I like the fact SOC has grown a pair and finally recasted Michelle Fowler. Let's face it, it's a ballsy move. I hadn't read any spoilers whatsoever that the character would return but it slowly became obvious that it was her as her scenes progressed. I'd imagine that for most viewers nowadays, Michelle is just a name mentioned from time to time by Sharon, Martin and Ian. They just tricked the vintage-viewer into putting the clues in place - her getting out of the taxi immediately after Pauline's voice-over, sitting on Arthur's bench and looking at the old Fowler house, and Stacey looking back at her thinking 'Wait. That face looks vaguely familiar from somewhere...'

The Grant and Mark story from the summer was probably the confirmation they needed to recast - plus Sharon needs a confidante, the Fowlers needs rebuilding and it just reintroduces some rich history back into the show.

The final scene between Michelle and Sharon seemed quite believable. I'd assume a big part of the actress' success in winning the role was her chemistry with the OG's.

Other things of note within the episode:
- Just a small hint of Max's return. I can't wait to see that feet-shuffling, standing-sideways, magnificent-arse-Max Branning back on the Square.
- Linda breaks down after receiving the shocking news about Elaine's stroke. Johnny just stands beside her, arms folded with a clipboard! Comfort her you idiot!
- DJ Hev was a nice touch. All of Dot's friends have passed away - Lou, Ethel, Pauline, Jim. Not to mention the younger ones who she cared for - Dennis, Heather, Bradley... Such poignant scenes in the laundrette and a sad reminder that we always just assume people won't be alone.

I agree with you.

Great episode. But poor poor Dot, just because she may've been busy doesn't mean that you shouldn't have shown your face - what lazy gits Dot's supposed friends and family are!

DJ Hev was a nice touch.

Shirley and Denise talking up Phil into a new lease of life. Ugh. Just let the horrible man die already.

Johnny, as likely noted elsewhere, really is just all round terrible. Acting and everything else. You think he'd have comforted his mum after her news but nope, stands around as gormless as his older bro...

I know Pauline's voice was last because it led into Michelle's return, but I loved that they also timed it so she was speaking as Dot reached the point where she found her when she died, with Dot stopping there.

What a beautiful episode.

really enjoyed that episode, I liked the scene between Phil and Denise, she will never let him forget that he was largely responsible for Kevin's death, liked the fact that Sharon didn't just throw herself into Phil's arms when he showed up again but wanted to take a moment for herself which of course led perfectly into her reunion with Michelle.

The only thing that didn't ring true was that not one person popped into the launderette for a sausage roll with Dot - it is right in the heart of the market, how did they not notice her sitting in there on her own! however I loved the mix tape of Heather's and Dot needs to adopt that cat, you can't be lonely if you have a cat, they wont let you!

Merry Christmas everyone

I thought Denise was going to tell Phil that he is the father of her unborn child, when is this going to come out?

So loneliness is the story regarding Dot though I did like that DJ Heath tape. Selfish people not coming to Dot's party.

I gather Elaine's stroke is Kellie's maternity leave SL

Michelle Fowler knew it and I wonder what SOC and the team have in line for her. Good to see Martin have Family apart from Ian and Kath

How did they not notice her traipsing over all that food then not see anyone go in.we then saw her chuck the food but later offer the cat a fish paste sarnie.

I think Abi understood her instructions to kill the cat though, I doubt it will last long

I thought it was a fantastic Christmas Eve episode. Lots of nods to the past which all lead up to Michelle'a return nicely. From what we saw, I was impressed. Jenna is a top notch actress and I really trust her with the character of Michelle.

I really enjoy it when Phil interacts with other characters, and I really liked Shirley sticking up for Sharon.

I can take or leave the panto rubbish, but it's over now and it has really served its purpose in that the community has really come together as a result. It's had characters that have never interacted before spending time together which is great to see.

I watched it this morning.

It's a shame that nobody was there for Dot. After all these years... Nice scene with her going home with all the voices.

Great scene with Denise and Phil. And I like the Fowlerscenes. I don't know Michelle yet.

Agreed, that was one of the most incredible scenes i've ever seen. Made me cry.

That truly was the end of an era, such a beautiful tribute to the demise of the Launderette that's been there since day 1, with Dot and Pauline's association and history all in that place. Such an iconic set never to be seen again


Sorry to bump the thread up, but just catching up on episodes i've missed over Christmas