Fatboy in EE, I presume? I can't imagine that Ali-G tribute act was an instant hit but then they started the whole "Mrs B" thing.

I don't know if her popularity has changed as a result but I believe they've softened Beth in Corrie a lot. She's a lot nicer to Craig these days.

Agreed. When he did his first ever scene I just thought he was going to be a perv and that he would abuse Faye. How wrong I was! Now I love him and Sally together. Making them a couple was genius. Him and Sally are two of my favourite characters on Corrie. I like his father / daughter relationship with Faye too. He's laid back and sensible at the same time. He's improved greatly and the actor playing him has improved too.