Ugh, I've been watching Corrie since my nan forced me to sit through episodes when I was 8 (back in 1997 when I had no choice in the matter). There's something about those cobbles that keeps pulling me back in, even when the storylines get ridiculous. But today I'm wondering if we've seen the last of Bethany Platt after spotting something that made me do a proper double-take.
Lucy Fallon, who's played the troubled Platt daughter since what feels like forever, has just made a move that screams "I'm done with Weatherfield" louder than the Rovers' last call bell.
The revolving door of Bethany's exits
Let's get our timeline straight. Lucy first ditched the Street in 2019 when she went on maternity leave to have little Sonny (adorable kid from the pics I've seen). Then she made that dramatic comeback in December 2023 - remember when she walked in and found Daniel had moved on with Daisy? God. The look on her face was worth the wait.
But by March 2020, she was off again after that whole messy "my boyfriend slept with someone else behind my back" storyline. Classic soap fodder.
The 29-year-old actress then announced baby number two was on teh way (with partner Ryan Ledson) and exited stage left once more, giving birth in January.
Wait... did she just break THE rule?
Here's where it gets juicy.
Lucy has just signed with talent agency Off Limits - you know, the ones who help TV stars land those cushy brand deals and sponsorships that pay more for one Instagram post than I make in a month. And this, my friends, is where the plot thickens like one of Betty's hotpots.
ITV has this absolutely iron-clad rule for their soap stars: NO OUTSIDE BRAND DEALS. Period.
It's the weirdest double standard I've ever seen in telly. The show itself is plastered with product placement - Costa cups in everyone's hands, Co-op bags being lugged around the set - but heaven forbid the actors make a few quid promoting protein powder on their Instagram.
The hypocrisy that's making Corrie stars quietly fume
I spoke to someone close to the show last year (who'd absolutely murder me if I named them) who told me: "These actors are watching ITV rake in millions from commercial deals while they're stuck on mid-range salaries and can't even promote a bloody face cream to make extra cash."
My source was particularly annoyed about how the younger cast members, who don't command the big salaries of the veterans, are hit hardest. "They're expected to look immaculate, maintain huge social media followings, adn then watch as those followings can't be monetized. It's madness."
Remember when Jack won CBB?
This reminds me of poor Jack P Shepherd after his Celebrity Big Brother win. The man became Britain's favorite tea enthusiast overnight (seriously, did you see how many cuppas he drank in that house?), and tea brands were practically throwing money at him.
But nope! Corrie rules said absolutely no TV adverts.
A friend who works in talent management told me over drinks last week, "It used to be even worse. At least now they can do some carefully approved social media partnerships, but the real money is in proper advertising campaigns... which are completely off-limits."
So is this Lucy's final farewell?
Listen. When a soap actor signs with an agency that specializes in brand deals, it's usually a sign they're planning life beyond the show.
I reached out to Lucy's representatives for comment, but heard nothing back. Telling, isn't it?
The door has technically been left open for Bethany's return - no dramatic death scene or one-way ticket to New Zealand - but this move suggests Lucy might be done with the restrictions that come with being a Corrie regular.
And honestly? I don't blame her. With two little ones at home and the potential to earn significantly more through brand partnerships... why wouldn't she?
The exodus continues...
Lucy wouldn't be the first to make this calculation. Remember when Michelle Keegan left? Or Catherine Tyldesley? Both have gone on to have fantastic careers without the Corrie handcuffs.
One agent who handles several soap stars (and once drunkenly spilled ALL the tea at an industry party I attended in 2022) put it bluntly: "More will go over this. That is for sure. Why should they be made to plug products for ITV as a character but they are not allowed to do it for themselves in their own names?"
Can't argue with that logic.
So while we wait for official confirmation, I'm betting my favorite mug that we've seen the last of Bethany Platt on those famous cobbles... at least for a good long while.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there international adaptations of UK soap operas?
Yes, some UK soap operas have inspired international adaptations. For example, "Coronation Street" has been adapted in various countries, showcasing the show's universal themes and appeal.
Can you watch UK soap operas online?
Yes, many UK soap operas are available to watch online through official broadcaster websites and streaming services. Viewers can catch up on missed episodes or watch previous seasons at their convenience.
What are the most popular UK soap operas?
The most popular UK soap operas include "EastEnders," "Coronation Street," "Emmerdale," and "Hollyoaks." Each has a dedicated fan base and has been on air for several decades, contributing significantly to British television culture.
How long has "EastEnders" been on air?
"EastEnders" first premiered on February 19, 1985. It has since become one of the longest-running and most recognized soap operas in the UK, known for its compelling storylines and diverse characters.
Statistics
- Hollyoaks, which premiered in 1995, has introduced several high-profile actors who have gone on to have successful careers in television and film.
- In 2022, "Hollyoaks" addressed mental health issues through a storyline that received significant media attention and praise.
- Each episode of a UK soap opera typically has a production budget ranging from £100,000 to £250,000, depending on the complexity of the storyline and production requirements.
- The British Soap Awards, held annually, attract millions of viewers and celebrate the best in soap opera performances and storylines.
- Research indicates that viewers of soap operas are more likely to discuss social issues with friends and family, demonstrating the genre's impact on social discourse.
- The average viewership for "EastEnders" is approximately 5 million viewers per episode.
- Over 100 characters have been killed off in "Coronation Street" since its inception, showcasing the dramatic nature of the storylines.
- More than 30% of the UK population watches at least one soap opera regularly.
External Links
How To
How To Keep Up With Soap Opera Storylines
To stay updated with the latest storylines in UK soap operas, utilize multiple platforms. Begin by watching episodes as they air or using catch-up services offered by networks. Following official social media accounts of the shows can provide teasers, spoilers, and behind-the-scenes content. Consider subscribing to entertainment news websites or magazines that cover soap operas, as they often feature storyline recaps and interviews with cast members. Additionally, engaging in online forums or fan groups can facilitate discussions about current plots, helping you to grasp ongoing developments better.
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