Radio Times
type: channel
link: https://www.radiotimes.com
date: 2025-12-11T15:29:58.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover finally gets air date confirmed as life-changing twists await characters
items: EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap?
items: EastEnders airs tragic exit scenes for Mitchell family member in early BBC iPlayer release
items: Neighbours finale review: A gut-wrenching farewell as unanswered questions leave us desperate for more
items: Could Neighbours return? Producer discusses soap’s future after cliffhanger ending
items: Neighbours legend Lucinda Cowden talks soap spin-off hopes – and her new project with Toadie star Ryan Moloney
items: EastEnders icon Martine McCutcheon reveals she would return as Tiffany if asked – over 25 years since character was killed off
items: Coronation Street fans fear iconic character will be killed off in Emmerdale crossover after cryptic clues
items: EastEnders airs harrowing Harry Mitchell overdose scenes after Teddy's sentencing in BBC iPlayer release
items: Neighbours legends tease that beloved soap would be a "completely new show" should it be revived following finale
items: The Archers stars David and William Troughton talk being father and son in iconic radio soap and in real-life
items: Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story
items: EastEnders airs desperate Sam Mitchell scenes as she takes advantage of Nigel Bates in BBC iPlayer release
items: Hollyoaks Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as huge secret rocks the Hutchinsons
items: Coronation Street Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide with wedding drama for Debbie Webster
items: Emmerdale Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as Robert Sugden vanishes
items: EastEnders Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as Slater and Branning secrets implode
items: Home and Away confirmed for major UK broadcasting change in "natural next step"
items: EastEnders confirms major Mitchell to exit in upcoming episodes – 18 months after arriving in soap
items: EastEnders icon reveals tragic news in dramatic early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders favourite who exited after 11 years won't rule out a surprise return – or joining a rival soap
items: Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years
items: EastEnders confirms British comedy legend cast in 2026 storyline for Linda Carter
items: Twisted Emmerdale villains Celia Daniels and Ray Walters evade justice after April Windsor confession in ITVX release
items: Every EastEnders Christmas episode ranked ahead of another eventful yuletide in Walford
items: Major Emmerdale character left for dead as the truth about Celia Daniels and Ray Walters is revealed in ITVX release
items: Coronation Street legend's future with soap revealed as they 'sign contract' for 28th year in role
items: EastEnders airs icon's unsettling return to Walford amid heartache in early BBC iPlayer release
items: 5 Coronation Street spoilers: Format-breaking Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton episode as Dee-Dee Bailey's exit story begins
items: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Gemma Johnson convinces Warren Fox to intercept a robbery to save Mercedes McQueen

Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover finally gets air date confirmed as life-changing twists await characters
type: item
date: 2025-12-11T15:01:23.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Coronation Street
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
subject: News
description: You haven't got long to wait.
encoded: ITV has confirmed when we can tune into the highly-anticipated Corriedale crossover, which will see the worlds of Coronation Street and Emmerdale combine for one spectacular night. The instalment will also launch a new daily broadcast pattern for both flagship soaps, which are being shunted into a 'power hour' from 8pm each weeknight. Details are still pretty scarce, though we do know that lives will be on the line following a multi-vehicle pile-up on a dark and stormy country road near Hotten. It's pretty safe to assume that this will take place following Debbie Webster's (Sue Devaney) walk down the aisle, following hints that Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) is her wedding planner. Meanwhile, wanted posters for the twisted John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) have been spotted in Weatherfield Police Station, so it's likely that he will be part of the instalment. Those confirmed to appear from Corrie so far are DS Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers), David Platt (Jack P Shepherd) and Tracy McDonald (Kate Ford). Emmerdale's Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) and Dr Liam Cavanagh (Johnny McPherson) are also set to appear. Dramatic first-look photos showed several explosions and overturned cars on the roadside, and in the trailer, we could hear a number of our favourites crying out for help. Luckily, you haven't got long to watch the episode, as it will air on Monday 5th January at 8pm. In October, Corrie producer Kate Brooks teased what was ahead. "Filming's been brilliant and we've got a brilliant director and scripts. The actors are loving it because it's so different and unique from what they've ever done before," she revealed. "The mood and camaraderie is really infectious!" Read our guide to the best Christmas TV for 2025 She continued: "I can't help but imagine what my mum is going to be like watching this episode. She'll be so beside herself because as a soap fan, the idea of sitting down with your two favourite shows with all your favourite characters in this massive, unmissable pi…

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EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap?
type: item
date: 2025-12-11T14:00:11.000Z
creator: Lewis Knight
subject: EastEnders
subject: News
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
description: All the changes to life in Albert Square you need to keep up with.
encoded: Following a dramatic year last year, we have finally entered EastEnders' 40th year in 2025, where there will be a host of new arrivals, returns and departures on the way. Last year saw some huge changes for EastEnders, including the departure of Whitney Dean after 15 years in the summer and the arrival of new matriarch Nicola Mitchell in November. RadioTimes.com is here with a handy update on which characters are leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders in the coming months. So who's in? Who's out? And which rumours are true? Read on for all the latest details on cast changes for EastEnders. EastEnders cast 2025 The full present regular cast for EastEnders can be found below in order of the character's first appearance. Gillian Taylforth as Kathy Beale Letitia Dean as Sharon Watts Adam Woodyatt as Ian Beale Alice Haig as Vicki Fowler Michelle Collins as Cindy Beale Steve McFadden as Phil Mitchell Kim Medcalf as Sam Mitchell Paul Bradley as Nigel Bates Thomas Law as Peter Beale Karen Henthorn as Julie Bates Perry Fenwick as Billy Mitchell Laila Morse as Mo Harris Jessie Wallace as Kat Moon Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater Nicholas Bailey as Dr Anthony Trueman Rudolph Walker as Patrick Trueman Shane Ritchie as Alfie Moon Angela Wynter as Yolande Trueman Gillian Wright as Jean Slater Emma Barton as Honey Mitchell Zaraah Abrahams as Chelsea Fox Diane Parish as Denise Fox Grace as Janet Mitchell Jake Wood as Max Branning Jacqueline Jossa as Lauren Beale Scott Maslen as Jack Branning Freddie Phillips as Will Mitchell Pierre Counihan-Moullier as Oscar Branning Kitty Castledine as Penny Branning Ellie Dadd as Amy Mitchell Tameka Empson as Kim Fox Lillia Turner as Lily Slater Frankie Day as Ricky Branning Sonny Kendall as Tommy Moon Isabella Brown as Lexi Pearce Kellie Bright as Linda Carter Charlie Suff as Johnny Carter Harriet Thorpe as Elaine Knight Elliot Briffett as Bert Moon Cody Briffett as Ernie Moon Arayah Harris-Buckles as Pearl Fox Harry Farr as Ollie Carter Jake M…

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EastEnders airs tragic exit scenes for Mitchell family member in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2025-12-11T10:43:35.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs on BBC One at 7.30pm or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Teddy Mitchell (Roland Manookian) has left EastEnders after just 18 months on our screens. It comes after he decided to take responsibility for the murder of Okie Okyere (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu), who had tormented his son Harry (Elijah Holloway) and Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho) for months. As we know, it was actually Harry who accidentally stabbed the drug dealer, though Teddy couldn't bear to see his son spend the rest of his life behind bars. It was initially hoped that top lawyer Ritchie Scott (Sîan Webber) could get him a lesser sentence, but that wasn't to be. In yesterday's episode, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 20 years before he would be eligible for parole. Earlier this week, an EastEnders spokesperson confirmed to RadioTimes.com that Manookian had filmed his final scenes and was indeed leaving – there would be no saving grace for Teddy: "We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future." In today's episode, a prison officer confirmed that he would be transferred to Durham, hundreds of miles away from his family. This really is the end! Meanwhile, back in Albert Square, Harry was struggling to cope with the gravity of the situation and had overdosed once again. Gina Knight (Francesca Henry) found him in a comatose state in the Arches, sounding the alarm to his mum Nicola (Laura Doddington) and emergency services. Unaware of what was going on, Teddy was visited by brother Billy (Perry Fenwick). He explained that Harry was in a bad way and would promise to look out for him. He also made a huge blunder... Billy revealed that Nic was expecting George Knight's (Colin Salmon) baby, something which shocked Teddy to the core. Time was running out before his transfer to the North East, and there just wasn't enough time to accept the gravity of the situation. Billy promised that he would go and visit him, while Teddy made a shocking confession. He asked his brother to warn George that Nic…

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Neighbours finale review: A gut-wrenching farewell as unanswered questions leave us desperate for more
type: item
date: 2025-12-11T08:00:36.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Review
description: One final whizz around Ramsay Street which deserved to be longer.
encoded: The sun has set over Erinsborough – and not for the first time. Neighbours has somehow bounced back twice before, having been dropped after just eight months on air in 1985, and the axe falling again in 2022 when British broadcaster 5 cut funding. No one, I suspect, was under the illusion that Amazon’s revival of the cult soap in 2023 would last forever. After all, all good things must come to an end eventually – it’s just a crying shame it happened so soon. It’s been a stellar revival, with ambitious storylines and polished production. The so-called ‘new chapter’ was Neighbours with the volume turned up. While there have been some questionable elements, such as the endless parade of American guest stars in a bid to gain some transatlantic attention, the show’s beating heart has remained intact. When whispers that the show was under threat reached me last year, I struggled to believe it. Viewers were still tuning in, social media was buzzing, and the energy felt anything but terminal. Ultimately, as has often been the soap’s Achilles’ heel, finances were proving to be too much of a hurdle. This is a disease that has plagued Neighbours for over a decade. For that reason, when it was announced that the serial would be wrapping production again, I was under no illusion that the final storyline would be somewhat muted. There would be no Kylie Minogue and Margot Robbie dropping by, no glittering party in the suburban cul-de-sac, and certainly no fanfare-filled national celebration of the show’s legacy. I didn’t want the last two years to be seen as a misfire or embarrassment because, to us viewers and the hard-working production team, it hasn’t been. What saddened me was that today’s episode seemed so incredibly rushed, as though Amazon had no appetite in investing a little bit more cash to bring some sort of spectacle to the proceedings. Would a double-length feature be too much to ask? Despite the number of episodes left to air dwindling, over the last few months we’ve…

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Could Neighbours return? Producer discusses soap’s future after cliffhanger ending
type: item
date: 2025-12-11T07:30:32.000Z
creator: Johnathon Hughes
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Exclusive
subject: News
description: Jason Herbison discusses his hopes for the future with RadioTimes.com.
encoded: The final ever episode of Neighbours has streamed today, after 40 years on air. It's a bitter pill to swallow for the legions of fans across the globe who tune in for their daily dose of sunshine and drama, given the particularly finite nature of the soap's final storyline. The last time this happened was in 2022, with British broadcaster 5 cutting funding and therefore bringing production to a close. In what was then deemed the finale, a wedding party was attended by a multitude of former Ramsay Street residents, including the iconic Scott and Charlene Robinson (Jason Donovan and Kylie Mingoue). With the story seemingly continuing forever (just not on our screens), fans were given some comfort in the knowledge that their favourite residents all received happy endings. But that's not the case this time. The Nunawading Studios, where Neighbours was filmed for 39 years, have been handed back to their landlord. A plot that threatens the redevelopment of the famed cul de sac to build a new freeway is largely unresolved, and it's likely that the characters are facing a future apart from one another. Despite that, executive producer Jason Herbison does believe that a revival – albeit in a strikingly different model to what we have become accustomed to – is possible. It just takes a broadcaster to see faith in his idea. Here he speaks to RadioTimes.com about what that might look like, and whether it would be feasible in an ever-changing media landscape. How did you approach the 2025 finale differently from the 2022 one? I saw an opportunity to set the show up for a new kind of comeback, perhaps as a spin-off or limited series. The finale is designed to give viewers a taste of what those alternate Neighbours universes could look like. Which characters would you like to see in their own spin-off series? There is a great opportunity for at least two new shows to emerge from ashes of Neighbours – Ramsay Hills and Robinson Towers! We talk about what those alternate stories migh…

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Neighbours legend Lucinda Cowden talks soap spin-off hopes – and her new project with Toadie star Ryan Moloney
type: item
date: 2025-12-10T18:00:33.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Exclusive
subject: Interview
subject: News
description: The actress chats to RadioTimes.com ahead of her final return to the axed Australian drama.
encoded: It just wouldn't be right saying goodbye to Neighbours without hearing Melanie Pearson's iconic chuckle one last time. Fortunately, actress Lucinda Cowden is making her way back to Ramsay Street tomorrow for the soap's finale. There's been a Mel-shaped hole in Erinsborough ever since the character decided to start a new life with Vic Stone (Craig Hall) in Gippsland last year and, although we did see her during the 40th anniversary celebrations in March, there's always room for her in Erinsborough. With the cameras primed to shoot the last scenes in July, Cowden began to fear that she hadn't made the shortlist of familiar faces jetting in to view the new Ramsay Hills and Robinson Towers developments. "I have to admit, I may have sent a little email to [executive producer] Jason Herbison saying: 'Put me in it or I shall hurt your... something'", she joked to RadioTimes.com. "Maybe not quite so threatening, maybe a little pleading. I was thinking that surely they must want Mel back. "I tried to sort of give it a humorous tinge, rather than try to sound quite so desperate. He emailed me back, saying: 'Give me a day, I just need to work it out as I've got so many things in my head.' I got a call from my agent on the Monday." The news of the show's cancellation first hit Lucinda at the conclusion of a nationwide UK tour celebrating Neighbours' birthday earlier this year, a moment she says "floored" her. "The tour had been such an incredible success, we received so much love from the fans and they just filled up our cup. The day after it finished, I was still in Manchester and the cast that were still in the show had left really early that morning to get on a plane," she explains. "I got a number of text messages and was totally floored. This show is still so incredibly loved, and yet here they are tossing it in the bin again." But where do we find Melanie upon her comeback? "It seems all is well in the world of Gippsland pubs and for Mel and Vic, apparently. That's a good…

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EastEnders icon Martine McCutcheon reveals she would return as Tiffany if asked – over 25 years since character was killed off
type: item
date: 2025-12-10T15:27:06.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: News
description: The actress has discussed a comeback.
encoded: Martine McCutcheon has discussed a potential return to EastEnders – despite her character Tiffany Mitchell being killed off in 1999. However, this is Walford, where dying doesn't always mean you're gone forever. Some of the soap's most iconic characters; Den Watts (Leslie Grantham), Kathy (Gillian Taylforth) and Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) have all returned after being presumed dead, while a selection of other locals have appeared as ghostly apparitions. In fact, later this month, both Pat (Pam St Clement) and Barry Evans (Shaun Williamson) are returning to their old haunt for a special episode involving Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley). As his dementia symptoms worsen, Nige will turn to his old friends for support. But could a comeback for Queen Vic barmaid Tiffany be on the cards? "I’ve never even really had a chance to think about it because I’ve been so busy with the opportunities it gave me in the first place to keep going and keep evolving," Martine told Metro. "Honestly, if they approached me and the time was right and the storyline was something believable and really amazing, I think it would have to be amazing for me to justify it, because if it wasn’t, so many people would be disappointed." The Love Actually star continued: "It would be a big pressure because Tiffany was such an icon, and it would be so easy to do her a disservice. But I would definitely do it if it was right, because I just loved playing her so much. "She just had no rules. She was fearless and feisty and an amazing character to play. For that reason alone, for selfish reasons, I’d love to do it, but it would have to be right." Tiffany was remembered by her best pal Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) earlier this year, when she ran in to Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) outside The Vic. Bianca tore strips off Grant – who was married to Tiff – for the way he treated her during the final months of their marriage. As viewers will recall, he cheated on her with her mother, and she decided to leave for past…

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Coronation Street fans fear iconic character will be killed off in Emmerdale crossover after cryptic clues
type: item
date: 2025-12-10T11:44:26.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Coronation Street
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
subject: News
description: It would be a dramatic start to the New Year!
encoded: Coronation Street fans are convinced that the iconic Tracy McDonald (Kate Ford) could be about to meet her maker in the upcoming Emmerdale crossover episode. Last week, Ford was announced as one of the latest names to join the line-up, joining her co-stars Vicky Myers and Jack P Shepherd, plus Emmerdale favourites Danny Miller and Johnny McPherson. At the same time, a dramatic trailer showed a number of vehicles bursting into flames on a dark, country road in the fictional Hotten, while a number of residents from each soap cried out for help. On social media, some fans have clocked that a figure, that seems to be Asha Alahan (Tanisha Gorey), can be seen administering CPR to someone lay on the grass verge at the side of the disaster. Speculation then became rife that this could be Tracy, particularly following some dialogue during Monday night's episode. As the residents celebrated Maggie Driscoll's (Pauline McLynn) 65th birthday, Ken Barlow (William Roache) discussed the idea of moving onto a cruise ship, selling his house and buying a cabin. The playful conversation prompted Rita Tanner (Barbara Knox) to tell landlord Ben Driscoll (Aaron McCusker) that Ken would be willing to flog his house to the Rovers so that they could extended the boozer and add a pool table. Tracy overheard, and Rita decided to play on the joke. She was furious that she would lose her inheritance. Rita reminded her that as you grow older, the relationships you have with your family are more important than money. She returned home and began to row with Ken, who noted that “time is a precious thing”. Tracy realised he was right, and the father and daughter vowed to make the most of their time together. On X, one fan wrote: "I don’t like this foreshadowing… if Kate has quit then that’s understandable, we’ve all seen it coming as she’s been reducing her workload for years, but I will NEVER forgive them if they kill off Tracy Barlow." Another added: "I totally interpreted it as Ken. Perhaps Bill R…

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EastEnders airs harrowing Harry Mitchell overdose scenes after Teddy's sentencing in BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2025-12-10T06:30:30.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Wednesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs on BBC One at 7.30pm or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) has spiralled once again, following his dad Teddy's (Roland Manookian) sentencing in EastEnders. Last month, Teddy made the ultimate sacrifice for his son by taking the rap for a murder he committed. It came at the conclusion of a major drugs story, which saw Harry and best pal Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho) cuckooed by Okie Okyere (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu), who used them to push narcotics around London. For weeks, Harry was tied to a bed and held hostage so that he wouldn't intervene in the operation. Luckily, Kojo came to his rescue and set him free, but the ordeal wasn't over. Okie returned to the scene and began to threaten Kojo, and during a scuffle with Harry, was accidentally stabbed to death. Teddy found his first-born in a state of despair, and refused to allow him to spend the rest of his life behind bars. That night, he called authorities and handed himself in. In today's episode, the Mitchell family were preparing to head to court, but were otherwise distracted by Harry's sudden disappearance from Albert Square. He was nowhere to be found, and mum Nicola (Laura Doddington) had to go without him. Meanwhile, George Knight (Colin Salmon) and his daughter Gina (Francesca Henry) continued the search effort. It wasn't long before they tracked him down to the Container Junction, where he'd been sleeping rough in one of the bars. It was at this moment that Gina clocked an unusual look between her dad and Harry, and the latter was forced to admit that he was the one who killed Okie, and not Teddy. She was gobsmacked, and seemingly lost for words. Against Nicola's advice, George then took him to the court, where Teddy was about to hear his verdict. The judge sentenced him to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 20 years before he would be able to apply for parole. Harry leapt out of his seat to claim responsibility, but Nicola ordered him to sit down. Unfortunately, his nightmare wasn't quite over. Upon returning home, he snuck out of t…

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Neighbours legends tease that beloved soap would be a "completely new show" should it be revived following finale
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T18:00:44.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Interview
subject: News
description: The legendary actors speak to RadioTimes.com about their sadness, hopes for the future and gratitude to the show's viewers.
encoded: As one of Australia's biggest media exports, Neighbours has cemented a number of cast members as household names over the last four decades... but few have had quite the same impact as Alan Fletcher and Jackie Woodburne. The duo - who have played the beloved Karl and Susan Kennedy since 1994 - are preparing to say farewell to the cult soap this week, after it failed to be recommissioned by producers Amazon MGM Studios in February. Uniquely, and rather sadly, this is a position they've both been in before. It was just over three years ago that the show wrapped up the Ramsay Street drama with a blaze of highly publicised returns, including Kylie Minogue and Margot Robbie, a wedding party on the infamous cul de sac and a sense of hope for the future. This time, however, things are a little different. A threat to the future of fictional Erinsborough looms large, with redevelopment plans displacing the characters across the state of Victoria. The more finite storyline, while allowing the door to remain open for a potential revival, signifies a change in gear from last time. If Neighbours was to return - and given this is the third time that the series has been pulled since it began - it would be very different. "There was tears, there was sadness, Stefan [Dennis] spoke beautifully on the last day," Fletcher explains to RadioTimes.com. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/NBRSS3UT9362250711TRAALL00139-3e490d2.jpg" width="3900" height="2601" alt="A greyscale image of producers Andrew Thompson and Jason Herbison stand beside actors Stefan Dennis (who is raising a glass) and Rebekah Elmaloglou. Seated are Hana Abe-Tucker, Jackie Woodburne and Annie Jones on the set of Neighbours" title="Neighbours" /> "I think there was also a sense of pride. We faced great sadness the first time around. This time we got an extra two years, we got an extra 400 episodes. We proved to the world that Neighbours didn't finish because it lacked an audience.…

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The Archers stars David and William Troughton talk being father and son in iconic radio soap and in real-life
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T17:01:44.000Z
creator: Libby Purves
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Interview
subject: Magazine
description: David and William Troughton on life as father and son – on The Archers and at home.
encoded: This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. David Troughton and his real-life son William have played father and son Tony and Tom in The Archers since 2014. They are the son and grandson of the second Doctor Who, Patrick Troughton. As father and son, is it easier to play that relationship? DAVID: At the beginning it felt odd, because Tom and Tony don’t get on! Tony is still hankering after his dead son, John. Tom’s never lived up to John. WILLIAM: Tom’s constantly chasing his father’s praise, wanting him to be proud of him... DAVID: And that is so unlike our real relationship. WILLIAM: It really is. It’s great that I get to spend this time with my dad. And because it’s outside the rest of the family, it’s special. Does that make other family members feel a bit jealous? DAVID: They’re probably thankful not to be part of Tony and Tom! WILLIAM: There’s no competition. My brother Sam is also an actor and the other one, Jim, is a cricketer. DAVID: That’s performing, too. It has to be in the genes. Have any of your storylines made you gasp? DAVID: Not yet… But remember your audition, Will? You came to see me [as Tony] in hospital when I seemed to be dying because I’d been hit by the bull. After the audition, Sean O’Connor, the editor, rang me up and said, “David, how would you feel if a member of your family joined The Archers?” WILLIAM: Growing up watching him onstage, there were quite a few of those moments. I remember watching you get poisoned and die in one production… DAVID: And before that, in 1989 when I played Bottom at the RSC, I stabbed myself fairly dramatically, and all I could hear from the front row was, “Bye bye, Mr Dad.” Isn’t that sweet? WILLIAM: Growing up watching you die – not the most usual of childhoods. David, have you ever given William any acting advice? DAVID: When we started, I gave him a bit of advice about the microphone. On stage you look at each other but in radio you use it as the person. Although I’m always being told [does huge v…

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Neighbours boss was unable to secure legendary character for affair story
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T12:32:33.000Z
creator: Johnathon Hughes
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Exclusive
subject: News
description: Holly's storyline could've been very different.
encoded: Neighbours boss Jason Herbison has revealed the legendary character he'd hoped to bring back for Holly Hoyland's (Lucinda Armstrong-Hall) affair with Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) – but was ultimately unable to secure her. For months, fans of the Aussie soap have watched in horror as hapless Holly hooked up with her best pal and next door neighbour Sadie's (Emerald Chan) dad. The pair were even considering leaving Erinsborough and starting a new life on the Mornington Peninsula, close to his birth family, though the guilt Andrew felt towards his wife Wendy (Candice Leask) ended his infidelity. Slowly but surely, more residents were becoming privy to what was going on. There was a threat from criminal Greg Murphy (Gary Sweet), and then Taye Obasi (Lakota Johnson) found Holly's missing earring at a city centre bar – where she'd been meeting Andrew. On the day of his vow renewal with Wendy, he decided to come clean and tell her everything. But the drama didn't stop there, as Holly was pregnant with his baby. In today's episode, after chasing an ambulance that contained kidnapped JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant), Holly collapsed to the floor and was found by Wendy. Unfortunately, at the hospital, it was confirmed that she had miscarried. Wendy and Sadie were able to put aside their grievances to offer her support, while Andrew and Holly's dad Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) waited by her bedside. But there was one notable absence – her mum, Izzy Hoyland (Natalie Bassingthwaighte). "I do regret that we were unable to secure Natalie to reprise her role of Izzy," Herbison told RadioTimes.com. "There was a great Izzy return planned but the story arc still played without it." He continued: "Lucinda did an incredible job bringing Holly back to life in the reboot, complete with Holly’s glorious imperfections. I loved that she was a chip off the Izzy block and trying to better herself, yet her worst instincts kept getting the better of her. "We had the Andrew affair storyline planned …

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EastEnders airs desperate Sam Mitchell scenes as she takes advantage of Nigel Bates in BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T10:35:16.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Tuesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) looks set to exploit vulnerable Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) in EastEnders. The Walford legend returned at the end of last week's episodes, watching Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) from afar, before making her proper comeback on Monday. She strolled into estranged brother Phil's (Steve McFadden) house, opened his safe and went to leave with a wad of cash - before being stopped in her tracks by Nige. Luckily for Sam, due to his young-onset dementia, he mistook her for his adoptive daughter Clare (Gemma Bissix), and allowed her to leave. It didn't take long for Phil to discover what had happened, and after receiving a vague description of the culprit, he went to point the finger at Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington). After being told that he was very much wrong, he marched out of Nic's house and saw Sam making a run for it down Bridge Street. She was meeting up with son Ricky (Frankie Day), to tell him that despite her bad parenting over the years, she wanted to set him up with a trust fund that would give him a comfortable future. Then, in true Sam Mitchell style, she planned to flee. However, Ricky's dad Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) soon caught up with her at the tube station, and she revealed she was 'dying'. In today's episode, it transpired that she had found a lump in her breast and was fearing that she had cancer like her mum Peggy (Barbara Windsor). Jack questioned why she hadn't been to the doctors yet, when Phil interrupted to get his money back. Later, Jack's partner Denise Fox (Diane Parish) caught up with Sam. The two have never seen eye-to-eye, but made a surprising deal - she would give her £20k in exchange for getting checked. There was also the condition that she'd stick around, and attend a family dinner with the Slaters. Sam firstly offended Jean (Gillian Wright) by mentioning her daughter Stacey (Lacey Turner) and Zoe's return, before realising that Jack and Denise were bluffing about their cash offer. Wanting the money more tha…

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Hollyoaks Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as huge secret rocks the Hutchinsons
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T00:01:49.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: Christmas
description: Everything happening in Hollyoaks this Christmas time.
encoded: Hollyoaks is dishing up not one but four separate Christmas Days, as the special occasion is stretched out across two weeks. We'll see the same day from the perspective of the Osbornes and the Hutchinsons, the McQueens, the Maaliks and the Lomax-Hays. Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna) is planning a big surprise, Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) is struggling with withdrawal, and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) is hiding a huge secret. Here's a look at everything happening on Hollyoaks between Monday 22nd and Tuesday 30th December. If you can't wait to watch the full two weeks as they play out on E4, every episode will be dropping on Channel 4's streaming service on 22nd December. Hollyoaks episode guide for Christmas and New Year Monday 22nd December <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6661-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-OSBORNES-Jack-Pearl-Darren-Nancy-Charlie-Oscar-Frankie-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LIMEPICTURES-9-456fa40.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Hollyoaks's Jack, Nancy, Charlie, Jack, Pearl and Frankie pose beside their Christmas tree in festive jumpers. Nancy is wearing a Santa hat." title="6661 CHRISTMAS AT THE OSBORNES - Jack, Pearl, Darren, Nancy, Charlie, Oscar, Frankie - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LIMEPICTURES (9)" /> Jack has a secret mission on the Osbornes' big day, and wants to make it extra special for everyone. It's a hopeful time as Darren and Nancy put their problems aside, and after Pearl distributes presents throughout the village, she and Jack head to The Dog for a special moment. Upstairs, Dee Dee hides a gift as Diane struggles through the morning, her only blessing being that Tony is there to celebrate with them. Ant is continuing to cause trouble, and reluctantly sets the table. He discovers a burner phone and secretly pockets it. On the other side of the room, Eva decides to take a look at a present, a move which horrifies Dee Dee. A furious Ant bounds downstairs into the bar and disrupts Jack and Pearl…

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Coronation Street Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide with wedding drama for Debbie Webster
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T00:01:35.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Coronation Street
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Christmas
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
description: Everything you need to know from Coronation Street this Christmas time.
encoded: A Coronation Street wedding seldom goes smoothly, and Debbie Webster's (Sue Devaney) big day is no exception. Following his mum's death, Carl (Jonathan Howard) prepares to flee with his sister's hard-earned cash, but partner Abi (Sally Carman-Duttine) is hot on his heels. Prior to that, Christmas is particularly eventful for the Driscoll clan as Maggie (Pauline McLynn) threatens to expose Eva Price's (Catherine Tyldesley) secrets. Evelyn Plummer (Maureen Lipman) makes a horrific discovery in the ginnel, and Becky Swain (Amy Cudden) devises a malicious plan. Here's everything we know that's happening between Monday 22nd December and Friday 2nd January. Coronation Street episode guide for Christmas and New Year Monday 22nd December – Hour-long episode at 8pm As Carl transfers money from Debbie's account to his own, she ignores another text from his mum Elaine. Ronnie reveals that her friends have organised a hen party, but she's less than enthused and has to put on a brave face. He heads off on his stag do, and reveals to the lads that he's got an appointment with a solicitor to get power of attorney over Debbie's finances. Carl masks his frustration and later, after receiving a troubling phone call, Abi rushes after him. Meanwhile, sparked by Susie's desire to have a baby sibling, Ben proposes the idea of having a child to Eva and she's rattled. Maggie's interest is piqued when Carl tells Maggie that he found Eva's credit card in one of the Chariot Square rooms. Luckily, Ben rushes to her defence and explains that Will had taken his girlfriend there and had used the card to pay for the suite. Eva is tearful and heads out to the beer garden, where Adam offers a shoulder to cry on. She hates herself for lying to Ben, and he reassures her that she had no choice. What are the pair hiding? Elsewhere, Lisa receives a text from Carla saying that she wants to be removed from No. 6's mortgage, before looking at a photo on her socials that she's posted of her sipping a cocktai…

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Emmerdale Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as Robert Sugden vanishes
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T00:01:02.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Christmas
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
description: Everything you need to know from Emmerdale this Christmastime.
encoded: Emmerdale is once again dishing up a jam-packed Christmas and New Year, with Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) and Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) being targeted by a mystery assailant. Car windscreens are smashed, trees are burnt, and Robert seemingly disappears amid the celebrations. But who is it? Elsewhere, Charity Dingle's (Emma Atkins) secret is on the brink of exposure, and Ray Walters (Joe Absolom) and Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths) prepare to flee. Here's everything happening in Emmerdale between Monday 22nd December and Friday 2nd January. Emmerdale episode guide for Christmas and New Year Monday 22nd December – 30-minute episode at 7.30pm Lydia makes a huge blunder by revealing about her and Sam's responsibility for Kim's accident. He's enraged, and heads over to Home Farm to try and patch things up with her, but is shocked to hear that she's cancelled her Christmas dinner order. All alone, she becomes increasingly more isolated. Having fallen and unable to move, she calls out for help. Lydia arrives and although Kim tries to dismiss her, she goes against her wishes and stays. Meanwhile, with Ray and Celia preparing to leave the village, Bear is concerned that he'll be left behind. Ray assures him that it won't happen, and can't shake the prospect of having to end his relationship with Laurel prematurely. Bear encourages him to seize the day and make the most of his happiness while he still can. Ray decides to organise a fake Christmas lunch for her, and while they chat, he dares to dream about spending a proper festive period together one day. Elsewhere, Ross is shocked to hear that Aaron and Robert are planning to bring Seb back into their lives. He's unsure whether he can see the youngster around the village every day and before long, battle lines are drawn. Aaron is furious to find that his windscreen has been smashed, and immediately assumes that it was Ross. However, little does he realise, the real culprit is lurking in the shadows... Plus, wedding bells cou…

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EastEnders Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as Slater and Branning secrets implode
type: item
date: 2025-12-08T23:59:21.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: Christmas
description: Everything you need to know from Albert Square this Christmastime.
encoded: It's the most wonderful time of the year – but not for the EastEnders. Two weeks of festive fun for us viewers will see secrets explode throughout several households, culminating in a large police presence swarming Albert Square. Both the Slaters and the Brannings have a particularly eventful time, while Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) cognitive health declines... and he is visited by ghosts of Christmas past. There's quite a lot to fit in, but luckily for you, we've got a handy day-by-day guide to what's happening in Walford. Here's everything happening in EastEnders between 22nd December 2024 and 1st January 2025. EastEnders Christmas and New Year episode guide Monday 22nd December - 30-minute episode at 7.30pm The residents gather to watch Nigel's festive film screening, but Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) are more concerned about his declining health and need for alternative care options. When Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) arrives at the community centre, Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) makes it clear that she's not welcome, and Julie drops a huge clanger - Sam has been back in the country for months, but has only just turned up in Walford. Led by director Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown), Nige takes to the stage to make a speech to his audience, with Julie by his side. He notices the bruise on her face, and after realising he was responsible, flees the building. Phil and Julie start a desperate search to track him down, unaware that he's overheard their disagreement and has rushed off to The Vic. Meanwhile, a secret has been exposed, and Max Branning (Jake Wood) turns to Lauren Beale (Jacqueline Jossa) and Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) for some damage control. They vow to support him, and are under the belief that they've managed to talk him out of making an irrational decision. Little do they realise, he's also used Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) as a shoulder to cry on and may come to regret what follows next... Elsewhere, the Truemans are suspicio…

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Home and Away confirmed for major UK broadcasting change in "natural next step"
type: item
date: 2025-12-08T18:00:44.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Home and Away
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 5
subject: News
subject: On demand
description: Fans will still be able to watch the soap every day.
encoded: 5 has revealed that Home and Away will leave its familiar daytime slot next year. The Australian soap has held the same 1:45pm weekday timeslot on the channel for years. But when the show – which went on its annual winter hiatus last week – returns in January, it will no longer be airing on the main channel. 5 said in a statement that the show is "moving exclusively to streaming for daytime viewing", meaning fans who still want to watch it during the day will have to use 5’s streaming app and view it on demand. There will be no change to the 5Star showings, with the newest episode at 6.30pm and another chance to watch the previous day’s episode at 6pm. Back in March, 5 started releasing new episodes of the soap at 6am every weekday ahead of linear broadcast. “Viewing hours surged by 17 per cent year-on-year in its first month, confirming strong early adoption," the statement from 5 explained. “This momentum continued throughout the year with every month outperforming its counterpart from the previous year. “Audiences have now become accustomed to accessing the title via streaming; the latest month delivered record-breaking engagement, with viewing hours climbing 23% year-on-year." Greg Barnett, commissioning editor at 5, added: “Home and Away has been a phenomenal success for us on streaming. Viewers have fully embraced the flexibility of on-demand viewing, driving double-digit year-on-year growth and making streaming the preferred way to watch the show. “Moving daytime episodes exclusively to streaming is a natural next step, reflecting how audiences want to engage with their favourite content.” Home and Away airs weekdays at 1:45pm on 5. Add Home and Away to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

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EastEnders confirms major Mitchell to exit in upcoming episodes – 18 months after arriving in soap
type: item
date: 2025-12-08T10:35:23.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Their arrival ushered in a new era for the Mitchell clan.
encoded: Teddy Mitchell star Roland Manookian is departing EastEnders after just 18 months, the BBC has confirmed. The character was part of a new wave of Mitchells who arrived in Albert Square last year. Alongside sons Harry (Elijah Holloway) and Barney Mitchell (Lewis Bridgeman), he soon settled in the area, having connected with his estranged brother Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) after a reunion between them and father Stevie Mitchell (Alan Ford). The trio of new Mitchells were later joined by his ex-wife Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington), and he's been at the centre of several huge storylines ever since. The floor fell from beneath his feet when he discovered that his girlfriend, Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean), had slept with her ex-husband – and his cousin – Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp). But the worst was yet to come, as soon after, Zack Hudson (James Farrar) was revealed to be Barney's birth father following an adulterous affair with Nicola years prior when working as her personal trainer. A dramatic car chase ensued when the secrets were revealed, and both men ended up driving into a river. Thankfully, all survived, and peace was declared by all, but hopes of a Teddy and Nicola reunion were destroyed. In the last few weeks, he reached a point of no return after discovering Harry had accidentally killed drug dealer Tobias "Okie" Okyere (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu). Teddy couldn't risk his son being sent down and decided to take the rap. Scenes that air this week follow Teddy's murder trial, and it's looking increasingly likely that these will be Manookian's last. An EastEnders spokesperson told RadioTimes.com: "We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future." It comes after an apparent source told The Sun that show bosses had decided "the character had run his course". Teddy's exit will undoubtedly have lasting complications for his family, with Harry already becoming dependent on drugs and overdosing several times. Mea…

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EastEnders icon reveals tragic news in dramatic early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2025-12-08T06:30:50.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Monday's episode of EastEnders, which airs tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) has arrived home to Albert Square in EastEnders — with some bad news. She immediately ruffled feathers with brother Phil (Steve McFadden), who she hasn't seen since destroying his marriage to Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) and running off with his inheritance from their dear Aunt Sal (Anna Karen). Having had a brief run-in with Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) — who accused her of being her tormenter — she walked into the Mitchell house and began raiding the safe. Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) caught her in the act, but believed she was his adoptive daughter Clare (Gemma Bissix) and let her continue. He later described the woman he saw, and Phil assumed it was Nicola (Laura Doddington) who was responsible. However, after challenging her, he spotted Sam across the Square. She darted off in the other direction, calling estranged son Ricky (Frankie Day) and summoning him to a meeting at McKlunky's. There, she told him that she wanted to set him up for the future by putting the cash she'd stolen into a high interest rate bank account. Ricky longed for a proper relationship with his mother, but knew that it would likely never happen. Just moments after their conversation, she ran off again and headed for the tube station. Ricky alerted his dad Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) to what had happened and he raced after her. There, Sam opened up about why she had to come back - she believes she's dying. As we know, a breast cancer storyline is set to play out over the next month, with Sam's friends and family urging her to seek medical attention after finding a lump. Read more: EastEnders 2025 Christmas schedule confirmed by BBC - including festive episode timings EastEnders reveals Anthony Trueman's disturbing secret as Zoe Slater falls into his trap in BBC iPlayer release EastEnders director reveals "eye-opening" experience crafting special Nigel Bates episode – and his incredible resilience to land the job EastEnders airs shock passion for Zoe Slater following int…

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EastEnders favourite who exited after 11 years won't rule out a surprise return – or joining a rival soap
type: item
date: 2025-12-07T11:13:51.000Z
creator: Morgan Jeffery
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: News
description: James Bye has hinted at a surprise EastEnders return after Martin Fowler’s dramatic death – and says he would be “a fool to say no” to a rival soap.
encoded: Former EastEnders star James Bye has revealed he would be open to a surprise return to Albert Square following the dramatic death of Martin Fowler earlier this year. Fans were left devastated in February when Martin was killed off during the explosion at The Queen Vic as part of the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary celebrations, bringing an end to Bye’s 11-year run on the show. With EastEnders recently confirming the upcoming surprise returns of deceased characters Pat Butcher and Barry Evans as part of a dementia storyline involving Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), Bye revealed he would consider appearing again – if the storyline felt right. "I think, just for the fans, I would," he told The Sun. "I know how important that character was to the fans. “"f ever I was given the opportunity and it made sense for the plot, or if it was just a bit of fun, yeah, I would. Obviously I would always want to honour that character and the fan base it has." He added that the timing felt fitting, as he is currently starring in the stage thriller 2:22 A Ghost Story, which is touring the UK through 2026. After addressing the possibility of a return, Bye also confirmed he would not rule out joining a rival soap in the future, saying: "If the other soaps are anything like EastEnders was, then I’d be a fool to say no." In the aftermath of Martin’s death, Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) ultimately found life in Albert Square too painful to continue. Struggling under the weight of her grief, Stacey made the heartbreaking decision to leave Walford with her family, admitting she could no longer walk past The Vic or the market without being reminded of Martin. However, the fan-favourite character won't be gone forever, with star Turner previously confirming that she will be "coming back" to the BBC soap at a later date. Read more: EastEnders 2025 Christmas schedule confirmed by BBC - including festive episode timings EastEnders confirms British comedy legend cast in 2026 storyline for Linda Carter EastE…

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Neighbours producer teases "optimistic" finale and reflects on soap's legacy after 40 years
type: item
date: 2025-12-07T09:00:13.000Z
creator: Johnathon Hughes
subject: Neighbours
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Exclusive
subject: Interview
description: Jason Herbison exclusively reflects on the end of an era – and what he regrets about the final weeks...
encoded: After more than 40 years on air, the time has come to bid farewell to Neighbours – again. The iconic Australian soap survived the axe from 5 in 2022 and was revived by Amazon a year later, only for the streaming giant to announce in February that it was pulling the plug on the reboot. As the show’s loyal fans commiserate the end of an era, anticipation is high for the Neighbours finale’s release on 11th December. In an exclusive interview with RadioTimes.com, the soap’s executive producer Jason Herbison teases what viewers can expect, and candidly reflects on the challenge of crafting a second swansong, his feelings on the show’s demise and what he would have done differently. Did you approach the 2025 finale differently from the 2022 one? I approached the ending very differently this time. I knew I couldn’t compete with 2022 or do the same thing twice. What can you tell us about the final scene? It’s somewhat of an homage to the finale 2022 scene, however it involves a small cast this time. Jackie Woodburne (aka Susan Kennedy) made me cry in 2022 and she’s done it again in 2025! I was on set when we shot it. How would you describe the atmosphere on the final day of filming? We all hugged and shed a tear – it was very emotional. After the final scene, we gathered in Studio A, exactly as we did in 2022. For those of us present on both occasions, it was incredibly surreal. You can’t go through the same thing twice and feel exactly the same way, I believe. Most of all, this time, we felt a sense of gratitude. We all thought the show ended for good in 2022 and the Amazon era has been a wonderful bonus. Paul and Terese are at the centre of the final week, what makes this couple work so well? The all-important X-factor! Some pairings just have great chemistry, while others don’t. We have tried putting them with other people but they always end up back together. I think these obstacles are what makes them work, too. If they were together and happy all the time, it would be…

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EastEnders confirms British comedy legend cast in 2026 storyline for Linda Carter
type: item
date: 2025-12-06T21:00:35.000Z
creator: Morgan Jeffery
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: News
description: Bea is a "unpredictable, nuanced and complex character" who shares a history with Linda.
encoded: Linda Carter is set to come face-to-face with a figure from her past in an upcoming EastEnders storyline – with a familiar face from the world of comedy joining the cast of the BBC soap. Ronni Ancona will play the character of Bea, an old acquaintance who reunites with Linda (Kellie Bright) at their high school reunion – but it soon becomes apparent that the former schoolmates "have different accounts" of their shared history. Bea soon finds herself "in the heart of the drama" when she settles into life in Walford – and while little is known about her backstory, we're promised she'll "leave a lasting impression" on the residents of Albert Square. One of Britain’s most celebrated impressionists and character comedians, Ancona is best known for starring in BAFTA-winning BBC series The Big Impression, which she fronted alongside Alistair McGowan in the early 2000s, mimicking EastEnders' legends Peggy Mitchell, Sharon Watts and Kat Slater. She has also delivered dramatic performances in the likes of Skins (2009-2010) and Last Tango in Halifax (2012). <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/eastenders-ronni-ancona-f1e5227.jpg" width="2856" height="4284" alt="Ronni Ancona as Bea in EastEnders, wearing a beige fur-trimmed coat and leopard-print top stands outside Walford East Station, staring ahead with a shocked, tense expression." title="Ronni Ancona as Bea in EastEnders, wearing a beige fur-trimmed coat and leopard-print top stands outside Walford East Station, staring ahead with a shocked, tense expression." /> On joining the cast of EastEnders, Ancona said: "I am honoured to have been invited to join the iconic institution that is EastEnders, and to go on this whirlwind of a journey with such an unpredictable, nuanced and complex character as Bea. I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life." EastEnders' Executive Producer Ben Wadey added: "I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Ronni …

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Twisted Emmerdale villains Celia Daniels and Ray Walters evade justice after April Windsor confession in ITVX release
type: item
date: 2025-12-05T13:47:22.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Friday's episode of Emmerdale, which airs tonight at 7.30pm on ITV1 or can be streamed now on ITVX.
encoded: Warped Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths) and Ray Walters (Joe Absolom) have struck again in Emmerdale, after threatening the entire Dingle-Goskirk family and knocking over Dylan Penders (Fred Kettle) – sending him into a coma. It came after April Windsor (Amelia Flangan) bravely confessed to parents Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) and Rhona Goskirk (Zoe Henry) about her ongoing ordeal. However, before they could act on a solution, Celia barged her way into Smithy Cottage and said she would go to extreme lengths to silence them – houses would be burnt, cars would crash... and throats would be slit. She then grabbed Rhona by the face, digging her fingernails into her cheeks. In today's episode, Marlon came to the conclusion that the only thing that could save them would be if the police knew. After some persuasion, April agreed to join him. As they sat down in the interview, the teen began to suffer flashbacks to when she envisioned Marlon's death at the hands of Ray, and found the whole situation too much to bare. Unfortunately, the officer dealing with their claims brought some bad news. She explained that there wasn't enough physical evidence to even bring them into the station, and even if they did, they would have to release them before more proof could be collated. The father and daughter returned home, shocked to find that Ray was holding Rhona hostage. He'd researched her ex-husband Pierce Harris (Jonathan Wrather), and knew that she'd been sexually and physically assaulted by him. Constantly saying his name and referring to the situation was immensely triggering for her, and wanted to assert his control over the family. When he left, Marlon came to the conclusion that the only way they would be able to gain control over their lives again would be to find a moment when they weren't being watched and flee the village. Will the family go through with the plan? Read more: 5 Emmerdale spoilers: Celia Daniels brainwashes Laurel Thomas as fury erupts with Moira Dingle Em…

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Every EastEnders Christmas episode ranked ahead of another eventful yuletide in Walford
type: item
date: 2025-12-05T09:00:16.000Z
creator: Katelyn Mensah
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Christmas
subject: Evergreen
description: What's been Walford's most memorable festive outing?
encoded: Nothing quite screams the festive season like a good old EastEnders Christmas special – whether you watch the show month after month, or only dip into it in the last two weeks of December, we've all got a soft spot for the iconic BBC soap. For many who will be tuning into the special episodes this festive season, they will be clued up on all the goings-on in Walford, from Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) dementia battle to the mystery of Zoe Slater's (Michelle Ryan) tormenter. When it comes to soapland at Christmas, anything can happen. From murders to affair reveals to arrests, it only ever has that extra oomph on the big day. EastEnders is no stranger to an iconic festive storyline, whether it be Den Watts serving Angie divorce papers or Jamie Mitchell tragically dying in hospital. So let's reminisce on some of the most iconic EastEnders Christmas episodes, which often starts a debate about who takes the top spot. After much discussion, RadioTimes.com has compiled a full ranking of every EastEnders Christmas special – and the number one spot may not be the storyline you think. So, while we're all gearing up for the big return of Pat Evans (Pam St Clement) this year, here's our team's run-down of the last 40 years of yuletide instalments. EastEnders Christmas specials ranking 40. Gray Atkins and Chelsea Fox's wedding (2021) Perhaps the most anticlimactic of Christmas specials, Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) sought to stop Chelsea Fox (Zaraah Abrahams) from marrying serial killer Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith) – only to fail and no consequences to be felt for Gray for months. Meanwhile, Rocky Cotton's (Brian Conley) long-con of Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) was exposed and weird paternity secrets were revealed - only for none of this to have any consequences in the weeks to come. Lewis Knight. 39. Alfie Moon's nightmare Christmas (2018) A dramatic Christmas special ruined Alife Moon's (Shane Richie) character as he was exposed as the secret father of Hayley Slater's …

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Major Emmerdale character left for dead as the truth about Celia Daniels and Ray Walters is revealed in ITVX release
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T15:19:30.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of Emmerdale, which airs at 7.30pm on ITV1 or can be streamed now on ITVX.
encoded: Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) and Rhona Goskirk (Zoe Henry) are now privy to Celia Daniels and Ray Walters's (Jaye Griffiths and Joe Absolom) vile operation in Emmerdale, and have subsequently realised the full extent of their capabilities. It was the moment young April Windsor (Amelia Flanagan) had nightmares about. She was finally coming clean about her ordeal, having been forced to deal drugs and sleep with men. In a way, the admission didn't pan out how she expected. In harrowing scenes last month, she envisioned Ray turning up and shooting Marlon dead, though on this occasion it was Celia doing the dirty work. She strolled into Smithy Cottage and whipped out her phone, promising to show the family what they were prepared to do to silence them – and if April stopped working for them. In Ray's car, after thinking he'd made a breakthrough with him, April's boyfriend Dylan Penders (Fred Kettle) was heading to the police station to report Celia. This was just moments after he realised that Bear Wolf (Joshua Richards) was being forced to work for them. Ray asked him to go and open the gate and clear the road, though with his back turned, he slammed his foot on the accelerator and sent poor Dylan flying through the air. As he lay unconscious on the ground, Celia told the Dingle-Goskirk clan that they were also at risk should they decide to spill. She knew their every movement, all of their family, and if there was anymore trouble, houses would be burned to the ground, cars would be crashed – and throats would be slit. When Rhona went to challenge her, she grabbed her by the face and dug her nails into her cheeks until she bled. Luckily for Dylan, he was found on the roadside – albeit in a bad way – and had been rushed into hospital. Will he survive the ordeal, and what will Marlon and Rhona's next move be? Read more: 5 Emmerdale spoilers: Celia Daniels brainwashes Laurel Thomas as fury erupts with Moira Dingle Emmerdale 2025 Christmas schedules confirmed by ITV - incl…

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Coronation Street legend's future with soap revealed as they 'sign contract' for 28th year in role
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T11:04:55.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Coronation Street
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
subject: News
description: They were just 15 when they joined the soap.
encoded: One of Coronation Street's longest-running characters will be on our screens for another year of cobbles drama. Alan Halsall, who first appeared on the ITV soap as Tyrone Dobbs in 1998, has reportedly signed on the dotted line with a big storyline ahead. The character arrived alongside adoptive mother Jackie (Margi Clarke), though soon became somewhat of a surrogate son to Jack and Vera Duckworth (Bill Tarmey and Liz Dawn). He was at the centre of the 50th anniversary, when first wife Molly Dobbs's (Vicky Binns) affair with his business partner Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell) was exposed, and Tyrone realised that he wasn't the father of their son. More recent storylines have included finding his drug addict birth mother Cassie Plummer (Claire Sweeney) and harridan grandmother Evelyn (Dame Maureen Lipman), fathering a child during an affair, and suffering a severe spinal cord injury following a hit and run. The latter incident has seen him require the use of a wheelchair for mobility, while wife Fiz (Jennie McAlpine) has been left to juggle his care and looking after their three children. In the last week she checked into the Chariot Square Hotel for a break, under the guise that she was visiting unwell mother Cilla Battersby-Brown (Wendi Peters) in Wolverhampton. Now, The Sun reports that Halsall has signed his new contract for at least another year, with a source claiming there are "big things coming up for the soap and Tyrone" in the next 12 months. Little does Ty realise, his accident was caused by Carl Webster (Jonathan Howard). The meddling brother of Kevin has been manipulating his sister Debbie's (Sue Devaney) dementia diagnosis, has coupled up with sister-in-law Abi (Sally Carman-Duttine) and is secretly sleeping with neighbour James Bailey (Jason Callender). As this is Weatherfield, things tend not to stay secret for long! Could Tyrone by the one who brings Carl down? Read more: Coronation Street icon to return to soap this Christmas - a year on from emotio…

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EastEnders airs icon's unsettling return to Walford amid heartache in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T06:30:54.000Z
creator: Lewis Knight
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: BBC One
subject: News
description: Spoiler warning for Thursday 4th December 2025.
encoded: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7:30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer. EastEnders aired the dramatic return of Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) in the cliffhanger end to Thursday's episode (4th December 2025). The BBC One soap had already announced the return of Medcalf for a short stint this festive season, while they later revealed the character would be facing a breast cancer diagnosis in upcoming scenes. However, another big facet to Sam's comeback will be her reunion with a former partner in crime, Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan). Fans have seen - to some frustration - Zoe panic over a mystery tormentor sending chilling messages and scaring her in recent weeks, but the true culprit remains a mystery. Following another outburst in the Queen Vic and pushing the Slaters, punters, and viewers at home to their limit, Zoe was asked to move out by her heartbroken mother, Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace). A newly homeless Zoe sought comfort and a home with her former flame, Dr Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey), who viewers are now aware has been hit with a restraining order by his estranged wife, Sophie, and this is the real reason he's back in Walford. However, after Anthony exposed his thieving and blackmail crimes, Howie Danes (Delroy Atkinson) revealed Anthony's secret to a shocked Zoe. Following this, Zoe continued to confide in her new friend Lauren Beale (Jacqueline Jossa), who had sought her help with babysitting. As the pair walked through Albert Square at night, a high-heeled figure walked through the Square gardens by the lit Christmas tree, and the camera slowly panned to show Sam Mitchell watching over the scene of Zoe and Lauren. Is Sam secretly Zoe's tormentor? Next week, the pair will come face to face, and Zoe is quick to accuse Sam of wanting to settle old scores, but fans will have to wait and see if she is guilty of any misdeeds. Elsewhere today, in the aftermath of his betrayal of Patrick Trueman (Rudo…

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5 Coronation Street spoilers: Format-breaking Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton episode as Dee-Dee Bailey's exit story begins
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T00:01:59.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Coronation Street
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
description: Ben is on Will's case, Joanie kicks off and Abi has suspicions about Carl.
encoded: Coronation Street is lining up a special, standalone episode following Theo Silverton's (James Cartwright) abuse of Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce). The instalment has been filmed through hidden cameras and police body cams, as a domestic incident is reported on the cobbles. Meanwhile, Ben Driscoll (Aaron McCusker) is hot on son Will's (Lucas Hodgson-Wale) heels when he heads to the hotel for an afternoon in the sheets with Megan Walsh (Beth Nixon). Elsewhere, Dee-Dee Bailey (Channique Sterling-Brown) has some news, and there's drama for Abi and Carl Webster (Sally Carman-Duttine and Jonathan Howard). Here's a look at everything happening in Weatherfield between Monday 15th and Friday 19th December. 5 Coronation Street spoilers 1. The police intervene after another Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton incident In a single strand instalment, police swarm the cobbles after reports of a domestic incident. A series of flashbacks then take us to a moment when Theo's abuse escalates, through the point of view of Todd's hidden camera, CCTV and police body cams. Is this the end of the road for Theo? The next day, Todd cleans up the breakages in the flat as he comes to terms with how bad things have got. Bernie has seen just how bad the scene was, and tells George that she thinks there's more to the situation than meets the eye. Alongside Christina, he decides to pay the couple a visit and offer Todd his job back. He puts on a brave face when questions about the row are posed, but will the truth be outed? 2. Will Driscoll is caught in the act with Megan Walsh Will tells Bernie that he hasn't got any mates in Weatherfield, and she calls in Brody to strike up a friendship. Megan puts a smile on his face when she promises him a training session, and Daniel notices how besotted he seems. Brody calls by and invites himself along to the training session, something which frustrates Will. He's even more infuriated when he suggests asking Megan out. Later in the week, it's Will's birthday.…

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4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Gemma Johnson convinces Warren Fox to intercept a robbery to save Mercedes McQueen
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T00:01:27.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Ant spirals and Ste turns to Dillon for support...
encoded: Hollyoaks is lining up another eventful week for Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe), as her blackmailer gives her just 24 hours to cough up the cash. In a desperate bid to help her, Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) is tempted by an intriguing offer from Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry). Meanwhile, Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio) is a cause for concern, and Donny Clark's (Louis Emerick) secret Brookside life continues to be a nuisance. Here's everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 15th and Wednesday 17th December. 4 Hollyoaks spoilers 1. Gemma Johnson meddles in Mercedes McQueen's relationship with Warren Fox <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/HO-EP-6656-GEMMA-WARREN-MERCEDES-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Thursday-4th-December--LIME-PICTURES-2b12720.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Mercedes watches an altercation between Warren and Gemma in an alleyway in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6656 GEMMA, WARREN, MERCEDES - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Thursday 4th December @ LIME PICTURES" /> The clock is ticking and Merce has just 24 hours to secure the funds to pay off her blackmailer – or the secret about Tony's shooting will be outed. Warren is prepared to go to extreme lengths to protect her, even if it means working with Gemma. Little does he realise, she's the one plotting against them. Gemma proposes joining her on a job to raise money for Mercedes, to attend a robbery and intercept the heist so that they can steal the cash for themselves. 2. Ste Hay can't resist temptation <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/HO-EP-6650-SCREEN-GRAB-DILLON-LUCAS-STE-JOHN-PAUL-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-25th-November--LIME-PICTURES-81aca2f.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Ste has an argument with Dillon and Lucas as John Paul watches on in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6650 SCREEN GRAB DILLON, LUCAS, STE, JOHN PAUL - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 25th November @ LIME PICTURES" /> Dillon and Rex try and make a br…

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