I love kids, even if they can be a bit naughty sometimes! I think it'd be great to work with a baby - I love all the kids in EastEnders. They're wicked."

Harold joined the cast of EastEnders in the summer.

Watch Lola's EastEnders character trail below:

EastEnders Spoiler: Afia turns against Yusef - Spoiler Pictures

Friday, December 2, 2011

'EastEnders': Afia turns against Yusef - Spoiler Pictures - Digital Spy

Published Tuesday, Nov 29 2011, 00:01 GMT | By Daniel Kilkelly
EastEnders villain Yusef Khan has a new problem to deal with in next week's episodes as his own daughter Afia starts to stand in the way of his plans.

Afia (Meryl Fernandes) turns against Yusef when she discovers the truth about the fire which nearly killed Zainab all those years ago. Fans will see how she makes the discovery in an upcoming episode.

Stunned that her father tried to kill Zainab, Afia makes it clear to Yusef (Ace Bhatti) that she knows his secret and warns that she will only keep quiet if he cuts ties with the Masoods and leaves London for good.

Afia tells Yusef she wants him to leave
© BBC


However, Yusef is unprepared to let Zainab (Nina Wadia) go, so he makes the shock decision to tell her the truth about the fire. Zainab is immediately horrified to see Yusef's true colours and rushes out in an emotional state, before later returning and ordering the scheming doctor to leave.

Unwilling to go without a fight, Yusef tries to manipulate Zainab once again, reminding her that he was young and emotional at the time and that he risked his life by going back to save her.

Zainab ultimately makes a surprise decision of her own as she is finally won round by Yusef's words and agrees to marry him the next day.

While Zainab's family are unhappy over her plans, it's only Denise (Diane Parish) who seems willing to step in - warning Zainab that Yusef is controlling her and that she's strong enough to break free. Will Zainab heed her advice or will she marry Yusef?

Zainab and Yusef decide to get married
© BBC


EastEnders airs these scenes on Tuesday, December 6 and Thursday, December 8 at 7.30pm on BBC One.

Danielle Harold Shona McGarty Jacqueline Jossa (The Albert Square teens) get a glamorous makeover for Christmas

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Looks like they've been up West: Shona McGarty and the Albert Square teens get a glamorous makeover in time for Christmas



By Amy Oliver

Last updated at 2:51 PM on 29th November 2011


Her character's idea of glamour is a few sneaky drinks down the Queen Vic before an emotional meltdown on Arthur's bench.

Now Shona McGarty, who plays tracksuit-loving Whitney Dean in Eastenders, has ditched chip-shop chic for show-stopping glamour after getting a sophisticated makeover in time for Christmas.

McGarty, 20, looked like she'd taken a trip 'up 'West' to purchase the stunning floor-length Grecian gown by Anoushka G, which hugged her enviable curves in all the right places.


Scrub up well: The young cast from left to right: Tony Discipline (Tyler Moon), Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning), Shona McGarty (Whitney Dean), Danielle Harold (Lola Pearce) and Matt Lapinskas (Anthony Moon)
Scrub up well: The young cast from left to right: Tony Discipline (Tyler Moon), Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning), Shona McGarty (Whitney Dean), Danielle Harold (Lola Pearce) and Matt Lapinskas (Anthony Moon)

The pretty actress posed with fellow Walford cast members Danielle Harold, who plays Lola Pearce, Jacqueline Jossa, who plays Tanya and Max’s tearaway daughter Lauren Branning, Matt Lapinskas who plays Anthony Moon and Tony Discipline, who plays loveable Tyler Moon.

The young team were treated to the makeover for an exclusive shoot and interview in Now Magazine where they talk wardrobe malfunctions, red-carpet disasters and dealing with their new-found fame.

The cast posed inside the Queen's Head pub, a posh establishment in North London with gilded frames and parquet flooring - an entire universe away from the dingy Queen Vic.

McGarty, who oozed old Hollywood glamour in the shoot, revealed she 'quite likes' the attention fame brings her and even had a nice word to say about the paparazzi.

They are 'nice people who are just doing their jobs. It’s part of the job,' she said.


Lights, camera, glamour! McGarty, left, and Discipline, right, lounge in a very stylish pub - the Queen's Head
Lights, camera, glamour! McGarty, left, and Discipline, right, lounge in a very stylish pub - the Queen's Head


Not a tomato juice in sight: Lapinskas, left, shakes up a cocktail in style for pretty-in-pink Jossa, right
Not a tomato juice in sight: Lapinskas, left, shakes up a cocktail in style for pretty-in-pink Jossa, right

Despite her fabulous makeover, Danielle Harold, 19, who looked stunning in a floor-length cream gown by Coast and perfect up-do, hasn’t had a smooth introduction to the world of red-carpet glamour.

'I went to my first ever premier. Just before I was about to go out of the door I sat in mascara and got it all over my light grey dress,' she said.

'I scrubbed it off, but then I had watermarks all over it. If that wasn’t bad enough, I walked out the door and got my heel stuck in a grate. I spent the whole time trying to cover up the mark on my dress with my clutch. Everyone must have thought I was crazy!'






Ice queen: Danielle Harold looks stunning in a floor-length cream, strapless gown and perfect up-do - a world away from her Walford character
Ice queen: Danielle Harold looks stunning in a floor-length cream, strapless gown and perfect up-do - a world away from her Walford character




Albert Square chic: McGarty as troubled Whitney Dean, left, Jossa as Lauren Branning, centre, and Harold as Lola Pearce, right
Albert Square chic: McGarty as troubled Whitney Dean, left, Jossa as Lauren Branning, centre, and Harold as Lola Pearce, right
Albert Square chic: McGarty as troubled Whitney Dean, left, Jossa as Lauren Branning, centre, and Harold as Lola Pearce, right
 

...And how they normally look on screen: McGarty as troubled Whitney Dean in trademark tracksuit, left, Jossa as Lauren Branning, centre, and Harold as Lola Pearce, right

New moons: Lapinskas as Anthony Moon, left, his on-screen father Eddie, played by David Essex, centre and Discipline as Tyler Moon, right
New moons: Lapinskas as Anthony Moon, left, his on-screen father Eddie, played by David Essex, centre and Discipline as Tyler Moon, right





Read the full feature in Now Magazine out today
Read the full feature in Now Magazine out today

Meanwhile Jacqueline Jossa, 19, who looked pretty-in-pink taffeta also by Anoushka G, added: 'The day before the Soap Awards I got a spray tan and then tried on my dress.

'When I took it off I realised I’d covered the back of it in fake tan! I still wore it though.'

However the fan-mail she has been receiving is seemingly less appealing.

She added: 'Some once sent me a Black & Decker drill. I’ve no idea why.'

Keeping on the subject of fan-mail, Matt Lapinskas, 24, revealed: 'I get marriage proposals and people wanting my babies, but nothing really bizarre.'

But lucky for the fans, Matt’s mum is on hand. 'My mum makes sure I reply.

'I come down in the morning and she’s like: "I need this many cards signed for these people." It’s like she’s my PA.

'I’ll have to start paying her soon,' he said.

Tony Discipline, 22, also gets lots of female attention.

He said: 'Matt and I did the Radio 1 Teen Choice Awards and had 10,000 people screaming at us. It was mental. I think I wet myself.'



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2067603/Looks-like-theyve-West-Shona-McGarty-Albert-Square-teens-glamorous-makeover-time-Christmas.html#ixzz1f7wlL5SK

Eastenders SPOILER ALERT: Christmas surprises in Albert Square for Janine AND Lola

Monday, November 21, 2011

SPOILER ALERT: Christmas pregnancies in Albert Square as Janine AND Lola discover they are expecting



By Lucy Buckland

Last updated at 4:52 PM on 21st November 2011


She isn't known for being a particularly maternal character, but this Christmas Eastenders' Janine will discover she is expecting Michael Moon's baby.

And the witch of Walford isn't the only one getting unexpected news, teenage tearaway Lola is also pregnant.

With typical Eastenders cheer neither evil landlady Janine or Billy Mitchell's granddaughter Lola welcome the news.


Lucky in love? Janine (played by Charlie Brooks) finds out she is expecting Micheal Moon's (played by Steve John Shepherd) child
Lucky in love? Janine (played by Charlie Brooks) finds out she is expecting Michael Moon's (played by Steve John Shepherd) child

While bosses are keeping the father of Lola's baby under wraps it has already been confirmed Janine's baby's is fathered by sinister character Michael Moon.

A show insider told The Daily Star: 'Janine is completely shocked when she finds out she’s pregnant.

'Her initial reaction is one of horror, especially as she still doesn’t know whether she can trust Michael.


Happy families: Micheal Moon convinces Janine to keep his child, but is he just after her money?
Happy families: Michael Moon convinces Janine to keep his child, but is he just after her money?


'Pops I'm pregnant': Lola Pearce (played by Danielle Harold) tells Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) she is expecting
'Pops I'm pregnant': Lola Pearce (played by Danielle Harold) tells Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) she is expecting

'He says he loves her and is excited about becoming a dad, but he always stirs up suspicion because of his track record.'

This isn't the first time Michael (played by Steve John Shepherd) has fathered a baby as the first born son of Eddie Moon already has a child with landlady Kat Moon.

But although the gym owner relinquished all contact with Tommy Moon it seems he is determined to be a father to Janine's (played by Charlie Brooks) baby.


Christmas cheer: It is set to be a tough festive season for Janine as Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement) dies from cancer, the pair have had a love/hate relationship
Christmas cheer: It is set to be a tough festive season for Janine as Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement) dies from cancer, the pair have had a love/hate relationship
Viewers can understand Janine's initial trepidation at settling down with Michael after he hatched an evil plot to kill his own brother, destroy his father and steal his best friend's wife.
And there is a slight suspicion Michael could just be after Janine's new found wealth.


Laid to rest: The funeral of square favourite Pat Butcher is another explosive storyline
Laid to rest: The funeral of square favourite Pat Butcher is another explosive storyline

Janine's pregnancy isn't the only shocker over the festive season.

It's said that Pat, actress Pam St Clement. will die in heartbreaking scenes over Christmas.

According to a report in the Daily Star Sunday, she learns she has terminal cancer after collapsing in her kitchen.

Doctors perform tests on her which show she has the deadly disease but there is nothing they can do to save her, so she's sent home to die.


Heartbreaking: The funeral of Pat Butcher is set to make emotional viewing
Heartbreaking: The funeral of Pat Butcher is set to make emotional viewing


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2064239/Eastenders-Pregnancy-Christmas-Janine-Lola-discover-expecting.html#ixzz1eN23ZNW2

One Direction lead the stars to help raise £24million for Children in Need

Friday, November 18, 2011

Let's hear it for the boys: One Direction lead the stars to help raise £24million for Children in Need



By Jessica Satherley

Last updated at 1:06 AM on 19th November 2011


Boyband One Direction were the stars of the celebrity-filled show tonight on children in Need. The former X Factor contestants belted out two songs to help raise more than £24million throughout the marathon fundraising event.

Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson kicked off proceedings by taking to the stage to belt out What Makes You Beautiful.

They were introduced by Terry Wogan, who started the night off by also introducing his three fellow presenters Tess Daly, Alesha Dixon and Fearne Cotton.


Kicking off the show: One Direction took to the stage to sing What Makes You Beautiful for Children in Need
Kicking off the show: One Direction took to the stage to sing What Makes You Beautiful for Children in Need




Boys on stage: Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson left the audience cheering after their performance
Boys on stage: Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson left the audience cheering after their performance

It was hard to decide who was the most glamorous presenter as Tess, Alesha and Fearne all wowed the audience with gold frocks.

The BBC charity event raises money to go towards helping disadvantaged children and young people in the UK.
One Direction were just a taste of what was to come during the night though, as Gary Barlow also brought together a group of stars, including fellow X Factor judge Tulisa, to perform the official Children in Need single.

 
Sultry singers: Louis Tomlinson (left) and Harry Styles (right) singing lead vocals during the boys' performance
Sultry singers: Louis Tomlinson (left) and Harry Styles (right) singing lead vocals during the boys' performance
Sultry singers: Louis Tomlinson (left) and Harry Styles (right) singing lead vocals during the boys' performance




Wogan's angels: Terry Wogan was presenting the gig alongside fellow hosts Tess Daly, Alesha Dixon and Fearne Cotton, who all looked stunning in gold and who Terry joked were his 'angels'
Wogan's angels: Terry Wogan was presenting the gig alongside fellow hosts Tess Daly, Alesha Dixon and Fearne Cotton, who all looked stunning in gold and who Terry joked were his 'angels'

Fellow X Factor acts JLS, Olly Murs and Matt Cardle also all performed their singles alongside a number of charity acts from television presenters and stars.

After One Direction performed their single, the cast of the West End show The Wizard of Oz performed a segment from their musical.

The acts and performances were split between clips of children who have been helped by the charity.


Musical act: The cast of the West End show The Wizard of Oz performed a segment from their musical
Musical act: The cast of the West End show The Wizard of Oz performed a segment from their musical




A long way from Kansas: Playing Dorothy in the West End musical, the star sang a solo performance on stage
A long way from Kansas: Playing Dorothy in the West End musical, the star sang a solo performance on stage

For the next act, four of the BBC’s female newsreaders took part in a Strictly Come Dancing Children In Need special competition.

Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly presented the dance-off, with judges Alesha Dixon, Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli and Craig Horwood sitting on the panel.

And as Sian Williams, Susanna Reid, Emily Maitlis and Sophie Rayworth swapped their news reading duties for the dance floor, they ended up getting rave reviews from the judges.

But there could only be one winner and that title went to Susanna Reid and her partner Robin Windsor.


Strictly special: Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly presented the Strictly skit for the charity event
Strictly special: Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly presented the Strictly skit for the charity event




The contestants: Newsreaders Sian Williams, Susanna Reid, Emily Maitlis and Sophie Rayworth took part in the competition, which Susanna and her partner won
The contestants: Newsreaders Sian Williams, Susanna Reid, Emily Maitlis and Sophie Rayworth took part in the competition, which Susanna and her partner won




The judging panel: Strictly judges Alesha Dixon, Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli and Craig Horwood voted Susanna as the winner
The judging panel: Strictly judges Alesha Dixon, Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli and Craig Horwood voted Susanna as the winner

The next special guest who took to the stage might not be famed for his singing, but fashion guru Gok Wan put on an amazing performance of Razzle Dazzle from the musical Chicago.

Sporting a dark moustache, Gok performed alongside four scantily clad dancers for the full effect.

He said: ‘That was the scariest thing I’ve ever done. Getting women naked - easy. Getting on stage – the hardest thing ever.’

And keeping up the musical theme, the cast of EastEnders paid tribute to Queen by performing a range of hits from the British rock band.


Born performer: Fashion guru Gok Wan swapped his style advice for singing tonight as he performed a single from the musical Chicago
Born performer: Fashion guru Gok Wan swapped his style advice for singing tonight as he performed a single from the musical Chicago
Born performer: Fashion guru Gok Wan swapped his style advice for singing tonight as he performed a single from the musical Chicago




Stage show: Gok was surrounded by four scantily clad dancers on stage as he performed for Children in Need
Stage show: Gok was surrounded by four scantily clad dancers on stage as he performed for Children in Need

From ‘Another One Bites The Dust’ to ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, the cast belted out a montage of hits and said: ‘It’s for such a big cause, so we all wanted to be part of it.’

Their performance was accompanied by a music video skit, in which their acting skills came in handy.

James Bond star Daniel Craig didn't sing or dance tonight, but he voiced an emotional plea for people to donate to Children in Need with a story of one young boy from England’s northwest.


EastEnders tribute to Queen: The actors from the soap sang a montage of hits from the British rock band
EastEnders tribute to Queen: The actors from the soap sang a montage of hits from the British rock band




EastEnders music video: From Another One Bites The Dust to Bohemian Rhapsody, the cast belted out the hits and performed music video skits
EastEnders music video: From Another One Bites The Dust to Bohemian Rhapsody, the cast belted out the hits and performed music video skits

He said: ‘Being a parent is one of the most joyful things in the world, but can also be the most painful.’

Craig told the story a little boy, Elliot, who was diagnosed with Leukaemia at seven-years-old.

Despite receiving intense chemotherapy it didn’t help and although a bone marrow transplant was organised, two days before the operation it was called off because the donor had to pull out.


Tribute: Susan Boyle performs her cover of the Depeche Mode single Enjoy the Silence
Tribute: Susan Boyle performs her cover of the Depeche Mode single Enjoy the Silence


Plea for donations: James Bond star Daniel Craig (left) and X Factor judge and singer Gary Barlow made pleas for audiences to donate to Children in Need
Plea for donations: James Bond star Daniel Craig (left) and X Factor judge and singer Gary Barlow made pleas for audiences to donate to Children in Need
Plea for donations: James Bond star Daniel Craig (left) and X Factor judge and singer Gary Barlow made pleas for audiences to donate to Children in Need




The Dragons: Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Theo Paphitis, Duncan Bannatyne and Hilary Devey heard Alan Sugar's business plan
The Dragons: Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Theo Paphitis, Duncan Bannatyne and Hilary Devey heard Alan Sugar's business plan

Before another donor was found, Elliot passed away in March this year, when he was nine-years-old.

Elliot spent some of his last days at Claire House Hospice in the northwest, which provides care to children with life threatening illnesses and his mother said it was amazing for him to spend his last days in their care.

Children In Need funds a team of nurses who help out at the hospice and Daniel Craig urged donors to help raise money for the hospice.

Next up, Alan Sugar lightened the mood with a Dragon’s Den skit alongside dragons Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Theo Paphitis, Duncan Bannatyne and Hilary Devey.

Sugar walked into the den and shouted: ‘Who has a business meeting in a knackered out loft with chains everywhere?



Not impressed: Peter Jones (left) knocked back Alan Sugar's (right) business plan, which ended up being Pudsey the Bear
Not impressed: Peter Jones (left) knocked back Alan Sugar's (right) business plan, which ended up being Pudsey the Bear
Not impressed: Peter Jones (left) knocked back Alan Sugar's (right) business plan, which ended up being Pudsey the Bear


The Collective: Tulisa sings Massive Attack's Teardrop with Ed Shearer, Tinchy Stryder, Miss Dynamite, Wretch 32, Rizzle Kicks, Chipmunk, Mz Bratt and Dot Rotton
The Collective: Tulisa sings Massive Attack's Teardrop with Ed Shearer, Tinchy Stryder, Miss Dynamite, Wretch 32, Rizzle Kicks, Chipmunk, Mz Bratt and Dot Rotton

‘You’re all meant to be successful business people, why are you sharing an office?’

After rambling about the unconventional office space, he continued: ‘I’m about to give you a master class in presentation’, and presented his business idea .

But when he unveiled his ‘invention’, it ended up being Children In Need’s Pudsey the Bear.

Alan Sugar tried to claim it was an AMS bear and was a wireless communication bear with GPS, satellite communication

But the dragon’s didn’t take kindly to the product and four of them decided to pull out, but he did manage to sell one bear for £5 to Hilary.


Lead vocals: N-Dubz star and X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos looked glamorous as she sang her vocals
Lead vocals: N-Dubz star and X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos looked glamorous as she sang her vocals


Leggy lady: Tulisa Contostavlos in a little black dress leaving the BBC studio after performing her part for the evening
Leggy lady: Tulisa Contostavlos in a little black dress leaving the BBC studio after performing her part for the evening
Leggy lady: Tulisa Contostavlos in a little black dress leaving the BBC studio after performing her part tonight


Up again: Boy band One Direction took to the stage for the second time during the night to perform once more
Up again: Boy band One Direction took to the stage for the second time during the night to perform once more

The skit was followed by Tulisa Contostavlos singing a rendition of Massive Attack's Teardrop with Ed Sheeran, Tinchy Stryder, Wretch 32, Rizzle Kicks, Chipmunk, Mz Bratt, Dot Rottonand and Miss Dynamite.

The song was Gary Barlow's creation of The Collective - the new official Children in Need single

And speaking after their performance, X Factor judge Tulisa said: 'it's for an amazing course'.

Ed Sheeran then performed solo and sang his hit Lego House, followed by JLS jumping up to perform their new single Do You Feel What I Feel.


Solo gig: Ed Sheeran performed his hit Lego House on stage with just his guitar
Solo gig: Ed Sheeran performed his hit Lego House on stage with just his guitar




JLS perform: The former X Factor contestants sung their new single Do You Feel What I Feel
JLS perform: The former X Factor contestants sung their new single Do You Feel What I Feel

Here come the boys: Oritse Williams, Aston Merrygold, Marvin Humes and Jonathan Benjamin (JB) from JLS on stage at the BBC centre
Here come the boys: Oritse Williams, Aston Merrygold, Marvin Humes and Jonathan Benjamin (JB) from JLS on stage at the BBC centre
Cast members from Hollyoaks then made their attempt at a musical performance, who were followed by Westlife performing You Raise Me Up.
Meanwhile in Liverpool the rest of the Hollyoaks cast hit the streets to sell hugs for a pound to raise funds for the charity
Soap star power: The cast of Hollyoaks perform during the BBC Children In Need Appeal at the BBC Television Centre in London
Soap star power: The cast of Hollyoaks perform during the BBC Children In Need Appeal at the BBC Television Centre in London

Meanwhile in Liverpool... The rest of the Hollyoaks cast hit the streets to sell hugs for a pound to raise funds for the charity
Meanwhile in Liverpool... The rest of the Hollyoaks cast hit the streets to sell hugs for a pound to raise funds for the charity
Meanwhile, The One Show revealed tonight that presenter Matt Baker has raised a running total of £1,263, 272.93 for Children in Need.
He completed his arduous Rickshaw Challenge live on The One Show’s Children in Need special on BBC One.
Matt cycled an impressive 480 miles, from Edinburgh to Hawick, Hexham, Bernard Castle, York, Lincoln, Peterborough, Cambridge and London.
And hundreds of supporters welcomed him every night as he crossed the finish line at each location.
He said: ‘Since hopping on the rickshaw outside of Edinburgh Castle eight days ago, I've been constantly shocked by what's happened.

Man band: Irish band Westlife performed You Raise Me Up on stage
Man band: Irish band Westlife performed You Raise Me Up on stage
Rickshaw Challenge: Matt Baker (pictured) has raised a running total of £1,263, 272.93 for Children in Need during his Richshaw Challenge
Rickshaw Challenge: Matt Baker (pictured) has raised a running total of £1,263, 272.93 for Children in Need during his Richshaw Challenge
Rickshaw Challenge: Matt Baker (pictured) has raised a running total of £1,263, 272.93 for Children in Need during his Richshaw Challenge
‘To have the opportunity to actually see people's generosity as they run alongside, showing me their support and giving us their money, is overwhelming. We haven't gone half a mile without hearing cheers and seeing people donate what they can.
‘I never had a target amount of money to raise, but I did set out knowing that just a few pounds can make a big difference.
‘Now I've parked up the rickshaw and we've hit this enormous amount, I know a staggering number of children's lives can now be different.
‘It's been a brilliant thing to be a part of. Thank you for all your generosity and I hope you don't mind if you never see me on a rickshaw ever again!’
Back on stage at the BBC Television Centre in London, Olly Murs and Steps were next up to perform a melody of their hits from over the years.
Flashback: Steps performed a montage of their past hits on stage
Flashback: Steps performed a montage of their past hits on stage

Glamorous group: Girl band The Saturdays sang My Heart Takes Over in sparkling floor length gowns
Glamorous group: Girl band The Saturdays sang My Heart Takes Over in sparkling floor length gowns
Girl group The Saturdays continued the night in an elegant performance of My Heart Takes Over.
Fearne Cotton said the girls had 'Razzle Dazzle' and they group looked stunning in floor length glittering gowns.
But taking a short break from the musical performances, comedian Russell Howard put on a hilarious stand up show focussing on the media coverage of the Queen's trip to Australia and Jimmy Saville's death.
It was soon back to the musical performances though, with Adele aired singing Make You Feel My Love from a pre-recorded video.
The phone number for Children in Need donations is 03457 33 22 33.
Hilarious stand up: Russell Howard put on a comedy show focussing on the media coverage of the Queen's trip to Australia
Hilarious stand up: Russell Howard put on a comedy show focussing on the media coverage of the Queen's trip to Australia
Hilarious stand up: Russell Howard put on a comedy show focussing on the media coverage of the Queen's trip to Australia


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2063412/Children-Need-2011-One-Direction-lead-stars-help-raise-24million.html#ixzz1e6srU12q