Industry Admin, The Return of The Toughest Gameshow & Sunday Yoga Session!

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog. As we head into a new month, this week saw me prepping LOTS of industry admin to send off for next week, starting the new series of the gameshow that's NOT for beginners, and ending the week with taking part in my friend's yoga class. So without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 26th January 2026!

Professional:

Self-tapes:

This week I filmed another self-tape for an audition I saw. But the biggest pain was that by the time I got round to sending it, the deadline passed, which was a shame. But at least it got me into the habit of filming auditions. 

Emailing Drafts for Casting Directors: 

This week I drafted some emails to send to casting directors. So far as I’m posting this, I’ll have sent off the emails for CDs in theatre and also some directors, scheduling to send next week. I think this is the most challenging task mentally, as you’re double and triple checking that everything is there and their are no errors. There’s also of course making sure the right information goes to the specific CD, but by next week, that’ll be one task done for the next 2-3 months.  

Fundraising:

This week I set up some notes made for my videos for Autism Acceptance Week. I had to do some re-arranging, as I didn’t want to repeat the same things linking to last years video. But with Neurodiversity Week in March, I then had the idea to at first do a monologue of a song representing it, but then decided to talk about one of those things as a teaser. Not only am I posting something linking to this day, but it’ll also give people a clue as to how the structure of these videos will go. I can’t wait for you all to see the other 7 I haven’t chosen! 

Acting Class:

This week I learnt more about the brilliant Stella Adler. This session focused on status, and we looked at a scene from “The Devil Wears Prada”, and it as a proper deep dive into the rules of the world whilst also identifying the status within it. And an exercise based on that scene also got me thinking too. 

Act On This:

This weeks podcast was with Neil Ashton aka Davys McDonough from Brassic. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed at a podcast as much as this one, but I’ve also learnt so much stuff at the same time. These include being your authentic self and also about having that day job you enjoy when you’re not acting. This definitely got me thinking, but I’m glad I came away with that inspiration to keep going!

Coronation Street:

This week I watched the show from January 20th, 21st (directed by Aadhish Gadhvi), 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 26th and 27th.Following a disagreement on the day of Hayley’s anniversary, Roy was seen apologising to Nina about Alice, whilst Kit finds out about the lady himself, and explained what  catfishing is. Nina was adamant that Roy will be fine, but it turns out it’s not Alice at all. Oh dear…. Elsewhere, Eva and Maggie were still  arguing about Leanne and the pub, whilst Will was mocking Ollie about him and Lauren, offering to help at the pub and ringing Megan, but making out to Tracy and Mary it’s “Chloe”. Megan was then offered a room from Leanne whilst they chatted about Maggie, and Megan realising there’s something wrong with the baby. Whilst Tracy and Mary were mocking Lauren, a plan to get Maggie to change her mind about the pub sale backfired and Ben suffered with palpitations. Will nearly got caught, whilst the nurse revealed that Ben needs a device to measure his heart rhythm. Megan then revealed the baby was fine but still needs to stay away from each other whilst Ben tells Eva and Maggie to not cause any more stress. But the “no argument” rule didn’t last long when Eva and Maggie started arguing about bens breakfast. He was then trying to tell Maggie and Eva to calm down after she was horrible to Eva, and we then saw Maggie chatting to kit followed by Ollie standing up for Lauren, but Maggie and Eva agreed to call a truce, which worked for now anyway. Will was then looking at Embryos, getting jealous of Daniel and ordered her to dump him. Eva was also looking at if Bens condition is genetic whilst Maggie was playfully teasing Eva about a word she said, whilst Megan tries to dump Daniel, and him thinking to flag Wills behaviour, but then doesn’t dump him. Ollie was then seen trying to reassure Will whilst he as prepping for the race, and Megan revealed about not coming race due to “other issues”. Will’s friend Lee then came to the school, whilst Eva and Ben go into town and Will not doing well, with Lee recognising Megan and nearly getting caught by Daniel. Will soon found out that Lee saw Megan and didn’t believe him when he tells him what she’s like, with Sam hearing everything. Will was then confronting Megan about Lee, with her exaggerating the story. But Sam was getting suspicious of her whilst she gives Will his jacket back, and Sam was then trying to get Will to see the impact didn’t go down well. Megan was soon planning on talking to Sam himself, Leanne was noticing his low mood, and then Megan sneakily manipulating Sam into keeping quiet. Amongst all of this, Maggie revealed to Alya about Leanne, with Alya being angry at her for going behind her back, but soon made up. But Leanne may have other problems to face, as after she and Megan were chatting about life, she tried to get Sam to keep his mouth shut. Megan was then meeting Daniel and taking Sam’s coursework. Meanwhile, Sally was chatting to Tyrone about Kevin in the cafe, and then in the pub, with Tyrone seeing how affected he is at his house. Tyrone was then telling Kevin to get himself together whilst finding the truth about Carl, which resulted in Tyrone confronting him but ending up being pushed down. Carl was then trying to make Tyrone think it wasn’t him, which was then followed by Tyrone telling Fiz about Carl. If obviously didn’t go to well with Kevin, who was soon loosing his temper whilst Tyrone tried to help. He then told Abi and Glenda about the leak in the garage, and Kevin refused to accept help. There was also a brilliant reunion from Swarla. It all started with Betsy offering to buy coffees and after Roy was texting “Alice”, he was being tasked by Betsy to tell Carla about Lisa missing her. But Roy’s attempts to make Carla see that she wants Lisa back didn’t help, prompting him to text “Alice”. Carla made the decision not to meet Lisa after meeting Tracy whilst Betsy convincing Lisa that things will be okay. We then saw Carla rushing for a meeting whilst she reads a letter from Lisa asking about getting back together. The flowers Lisa was showing Roy, Lauren and Nina did look nice, and whilst Carla turns off her phone for the meeting, stating to him how Ron comes first, Lisa was waiting for her, but soon drunkenly ended up telling her how she feels. The following morning saw Lisa asking about last night, with Carla explaining everything, but want to take things slow, sharing the news with the factory gang.  It Carla having a day in didn’t go to plan, as after spying on sally, she came round to talk about her marriage. Carla desperately rang Tim, who apologised to sally. But Betsy coming in definitely killed the mood again, but at least it’s the typical Lisa and Carla household. Over at the Playts, the girls mocking David about football whilst Jodie offers to help lily with her art project. We then saw Jodie manipulating lily about Shona, hinting that trouble might be afoot. Jodie then work up from a bad dream and soon met Kit, wanting to keep a downlow on the crash, with Shona questioning their connection. Shona was then imploring jodie to speak to someone after mentioning David’s experience. She was then also  begging Kit to help and revealed some of the crash. And Jodie decides to go to the support group whilst Shona tells David about it, only to be interrupted by Bethany ringing her. Bethany let Jodie know she’s open to talk, it was revealed she was faking her story. After teasing Tim, Jodie offering to help Nina whilst Shona goes to the hospital. This then saw Carl offering to help Jodie with the tills whilst David joked about Harpers first words and Shona wanting to find out about her dad. Jodie and Carl were getting their flirt on whilst David thinks finding her dad is a bad idea. Abi then swore that Carl would get what’s coming to him, and was soon warning Jodie from Carl after revealed his fling with James. Despite Jodie rejecting Carl, they secretly met up with him and I know things are about to get messy… but that’s not the only drama Carl for involved in. We also saw the funeral preparations for Billy take place. It all started when Summer left the Rovers early after seeing Carl, where she confided in Nina about it, clearly still grieving. We then saw that Kit found Paul’s Ashes, and we saw Summer reflecting with Dev. But after getting drunk, and after Brian and Mary asking Roy about his day with “Alice”, Summer was soon needing insulin. Thankfully, Roy was there helping her and tried to make her see she needs help after recalling Nina. This resulted in Dev sending net home so she can grieve properly, who then asked him to give Bernie Paul’s ashes. We then saw Todd coming back from a run whilst getting a surprise from Theo, with Bernie coming round and wanting to keep an eye on her. We then saw Summer, Todd and Theo looking at flowers, and whilst Mary talks to Roy about Alice and her flowers, Bernie overheard their conversation. Debbie was then sorting out the finances, still convinced that pleading guilty is the best thing. Todd was also refusing to take her money as he blames himself. But soon there was a scrap between Theo and Carl, but a visit from the bishop got them reflecting on their past behaviour, with Summer heading out to apologise to Dev, whilst Theo talked to the bishop and advising him to open up will help. Theo then headed to the undertakers, and whilst Summer apologised to Bernie (who suggested to put Paul’s ashes at Billy’s grace), Theo admitted his guilt, which may have been overheard by Carl. 

Hollyoaks (DISCLAIMED: CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS OF SEXUAL ABUSE):

This weeks instalment saw a resident revealing a sordid truth, a mother reaching breaking point, and one resident begging for their ex to plead guilty following last week’s horrific events. Mondays episode all took place in the McQueen household. It was a tough watch for many reasons, as Mercedes couldn’t go away due to being intoxicated, but was still able to hear what Theresa did after Japan didn’t go to plan. Warren was also wondering why Tinhead was present, with liberty stating that he’s a nice person. And after being teased by Warren about being a “real man”, ruining Myra-Pocahontas’ project in the process, Dodger finally admitted the truth about what happened in Liverpool. I must say, well done Danny Mac for that powerful moment, and I hope this highlights awareness for men not being afraid to show their emotions. Whether it’s through what happened to Dodger or any other traumatic experience. But the aftermath of that confession had an impact on everyone. There’s bound to be tension between sienna and Cleo after finding out she knew beforehand, and it’s safe to say that Theresa and Dodger will need to work together as a team to work through it. And Warren managed to get Mercedes the help she needs. Tuesdays addition saw the aftermath of Dodgers confession. He was quick to reassure Theresa that they are okay, but it will take time before things get (sexual) between them. Sienna and Cleo are also on edge after finding out Cleo knew about Dodger first, but she was right to day that she didn’t want to reveal something that’s so personal. But Theresa finding out didn’t go down well with her, but I also get why Sienna was mad for Dodger not telling her sooner. Dodger then revealed what happened on the night, and how he was almost going to tell her, but it was at a moment that came at the wrong time. I just hope that the siblings will support each other at this point. But Cleo and Sienna may be in more trouble when Joseph is rushed to hospital. Elsewhere, Mercedes was soon at rehab, and fellow patient Nikki (possibly Tinheads partner), congratulated her on gettting to this stage. But newcomer jenson soon targeted Warren, and then confronted Tinhead about why he was posing as the iconic gangster. Liberty also couldn’t help but watch after Sienna stated she still doesn’t trust him. And Ste was refusing to see Lucas following recent events, so Dillon took the plunge and attempted to make him see that what he did wasn’t right. Finally, Wednesdays episode saw sienna and Cleo Joseph halting Darren and Charlie’s driving lesson as they needed to take Joseph. With concerns about Cleo’s welfare, let’s just say that she needs more help than they thought. And Darren has his own problems when Tinhead steals his car under instructions from Jenson, but then Darren ends up blaming the real Warren, shined a perfectly good alibi (as he explained to Sophie lovely about why babies need to go to hospital after blaming herself for Joseph crying). At the rehab centre, it was clear that Mercedes was struggling. But Nikki’s meditation idea seemed to have helped, but after seeing the new year trailer, I have a feeling it’s going to be dramatic. And Dillon was imploding Lucas to plead guilty, but James begged him to plead not guilty after receiving a letter from him. But after declining the offer, I wonder if he’ll change his mind? 

Eastenders:

This week saw a terrifying trial, a rivalry intensifying and once residents plan to leave the village backfire. Mondays episode saw Vicki and the Mitchell’s tend to Mark, claiming he was there for Joel’s trial. But Phil managed to find the truth to him, and also revealed of Nigel’s dementia. After taking a punch to Ross (definitely showing Grants side), Mark told Julie the truth about Phil’s plans, promoting Julie and Nigel to move out. It then got Phil involved with Marks plans, which linked to Ravi after he sent Nugget to spend time with Denzel. Meanwhile Nicola was adamant he needed to tell Elaine about the baby. After Bea thought it was to get back with him, George eventually told the truth. But Ian trying to comfort Elaine wasn’t what he planned, and seen filmed her letting councillor barker and his missus doing the dirty. Jasmine was also resorting to drastic measures to get the money to leave Walford, but Oscar was wise not to take it, and Max made it clear that unless she leaves him alone, he will tell Kat the truth about the police. Tuesdays episode saw Vicki stressing over Joel’s trial, taking her anger out on Ross. She also got Mark to get him to call a truce following their bust up in the last episode, but a visit to see Zack definitely took her mind off things. In more ways than one too. Speaking of Mark, he was still wanting Phil’s help to find out who’s threatening Vicki, whilst Phil explained to Linda why Nigel was at the Airbnb. Elaine was also out for revenge after getting a story by Ian in the newspaper, but revealed to Linda that her encounter with George was the reason why she felt more embarrassed. But her apology to Kathy didn’t go as planned. Meanwhile, Oscar is definitely feeling sorry for himself after Jasmine left unexpectedly, and Patrick blaming Kat for her disappearance. Max then revealed about Jasmine not going to the police to help Zoe, with Kat struggling what to believe. But I think Max was right when he said he’ll be there for Oscar after he passes out drunk, and Nugget wanting to go back to college is a good thing to look forward to. Wednesdays episode saw Joels trial. Vicki was definitely feeling regretful of the night with Zack, but reassured Ross that Joel is still his dad no matter what. I can imagine the awkward tension when Zack comes with them, and Vicki made it clear that nothing can happen again, particularly when she told Mark to say that she was with him at Phil’s. The trail itself was tense, and Tommy did really well on the stand. And I could see why he befriended Joel in the first place, knowing what he went through. And Kat reassured Tommy he did a good job, but then decided to turned her attention to finding Zoe and seeking the truth. But Vicki’s turn to take the stand for too much, as the barristers really got to her, and I could tell Joel loving it. I just hope it doesn’t affect the rest of the trial. But it wasn’t just the trail that had drama. Elaine and Ian were still at each others throats, and Elaine’s attempts to apologise once again certainly didn’t go to plan. And Ian admitting he’s planning on running for council spells danger for Peacock Palace. And Bea came to Honeys rescue, and asked about being asked for a job at the Mini Mart. I wonder what either Suki or Vinny will say? Finally, Thursdays episode saw the trail continue. Before that, Tommy came in after Joel requested to see him, and good on him for telling him what a man really is after his own violent past. Avani's words were enough to give Vicki the power to say what Joel really did to her, but let’s say Avani herself had ALOT to say. But it was Ross who took over after Joel was having his say, knowing that he’s still Joel’s dad, but also couldn’t accept what he’d done to Vicki. It was then that Joel decided to plead guilty, whether that’s because of what Ross said or to make him feel better about himself, I don’t know. But all I can say is it’s over at least. But my big question is when will the truth about Zack and Vicki come out, after she swears to Ross she’s with him after being the man he needed to be. Priya was also not happy with Ravi being absence, little did she know about his informant work. And Elaine is planning on running for council herself, just to take down Ian. I dread to think how that will go. And he’s managed to get useful a job at the mini mart, but after revealing she planned it, the big question is… why? 

Runaway:

This week I started the first few episodes with d the latest show based on the novel by Harlan Coben. Episode 1: Seeing is Believing, saw Simon Greenes daughter Paige being confronted by someone. One year later, and we saw Simon getting a text from a man called Dave divine, but fails to show up. Simon then heard Paige’s voice and confirms his suspicions , but soon escaped, with Simon then being confronted by a man called Aaron Corval, and ended up getting arrested. His lawyer Jessica Kinberg came to help Simon claim it was self defends, but the video taken made him look like the bad guy, and was then recapping Paige’s behaviour from a flashback. We then saw a woman called Elena Ravenscroft taking a family’s dog making out she found him and meeting Maria Finchley, clearly wanting to find out more about her. This was then interrupted by another case of looking for a man’s son. The video of Simon was soon going viral, and was then confronted by Ingrid and Anya, claiming they would’ve stopped him if he revealed what he was really doing. His work colleague Yvonne welcomed him back and is on his side, but he was clearly grieving after looking through videos of Paige and her boyfriend Aaron. It was the revealed that Aaron was killed whilst Simon is adamant on going to parents evening after everything that’s happened. Two detectives, Fagbenle and Todd were soon interrupting parents evening to reveal he was murdered, and Elena was then visiting Harry Thorpe's house and talked about him and his relationship with new wife Abigail, and Elena stated she tried everything, revealing that Henry (the missing son), was adopted and how his first wife dying started. We then saw Simon getting interviewed and explained how he found her, but a slip of the tongue was definitely not helping, with Jessica asking him to specifically remember the time slot. Elsewhere, two young people, Dee Dee and Ash, were spying on another woman and her family and interrogating the father Kevin and killing him. We then saw Simon apologising to his family and begs Sam to stay at university. Ingrid was then wondering if it was someone who wanted information from Aaron, and suggested to l go to Aaron’s at night after she wonders if it’s her fault. Soon, Elena was contacting tech person Lou about Henry’s whereabouts whilst Simon and Ingrid go to Aaron flat, and meeting neighbour Cornelius and recapped what happened on the day be was murdered. Ingrid and Simon then met with Paige’s dealer Rocco. It then ended with Dee Dee and Ash setting a car on fire, Elena discovering that Paige had been sending messages to Henry, and sam having her guitar and ingrid got shot by Luther. Episode 2: tattoos while U Wait, saw Ingrid being rushed to hospital whilst the detectives got the statements back, and Luther was also being shot. Dee Dee and ash were then seen at a tattoo parlour, but got caught and shot the person spotting him (who if you look closely was the actor who plays Ant Hutchinson in Hollyoaks). Yvonne was then asking for an update on Simon and found out he hasn’t told Anya and Sam about Ingrid, and Elena reporting back to Harry about Henry, mentioning Paige Greene, and asked Lou about if she can look at the number given and also look at Paige’s profile. Dr Jay Stanfield was then giving everyone an update whilst Simon has a flashback of the night he and Ingrid met, only for Isaac and ruby to be interrupted by the police and Ruby asking about Yvonne’s relationship with Simon, whilst Simon told Isaac about the night Ingrid was shot. A flashback revealed that Cornelius shot Luther, but Simon covered it up, with Isaac grilling him and Simon finding out that Luther is alive, but Luther covered up the lie about what really happened. Dee Dee thanked Ash for the narrow escape whilst Isaac told Ruby about Luther cracking up, with Ruby questioning it. Ruby then got a email from Cornelius, prompting Isaac to come to his place but wasn’t in (only to find out he’s hiding). Ruby was then giving an update on the CCTV whilst she mentions jay and his movements. At his university, Sam was ignoring Simon’s calls and got texts about selling Paige’s guitar. Simon was then taking matters into his own hands after not trusting the police, with Anya adamant Paige is not coming back. Elena coming round ti the restaurant and sensing Maria is a single mum. It then got Lou asking what Elena is doing, before showing the video of Simon punching Aaron and got an email from Paige to henry. Sam was then giving fellow student Paul the guitar, only for Paul to break it, and confronting Simon about Paige’s whereabouts. Simon soon found out Cornelius was in the army, and asked about Rocco and also about his son eldon. Ruby then got some intel on jay with Isaac interviewing him finding out about their difference in opinions. Simon and Cornelius were then visiting Rocco and asking about Paige and his relationship with Aaron, adamant he didn’t kill him and Simon offering money to help. Dee Dee and ash were then heading off whilst Simon got a video that Ingrid left the night Aaron died, and Sam owing Yvonne some money, and Simon finding Elena in her flat whilst Dee Dee got pictures of Paige and Aaron. Finally, Episode 3: Breaking Point, saw 25 years before the events, showing elenas past and her husband Joel, who’s now dead. We then went back to the present and revealed the link between Henry Thorpe and Paige, and thenaddfess linking back to Sam’s university rings a bell. Elena and Simon were then talking about their relationships, whilst Isaac and Ruby looked back at the CCTV, convinced that jay is lying to them. Cornelius was looking at Isaac’s profile while Simon comes back to the hospital to introduce Elena, with Sam revealing he saw Paige the day he saw her and lied about Yvonne, causing friction between father and son. Simon then revealed to Elena of Paige stealing, and a flashback showing Ingrid reaching breaking point and her intention of visiting Sam, and Elena suggesting to go to the funeral, suggesting Paige might turn up. Meanwhile, Elena herself was breaking into Maria’s flat, and finding a picture of Lou, and narrowly escaping. Elsewhere, Ash and Dee Dee revealed about their foster home together, and heading for the next location. Isaac and Ruby were then heading to the hospital, with jay not being able to hide from him and grilled him about the night, claiming it was a traditional nachos night. Simon was also reimagining the childhood at Aaron’s funeral, whilst meeting Aaron’s father Wiley, and was Updating Yvonne, revealing that he knew about Paige being at Sam’s university after he told her she knew their deal. Ruby was then backing up jays a link whilst revealing that if anyone sees them together, it’ll affect their career. Simon was then following Aaron’s mum Enid whilst Lou updated Elena on Henry’s whereabouts, revealing that Damian gorsch is the one we if the tattoo parlour, whilst questioning her about the breakin. Elena was then meeting Alex Talbot and confirming her identity, revealing their murders and using a bad play analogy to explain things. Simon eventually found Enid at a pub,  revealing a possible outcome, and then about Henry being a possible link to Aaron, whilst Isaac and Ruby went to “Busy Burrito” to confirm of Ingrids whereabouts, only to revealed that she asked for it being delivered and went out of the back. Back at the pub, Enid was telling Simon to focus on his family whilst revealing Ingrids state, and Enid revealed she’s actually Aaron’s stepmom and revealed his biological mum Bruna died, only to find out that it was a lie. At the tatto parlour, we saw Neil (husband of Damien), arriving on the scene and Elena consoling him after her experience, asking about Henry and Paige and Aaron. Simon then went to see Wiley and asked about Bruna , with Wiley revealing that Paige was the one looking for him and not the other way around. We then saw Simon leaving a voice note to update Elena, but went to find the caravan, finding her hoodie. Whilst Maria saw Elena on the CCTV footage, Dee Dee and ash were heading back to his old Foster mum, scaring ash. Elena was also looking at an ancestory link whilst a link from the burrito got back, and Jay was visiting Ingrid back at the hospital.

Waterloo Road:

This week I started the iconic school drama set in Manchester. Darius already was causing trouble, with Donte questioning a sign. But Darius was convinced that it’ll help the new students, with Joe and Nisha being uneasy about the arrangement whilst Stella was trusting Darius. Everyone else was discussing deputy heads and joining with Donte, whilst Darius gave a briefing,  convinced that Waterloo road is a safe space.  It was also the start of a huge journey for one couple, as Agnes and Schuey got caught in someone’s car, and after stating how they want to go to the next level, Agnes sees someone she knows. And new student Leoni Tennant got told off by Neil, and whilst Stella mentioned about payment, Darius was soon caught up in the situation. Wendy was soon taking over and giving her a new uniform. Agnes and Schuey then got back to talking about sex whilst Darius talks to him about Leoni, hoping his experience will help. Schuey then met her whilst Agnes’s asked Forest and Declan about it, resulting in a cat fight between the pair, and Darius used a breathing technique to help calm her down when Donte asked about it. Agnes then revealed Leoni is her niece, with Stella checking in on Neil whilst questioning Darius why he let her in the school. Agnes was then seen telling the truth behind Leoni’s backstory whilst she locks everyone in the classroom. But Darius used a technique to help her. But then after everyone left, Leoni flipped it by blaming Agnes, with Darius stating he has her back and Val being praised by his approach to it. Stella then let Leoni have a second chance, with her and Darius talking about how to support them with the theme of inclusion. Leoni then apologised to Neil whilst Agnes was not happy about her staying at the school, and a call to the police caused friction between her and Schuey, leading to a downward spiral and Leoni looking at a necklace, presumably with her and Agnes. Meanwhile, Portia was rubbing in about being social media famous, whilst Izzy and Car were arguing again, with Izzy stealing Donte's keys, hearing joe and Mitch and then Darius and Nisha, prompting them to ask about romance. It then led to a kiss between the pair, with telling Izzy about not going with Cat, but soon made up and letting her go with Cat. Portia was then asking Shola for advice after getting teased, with her getting roped into having a makeover and everyone complimenting her after. It then led Portia to getting jealous of Sholas look, but a suggestion of the football team caught the attention of Ben. Elsewhere, Stace was talking about Kyle and getting advice from Aleena and Libby with regards to Mia. But she ended up having to look after her, with Noel supporting her and Aleena and Libby helping out. Stace was then asking Noel about the situation after she got a text from Kyle, where once again he gives her nothing but positivity and telling her to take it one step at a time. And there may be a new friendship (possible romance after seeing spoilers) on the cards, as Luca was being complimented by new student Freddie, but resulted in getting a detention but not putting him in it. It then ended with Darius visiting his dad, who refused to help him with his flat, resorting to sleeping at the school. Episode 2 saw Portia and Ben getting flirty during football training, but Ben was wanting to keep them a secret,  but felt weary when she asked about spending time at his place. Darius also informed Stella about some supply teachers and Wendy wondering why he didn’t sort it. Darius then gave a briefing about supply teachers, with everyone revealing about how kids will react, with Miss Step  Haydock returning, making an impression to Neil and Donte questioning their connection. During school time, Shola was telling Portia to be careful after she admitted to wanting attention, and Tonya was also asking Portia her mood, but sticking to her word about not saying anything about her and Ben, which Tonya think it’s a red flag but Portia seeing it in a different light. The timing couldn’t have been worse as Aleena confirmed she has chlamydia, revealing it was Ben. Whilst they came in, they were surprised when Seth gave them some advice, but soon the whole school found out about Ben giving aleena chlamydia and Izzy confronting him, whilst Steph had a plan after Nisha mentions about sex education classes. This then led to Steph giving a class about it and calling out Ben, but Portia understandably felt embarrassed. But Steph listened to Portia’s feelings, about it and how doing a test will help her felt better, and getting Ben and Ashton to see how bad the situation is, with Izzy’s behaviour infuriating Cat (which I’ll get onto in a moment), and Darius telling off Steph for breaking the lesson plan. It then led to Steph and Stella having different opinions, whilst admitting about Ben and his behaviour. Neil then ended up taking over Steph's lesson, only to be interrupted by Mitch to ask Schuey about Portia, whilst Ashton convinced Tonya to use her medical condition to find her, only to be confronted by her dad who’s one of the coaches (and I’ll also get onto that bit in a moment). Soon, Steph found bed, telling her that who she is is just fine. She then came to Stella’s office about the situation, and convincing her she’s fine. But Stella confronted Ben herself about it whilst Portia rejected his apology. Stella was then apologising to Steph and offered her to come back if it came to it. Schuey was checking in on Portia whilst Aleena rejected Ben, and Portia was secretly struggling with everything that happened. Earlier on, Schuey checked in on Agnes if she’s, whilst she queried Steph about her skills, with Schuey being sent to inclusion and  asking about Aleena, Stace and Lois. Schuey was then having a go at Mitch for breaking up Mike and joe. But Joe himself then explained how they weren’t happy for a long time, but didn’t want it to end the way it did. Val was also questioning Neil about his prep. But Neil soon revealed that he misses coral and the baby being at school. After finding her dad, Tonya revealed she wanted nothing to do with him after being abandoned for so long, with Ashton grilling him following his business, but convinced Tonya to give things a go with him, which she did. Whilst Steph was updating Donte on jack, she revealed why she blanked him initially. But he has bigger things other than a teacher remembering him, as Cat was asking Izzy about her behaviour and cooling things off, with Izzy then violently shouting at Donte, concerned for her behaviour m. And Stace was worried about a voicemail on social devices, revealing that Kyle's parents are not well, and wanting to have shared custody. Noel as always gave her some love after Stace shared her worries about being a good mum. After being sent out, Nisha also gave her advice about parenthood, with her reporting back to Noel that no one is perfect, and will go ahead with social services. Finally. Episode 3 saw Donte feeling the stress of a single, and it all started with Izzy lashing out whilst finding her passport. After confiding in Neil about it, it then led to Donte asking Lois and Aleena about Izzy going with them to Ibiza, and after Shola revealed about getting a modelling job, Ashton told Izzy about Donte's decision, which resulted in Donte getting a bang to the head from her. Izzy was then apologising and Donte suggesting for her to get some help, Which she declined. Cat was also expressing her concerns, and Ashton sensing dontes well-being and putting it with Izzy’s anger, and recapping it to Izzy. She was then having a go at Donte again, whilst Stella asking about the injury. He then had a look at family therapy, which was spotted by Darius and admitted about the struggles of a single dad, with Darius revealing his past (possibly leading to his extreme ways to get what he wants). Donte was then searching for Izzy after not finding her at home, but eventually found her and explaining his struggles to, but understanding why she doesn’t want counselling. But she soon decided to accept the help they needed. Darius himself may be on the brink of his secrets being exposed, as it all started with Debs finding him on the bathroom. He was briefing about Nicky and her role, who returned for a placement whilst getting filled in on the gossip, with Mitch overhears them. Nicky definitely anted to prove herself after overhearing Nisha and Val, and whilst that was happening. Schuey was asking Agnes about her appropriate adult, whilst meeting Leoni which caused drama. Thankfully Nicky sorted the situation, with Mitch showing him her gratitude after Nicky opened up about Kelly Jo. Schuey was then suspecting Agnes is keeping more things from him whilst she’s wondering why nothing is done about Leoni, whilst Nicky was attempting to get her to open up which didn’t help, resorting to schuey speaking about his experience. He then asked Agnes about the fire again, causing tension between the couple. Nicky then resorted to reverse psychology and talking about Kelly Jo, stating it’s all about channeling anger. Schuey then persuaded Agnes to tell the truth after she helped him, and Nicky repeating what Nisha and Val said, and Debs being convinced Darius is not who he is (and I’ll get on that in a moment). I then found out that Agnes’ home life not being what they thought, lying about Schuey and admitting about Leoni. Darius also suggested about sniffer dogs, which a place is available. It then led to Darius informing the staff whilst Debs found his sleeping bag. But soon the dog went missing, and the handler was telling Luca off about the dog, but it was sweet of Freddie defending him, but it turned out they did steal him. There was also a nice moment where Freddie communicated with Luca in his own way and learning BSL, but the dog escaping caused chaos. I did feel for Lucas seeing Freddie with his friends. The handler then gave a report of the search, but disagreed on the payment and made a threat, sensing that this isn’t the first time he and Darius had a disagreement. After Debs reported back to Nisha about the sleeping bag, Darius declined the offer to let Nisha see his place, but told some of the truth, with Nisha explaining her past situation and hacked into Stella’s account afterwards.  

After The Flood:

This week I watched the first two episodes of the second series of the drama starring Sophie Rundle. Episode 1 took us one year later, with a break in causing trouble. causing trouble. We then saw Jo settling into motherhood and Molly going swimming in a lake with a group. Jo who’s now Detective Constable, reported an abandoned van to work, with Molly (who won the local council) looking after baby Eve and Jo noticing red graffiti crosses. Colleague Deepa reporting back their findings to Jo and going to eves birthday, with Kelly gossiping that she cheated on Pat. But the mood turned sour when Mackie came unexpectedly, with Jo complaining to Pat, who revealed the link between him and her dad, but Pats niece Sophie came in about a possible fire, protesting about it. Jo then found a beer mat, with her and Molly talking about their love lives, stating how Tony is a good man. We then saw  someone being killed within the smoke and Jo meeting DC Sam, noticing a medical alert and explaining the purpose of the smoke. Jo and Sam were then talking about family and mentioned about the van whilst Molly, Layal have a memorial swim. Sophie was then seen handing out flyers about the fires whilst Pat took Eve to playgroup, and at the station, Mackie was reporting more crosses whilst Sam was giving a briefing. Jo was then going to Borngate farm after linking a prop to a clue, whilst Molly meets jack before she was picking up Eve. Jo was then seen heading to the farm and chasing a man called Xav Palmer, who got seriously injured. She was then chatting to the farmer Mr Dixon and saying the keys belonged to a man called Todd Drake, who was the person that was killed. Jack later soon found out that a family called bensons (who owned the land the man was killed) paid for the flood wall whilst helping Molly and Declan, and Mr Dixon was also showing his upset following Todd’s death, whilst Jo searched the caravan. Deepa ended up in more trouble as whilst Xav asking about Jo, a patient tried to escape, and Pat revealed that balsara wanting to see them. Whilst Kelly was begging for Jack to give her job back, Pat made out he was interested in what’s after the case shortly followed by Deepa revealing Xav escaped. Jo was then surprised by being given two awards, both being put by Mackie, and a report revealed Todd was dead before he was shot. It was then that Jo found Xav but, then escaped again. She then found out Pat was flagged for searching the files and stating that’s the reason why their marriage is over. Jo soon returned home to find Jack with Molly, and stating she has her own life, revealing they’ll be a citation, and ended up telling Molly about the case. It ended with Jo being alerted of a fire, initially being turned away, but soon found a girl called Izza and reaching her just in time, and was shocked in finding Xav dead as well. Episode 2 saw Jo wondering why there's a second death and explained a connection, and Balsara getting Jo to round up the teams. Pat was also informing Jo about Izza and Sophie, and stating how she’ll need to give a statement to different police due to not being allowed to talk to them because of family. We then saw Pat asking Molly about some of the officers and mentioning about Fraser tempest, whilst getting calls and making out it’s for Mackies birthday. Later on, Jack was asking Molly out whilst Tony mentions Harriet benson and who she is, whilst Jack was researching looking at Alan Benson. Jo was worried about Geoff Dixon being the third victim, but she was also reminded that he’s a suspect. Sam was giving a briefing after forensics came back, but Jo got a video of her and Xav, and Babak saying a comment that hurt her. Mackie did his job of trying to to intimidate her, and asked Deepa about him, with Jo giving her a warning. It was then revealed that one of Xav's girlfriends being Tony’s daughter, and Sam reassuring Jo of the situation and teasing about Balsara. Sam and Jo were then questioning Donna, and finding a note, and linking the X graffiti sign. Babak was also getting news on the firearms whilst Pat visits Fraser, making out it’s a “support network for retired coppers”, and chatted about life. But he soon came clean about why he’s really there and was ordered to leave. I can only imagine his horror when Pat found Mackie at his house, making out he took Eve for a drive and stating there’s no problem, but got a call about a briefing. We then saw Mackie speaking to press, with Geoff causing a scene and lashing out at his interview, with Jo calming him down. They then discovered that Crossdale estate being the one to have the gun and visiting their place, questioning them and ended up with a packet of turnips. Whilst that was going on, Fraser was posting stuff to Pat and revealed he’s terrified. Sam was later updating Jo on the moors, and mentioned Sophie, whilst Pat was revealing to Jo about Mackies past crimes and is adamant she’s okay listening to an audio file. In the evening, Harriet’s daughter coming down alerted Alan, only to find a graffiti on the wall of their house. Jo then took the nice approach with Mackie, as he was willing to stop the gossip whilst talking about the commendations. At the same time, Jack was talking to Molly about his financial situation and revealed his feelings for her, spotted by Jo, who then listened to the audio recording. Even I was surprised when Molly revealed she knew Xav and Todd, stating they were friends and connected it back to the caravan, updating Sam on it and finding the evidence. Forensics then showed that they definitely got shot with the weapon and ended up going back to their house, but I reckon Mackie may be involved again after he meets Alan.  

Personal:

Exercise:

For this weeks exercise, I did my usual but one bike ride due to the machinery having technical problems. I simply replaced the second one with a longer yoga session on YouTube, but for the bike ride, I managed to get to 10k in 13mins 42secs. Still not quite to 15k yet in 20 minutes, but I know I will get there someday. I also did plenty of yoga, with a Ying Style Class led by one of my actor friends. It was a nice change, stretching into areas I wouldn't normally go to, so it was a nice way to end a busy week, and feeling refreshed ready for whatever comes next week!

Cooking:

This week I did a simple meal of stir fry. This is quite possibly one of my favourite meals to cook, and definitely filling and tasty. It’s also a good job I have simple recipes like this, as then for future references I can make multiple portions to last me for a good few days!

Surveys:

This week consisted of two bursts of survey completion. But on the second session there was a technical glitch, so I was unable to finish that set. But at least I had the energy to get up and do them, which was the most important thing.

Darts:

This week consisted of two practices. But let’s just say that for my first practice leg, despite a mixture of good and bad combos, I didn’t exactly finish. Same went for Sundays practice, as after so many throws, I gave up. But that didn't stop me from tuning into a darts tournament and rediscovering why I love the sport so much!

Gladiators:

This week I started the third series of the remake of the iconic game show. This saw Finn and Josh (who as an autistic person, it was great to see how much he loves bud younger brother), and Rachel and Naomi take on these ultimate athletes. And boy were there some moments. “Duel” saw Viper and Giant being knocked off their podiums, and whilst Diamond managed to knock off Naomi by diamond, Rachel managed to stay on whilst fighting Fire. We also saw a new event in the form of “Destruction”, and “The Edge” saw all of the gladiators being knocked off first. And “The Eliminator” saw the closest ever between the female gladiators, and I was literally on the edge of my seat! Episode 2 saw farmer Gail and language marketing assistant Emily, and PE teacher Mark and gym owner Jason take on the gladiators. Emily managed to stay on the podium against cyclone during “Duel”, whilst Phantom had a heartfelt compliment for Mark after opening up about growing up with a single parent. “Destruction” saw Sabre give a very empowering speech in her own unique way, and “Collision” was a tough one to watch. There was also new event “Everest”, which saw Emily beat Dynamite (but gave a wonderful speech), and Gail feeling the wrath of Cyclone. Jason took down Bionic with ease, and I was surprised how Mark took down Giant. "The Eliminator" also posed some advantages and disadvantages, but ultimately, Emily and Mark were the ones through, but Gail and Jason could be in the running depending on their timings.

The Masked Singer:

This week was more clues and songs from TVs ultimate guessing game. I just say, I find Conkers just adorable, and Toastie in fact was my favourite by far (and possibly in the running of winning the whole show). And I was both shocked and surprised by who the latest unmasking was, and a rare occasion where I know who it was when revealed! But I could see why it was, and they disguised their voice brilliantly. 

Challenges I Faced & How I Overcame Them:

The main challenge this week was having to bow out of the offer of performing in a showcase. This wasn't ideal as it was due to reasons beyond my control (one of them being the weather possibly being bad), but with the announcement of more showcases coming up, hopefully I'll be able to take part in one of them with the weather hopefully getting better by then. I also had to let go of a couple of self tapes I saw attached to some auditions. This was a shame as they could’ve been good experiences for me on set, but it’s moments like this where sometimes doing too much can have a negative impact. And as always, to reframe it in a positive light, sometimes you need to get rid of the hood to make room for the great. My final biggest challenge was having a lack of sleep. This was mainly due to waking up early in fear of oversleeping and having abit of a bad dream. I managed this by going at my own pace when it came to my usual tasks, and not overdoing it as much. 

What have I learnt this week? Sometimes changing things can be good. Yes it's more difficult for autistic people, but it's all about how you manage it. And the Ying session was a brilliant way to channel that energy.

See you soon for another blog. Until next time...

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)