Soaps have done their best to reflect real life during the pandemic. Characters wear masks, there are NHS posters on display, and vaccinations get discussed.
Understandably, they had to ignore the most recent closure of pubs since residents spend 90 per cent of their lives in one.
Another area where they’re reflecting real life is with job losses. Karen has been axed from the launderette in EastEnders and, this week, Emmerdale’s Matty becomes surplus to requirements at The Woolpack.
But the real wonder is that anyone employs them in the first place. They’re the worst workers ever! Staff at Underworld in Corrie seem to spend the whole working day going on ‘cake runs’, while family members drop in for chats – and arguments.
In this week’s EastEnders, Linda (pictured left) becomes suspicious of Nancy’s (pictured right) desperation to track down a mystery package
As for the Slaters’ cleaning company in Walford, is it me or does Jean just dust the same section of bar at The Vic over and over again?
If they’re not being lazy they’ll end up bonking the boss, as we saw recently with Belle and then Gabby in Emmerdale, both bedding Jamie Tate. ‘I’m going on my break,’ is the catchphrase of every soap worker.
EASTENDERS: NANCY UP TO NO GOOD?
When anyone returns to Albert Square after a long absence it’s rarely for a good reason and, if her shifty behaviour is anything to go by, I think we can assume that Nancy Carter has something to hide.
She’s distracted, bad-tempered, not interested in her little brother, and desperate to track down a mystery package, which makes Linda (pictured, left, with Nancy) suspicious.
Kush and Whitney – Walford’s answer to Bonnie and Clyde – make the decision to go on the run with Arthur in tow. Kush promises Martin they will return as soon as the Mitchells have calmed down.
So, never then. Will they make it to Dubai or will Gray, Phil or someone else get to them first?
Karen’s flat is ransacked by loan sharks although, frankly, it’s hard to imagine how that place could look any worse. It makes her realise she desperately needs money.
She could stop boozing in The Vic and living off fried chicken from McKlunky’s but, instead, toys with the idea of being a surrogate for Rainie and Stuart.
As if having those two as parents wasn’t bad enough, the poor child will come into the world reeking of chardonnay and cigarettes.
CORONATION STREET: FIZ FEELS FLAT
Fiz discovers Tyrone has booked a posh hotel for him and unlikely new love Alina (pictured left, with Fiz and Tyrone) in Coronation Street
The speed at which Tyrone has gone from docile, loyal partner to lying lothario has been breathtaking – even by Weatherfield standards. This week Fiz discovers he’s booked a posh hotel for him and unlikely new love Alina, dashing all hope of saving their relationship.
Poor Fiz, a bag of chips and a bunch of manky flowers from Dev’s was the best she ever got. Then Tyrone’s departure causes Hope’s behaviour to deteriorate and she attacks Joseph.
Elsewhere Craig decides to jack in his police job rather than break up with Faye. Who will investigate Weatherfield crimes if he does? He appears to be the only copper in town.
Not wanting Craig to ruin his career, Faye pips him to the post and dumps him. But will they be able to resist temptation?
Rita is surprised to see a blast from the past in the Kabin – Sharon Bentley, her former foster daughter. She’s nominated Rita for a Golden Heart Award in recognition of her fostering.
It’s 22 years since we last saw Sharon and it’s great to have the brilliant Tracie Bennett back. Last time Sharon was on the cobbles, she sold The Kabin that Rita had gifted to her, forcing Rita to buy it back.
Jenny and Gemma’s attempt to send Sharon packing is thwarted by Rita who says everyone deserves a second chance. Oh Rita, you thought that about Dennis Tanner too – and look how that turned out.
EMMERDALE: VINNY’S BIG GAMBLE
Mandy worries Vinny (pictured) will become addicted to gambling following a big win on the horses in Emmerdale
Sorting through Paul’s possessions, Vinny finds a notebook containing his dad’s record of his gambling wins and losses – and his tips.
Vinny places a bet on the horses and has a big win, leaving Mandy to worry he’ll end up addicted like his dad.
To take their financial woes off Vinny’s shoulders, Mandy hatches a plan with Mack. Oh dear – Mandy’s plans are more disastrous than an Emmerdale wedding.
When Ethan’s mum fails to show for their meeting, he turns to Manpreet for support. Don’t worry Ethan, your long-lost mum will turn up eventually – they always do.