Christmas TV highlights

CHRISTMAS provides us with many pleasing and delightful aspects.  There is spending time with your loved ones, that delicious dinner on Christmas Day and the countless amount of chocolate that needs to be munched.  Another highlight of the next fortnight is the Christmas TV.  Here is a preview of some of the festival treats on offer on the box.

     In soapland, EastEnders has had the top billing for a number of years and their main storyline features the destruction of the Masood family.  Evil doctor Yusef has managed to split Zainab and Masood up and weasel his way in Zainab’s affections.  This Christmas, it all explodes quite literally and not everyone will survive.  I can reveal of a fire at the B&B on Boxing Day, but is this part of Yusef’s revenge plot or the culmination of another storyline.  Elsewhere on the Square, little Tommy Moon has his first birthday, but Kat and Alfie’s turbulent marriage hits a crisis point.  Will a camera recorder spell the end of another Walford marriage?  Also, Bianca is released from prison, but a happy Christmas for the Butcher’s looks highly unlikely, especially as Pat’s financial issues become public knowledge.  Worse is to come for the Square’s matriarch, as her health takes a turn for the worse.  Actress Pam St. Clement is leaving the show, but I’m keeping tight lipped on how she will be departing.

        Another major character is leaving the soaps over the festive period and that is Becky McDonald in Coronation Street.  Depressed at seeing her former husband Steve and her nemesis Tracy Barlow have a family Christmas; she sets fire accidentally to her flat.  Can Nick Tilsley make it in time to drag the fiery Becky out of the fire?  Peter Barlow might have just started a sizzling affair with Carla Connor, but when he misplaces a Christmas present in the back of a taxi, Rovers bar manager, Stella Price becomes nosey and her reaction to Leanne’s Christmas present that she receives from her cheating hubby suggests that Peter must watch his back.  Also, Sophie Webster is set to tie the knot with Sian Powers, but she seems to be struggling to cope with last-minute nerves and growing feelings towards Amber.  Will the wedding go ahead?  In Emmerdale, goodwill will not be in play between Debbie and Alicia.  Christmas dinner or should I say, Alicia’s dinner ends up being poured over her head by Debbie.  Then, she has another plan to help conceive a baby with Andy, in the efforts to save Sarah, but how their partners react to her desperate plan.  Also, factory owner Jai is arrested for the attack on Cain Dingle a couple of weeks ago.  Have the police got their man, or is Cain just out for revenge?  Plus, Laurel and Ashley get prepared to renew their wedding vows, but Laurel is another woman with second thoughts and can dishy chef Marlon stop her making a terrible mistake.  Doctors, Home and Away and Neighbours all disappear on lengthy Christmas breaks, but in Hollyoaks, Brendan Brady and Warren Fox’s bitter confrontation for villain of the year in Chester reaches new heights.  Brendan has a gun pulled on him, is he doomed to end the year in a coffin?

HEAD-TO-HEAD: EastEnders v Downton Abbey on Christmas Day

        Taking on EastEnders head-to-head on Christmas Day will be the award-winning Downton Abbey.  Nigel Havers, Brendan Coyle and Hugh Bonneville take guest roles in this special episode, which will bring a rollercoaster full of emotions and a mixture of cheer and sadness in Lord Grantham’s country house?  On the same day, Matt Smith stars in the seasonal Doctor Who Christmas special.  Alexander Armstrong plays a guest role this year and we’ve been promised a story that will show a different side to the Doctor.  Other leading dramas see the star of Lewis, Laurence Fox take a lead performance in Fast Freddie, The Widow and Me where he and his wife attempt to bring some much needed cheer to a terminally ill child.  

     The final of Strictly Come Dancing is tomorrow evening and on Christmas Day, there will be the regular Christmas special for charity.  This year, EastEnders wicked woman Charlie Brooks, former Blue boyband member Simon Webbe and boxer Barry McGuigan compete in the dance-off.  As Bruce and Tess would say, keep dancing!  Chris Tarrant presents another edition of celebrity Who Wants to Be A Millionaire, while Jimmy Carr and guests including Jonathan Ross, Alan Carr and Miranda Hart compete for a lighter look at 2011 in The Big Fat Quiz of the Year.  Then there’s Ant and Dec and let’s be honest, a Christmas without them would be as dull as dishwater!  They pick up where Phillip Schofield and Christine Bleakley by hosting the second edition of Text Santa, where the winners at the end of a fabulous night of entertainment and surprises, will be charities.  Schofield’s acclaimed show The Cube has a couple of Coronation Street stars attempt to become the first people to beat The Cube and there’s also a Benidorm v The Only Way is Essex Family Fortunes Christmas Special.

           Other shows to watch out for in Christmas are a lookback at the news from the year in Mark Austin’s That Was 2011.  Fearne Cotton and Reggie Yates will provide the music entertainment on Christmas Day with a special edition of Top of the Pops.  In sport, Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea and Liverpool v Newcastle United look like the pick of the Premiership festive football action live on Sky Sports.  Also, can Kauto Star produce one final piece of magic on Channel 4 with the King George VI at Kempton and stop Long Run’s recent dominance of jump racing.  Lastly, Noel Edmonds will present daily editions of Deal or No Deal, which takes a panto feel to this Christmas.  However, don’t expect any festive celebrations from the banker.

So there you go, that is your Christmas TV sorted….

                                                                                                                

Children in Need 2011 - A record breaking night

By Jason Wright (Entertainment expert)

RECORDS: Children in Need was very popular again with the public

FAMOUS faces were out in force again at Television Centre for the 32nd staging of the popular BBC Children In Need telethon night.  BBC One, as ever, cleared its Friday night schedules for the seven and a half hour marathon of music and entertainment in the aid of giving disadvantaged children a helping hand.

     Sir Terry Wogan again oversaw the proceedings across the night and was joined by Alisha Dixon (7:30pm-8:30pm), Tess Daly (8:30pm-10:00pm) and finally Fearne Cotton (10:35pm-2:00am.)  With the financial times getting so tough, it was predicted that the appeal night total would be down again for the third year in a row.  They were wrong!

     X-Factor boyband One Direction were the headline act of performances, getting the girls screaming out more as usual.  JLS, Susan Boyle, the reunited Steps, Olly Murs and the Saturdays, which saw Frankie Sandford make a surprise return to the band after several months away due to illness, were among the other musical guests on the show.  For this year’s official single, Take That and new X-Factor head judge, Gary Barlow gathered some of the finest acts from the R&B and hip-hop scene, including Rizzle Kicks, Tinchy Stryder and Tulisa from N-Dubz to perform his self-penned song ‘Teardrop.’  The song however was blighted with a sound failure in the microphones during its performance on the show.

     BBC programmes once again got in on the act.  The cast of EastEnders paid tribute to rock legends Queen, Lord Sugar took on the terrifying Dragons in a special Dragons Den sketch.  There was a special edition of Never Mind the Buzzcocks shown on BBC Two during the interlude on BBC One for the Ten O’clock News and Doctor Who fans were treated to a special sneak preview of the upcoming Christmas episode.  BBC Radio 2 rose over £2 million through their popular ‘Money Can’t Buy’ auction and ‘Music Marathon’ events.

     Of course though, Children In Need wouldn’t be the same without something from the BBC News team.  This year, four of the presenting team – Emily Maitlis, Sophie Raworth, Susanna Reid and Sian Williams joined forces with four professionals from Strictly Come Dancing for a special group dance.  Strictly is one of a few programmes to raise interest in Children In Need, and this weekend’s show is being broadcast from Wembley Arena in front of an audience of 6,000.  In three weeks from now, 10,000 will be seated inside the same arena for the X-Factor final weekend.

     Outside of appeal night, other companies have been offering their support for good causes.  Some of the most highlighted were:

·         ASDA sold a wide variety of Children In Need kitchenware and Pudsey Bear gingerbread biscuits.

·         Greggs sold Children In Need themed cupcakes and doughnuts.

·         Boots sold Pudsey teddy bears along with key rings and wristbands.  Wristbands were also on sale in Post Offices.

·         Welcome Break motorway service stations and CostCo cash & carry stores displayed donation boxes.

·         Build-A-Bear Workshop had Pudsey teddy bears in a wide range of different outfits.

     All that, along with the rolling donations from the night, ensured that Children In Need against all odds broke the record for an on-the-night total, raising a massive £26,332,334.  This was over six million higher than the previous record set in 2008.  The final total is already projected to hit over £45 million.

     It proved that despite the doom and gloom on the financial market that for just that one night, Britain can afford to pick their phones and give some money in the aid of a good cause.

Soapland at Christmas

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

WITH the clocks due to go back on Sunday, it’s an ideal time to look at the three key storylines that are set to strike the three top soaps at Christmas this year.

     It is a common tradition for the soaps to roll out the big guns in an attempt to draw in the viewers, especially for when it comes to the big 25th date itself.  EastEnders knows how to do it, as it’s been the top rated soap on Christmas Day for nine years in a row.  The burning question is, will they make it the perfect ten this year?  Or will Corrie steal glory for the first time since 2001?  Or could Emmerdale spring a surprise and come out on top?

WARNING: Potential spoilers do not read on if you don’t want to know!

EastEnders – Farwell to an Albert Square legend

GOODBYE: How is Pat heading out of the Square?

IT SEEMS like a regular theme.  Christmas in soapland brings a familiar character leaving.  This year, that honour goes to Albert Square icon Pat Evans.  Actress Pam St Clement is hanging up her alter ego’s famous earrings after 20 years in the role.  The likelihood is that Pat will be killed off but how is still up in the air.  The rumoured ways are a horror fire in the B&B or, perhaps more likely, a tragic short battle with cancer.  The final scenes are set to reunite the Butcher family with Ricky (Sid Owen) and Bianca (Patsy Palmer) returning as are Pat’s sons, Simon and David Wicks (Nick Berry and Michael French), last seen in the mid-nineties.  Either way, it is certainly set to be another tearjerker of a Christmas in the Square.

Coronation Street – Teenage heartbreak on the cards

HEARTBREAK: Sophie and Sian's relationship looks set for a unhappy ending

ONE of Corrie’s most popular storylines over the past two years has been the lesbian relationship between Sophie Webster (Brooke Vincent) and Sian Powers (Sacha Parkinson).  This Christmas, it looks like the romance could potentially hit the skids.  Last week saw Sophie end up kissing workmate Amber Kalirai (Nikki Patel) and in an act of guilt, decided to pop the question to Sian, setting up a civil partnership ceremony for the festive period.  Whilst it is known that the storyline will get to at least the day of the ceremony, it seems that they may not get to say ‘I do.’  The rumours are that the event will be called off as Sophie decides that it’s Amber that she really wants.  However, Amber might also decide to get her own back and make the secret kiss a public matter, leading to a potential jilt.  With Sacha Parkinson set bid farewell to Weatherfield as Sian at the start of 2012, it looks as if this love story sadly won’t get the happy ending that it deserves.

Emmerdale – Happy Families, unlikely!

WHEREAS EastEnders and Corrie’s plot lines have broken cover, Emmerdale is still being kept mostly under wraps.  However, it looks as if their main plot will centre round the continuing illness of Debbie Dingle’s (Charley Webb) daughter Sarah.  In desperate need of a bone marrow transplant for Sarah to survive, she and Sarah’s father Andy Sugden (Kelvin Fletcher) decide to take drastic action that could have several drawbacks in the long term.  It is possible that this could also connect with the birth of Amy Wyatt’s (Chelsea Halfpenny) baby at Christmas, and whether the dad of the newborn Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) will oppose to this decision.  It seems an extremely and complicated based storyline at the moment, mainly as it hasn’t really been fully unveiled.  Soap addicts should remember though, Emmerdale never really does simple and basic storylines, especially at Christmas.

     One thing is certainly agreed, Christmas Day will once again be far from quiet in the land of soaps.  Just what side will the public tune into this year?  There’s only 59 days to go until we have our answer.

Baby swap plot cleared by OFCOM

MEDIA regulator OFCOM has cleared BBC soap EastEnders of any wrongdoing over a controversial storyline last Christmas.  The baby swap plot, which ultimately led to the departure of actress Samantha Womack, received a record number of complaints, but the drama will not face any actions for the dramatic episodes which were screened around New Year.

     The storyline focused on two of the show’s most loved characters, Ronnie Branning, played by Womack and Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace giving birth to two beautiful babies almost at the same time.  Ronnie’s baby, James tragically passed away and in clear distress and not knowing where to turn, Ronnie sneaked into the Queen Vic and snatched Kat’s baby Tommy whilst the new mother was in hospital.   OFCOM received 1,044 complaints whilst 23,000 people complained about the episodes to the BBC.  In response, producer Bryan Kirkwood elected to end the storyline earlier than initally planned, with Ronnie giving the baby back to Kat and Alfie Moon in April.  Recently, Womack left EastEnders after Ronnie was sentenced to three years in jail for her actions.

SWAP: The baby plot has been cleared by OFCOM

     Many viewers were worried that these episodes had been shown in a pre-9pm watershed slot, but OFCOM said that the soap had “a record of tackling controversial and, at times, highly sensitive social issues.”  Another feature in the report was this;

“The storyline presented Kat’s grief, disbelief and anger and the temporary breakdown of her relationship as well as her gradual coming to terms with her loss and the efforts to rebuild her life following the tragedy.” 

     They concluded that the extensive research and meetings the BBC held with cast members and foundations before going ahead with the storyline, consequently “providing sufficient context overall to justify the potential offence.”

    Ultimately, although I admit that it wasn’t the right time of year to broadcast a storyline like that, some people took their criticisms way too far and need to accept that soaps like EastEnders, Hollyoaks and Coronation Street will broadcast controversial and perhaps, distasteful storylines in order to get a reaction.  Hopefully, EastEnders can now move on from this brave attempt, and under the guidance of Kirkwood, will almost certainly aim for more challenging scenarios and storylines in future.  

Pam hangs up her earrings

AFTER 25 years playing Pat Evans, or ‘Fat Pat,’ as she is referred to by Janine Malloy, Pam St. Clement has decided to leave EastEnders.  She had decided not to renew her contract, paving the way for a dramatic Christmas storyline exit on the BBC1 soap.  Pam, 69, is thought to have made the decision following the departure of some her closest friends from Albert Square, such as Barbara Windsor.  It is also thought that she wants to go and travel the world with more time on her hands.

     Pam St. Clement first appeared in Albert Square in 1986 and for the last 25 years, fans have been treated to 25 years of dodgy choices in men and also, in those famous earrings she wears.  She is the second longest serving character in the show currently, only behind Adam Woodyatt, who plays unpopular chip shop owner Ian Beale. 

LEAVING: Pam St. Clement is hanging up her earrings

     Pam’s character will be famously known for the on-off relationship she had with car dealer Frank Butcher, played by the amazing and sorely missed Mike Reid.  They got married on the show in 1989 and were happily married until 1992, when financial problems set into their marriage.  On Christmas Eve that year, Pat ran down a teenage girl outside The Queen Vic and was found over the drink-drive limit.  She was sentenced to six months in jail.  Frank and Pat’s marriage eventually crumbled when he left in 1994 and two years later, Pat married car dealer Roy Evans.  However, she couldn’t keep her hands off Frank and in 2000; they rekindled their romance whilst on holiday in Spain.  Peggy eventually found out and revealed all to the Square during the 2000 Bonfire Night celebrations.  Although Roy kicked her out, they reunited until his death in 2002 from a heart attack.

     Since then, Pat has had flings with several men, including Patrick Truman (Rudolph Walker).  In recent years, her character has faded out of the limelight, although her fraught relationship in recent times with Janine Malloy (Charlie Brooks) has always been interesting to watch. 

     On her departure, she said this on the BBC website; “I have enjoyed 25 and a half wonderful years in EastEnders, creating the character of Pat but I feel it’s time to hang up her earrings.  Leaving the EastEnders ‘family’ will be akin to bereavement.  However, I’m looking forward to the other work and life opportunities that I will have the time to pursue.”

     Pat Evans will be sorely missed by her fans in EastEnders and hopefully, she will get a brilliant exit that befits the character.  Another piece of Albert Square history will this Christmas be consigned to the history books.

The BAFTA's 2011 - Huge surprises all round

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

THE world famous Grosvenor House once again played host to the most coveted night in British television, the BAFTA’s.  Considered as British television’s equivalent to the Oscars, Sunday night’s ceremony, again broadcasted on BBC1, was anticipated to have another batch of expectant results.  But many people were wrong!

     The first key shock was in ‘Best Actor’ when ‘Eric and Ernie’s’ Daniel Rigby beat hot rivals Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) and Matt Smith (Doctor Who) to the honour, the latter of two continuing a losing trend in awards.  Popular drama Sherlock did make up for winning the ‘Supporting Actor’ for Martin Freeman and then beating critically-acclaimed Downton Abbey to ‘Drama Series’.

     Despite its 50th anniversary storyline, Coronation Street just can’t buy a major award if its life depended on it as EastEnders again beat them to the ‘Continuing Drama’ award.  The BBC Four drama though ‘The Road to Coronation Street’ did win ‘Single Drama.’  The next surprise came when both popular US shows Glee and Mad Men were beaten by The Killing to the ‘International’ award.

     BBC News coverage of the historical transfer from Labour to coalition government was second best to ITV News feature on the infamous Cumbria shootings of Derrick Bird last summer for the ‘News Coverage’ honour.  BBC Sport however won the ‘Sport’ award for its excellent coverage of last year’s F1 title decider in Abu Dhabi.  Next to fall shockingly into losing was The X-Factor.  It lost the ‘Entertainment Programme’ award to ever-increasingly popular ITV1 gameshow The Cube, which fittingly concluded its third series on the same night, and its top prize of £250,000 is still yet to be won.

DESERVED: Sir Trevor won the BAFTA Fellowship

     Former ITN newsreader Sir Trevor McDonald was deservedly honoured with this year’s ‘BAFTA Fellowship’ award, to honour his work in news and current affairs for over 30 years.  Ceremony host Graham Norton also got an award for ‘Entertainment Performance’ for his work.  His chatshow has turned out to be a huge successful replacement for Jonathan Ross in BBC1’s late Friday night slot.

     To conclude the night of surprises, the ‘Audience Award,’ voted for by YouTube viewers, was expected to go to Downton Abbey but instead was awarded to ITV2’s real-life soap The Only Way Is Essex.  It may still have its critics but it has proven to become ITV2’s most popular programme on its launch last October.  It has made household names in its entire cast including Mark Wright and Amy Childs as well as being famed for its constant use of the phrase, ‘shut up!’  A move or a broadcast slot on ITV1 will soon surely beckon now.

     In conclusion, this year’s awards have certainly proven one testimony, never underestimate the underdog.

BAFTA 2011 WINNERS

Actor – Daniel Rigby

Actress – Vicky McClure

Supporting Actor – Martin Freeman

Supporting Actress – Lauren Socha

Entertainment Performance – Graham Norton

Female Performance in a Comedy Role – Jo Brand

Male Performance in a Comedy Role – Steve Coogan

Single Drama – The Road to Coronation Street

Drama Series – Sherlock

Drama Serial – Any Human Heart

Continuing Drama – EastEnders

International – The Killing

Factual Series – Welcome to Lagos

Specialist Factual – Flying Monsters in 3D

Single Documentary – Between Life and Death

Features – Hugh’s Fish Fight

Current Affairs – Zimbabwe’s Forgotten Children

News Coverage – ITV News at Ten: The Cumbria Murders

Sport – Formula 1: The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

New Media – Wallace & Gromit’s World of Invention

Entertainment Programme – The Cube

Comedy Programme – Harry & Paul

Situation Comedy – Rev

YouTube Audience Award – The Only Way Is Essex

Special Recognition Award – Peter Bennett-Jones

BAFTA Fellowship – Sir Trevor McDonald

British Soap Awards 2011 - Corrie wins big; EastEnders retains top prize

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

CONTINUED: EastEnders won the coveted prize again

EASTENDERS won the main award again last week at the British Soap Awards.  Once again, it set an example as to why it is considered as the best soap on television in recent times as it swept to a fourth success in a row for Best British Soap.

     For the first time in history, the awards moved away from its usual home of the BBC Television Centre but instead of relocating down the road to The O2 Arena like many other awards shows now, it chose the ITV Granada Studios in Manchester.  With 17 awards to fight for, and most critics this was the best year gone by for British Soap, everything than just pride was all to play for.

     The relocation to Manchester seemed to pay dividends for Coronation Street.  Despite missing out on the main gong, the local soap took away nine awards from the evening.  Michelle Keegan retained her crown for ‘Sexiest Female’ for the third year in the row whilst the Tram Crash for the 50th Anniversary at Christmas deservedly won ‘Spectacular Scene’ as did for ‘Best Single Episode’ for its live episode and ‘Best Storyline’ for Kevin Webster’s affair with Molly Dobbs, which climaxed around the time of the crash.

     The soap’s other successes came from Jane Danson winning ‘Best Dramatic Performance’, Alexander Bain becoming the inaugural winner of the ‘Best Young Performance’ award, Patti Clare earning ‘Best Comedy Performance’ whilst the biggest plaudits went the legendary Bill Tarmey for getting the ‘Best Exit’ gong and then the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his 30 years of work on the show as the legendary Jack Duckworth.

     There was to be only four awards on the night for EastEnders.  There was another ‘Sexiest Male’ gong for Scott Maslen and the ‘Best Actress’ award for the recently-returned Jessie Wallace who also took the ‘Best On-Screen Partnership’ award with Shane Richie.  By claiming ‘Best British Soap,’ it shows the influence that former Hollyoaks boss Bryan Kirkwood has had, since his arrival last year.

     The remaining soaps were left with few scraps again though Emmerdale broke the recent tradition of Corrie and EastEnders dominating the viewer-voted awards as Danny Miller rightfully won ‘Best Actor.’  The rural soap’s only other success came in the form of a posthumous honour for the late Gavin Blyth with the ‘Special Achievement’ award.  The 51 year-old, who has helped turn around the soap’s fortunes, tragically died back in November after a short battle with illness.

     Hollyoaks also earned two awards, both going to popular newbie Emmet J. Scanlan with awards for ‘Best Newcomer’ and a viewer award for ‘Villain of The Year.’  After only being nominated in two categories, daytime soap Doctors unsurprisingly went home empty-handed, ending its surprise success in recent editions of the ceremony.

     In truth, the year that soap has produced has been breathtaking. Corrie won the battle but it was truly EastEnders who won the war.

British Soap Awards 2011 - The nominations

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

NEXT Saturday, the stars of Britain’s five premier soaps will gather at the BBC Television Centre in London to celebrate, reflect and reminisce the big events in soap over the past twelve months.  Several talking points have been raised following the release of the British Soap Awards nominations last week, so it’s only fitting to have a look at some of the contenders and possible winners or losers.

PROMISE: Will Danny's acting skills finally earn him an award?

     The viewing public once again have their say in six of the awards, which are the most hotly contested.  In ‘Sexiest Male’, Keith Duffy and Chris Fountain of Coronation Street (Ciaran McCarthy and Tommy Duckworth), the latter has only been present since last month, will go up against EastEnders’ Scott Maslen (Jack Branning) and Emmerdale’s Danny Miller (Aaron Livesy).  The ‘Sexiest Female’ award also swayed in favour of Corrie with nominations for Alison King (Carla Connor) and Michelle Keegan (Tina McIntyre) with competition from EastEnders’ Rita Simons (Roxy Mitchell) and Hollyoaks Jennifer Metcalfe (Mercedes McQueen).

     In ‘Villain Of The Year’, EastEnders heads the running with Charlie Brooks (Janine Molloy) and Don Gilet (Lucas Johnson) but they will have their work cut out with Kate Ford (Tracy Barlow) from Corrie, beating obvious candidate Graeme Hawley (John Stape) and Emmet J. Scanlan (Brendan Brady) from Hollyoaks.

     A strong field for ‘Best Actress’ features Corrie’s Katherine Kelly (Becky McDonald), Jessie Wallace from EastEnders (Kat Moon), Emmerdale’s Jane Cox (Lisa Dingle), who won honourable praise for her recent rape storyline and a surprise nod for Claire Cooper (Jacqui McQueen) from Hollyoaks.  In ‘Best Actor’, Chris Gascoyne (Peter Barlow) from Corrie and Shane Richie (Alfie Moon) from EastEnders will compete alongside popular figures Danny Miller and Emmet J. Scanlan.

     The remaining awards are determined by an expert panel.  They have made some questionable choices in the past but they believe they know they are doing.  One of the most anticipated awards will be for ‘Spectacular Scene of the Year.’  The clear favourite is Corrie’s Tram Crash with opposition from EastEnders’ Queen Vic Fire, Emmerdale for the extreme car crash that left Jackson Walsh (Marc Silcock) paralyzed and Hollyoaks for its lift shaft stunt.  In ‘Best Single Episode,’ Corrie’s Live Episode is also the obvious choice with no rather stiff competition for it whilst the ‘Best Storyline’ is contested by Corrie for Kevin Webster’s (Michael Le Vell) affair with the late Molly Dobbs (Vicky Binns) which destroyed the closely-knitted Webster clan, Doctors for Karen’s abortion and Emmerdale hoping to cause an upset with Holly Barton’s (Sophie Powles) drug addiction.  Despite a national outcry, EastEnders’ Baby Swap storyline is nominated.  If it wins, many would expect outrage and fury from fans and media commentators alike.

OUTSIDER: Steph's Hollyoaks exit last November was a tearjerker

     For ‘Best Comedy Performance’, it’s a close call with the favourites being EastEnders Tameka Empson (Kim Fox) and Hollyoaks Alex Carter (Lee Hunter).  Despite not being put forward for Best Actress, Jane Danson (Leanne Barlow) is still preferred by many to win the ‘Best Dramatic Performance’ award.  She will be hard pushed by Danny Miller, his third nomination overall, Claire Cooper and EastEnders Lindsey Coulson (Carol Jackson).  The ‘Best Exit’ award will sometimes shed a tear or two, and this year is no exception with Corrie’s Bill Tarmey (Jack Duckworth), Emmerdale’s Andy Devine (Shadrach Dingle), EastEnders Lacey Turner (Stacey Branning) and Hollyoaks Carley Stenson (Steph Roach).  It isn’t surprising that Turner would be considered favourite but Stenson’s exit in November’s Il Gnosh fire was very well-handled and could be Hollyoaks best chance at success this year.

SNUB: Sophie and Sian's Corrie romance is popular, but not enough for an award

     One new award is for ‘Best Young Performance,’ a simple renaming of the dramatic performance for a young actor or actress.  The main contenders are all nominated, Corrie’s Alexander Bain (Simon Barlow), EastEnders Maisie Smith (Tiffany Butcher), Emmerdale’s Eden Taylor-Draper (Belle Dingle) and Hollyoaks Ellis Hollins (Tom Cunningham).  The real surprises come from the ‘Best On-Screen Partnership’ nominations.  Although well-known contenders Katherine Kelly & Simon Gregson, Jessie Wallace & Shane Ritchie and Emma Atkins & Jeff Hordley are in the running, it’s very surprising to see only one same-sex duo in the list, Kieron Richardson and Emmet J. Scanlan for Hollyoaks.  I emphasise that because the last year has seen a sharp rise in focusing on storylines with same-sex relationships.  So it’s very shocking that EastEnders Christian Clarke and Syed Masood (John Partridge & Marc Elliott), Emmerdale’s Danny Miller & Marc Silcock (Aaron Livesey & Jackson Walsh) and Corrie’s lesbian couple Brooke Vincent & Sacha Parkinson (Sophie Webster & Sian Powers) weren’t considered to be nominated considering all of their heightened popularity from viewers.

     Finally, the ‘Best Newcomer’ is also widely contested between four popular new faces.  Corrie’s Paula Lane (Kylie Turner), EastEnders Ricky Norwood (Fatboy Chubb), Emmerdale’s Pauline Quirke (Hazel Rhodes) and for Hollyoaks, you guessed it, Emmet J. Scanlan, five nominations for him.  To conclude, all five soaps are nominated for the viewer-voted ‘Best British Soap’ as usual and the ‘Special Achievement’ and ‘Lifetime Achievement’ will be unveiled on the night.  Although no clues have been given yet, the Lifetime honour is rumoured to go to Corrie again for either Bill Tarmey or William Roache (Ken Barlow), who has been in the soap since day one.  Once again, This Morning host Phillip Schofield presents the ceremony.

     In closing, this year’s awards are so close for contention.  Corrie, EastEnders and Emmerdale have nominations in every category, Hollyoaks managed to get more than many experts first predicted whilst Doctors only got two nominations, perhaps sealing that it will go away empty handed.

The ceremony takes place next Saturday and will be broadcast on ITV1 next Wednesday.  May the best soap win!

Soap's spectacular scenes of 2010/11

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

IN A few months time, it will be the time of year again for the British Soap Awards.  This is when the stars of the nation’s biggest shows gather to see who the cream of the crop was in the last twelve months.  One of the most anticipated awards this year will be for ‘Spectacular Scene of the Year’ with each of the big four soaps having a big contender for the award.  I will now analyse all four of them in closer detail.  All that I will say is that one word keeps popping up in them.

EastEnders – The Queen Vic Burns

Date: 9 September 2010

The Build-Up

Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) is always someone never to mess with, as are any of the Mitchell’s.  He was left seething when mother Peggy (Barbara Windsor) gave away his daughter and swore revenge on her.  Before he did, he started drinking more heavily before succumbing to an addiction of crack cocaine.

The Disaster

Peggy soon took matters into her own hands, barricading Phil inside a locked room in the Queen Vic for him to go cold turkey.  He soon broke out and a furious confrontation with Peggy led to Phil striking a match.  Peggy called his bluff, believing he wouldn’t be able to do it, so Phil dropped a match and in a few ghastly seconds, the packed pub erupted into a blazing inferno.  Miraculously, everyone escaped before a huge explosion destroyed what was very little of it left.

The Aftermath

The Vic was reduced to shell; everything had been completely wiped out.  Depressed, Peggy left Albert Square, refusing to tell anyone where she was going and determined never to come back again.  Kat and Alfie Moon (Jessie Wallace & Shane Ritchie) soon returned to the Square and purchased the pub.  Within weeks, it was back to normal.

The Verdict

The scenes were literally breathtaking but it was a bitter disappointment to many that nobody perished in the explosion as rumours were hype that the fire would ultimately claim Peggy’s life.

Hollyoaks – The Il Gnosh Disaster

Date: 8 – 12 November 2010

The Build-Up

Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard) may be ambitious in his Il Gnosh restaurant but over recent months, it had been facing financial ruin.  This was not helped by his ex, Mandy (Sarah Jayne-Dunn) returning with the help of Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) to destroy him.  Warren even gets Tony’s brother Dom (John Pickard) onto his side by offering him cash to burn the eatery down.

The Disaster

On bonfire night, a mysterious figure set light to the store room of the restaurant and it quickly spread to the flat upstairs.  Mercedes (Jennifer Metcalfe) and Malachy (Glen Wilson) are thrown to the ground by the resulting explosion.  Gilly (Anthony Quinlan) and Steph (Carley Stenson) run to the scene and Steph runs in to save Amy Barnes (Ashley Slainia-Davies) and her children Leah and Lucas.  Knowing that she is dying of cancer, Steph remains in the building as it burns whilst Malachy later dies in hospital.

The Aftermath

Amy left to receive treatment in Manchester on her injuries.  Mercedes soon got over Malachy’s death by getting into a love triangle whilst Kris (Gerard McCarthy) returned to mourn the loss of his brother.  Ravi Roy (Stephen Uppal) is found in Middlesbrough, having been suspected as a fatality in the fire and leaves to be with his parents, as his aneurysm has returned.  Eventually, Dom confessed to Tony that he set the fire off to destroy a laptop which Bart McQueen (Jonny Clarke) had told him had pictures of Amber (Lydia Lloyd-Henry).  Tony had previously accused Dom of getting Amber pregnant.  Despite Dom’s pleas to allow him to leave the village, Tony phones the police and watches on as his brother is led away for a long stint in jail.

The Verdict

This was no doubt a ploy by the soap to give it attention by falling ratings.  Nevertheless it was spectacular as they could have made it.

Coronation Street – The Tram Crash

Date: 6 December 2010

The Build-Up

This incident really came out of the blue but several situations were ongoing at the time.  Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) and Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) were making preparations to marry, against the wishes of her ex Nick Tilsley (Ben Price).  Molly Dobbs (Vicky Binns) was preparing to leave the Street and before leaving, dropped a bombshell on husband Tyrone (Alan Henshaw) that he wasn’t baby Jack’s dad and John Stape (Graeme Hawley) was determined not to have his murderous secret ousted.

The Disaster

Set on the night of Peter & Leanne’s stag and hen nights, Nick had the intention of revealing his and Leanne’s sordid affair in The Joinery bar.  Whilst Leanne and Ken Barlow (William Roache) were making their way over to the bar to try and stop him, a sudden explosion ripped through the building.  As shocked residents raced over to help the wounded, a tram suddenly derailed thanks to the viaduct being damaged in the blast and crashed onto the cobbles, wrecking the Corner Shop.  One of its carriages then smashed into The Kabin and sent the Peacock’s house up in flames.  Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold) and Molly were killed in the devastating events whilst Peter married Leanne in hospital before undergoing life-saving surgery.

The Aftermath

It may have been three months ago now but its effects are still being felt today.  Following Ashley’s death, his wife Claire (Julia Hallam) and her kids left the Street to start afresh abroad.  Meanwhile before she died, Molly confessed to Sally Webster (Sally Dynevor) about her and Kevin’s affair which was subsequently came out in public at Molly’s funeral.  Sally threw Kevin (Michael Le Vell) out of the Webster house.  Kevin soon became public enemy number one with everyone in Weatherfield. Finally, Leanne’s affair with Nick was also exposed with the aid of the returning Tracy Barlow (Kate Ford) who told all to Peter and leading to Peter embarrassing the pair at a second wedding ceremony on Valentine’s Day.

The Verdict

This was quite simply some of the best scenes ever to grace soap.  I reckon it will still be talked about for years and even decades to come.

Emmerdale – The Arson Attack

Date: 13 January 2011

The Build-Up

The new police inspector Nick Henshall (Michael McKell) seemed to be charming and innocent but unknown to anyone, he had a criminal past.  The only person who was suspicious of him was Andy Sugden (Kelvin Fletcher).  Then again, it was because Henshall was dating his ex, Katie (Sammy Winward).

The Disaster

Sure enough Andy was right as Henshall, dressed in black, committed the worst possible crime by setting fire to a rubbish bin outside Katie’s house and it soon spread out of control.  Andy and Carl King (Tom Lister) braved the flames to save Katie along with her housemates Gennie Walker (Sian Reese-Williams) and Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter).  The flames soon rushed along the row of neighbouring houses before eventually resting at Viv Hope’s flat.  Terry Woods (Billy Hartman) dived in to try and save Viv (Deena Payne) but fears arose when he took longer than expected.  When the downstairs Post Office Shop exploded in a fireball, Terry and Viv had no chance and their bodies were soon dragged out.

The Aftermath

Given his criminal past, it was no surprise that Andy was among the accused for starting the fire.  A successful frame from Henshall himself had him charged with the crime.  Later, Katie discovered documents surrounding Henshall’s ex-wife dying in similar circumstances.  Henshall came clean and confessed but not before taking her hostage for several hours before ending it all by shooting himself dead.

The Verdict

Emmerdale just loves a good disaster and this is no exception.  While it certainly wasn’t among the ranks of EastEnders or Corrie, it was still pretty impressive.

These are four spectacular scenes that have graced the screens of soap over recent months but the question is what the best was?  That will of course be decided by a panel of soap experts come the awards itself in May. 

National Television Awards 2011 - A night of expected winners

By JASON WRIGHT (Entertainment expert)

WEDNESDAY night saw a host of stars from British television descend on London’s O2 Arena for the National Television Awards.  Now in its 16th year, it promised to be the best staged yet.

BIG WINNERS: Another successful night for EastEnders

As it turned out, the successful shows and stars of the night were just as who everyone had predicted.  EastEnders were the big winners, with three gongs.  Ricky Norwood picked the ‘Best Newcomer’ for his role as troublemaker Fatboy, Lacey Turner retained her ‘Best Serial Drama Performance’ award for Stacey Branning and the BBC1 soap itself won through in the live vote-off for ‘Best Serial Drama.’  Many felt it should have gone to rivals Coronation Street, but the Walford drama came through and the crew looked surprised.  So, not even a tram coming down on top of Weatherfield was enough for it to receive any recognition which is certainly rough justice.  Hopefully it will get what it deserves come the British Soap Awards in May.

Popular ITV1 duo Ant and Dec were also among the successes again.  The Tyneside-born pair added yet another two NTA’s to their cabinet for ‘Best Entertainment Programme’ with I’m A Celebrity and scooping up the ‘Best Entertainment Presenter’ award for the tenth time in a row.  Speaking live in Cardiff, where they are filming auditions for Britain’s Got Talent, they understandably gave credit to everyone who helped them succeed not just this year but the ten years they have achieved the Entertainment accolade at the awards.

HONOURED: Sir David Jason added to his collection

Other shows and famous faces that were winners on the night were ITV1 comedy Benidorm, earning the ‘Best Comedy Programme’ award for the second time in three years.  Sir David Jason was honoured with the ‘Best Drama Performance’ award for his final case in A Touch of Frost.  The E4 mega-hit The Inbetweeners beat hot rivals Glee to the inaugural ‘Best Digital Choice’ award, which celebrated the best programme offering from digital channels and This Morning were the victors of the ‘Best Topical Magazine Programme’ award.  After years of struggle and turmoil for the daytime offering, the popular partnership of Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby is ensuring that it is finally returning to the glory days of the nineties.  As an added beneficiary, viewers were able to see resident chef Gino D’Acampo cook naked on the following day’s edition, as he pledged to do so if the show won.

With the football sexism scandal caused by the disgraced Richard Keys and Andy Gray fresh in the air, it was being talked about a lot by those in attendance.  Even host Dermot O’Leary referred to it many times during the ceremony but it was Top Gear who had the last laugh and when they picked up the award for ‘Best Factual Programme.’  James May made a rather funny though obviously crude remark about it and it led to Jeremy Clarkson jokingly sacking him on the spot.  That’s what they call comedy around here!

The X-Factor proved to be the dominant force in the award for ‘Best Talent Show’.  Despite the controversy surrounding the previous series and that there were fears that people would rebel and vote against it, the ITV1 competition held on to win for the third time in four years.  No doubt this made Simon Cowell one very happy chap again.

The biggest shock and disappointment of the night was no awards for Doctor Who.  Although its popularity was slightly reduced after Matt Smith’s timid debut last year in the title role, it was still expected to win ‘Best Drama Programme.’  However it lost out to popular school drama Waterloo Road.  To add insult, Smith lost the Drama Performance to David Jason.  This will without a doubt call the show’s viability into serious question.

FINALLY: Bruce Forsyth get a deserved recognition

The biggest cheers though of the night went to the legendary Bruce Forsyth.  After over 50 years in showbiz, the soon-to-be 83 year old was finally given credit with the ‘Special Recognition Award.’  He sent the crowd into dismay and then hysteria by seeming to announce his retirement but then quipping one of his famous one-liners, “but I’m not bloody going to.”   It proves there is still life in the veteran yet.

Overall it was another night of impressive celebrations and accolades, proving just how much Britain really does say about the nation’s TV.  Here is to what should be an amazing 2011 of television and who knows who will come out on top in 2012?  These next 12 months will tell all.

Womack quits as EastEnders baby swap plot is to be cut short

EastEnders actress Samantha Womack, who plays the grieving mum Ronnie Mitchell, is to leave the BBC1 soap in the summer.  The show’s bosses have come under severe fire for its controversial baby swap storyline, and have now confirmed to end the plot earlier than expected after a record number of complaints.

DEPARTING: Samantha Womack is to leave this summer

Womack, who came into the show in 2007 – along with fictional sister Roxy, played by Rita Simons, has had a turbulent time in the Square, but her latest storyline has seen EastEnders move right into the public spotlight.  Her newly born son James was victim to a tragic cot death on New Year’s Eve.  Confused and grief-stricken, Ronnie walked across the Square and swapped her dead child with another newborn Tommy.  Viewers have been distressed to see the emotionally charged which have seen Kat and Alfie Moon, played by the popular Jessie Wallace and Shane Ritchie grieving at the baby’s loss, whilst across Walford, a guilty Ronnie is bringing up their baby. 

The BBC has received 8,400 complaints as of Friday afternoon, which has made it the most complained plot in its 26 year history.  It surpasses the 7,000 complaints received when Ronnie’s daughter, Danielle Jones was run over by Janine Malloy (Charlie Brooks) in April 2009.  The broadcasting regulator OFCOM has received approximately 350 complaints, though it is believed that the media watchdog is unlikely to make an official inquiry into the storyline.  

DEFENCE: Producer Bryan Kirkwood still has confidence in the plot

Ex-Hollyoaks producer Bryan Kirkwood, who revived the fortunes of the failing Channel 4 soap between 2006-2009 defended the plot on the official EastEnders website; “EastEnders never sets out to upset its audience - not only would it be counter-productive, it would be a breach of a long-established trust that we can deliver truthful stories that inspire debate in a way that's acceptable to a family audience.  "Although we have had complaints, we have also had positive responses from people who have been through the experiences we are currently dramatising who feel we've done this and have contacted us to offer their backing.

The Sun ran the story of Samantha Womack’s departure on its front page on Thursday, claiming that her reluctance to do the storyline has resulted in her decision to leave the show.  These allegations were firmly denied by Womack’s agent, Michael Wiggs later that day; "There's no truth whatsoever in any suggestion that Sam is 'quitting' EastEnders over the current storyline.  "Sam has had an incredibly happy and fulfilling time on EastEnders over the last few years.  "She has huge respect for the show, writers and producers and has thoroughly enjoyed playing such a complex role that has been involved in so many tough and challenging storylines."

Kirkwood has confirmed that scenes are being rewritten and reshot and the storyline, initially due to run for an entire year, will be concluded soon, possibly even as early as Easter.  He also revealed that there would be a happy ending and that Kat will be reunited with her son.

Personally, the storyline has attracted a lot of criticism and perhaps, EastEnders should have thought about running it, especially at such a highly-charged point of time, such as the happy festive season.  However, it has pushed the soap back into the media spotlight, after playing second fiddle to rival Coronation Street since Barbara Windsor’s tame exit as queen matriarch Peggy Mitchell last September.  By responding to the audience’s widespread complaints, it has managed to salvage some of the damage taken from the storyline and the acting qualities of Samantha Womack, Shane Ritchie, Jessie Wallace and Scott Maslen (Jack Branning) have shone through brilliantly, especially in filming such highly-charged scenes.

National Television Awards - The Shortlist

Tuesday saw the official publication of the shortlist for the National Television Awards.  This year, the public has twelve awards to vote for, with a couple of new awards.  The ‘Best Travel Documentary’ award introduced last year has been axed and has been replaced by the Best Topical Magazine Programme and Best Digital Choice, showcasing the best programme on digital television, which is owned by any of the five terrestrial networks (E4, ITV2, BBC3, Five USA etc)

To get voting now, visit the official NTA website at http://www.nationaltvawards.com/home.  This is the only ceremony which has no critics choice, no judges choice, the only ceremony where you the public decides who wins.  Will Ant & Dec continue their domination of Best Entertainment Presenter?  Can EastEnders hold off the stiff competition from Coronation Street and Emmerdale for Best Serial Drama?  Is Doctor Who going to charge away with the main drama awards?  Can US hit-shows 24 and Lost shake off the stiff competition from E4’s hit treble challenge from Glee, Skins and The Inbetweeners for the new Best Digital Choice award? 

The first round of voting closes on October 11^th, so get voting for your favourite.  The show is live on ITV1 and ITV1 HD from the 02 Arena on Wednesday 26^th January 2011 and is presented by X-Factor host, Dermot O’Leary.

Best of luck to all the nominees!

BEST TALENT SHOW

The X-Factor

Strictly Come Dancing

Britain’s Got Talent

Dancing on Ice

Over The Rainbow

So You Think You Can Dance?

Let’s Dance For Sports Relief

Don’t Stop Believing

BEST COMEDY PROGRAMME

Harry Hill’s TV Burp

Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow

Peep Show

The IT Crowd

Benidorm

My Family

John Bishop’s Britain

The Armstrong and Miller Show

The Impressions Show with Culshaw & Stephenson

Miranda

Live At the Apollo

Last of the Summer Wine

Rev

Outnumbered

Life of Riley

BEST NEWCOMER

Marc Silcock – Emmerdale

Steven Miller – Casualty

Emmett J Scanlan – Hollyoaks

Paula Lane – Coronation Street

Olga Fedori – Holby City

Ricky Norwood – EastEnders

BEST TOPICAL MAGAZINE PROGRAMME

Loose Women

This Morning

BBC Breakfast

The One Show

GMTV

Daybreak

The Wright Stuff

The Alan Titchmarsh Show

BEST SERIAL DRAMA

EastEnders

Emmerdale

Coronation Street

Hollyoaks

Neighbours

Home & Away

BEST FACTUAL PROGRAMME

Top Gear

Celebrity Masterchef

Antiques Roadshow

Joanna Lumley’s Nile

Piers Morgan on Marbella

Junior Apprentice

Who Do You Think You Are?

James May’s Toy Stories

Countryfile

Watchdog

The Gadget Show

The Lakes

DIY SOS

Richard Hammond’s Invisible Worlds

Lion Country

Jimmy’s Food Factory

Secret Britain

One Born Every Minute

Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers

Seven Ages of Britain

BEST DIGITAL CHOICE

Glee

24

Skins

Lost

The Inbetweeners

Desperate Housewives

The Xtra Factor

The Vampire Diaries

House

Bones

Britain’s Got More Talent

What Katie Did Next?

Peter Andre: The Next Chapter

American Idol

Russell Howard’s Good News

Family Guy

Got to Dance

Chris Ryan’s Strike Back

Stargate Universe

Mr. Bean: The Animated Series

Eddie Izzard: Marathon Man

I’m A Celebrity….Get me out of Here Now!

Don’t Tell the Bride

Being Human

BEST DRAMA

Doctor Who

Casualty

Holby City

Shameless

Doc Martin

Ashes to Ashes

Wild At Heart

A Touch of Frost

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

Spooks

Waterloo Road

Heartbeat

Lewis

Collision

Foyle’s War

Silent Witness

Waking the Dead

Midsummer Murders

Identity

Law and Order: UK

Five Days

Luther

Wallander

Lark Rise To Candleford

Above Suspicion: The Red Dahlia

New Tricks

Sherlock

Merlin

Hustle

Married Single Other

Heroes

Murderland

The Mentalist

BEST DRAMA PERFORMANCE

Matt Smith – Doctor Who

Kevin Whately - Lewis

David Jason – A Touch of Frost

Amanda Redman – New Tricks

Stephen Tomkinson – Wild at Heart

Martin Clunes – Doc Martin

Sue Johnston – Waking the Dead

Suranne Jones – Five Days

Phillip Glenister – Ashes to Ashes

Amanda Burton – Waterloo Road

John Nettles – Midsummer Murders

Karen Gillian – Doctor Who

Emila Fox – Silent Witness

Robbie Coltrane - Murderland

Joe McFadden - Heartbeat

Georgia Taylor – Casualty

Kenneth Branagh – Wallander

Dawn Steele – Wild at Heart

Bradley Walsh – Law & Order: UK

Douglas Henshall – Collision

Michael Kitchen – Foyle’s War

Richard Armitage - Spooks

Colin Morgan - Merlin

Robert Glenister – Hustle

Laurence Fox - Lewis

Keeley Hawes – Ashes to Ashes

William Ash – Waterloo Road

Rosie Marcel – Holby City

Alun Armstrong – New Tricks

Simon Baker – The Mentalist

Shaun Dooley – Married, Single Other

David Morrissey – Five Days

Rebecca Atkinson – Shameless

Peter Firth - Spooks

Ciaran Hinds – Above Suspicion – The Red Dahlia

Idris Elba – Luther

Dennis Waterman – New Tricks

Luke Roberts – Holby City

Trevor Eve – Waking the Dead

Bradley James – Merlin

James Bolam – New Tricks

Martin Freeman - Sherlock

David Threlfall - Shameless

Ben Daniels – Law & Order: UK

Adrian Lester – Hustle

Julia Sawalha – Lark Rise to Candleford

Michael French - Casualty

Kelly Reilly – Above Suspicion – The Red Dahlia

Hayden Panetierre – Heroes

Benedict Cumerbach – Sherlock

BEST SERIAL DRAMA PERFORMANCE

Danny Miller - Emmerdale

Lacey Turner - EastEnders

Katherine Kelly – Coronation Street

Steve McFadden - EastEnders

Simon Gregson – Coronation Street

Jorgie Porter - Hollyoaks

Jeff Hordley - Emmerdale

Don Gilet – EastEnders

Kieran Richardson - Hollyoaks

Alison King – Coronation Street

Stefan Dennis - Neighbours

Marc Elliott – EastEnders

Bronagh Waugh - Hollyoaks

Amanda Donohue – Emmerdale

Jane Danson – Coronation Street

Anthony Quinlan - Hollyoaks

Dominic Brunt - Emmerdale

Chris Gascoyne – Coronation Street

Diane Parish – EastEnders

Claire Cooper - Hollyoaks

Charlotte Bellamy – Emmerdale

Bill Tarney – Coronation Street

Andrew Moss - Hollyoaks

Lindsey Coulsen – EastEnders

Natalie J Robb – Emmerdale

BEST ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMME

I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

Big Brother

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

Friday Night with Jonathan Ross

Paul O'Grady Live

Ant and Dec's Push the Button

All Star Family Fortunes

Piers Morgan's Life Stories

Have I Got News for You

The Whole 19 Yards

71 Degrees North

New You've Been Framed!

Hole in the Wall

QI

A Question of Sport

Never Mind the Buzzcocks

Total Wipeout Celebrity Special

James Corden's World Cup Live

Take Me Out

The Door

Mock the Week

Celebrity Mastermind

Animals Do the Funniest Things

101 Ways to Leave a Game Show

Outtake TV

The National Lottery: In It to Win It

The Big Fat Quiz of the Year

Justin Lee Collins: Good Times

Derren Brown: The Event

Tonight's the Night

Odd One In

All Star Mr and Mrs
BEST ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTER

Ant & Dec

Harry Hill

Paul O'Grady

Jonathan Ross

Holly Willoughby

Dermot O'Leary

Davina McCall

Bruce Forsyth

Phillip Schofield

Justin Lee Collins

Fern Britton

Piers Morgan

Claudia Winkleman

Steve Jones

Chris Tarrant

Stephen Mulhern

Vernon Kay

Jimmy Carr

Tess Daly

Cat Deeley

Graham Norton

Caroline Flack