logo
Shock exit for ANOTHER EastEnders character as he risks marriage to flee abroad

Shock exit for ANOTHER EastEnders character as he risks marriage to flee abroad

Scottish Sun6 hours ago

Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
EASTENDERS has waved goodbye to another character in a shock exit in today's episode.
The BBC soap has only just seen returnee Zoe Slater leave three days after her comeback - and now another member of the family is off to find her.
Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter
Sign up
2
Alfie is off to track Zoe down without Kat knowing
Credit: BBC
2
Kat is trusting Alfie to go to Australia - and she has no idea he's lying to her
Credit: BBC
With Stacey telling Alfie that Zoe has done a moonlight flit to Barcelona on her credit cards, he came up with a plan.
Telling her not to cancel them, he said they could track where she was with it and find her to bring her home for a reunion with her mum Kat.
But with Alfie unable to tell Kat where he was really going, instead he lied and claimed he was going to Australia to see his brother Spencer who was struggling.
And it's EastEnders, it's likely that Kat will discover his lies and jump to the wrong conclusion, putting their marriage at risk.
It comes just a day after Zoe fled to Barcelona, after her brief return scenes.
The BBC soap has confirmed that Michelle will return later this summer for a permanent comeback.
EastEnders new boss, Executive Producer Ben Wadey added: 'Before I even stepped into the role, Zoe Slater was on my wish-list of returnees as, although we haven't seen her on screen for twenty years, her character has transcended time due to her popular storylines.'
Speaking on her return to the BBC soap, Michelle said: 'It feels like coming home.
'After doing my first few scenes, it was like I'd never been away.
'It all happened at the right time.
EastEnders drops huge clue that Zoe Slater has a secret child before shock exit
'I'd already been thinking about a return because I'd met up with Kacey Ainsworth (Little Mo) and Kim Medcalf (Sam Mitchell) and we were reminiscing our fond memories of the show, and I'd also joined social media and saw that there was still a lot of love for the character.
'It just so happened that at the same time, EastEnders had announced a new Exec who was keen to explore the potential of a return as he was such a massive fan of Zoe and the Slaters, so both of our worlds aligned at the right time, and I'm so excited to be back.
'When I was pitched the storylines, and when I read the scripts, I knew it was the right decision.'

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Hollyoaks confirms unexpected new love interest for Clare Devine in dark story
Hollyoaks confirms unexpected new love interest for Clare Devine in dark story

Metro

timean hour ago

  • Metro

Hollyoaks confirms unexpected new love interest for Clare Devine in dark story

Clare Devine (Gemma Bissix) ups the ante in Hollyoaks next week as part of her plan to get Tori (Harriet O'Shea) back in her life – and she uses Dodger Savage (Danny Mac) in order to do so. The legendary schemer, who has done some pretty bad things in her time, stated earlier this week that she had been diagnosed with cancer, claiming the treatment isn't working. In typical Clare fashion, there is no truth to such claims and the development came rather out of the blue, with the villain devising the plan after a trip to the hospital to visit sister Grace Black (Tamara Wall). Upon seeing patients receiving treatment, she formulated a plan, hoping she could use her cancer claims as a way to manipulate herself back into daughter Tori's life. Dodger, who had been hostile towards Clare previously over her role in the exploitation operation, softened once she stated that she had cancer. Sienna Blake (Anna Passey), however, knew full well that Clare was up to no good, urging her brother to proceed with caution where the returnee is concerned. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Clare subsequently asked Dodger for help in shaving her head – and he complied, with a spark seemingly forming between the two. Determined to get Tori back, Clare capitalises on this growing connection next week, with new pictures shared with Metro revealing a first look at the scenes to come. Dodger stumbles upon Clare in a seemingly weakened state and, horrified, he offers to lend a hand. With the undercover cop falling for her lies almost instantly, Clare is delighted and thus she proceeds with the next step of her plan, which entails making him feel very guilty over taking Tori from her given her condition. Mission accomplished. Want to be the first to hear shocking EastEnders spoilers? Who's leaving Coronation Street? The latest gossip from Emmerdale? Join 10,000 soaps fans on Metro's WhatsApp Soaps community and get access to spoiler galleries, must-watch videos, and exclusive interviews. Simply click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! Don't forget to turn on notifications so you can see when we've just dropped the latest spoilers! Afterwards, a heart-to-heart ensues, with Clare stating that she simply believed Alistair (Drew Cain) was having an affair – not that he was a hardened criminal involved in exploitation. The pair grow incredibly close but a phone call interrupts them, scuppering Clare's plot. For now. More Trending Ever the opportunist, the schemer concocts a plan to get Dodger over to the flat later in the week. Dodger apologises for thinking she had a role to play in her late husband's crimes. The chemistry sizzles and Dodger starts to worry that the lines are getting blurred as he comes to realise that he's starting to fall for Clare. Will Clare succeed in getting what she wants? Or will Dodger see through her lies before it's too late? View More » Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 6am on Channel 4's streaming platform, or catch episodes on TV at 7pm on E4. If you've got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@ – we'd love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. MORE: Huge Hollyoaks twist as major character feared dead in shocking showdown MORE: All Hollyoaks spoilers for next week as a major death is 'sealed' MORE: Hollyoaks confirms who really killed Dennis Savage – and it wasn't Clare or Banks

BBC Breakfast boss takes ‘extended leave' after bullying claims
BBC Breakfast boss takes ‘extended leave' after bullying claims

Metro

timean hour ago

  • Metro

BBC Breakfast boss takes ‘extended leave' after bullying claims

The editor of BBC Breakfast, Richard Frediani, is taking an extended period of leave after allegations of bullying behaviour. It comes after the Sun and Deadline reported that an internal investigation is being carried out into allegations of bullying at the program. In March, Deadline reported that a minimum of two misconduct complaints had been made against Frediani. One complaint alleged that the editor physically shook a colleague during an interaction in the newsroom in 2024. More recently, Deadline also reported that BBC presenterNaga Munchetty had raised concerns with senior BBC figures regarding Frediani's conduct. In addition, some ITN employees were said to have described Frediani as a 'bully,' alleging that he had shouted at, sworn at, and intimidated colleagues. Sources told the outlet that multiple complaints had been submitted by staff members about his workplace conduct. The publication further reported that newsreader Tina Daheley had expressed reservations about working on News at One, a programme overseen by Frediani. She had originally been named as one of the bulletin's presenters before its relocation from London to Salford in May. Daheley has continued in her role as a newsreader on Radio 2 in London and was reportedly 'understandably very cross' when her photograph was omitted from a BBC press release about the scheduling changes. While the omission added to internal frustration, there is no suggestion that Frediani was responsible for the error. When contacted for comment, a BBC spokesperson told Metro: 'While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values. 'We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.' It was also previously reported BBC presenters Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt had no relationship with Frediani due to the allegations. Frediani has been named in reports about bullying behaviour at ITN and BBC by Deadline, an industry website, and it was then claimed that he has a soured relationship with the BBC presenters. More Trending A senior BBC figure in Salford has said that he has 'no relationship with the stars'. 'Fredi has no relationship with Charlie and Naga, which is weird when they are half of his frontline presenting roster,' the source told The Times. Frediani has been the head of the program, which is broadcast daily from Salford, since 2019, and is also editor of the News at One. Last month, he accepted a Bafta Award when the show won best TV news coverage for an episode about the Post Office scandal. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: Naga Munchetty fires back after BBC viewers tell her what to wear

BBC Breakfast boss Richard Frediani 'takes extended period of leave after bullying probe was opened as bosses hold crisis talks amid claims he shook a female colleague'
BBC Breakfast boss Richard Frediani 'takes extended period of leave after bullying probe was opened as bosses hold crisis talks amid claims he shook a female colleague'

Daily Mail​

time2 hours ago

  • Daily Mail​

BBC Breakfast boss Richard Frediani 'takes extended period of leave after bullying probe was opened as bosses hold crisis talks amid claims he shook a female colleague'

BBC Breakfast's under-fire editor Richard Frediani has reportedly taken an extended period of leave, after an internal review of bullying and misconduct allegations was opened into the show. It was previously claimed that the show's staff are feeling increasingly 'uneasy' around Frediani, with the former Head of ITV News accused of 'shaking' a female editor while working on the show. It's now being reported by The Sun that Richard has stepped back from the show, and while he had already taken time off to go on holiday, has mutually agreed to extend his break. Sources are also claiming that BBC bosses have held a series of meetings on how to handle the developing crisis. In an internal email obtained by the publication, John McAndrew, Director of Live and Daily News, thanked staff for their 'positivity' during this 'stressful time' - and informed them of Richard's decision. A source added: 'Fredi was already taking a break because obviously the allegations against him have been pretty damning, and he needed time to reflect. 'He's devastated by some of the claims and has also had a lot of behind the scenes support from colleagues, many of whom think he's a brilliant boss. 'BBC executives have ensured duty of care measures and he is still in touch with a few of the team. Right now, it's imperative that the BBC gets its house in order and ensures everyone is happy.' When contacted by MailOnline, a BBC representative said: 'While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values. 'We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.' On Thursday, Deadline reported that a consultant had been drafted in to help steer an internal review of bullying and misconduct allegations on BBC Breakfast. Staff have been approached about sharing their experiences, according to people familiar with the process. It had previously been reported earlier this week that a bullying probe had been opened into BBC's flagship Breakfast show, with the investigation set to look into claims dating back as far as 2019. A source told The Sun: 'To the viewer BBC Breakfast is a warm, gentle programme, one that is flourishing in the ratings. But beyond the cosy red sofa it is a very different picture. Several people — crew, production and even presenters — have been very unhappy'. 'Tension between Charlie and Naga is rife. Fredi is very old-school and has some slightly tyrannical tendencies. He is very cerebral but also quite aggressive in his methods. Some people think a recent promotion has gone to his head'. 'Meanwhile, Naga, who is passionate about speaking up if she believes something is wrong, has spoken to people who are unhappy. Formal complaints have been lodged, so the BBC has to be seen to act. The probe has really divided the newsroom'. They went on to claim that some believe Fredani, known as Fredi, is simply doing his job others think his methods are 'too tough' for 2025. It comes following a difficult few years for the BBC, with Huw Edwards pleading guilty to having indecent images of children, Jermaine Jenas axed after a sexting scandal and Gary Lineker's departure from the channel after becoming embroiled in a controversial row over antisemitism. An insider told MailOnline in April that Munchetty is 'quite open' about her ill-feeling towards Frediani. Another said that she has an 'uneasy relationship' with him. The Mail revealed that displeasure was intensifying at the BBC's northern base in Salford, where staff have watched Frediani's rise - from Breakfast boss to arguably the most powerful BBC editor outside London - with growing disbelief. One said: 'You have to wonder what on earth is going on. The BBC claims to be this no-nonsense, woke, kind place - yet Fredi has been able to keep climbing the ladder. HR and his bosses are aware of [past] bullying claims against him. 'He's still allowed to hire, as we saw with Nina [Warhurst, who has just been appointed a regular presenter] this week, and presumably fire. He has so much power, it doesn't feel right at all.' The ordeal began, when media and entertainment industry news site Deadline alleged that Frediani was the subject of at least two misconduct complaints, including one from a woman who had her grievance upheld after claiming that the Breakfast editor physically shook her during a heated newsroom exchange last year. Others also came forward with their experiences. One person claimed to have witnessed an incident in 2019, during which a 'clearly angry' Richard backed a Breakfast colleague up against a wall and was 'jabbing his finger' as he voiced displeasure about that morning's show. The website reports that two sources alleged that Frediani is also known for 'screaming' down the phone at other BBC News desks and complaining about the quality of content they hand over to the Breakfast show. Whether these allegations were upheld or dismissed is not known. There was widespread internal dissatisfaction with Frediani in 2020, less than a year into his reign as editor of BBC Breakfast, after he was poached from ITV News. During the pandemic, MailOnline's Katie Hind was inundated with anonymous emails from staff at BBC Breakfast which said a series of complaints have been made to the corporation's management and its HR department about an 'intimidating and bullying' culture, which had led to long-term members of staff leaving their jobs. One employee, who wished to remain anonymous, said 'the whole atmosphere has become poisonous' and like a 'boys' club'. Again, it is unclear whether these allegations were upheld or dismissed. After the story was published in The Mail on Sunday, a number of people who had worked with Frediani got in. They said he was unpleasant to them during his tenure at ITV where he served as head of news. They were devastated - but not surprised - to hear that there were allegations that he had gone on to behave 'aggressively' in his new role. One wrote: 'I read your piece about Richard Frediani, recognising a lot of his character. I and others who suffered under him at ITV expected this would happen.' So why, despite these claims about his behaviour at work, did Frediani continue to rise through the ranks? The answer appears to lie with the Beeb's current chief executive of news, Deborah Turness. As CEO of ITN until 2022, she was Frediani's boss and they latterly joined up again when she joined the corporation. Sources at the BBC say she was 'involved' in his rise to become the boss of News at One - though senior sources at the Corporation strongly deny it, insisting it was not a promotion but an addition to his existing job. The BBC would not answer questions over whether he'd had a pay rise. BBC Breakfast staff have said that they are far from happy that Turness is still backing Frediani. 'There is no way she hasn't heard what we have all heard,' says one insider. 'It was written about as far back as 2020 so surely she must have seen that.' Tim Davie, the director-general, has said he wants the management consultancy leading the review to make practical recommendations about how managers can create a culture where there is 'zero tolerance' for wrongdoing. The BBC said that it did not comment on individual HR issues. However, it stressed that the welfare of its employees takes priority, and it takes any complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously. After allegations about Frediani's behaviour were made, staff at Breakfast and News at One were emailed by John McAndrew, BBC News director of programmes, to remind them about the corporation's approach to complaints of wrongdoing. 'With regard to culture and behaviour - and this stands for all of our teams across the organisation - please be assured that if, or when, any allegations of any inappropriate behaviour come to me, they will be taken seriously, comprehensively investigated, and if upheld, action will be taken,' he wrote. However one BBC source contested this statement, saying: 'The BBC claim to be such a wonderful employer and look after their staff. 'But it seems that's more likely to be the case if you are in the gang.'

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store