HQ75
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Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)
Posts: 4,201
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Post by HQ75 on Aug 8, 2009 16:13:05 GMT -5
EastEnders: Christian LOVES Syed!
Jul 31, 2009www.whatsontv.co.uk/soaps/eastenders/interviews/eastenders-christian-loves-syed/6462EastEnders' actor John Partridge says that Christian's love for Syed is the real deal... Why won't Christian give up on Syed?"Because he has real feelings for him and is sure he feels the same. This is not casual sex. It goes much deeper. Christian's a commitment-phobe, but he's finally met somebody special. It's probably the first time he's felt like this." Why does he go to the engagement party?"Christian goes along hoping against hope that Syed won't go through with it. He's hurt Syed is doing this. He can relate to Syed as it's hard for any gay man to come out. But he knows Syed can't change the person he is. He's gay and that will come out whatever he pretends. The hypocrisy of it all sickens Christian." Might Christian out Syed at the party?"If Christian didn't care for Syed he'd be shouting the truth from the rooftops. But he does care which is why he hasn't told anyone."
And why he can't stay at the party?"He can't stomach Syed's happy couple act, so he goes to The Vic and gets chatting to a guy called Luke who flirts with him. They end up going back to Christian's flat and Christian tells Luke about Syed and how he's denying his sexuality." What happens?"Suddenly Luke's mood darkens and he goes into a verbal tirade about how homosexuality infects good people then he kicks seven bells out of Christian and leaves him for dead." How does Syed react when he sees the injuries?"He's horrified and when Christian tells him the only reason he went with the bloke who beat him up was because of Syed's denial, Syed can't pretend not to care any longer. They share an intense moment and Syed urges Christian to go to the police. But when Christian asks Syed if he's going to kiss his bruises better he storms out saying: 'You just don't listen do you?'" Does Syed go to the police station with him?"Yes and then they go home together."
How do you feel about this storyline?"I'm thrilled this storyline is being done. People fall in love in impossible circumstances all the time. Why are Christian and Syed any different?"
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HQ75
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Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)
Posts: 4,201
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Post by HQ75 on Aug 8, 2009 16:14:12 GMT -5
'EastEnders' John And Syed ''inching Closer''
Last week, 27th Jul 12:30
www.femalefirst.co.uk/tv/soaps/John+Partridge-55202.html
'EastEnders' John Partridge says his character and Syed Masood are "inching closer together".
The actor said ideally he'd like his alter ego and his enraged one time Muslim lover - who is in denial about his homosexuality - to have a relationship and develop an "us against the world" scenario. " He's embarrassed and his confidence is severely knocked " John said: "They seem to be inching closer and closer together, and I'd love for them to have some sort of future. But what you want and what you get are often two different things. "It'd be great for Syed and Christian to develop an 'us against the world' mentality, because this relationship isn't so far-fetched - it's difficult for anyone to come out whether they're Muslim, Christian, Black or White."
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maya
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Post by maya on Aug 8, 2009 16:23:05 GMT -5
I'm really starting to like this storyline, thanks for sharing
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HQ75
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Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)
Posts: 4,201
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Post by HQ75 on Aug 8, 2009 16:26:07 GMT -5
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Post by gaysoapfan on Aug 9, 2009 3:13:48 GMT -5
Thanks for posting all these press clippings, kradamantium2525! (And, boy, you weren't kidding about the We Love Telly article: "Even he has now found love"!?  ) I've posted the last part of the Female First interview under spoilers, since I thought that some might be interested in John's broad hints. |
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Post by amber80 on Aug 22, 2009 10:06:48 GMT -5
Digital Spy Soap News - Nina Wadia backs 'Enders over gay plot www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a172962/nina-wadia-backs-enders-over-gay-plot.htmlFriday, August 21 2009, 12:01 BST By Daniel Kilkelly, Entertainment Reporter and Kris Green, Soaps Editor Nina Wadia backs 'Enders over gay plot EastEnders star Nina Wadia has praised her screen son's current gay storyline.
The actress, who plays bossy Zainab Masood, confirmed that she is impressed by the way producers have handled the ongoing struggle faced by troubled Syed (Marc Elliott).
Syed's plot has seen the businessman attempting to reconcile his sexuality with his beliefs as a practising Muslim after falling in love with fellow Walford resident Christian Clarke (John Partridge).
Discussing the story in an interview with DS, Wadia commented: "It's fantastic that it's happening, especially in the climate we live in. I have Muslim friends who are gay and some have come out, some haven't. This is a topic that needs to be looked at and EastEnders is fantastically brave to do it."
She continued: "They're doing it in a very clever and realistic way. They're representing all sides, with Zainab representing the more traditional view and Syed portraying what's actually happening out there.
"They're not shying away from the topic, they're exploring the issues and saying, 'Let's deal with it', and allowing the characters to react in the way that they would."
Wadia added that she is eagerly anticipating the moment when Zainab discovers the truth about her son's personal life.
"Oh, I can't wait to get the scripts," she admitted. "That'll be the one for the Masoods. We've been waiting for this for so long. I'll be in my third year when it all happens, so I've waited a long time for this!
"We've been very lucky, though. I love it when the Masoods are just allowed to be themselves. They're not bogged down by the whole religion aspect, but religion's used in order to drive their stories."
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Post by gaysoapfan on Aug 27, 2009 2:56:11 GMT -5
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Post by amber80 on Aug 27, 2009 10:10:03 GMT -5
Ok, this made me laugh a little bit: I think it has more to do with Christian/John being extremely muscled and nothing with him looking like a wee man.  I think he looks (more than) fine the way he is...  Thanks for the link btw!  |
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Post by gaysoapfan on Aug 27, 2009 15:10:24 GMT -5
Thanks for the link btw! You're welcome! That bit made me laugh, too. Syed is easy on the eyes... These days, Christian is really rocking the beard look, too! |
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HQ75
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Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)
Posts: 4,201
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Post by HQ75 on Sept 30, 2009 2:07:45 GMT -5
EastEnders actor: 'Gay storyline is sensitive and beautiful'
By Jessica Geen • September 29, 2009 - 19:37
Pink News
EastEnders actor John Partridge has said that his character's Christian's relationship with Syed is more than just a "gay Muslim" storyline.
Speaking to Digital Spy at the Inside Soap Awards ceremony, he said he had received a number of "heartbreaking" letters from fans whose own love lives have mirrored the soap's storyline.
He said: "The letters that I've received, some of them have been heartbreaking and touching and it seems like this is a story that's waited a long time to be told. Maybe it has been told before, but you know with something like EastEnders, it's so pushed forward."
He added: "It's so easy to focus on this 'gay Muslim' storyline, but that's not what it is. It's a love story about two people who fall in love in impossible circumstances… now that the story's playing out, people are realising that there's a lot more to it… and it's actually quite sensitive and beautiful in a way."
Earlier this month, Marc Elliot, who plays Syed, has said he has received nothing but positive feedback from fans about the storyline.
In an interview with Soaplife, he said he had received "lots of lovely letters" about his portrayal of the character, who is currently battling between his romantic feelings for another man and his religion.
Elliot added: "I actually got a letter from a gay Muslim who was in the same situation as Syed ten years ago. He told his family and now they have accepted him and his partner. I have lots of lovely letters and, surprisingly, no bad feedback at all.”
A kiss between Syed and Christian in June was watched by 7.9 million viewers, earning it a 38 per cent share of the total viewing public.
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Post by gaysoapfan on Oct 1, 2009 21:21:33 GMT -5
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Post by gaysoapfan on Oct 4, 2009 16:05:17 GMT -5
Digital Spy Exclusive: Partridge: "I'm immensely proud"
Sunday, October 4 2009
Kris Green
EastEnders actor John Partridge has insisted that he is "immensely proud" to be part of the BBC soap's ongoing gay Muslim storyline.
The 38-year-old--who plays Christian Clarke in the Walford soap--was recently quoted by a tabloid newspaper as being "fuming" over the lack of homosexual characters and storylines in the show.
However, speaking exclusively to Digital Spy, he said: "I'm a bit stung about the comments I read the other day, but you've got to move on. Unfortunately it's amazing how they can just change the tone of your comments. I did have to laugh when they said 'he fumed'--I thought, 'It's only your mum that fumes!'"
The openly-gay actor, who was ecstatic to have won this year's sexiest male award at Monday's Inside Soap Awards ceremony in London, continued: "I don't understand it. It's obviously boring to write anything positive--they have to spin it. It really upset me... and it takes away what's trying to be achieved by the storyline.
"I was saying how brilliant, how sensitive, how clever the story's been and, of course, it moved on to 'Do you think there should be more gay storylines and characters in soap?' Of course I'm going to say 'yes'--I'm a gay actor and if there were no gay characters or storylines, I'd be out of a job!"
On screen, his character Christian recently embarked on an affair of the heart with Muslim businessman Syed Masood (Marc Elliott). Their clandestine relationship has resulted in Syed struggling to come to terms with his sexuality as he attempts to battle between his faith and feelings.
He continued: "What I was trying to actually say was that what's so brilliant about this story is that it is so difficult to tell a gay story within the parameters of a 7.30/8pm timeslot--the fact that this story is so cleverly written and directed. It's about what you don't see as opposed to what you do see."
Christian--brother to Jane Beale (Laurie Brett)--arrived in Walford at the beginning of last year and at the time was the only gay character on the Square. Around this time last year, EastEnders screened a gay kiss between Christian and his then-boyfriend Lee Thompson (Carl Ferguson) which sparked 145 complaints.
Partridge said: "I'm immensely proud of Christian as a character and how the writers have brought this character in and really developed him. When I first came in, nine months down the line, I had this first gay kiss that prompted some complaints... that shocked me."
Christian and Syed's storyline officially began with a kiss in the Masala Queen catering unit on Friday, June 19. Since then, the pair have arranged numerous secret liaisons behind their friends' and families' backs.
"Even after [the gay kiss] story, Diederick [Santer, executive producer], Dominic [Treadwell-Collins, series story producer] and the BBC were brave enough to push forward with this current storyline..." he said. "Everybody learned lessons from that [gay kiss] as to how to tell this story… so as not to offend people, not to be gratuitous and not to let something like a kiss be something that overshadows the story we're trying to tell."
He added: "I'm immensely proud of that and immensely proud of this storyline. I'm honoured that they've allowed me to be a face for it."
Speaking of the fan reaction to his plot, Partridge smiled: "I get the letters, speak to people on the street and read what people say online, so I know that this storyline has had a huge impact. It'd just be nice if that message could be passed on to those who are investing in watching the show."
He enthused: "Gay is mainstream now. There is no taboo about gay. We've got Graham Norton, we've got Alan Carr, journalists, presenters... they are some of the highest paid people in primetime television who are loved and adored and they are gay. It's not that big a deal any more... I wasn't aiming my comments at EastEnders."
He jokingly added: "Plus, there's only one queen at this studio!"
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Post by gaysoapfan on Nov 16, 2009 20:49:03 GMT -5
Some may find this article on speculation about Bryan Kirkwood's planned changes to Eastenders interesting:
Digital Spy: Kirkwood to "sex up" 'EastEnders'?
Monday, November 16
By Kris Green
Incoming EastEnders showrunner Bryan Kirkwood is reportedly planning to "sex up" the BBC soap.
According to today's Daily Star, the former Hollyoaks producer--who replaces Diederick Santer as executive producer on February 20--is planning to poach a number of the sexier stars from the Channel 4 serial to 'inject young blood' into the BBC's flagship soap.
Names on his wish list apparently include screen McQueen sisters Gemma Merna (Carmel), Jennifer Metcalfe (Mercedes) and Claire Cooper (Jacqui).
A Walford source this afternoon told DS: "Diederick's still very much at the helm of the Walford ship until February, so any speculation about Bryan's plans or vision for EastEnders is just that.
"EastEnders and Hollyoaks are two very different shows, with different tones and audiences, so Bryan will undoubtedly explore different avenues to ensure he puts his mark on the show when he takes over."
They added: "Until then, everyone here is wanting to concentrate on the 25th anniversary to make that it's an extra-special occasion and sends Diederick out with a bang."
Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Santer will vacate the executive producer's office after the show's live anniversary episode, which is due to air on Friday, February 19.
Only a week prior, the BBC revealed that Barbara Windsor (Peggy Mitchell) will bow out of the soap next year.
At the end of last week, Charlie Clements (Bradley Branning) announced his decision to quit and move on to pastures new. Josie Lawrence (Manda Best) will also finish filming next month and leave screens in the spring.
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Post by gaysoapfan on Feb 25, 2010 12:19:36 GMT -5
An interview with Nina Wadia from Digital Spy:
Wadia Wants Sympathy for 'Enders Zainab
Wednesday, February 24 2010
By Daniel Kilkelly
EastEnders star Nina Wadia has admitted that she would like her character Zainab Masood to secure the sympathy of viewers in the weeks ahead.
Zainab has become a controversial figure in recent months due to her struggle to accept her son Syed's (Marc Elliott) feelings for caterer Christian Clark (John Partridge).
However, in an interview with DS, Wadia confirmed that she wants fans to see another side of her bossy alter ego as the high-profile plotline progresses.
She explained: "I've got a couple of the scripts for the next lot. What I want is for people to have sympathy for Zainab, whether they agree with her actions or not.
"She has to still be that woman we first saw - who's funny and feisty and will fight for what she believes but people understand that's why she does what she does."
Wadia said that she believes there is a chance Zainab could change her outlook as her own relationship with husband Masood Ahmed (Nitin Ganatra) came about following a "brave" decision to leave her first love for him.
She added: "I think there is that ability for growth with Zainab. She may be stubborn, she may be pig-headed, she may be old-fashioned, she may be a whole bunch of things, but I truly believe that at the end of the day this woman will do what makes her son happy. It'll take a while to get there, though."
* * *
I have to say, I love me some Zainab, but she's been really pissing me off of late. The way that she's been treating Syed is bad enough, but she's been up on her high horse looking down at near everyone: Ian and Jane, Bianca (without justification!), Bradley, and now Masood. It's becoming really repellent.
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Post by Zathras on Feb 25, 2010 22:07:01 GMT -5
I don't know. She's probably not beyond all hope, but she has a long way to go.  |
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Post by gaysoapfan on Mar 6, 2010 14:26:55 GMT -5
Two articles from Digital Spy on Preeya Kalidas's departure from Eastenders, with some... well, not spoilers exactly, but teases.
'Enders Wadia Backs Co-Star's Pop Move
Friday, March 5 2010
By Daniel Kilkelly
EastEnders actress Nina Wadia has predicted that her co-star Preeya Kalidas will have a bright future in the music industry.
Kalidas announced in January that she had decided to quit her role as Amira Masood on the BBC soap in order to pursue a pop career.
Discussing her colleague's chances of making it big, Wadia told PA: "I think she'll blossom--I think that's what Preeya is about anyway.
"She's a singer and she's got a beautiful voice. Her natural ability is singing--and she can dance too. She dances on set. How she does that in seven inch stilettos I don't know!"
Wadia, who plays Masood family matriarch Zainab, added that she hopes Amira finds out about husband Syed's affair with Christian Clarke before leaving Albert Square.
She commented: "It would be sad if they didn't do a reveal with her before she left because that would be very unfair to the actress!"
Wadia has previously described Kalidas's decision to quit EastEnders as "a shame."
* * *
Kalidas Films Final 'EastEnders' Scenes
Friday, March 5 2010
By Kris Green
EastEnders actress Preeya Kalidas this afternoon confirmed that she has filmed her final scenes with the BBC soap.
In January, it was announced that the 29-year-old intended to step down from her role as Amira Masood after only a year to pursue a singing career.
Since then, it has been rumoured that her departure would revolve around the reveal of her screen husband Syed's (Marc Elliott) gay love affair with Christian Clarke (John Partridge).
At the time, show bosses declined to unveil the circumstances or timing surrounding Amira's exit.
This afternoon, however, Kalidas tweeted: "Just filmed last emotional scenes on EE which will b aired 26 April!!! X (sic)"
Following a flurry of messages from fans, she added: "Thanks for all your messages! Let the next chapter begin!"
An EastEnders insider this evening told Digital Spy: "The Masoods have loads of dramatic scenes to come over the next few months. Amira's leaving the Square but bosses are keeping tight-lipped over whether Syed's leaving, too. Could this be the end of the road for Syed and Christian? Or will Amira leave alone?"
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bdc
Junior Member
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Post by bdc on Mar 12, 2010 11:41:15 GMT -5
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I ♥ Blaine
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....new kid. You'll fit right in!
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Post by I ♥ Blaine on Mar 12, 2010 14:28:45 GMT -5
I'd like to know that too - and also what The straight guys say in the "Straight guys tell us what it would take"-article advertised LOL
Is John Partridge gay irl?
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Post by syione on Mar 12, 2010 17:08:24 GMT -5
I'd like to know that too - and also what The straight guys say in the "Straight guys tell us what it would take"-article advertised LOL Is John Partridge gay irl? Yes John Partridge is gay any his partner is a West End actor( West End being equal to Broadway in NY) |
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bdc
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Post by bdc on Mar 13, 2010 3:13:08 GMT -5
I was more interested in the title... "Eastenders' CHRISTIAN gets HIS MAN" I thought it was related to Syed....and not to John's partner...  |
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Post by kyliah22 on Mar 13, 2010 4:55:10 GMT -5
That's what I think,too (and what I hope) someone posted the interview on the internet but it was kind of illegible and I think that one part was missing, just the part where John was talking about his character, so I couldn't figure it out! |
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Post by syione on Mar 13, 2010 8:15:39 GMT -5
I was more interested in the title... "Eastenders' CHRISTIAN gets HIS MAN" I thought it was related to Syed....and not to John's partner... I'm sorry I was just relating the fact that John has a partner. I haven't read the article so I don't know what it was about. |
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Post by gaysoapfan on Mar 14, 2010 2:47:54 GMT -5
*dies*
(That photo should have come with a warning. ;D)
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HQ75
Full Member
Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)
Posts: 4,201
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Post by HQ75 on Apr 27, 2010 14:51:03 GMT -5
Behind The Scenes
Christian and Syed and Amira
Part 1 of 6
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Post by gaysoapfan on Apr 28, 2010 2:52:13 GMT -5
Thanks for posting the behind the scenes documentary, HQ75. It's definitely worth watching. There are some great bits with Marc and Johnny bickering like an old married couple at the end of the fifth part. ;D
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)
I think he looks (more than) fine the way he is... 
