Showcase Spectating, Podcast Recording & Peruvian Browsing!

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog. As we head into May, this week consisted of watching a showcase with some of my amazing actor friends, recording a podcast that will be on Spotify very soon, and preparing to see a show starring a marmalade Peruvian bear next week! So without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 27th April 2026! 

Professional:

Job Applying:

This week I continued to apply for more jobs. As I’m writing this, I seriously need to update my Spotlight and Mandy profile, not only with my new reel, but to make sure all of my credits are up to date, which will make it more affective when applying for jobs. I had to cross off some knowing my agent already subbed me on some of them, but that didn’t stop me from applying for jobs myself, and despite missing the deadline for some of them, I’m proud to get what I needed to apply in. 

Content Making:

This week I made some more content for my social media. These included my thoughts on this years "I’m A Celebrity South Africa", my sketch from Easter 2026, and a monologue which I was going to perform at a showcase but couldn’t due to reasons beyond my control. I won’t lie, some of it was abit rushed, but I believe that sometimes getting it done is better than getting it perfect, and with a basic editing software, it made it look half decent. Click the link below to view one I posted this week which was the I’m A Celebrity thoughts (which be prepared for some controversy), and keep an eye out for my other content on my socials, two of which are @theautisticactress on Instagram and TikTok. 

I’m A Celebrity Thoughts: https://youtu.be/6y08wowB8gA?si=cFKfjaaL-BWcAJio

Outtakes for AAW2026: https://youtu.be/hzl6nwAbX2I?si=HxtMNxfHdiBnbZ8E

Podcast:

This week I had the honour to be part of a podcast. This was a lot of fun, and a good way for me to do something creative and talk about my journey so far. It also gave me the opportunity to have a catch up with my colleague who was recording it, and let’s just say that we have ALOT of stuff to plan. But it was great to do something that put a smile on my face, and even letting it out was just amazing enough. Keep an eye out on my instagram @theautisticactress for when it’s posted, and I can’t wait for you all to listen to the full podcast! 

Showcase Spectating:

This week I watched some of my amazing friends perform in a showcase. This was to celebrate 1 year of when the agency they were a part of were launched, and it’s not very often I go out, so I thought I would come and support them working on the pieces they worked really hard on. I’ve seen most of the scenes in class, and the improvement of the notes given thanks to the feedback from my acting teacher were definitely shown. All in all, a brilliant day, amazing talent and a chance to surround myself with people who make me feel like a second family!

Acting Class:

This week I managed to get my scene filmed. This was a good experience, and I got to see other interpretations of how it’s been done. But I was happy with how it went, got some great feedback/notes, and I can’t wait for you all to see the full video! 

Act On This:

This week I listened to Casting Director Kahleen Crawford on the latest podcast about learning the business side of the business. Despite some technical difficulties when it came to making my notes (as I prefer to write then digitally rather than on paper), I definitely took on plenty and I learnt so much. And I forgot how lovely she was, which was the whole point of bringing guests on, to show that they’re not the big scary monsters people make them out to be. With her advice on period scenes, her casting of her shows and how to get on her radar, I definitely need to think about getting in touch after that, as it was the second time I’ve listened to her. 

Coronation Street:

This week I watched more of the fictional show set in Weatherfield, with this bunch directed by Mickey Jones. 21st saw Debbie revealing the ultimatum from Carl, and reminding Ronnie he caused it, followed by Ryan hearing the news from Carl, who got him fired. Ronnie was then recognising his mistake and offered to hand himself in, and reminding her of Kevin and Abi looking out for her. It soon got Debbie revealing she was not signing over the hotel, making it clear on her feelings for him, feeling guilty for what she said, with Ronnie thinking it’s what he needed to hear. But it only made things worse as soon Carl was flooding the hotel. We also saw George offering super to Summer, who then revealed what Theo said. Let’s just say it definitely got Gina bury, as after Theo was taunting Gary, George made a threat which I didn’t want to know myself… Elsewhere, Carla and Lisa were preparing their hen nights, with Carla and Betsy questioning Lisa’s plans. Soon the hen for Carla taking place organised by Sally, who soon bumped into Lisa when forgetting pins. She was then dragging her to the Rovers after finding out no one organised anything for her, and whilst Maria was having one too many (which was entertaining), Lisa came in to the party playing Mrs and Mrs. Meanwhile, The Battersby sisters were talking about Will and his privacy. It then got Toyah trying to stall Will, which failed but managed to find a burner phone, soon getting a text from Megan. At at the Platts, Jodie was taking David the dog to meet Pamela the poodle, only to be bumping into Olivia. Shona then met Olivia and asked about her past life, but soon questioned about a “protection thing”. 22nd saw the Battersby sisters discussing the plan for confronting Megan, with Ben and Maggie asking what’s happening but interrupted by Ollie and Will arguing, looking for something which they hinted was the phone. They eventually revealed the burner phone to Maggie, begging them not to tell Ben. But Maggie herself met Will and Ollie’s mum Melanie and grilled her on how she knew, whilst the sisters confronted Megan which failed but revealed about putting a tracker in her bag. Ben was then asking them what was happening, only for the police to turn up. Soon enough Melanie came in to reveal that Ollie rang her to help, which didn’t go down well, as Melanie revealed secrets of Maggie of her own. At the station, Leanne was showing a picture of Simon and Bobby away, with Eva only getting a caution and convinced her not to turn violent again. If then got Leanne and Eva reflecting on the situation, reminding her she’s family, with Megan working out her tracker device. Oh dear… At the Platts, Lily was complaining about Olivia not going to school, who wanted to stay longer. She was also wanting more stuff, and her heading to the shops gave her the opportunity to search for evidence, which she was caught out. Olivia then revealed that Jodie stole something from her dad, reporting it to two men who work for Olivia’s dad. It was also set to be a disaster for Carla and Lisa, as we saw Ryan and Debbie finding the hotel flooded, frustrating him due the venue being for the wedding. He was then given the tough job in reporting the news to Carla and Lisa, who suggested the chariot square hotel, but Carla was wanting to cancel it altogether. Some time later, Lisa was checking in on Carla, with Ryan saying the damage was expensive, suggesting an alternative venue. But Ryan revealing about Carla being married to her is all that mattered, it got Lisa resorting to a plan. Meanwhile, Theo met Miles, with Carl goading him and losing his temper, with Kit coming in to threaten to arrest Theo. It also didn’t look good for Carl when he came into the Rovers, with the Websters making it clear he’s not welcome. I also got why Abi lost her temper after a comment was made about her kids, and soon Kit reporting to Todd about what he said to Theo, who got back from his getaway. It then got George suggesting to go away again, and soon Todd was ringing Eileen and Jason, with George being pleased he’s going away again, offering to come with him to the old flat and offering a wash bag, with Theo lurking. Finally, 23rd saw Sally visiting Carla, giving her flowers for Michelle and Lisa revealing a lunch by Debbie to make up for it, with the free champagne winning her over and soon revealed the plan to Sally. Fiz and Sean were frustrated about the wedding, but soon got wind of the plan. I’m just glad Carla was pleased with the surprised, and Betsy showed her happiness for Lisa, with the two finally getting married. I liked Sally's “distraction” and how it ended up as a surprise, with the gang organising a wedding reception. I also found it entertaining how Kirk was getting advice from Sarah and Maria about romance whilst the resident were talking about the buffet, and Lauren instantly turning down Kirk after he tried to chat her up.  (which was entertaining) Betsy then suggested a night out on the town with Lisa accepting it, with Sally revealing that Nick donated the champagne and David helped set up the event. I also loved Roy’s speech, with everyone dancing the night away, with fireworks to end the night on a high and having one final dance despite a noise which they thought was Foxes (but little do they know what it really was). And it was all systems go for murder week, as Eva was reporting back to her sisters what Megan said, with Leanne having an idea, and Debbie was updating Abi, soon revealing that she asked Carl to come to meet her. She then made it clear she doesn’t want to see Carl again, and a bad comment from Abi being the final straw. For the Platts, Shona was liking, with Jodie noticing something in the garden, only for it to be Kirk helping David with her getting concerned. Shona was then wondering if it was “Jodie’s ex”, who then reveal he’s Jodie’s dad, and revealed the hard drive and what happened building ho to the Corriedale crash, and refused to hand it in. It then got Shona ordering Jodie to leave for her own safety, and Todd was getting ready for Thailand, only to be noticed by a builder (which I’m sure was Theo).  

Hollyoaks:

This week saw a relationship on the rocks, a mother declining from her condition, a family still at war, and one resident concerned of her mental health. Mondays episode saw the morning after Ste’s night with James, who practically begs him to leave Rex and be with him. Rex himself was also abit worried, and Ro asking him him trying to kiss him (which he was forgiven for) was the last thing on his mind. And a trip to Leela's house was a disaster when he got caught by the woman herself (who had to get Daniel's PE kit), who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind on the situation. It was then that Ste opened up about how he was still trying to come to terms with how Rex dresses, and just as he was about to open up about James, Rex then revealed the truth about his relationship by blood with Grace. This then prompted Ste to let James know he’s choosing Rex, and that their night together was a mistake, with Rex overhearing everything. Oooops…. At the Hutchinson’s themselves, Diane advised Dee Dee to go to Leela’s after not wanting to be contaminated by her sneezing (which was actually hay fever), which was secretly part of the plan to set Tony up before she passed away. But she’ll need to somehow keep the piece when Ro and Ant were arguing about Kathleen-Angel (in which she and Ant declared their love for each other), knowing she doesn’t want her final days to be of her children arguing. At the McQueen's, Cleo was clearly hungover from the night before, with Mercedes grilling Sienna on what really happened to Clare Devine. But she somehow managed to believe Sienna's lie, but the question is, just how long? And Pearl came home with the last of the Keane family Maddox, unaware of the relationship between them and Jack. Soon the family we’re back together and  Maddox was up to date with what happened. Tuesdays episode saw Rex showing Ste he can be the man he needed, and claiming to drop dressing up fem for his sake after overhearing him and James. But understandably Ro was not happy with it and asked him to reconsider. But it was no good as Rex got him to take the clothes to the market. But that wasn’t the only thing he had to contend with. Diane’s plan to get Tony and Leela together with the kids was all systems go, and she soon revealed to Nancy that her prognosis was shorter than expected, which led to an emotional moment between the pair. She also advised her not to put others before herself before she passed away, but trouble was on the way when she ended up getting stuck in the bath from her pains. There was also drama afoot when Pearl introduced herself to the Keanes as Jacks fiancée, with Beth soon turning down the offer of beds she has found. At least Jonah had it in him to remind her that they’re family, wanting to show abit of kindness. And Cleo was having thoughts of her own following the guilt she felt for causing Clare’s death, wondering if she could be around Tori. During her practice presentation, it was clear she was having an intrusive thought, and questioned if her medication was actually working. The cheek of Sienna to mess with them to avoid her part in it was atrocious, and I do wonder how long it’ll be until the truth Will come out? And Wednesdays episode saw Diane struggling to get out of the bath still, where she revealed why she she him up with Leela, reminding her that he’ll always love her. Thankfully they had some help from Ro and Ant, who were secretly still struggling, with Ant confiding in Kathleen-Angel. Leela was also feeling the strain bless her, but I’m glad she offered Dee Dee her services. Elsewhere Beth was still feeling on edge. But Pearl, who was helping her with her stuff, soon reminded her and Jonah about her family and how they went (but for good reasons), telling them not to cause any friction. But it didn’t seemed to have worked when she and Nancy were having a point scoring match, with Jack finally having enough of the arguments. He also practically begged the police to sort it out, and reiterated what he would do if he was still working in the police and opened up about how it’s affected the family. But with Vicky due to come out of her coma, I wonder if they’ll be any more questions to be answered? And Cleo was still worried about her medication, with Sienna still putting ideas in her head. After taking the whole bottle, she and Myra went to the hospital, and questioned the doctors knowledge due to his youthful appearance. But the test results showed that there was no trace of her meds in her body, and her realising what Sienna was doing got her discovering the pill swap. Something tells me there’s going to be an intense showdown between the couple. 

Eastenders:

This week saw a family help their loved one with their mental health, a emotional goodbye to one of Walford's finest and a controversial relationship being revealed. Mondays episode saw Grant return to the street. It’s safe to say that Vicki wasn’t pleased with him after drama happened with him and Sharon, and soon felt guilty when he found out about how bad Nigel was after an accident at the care home. It was clear everything was too much for him, but soon stepped in when Julie was reaching breaking point, and he got to hear Nigel speak, which was good enough for him. Mark was also taking matters into his own hands when trying to talk about Nigel, and soon he came face to face with his brother. It then turned into a point scoring match, where he revealed about Sam’s cancer, and pretty soon whilst trying to convince him he was scared of when Nigel does pass, I wouldn’t want to be in the same room as him. It was at that moment where Grant could see that this needs to be sorted sooner rather than later before he hits rock bottom again. But he wasn’t the only one that was hitting rock bottom. Following last weeks explosive and powerful performance, Ravi was settled into the mental health unit, where Dr Singh gave him an official diagnosis of Complex PTSD, wanting to work with Ravi to help take back control after talking about his past involving Nish and Ravneer. It didn’t help that Nugget saw a video of him nearly committing suicide, and Ravi only pushed Priya away when he came to see him. I don’t know if it was genuine or the mental health talking, but it’s safe to say it wasn’t looking good. So Priya resorted in Suki trying to keep an eye on him after he broke up with her. At the Slaters, there was a lot of banter, particularly when it came to the order of who was using the toilet. It then got Jasmine thinking of having a Slater party when asking if Big Mo was really 90. And Max was hailed a hero following the crash, and he was soon organising his date with Cindy. It was clear that she was jealous after encountering him with Linda, and the two agreed to keep things a secret for now. I can only imagine drama brewing on the horizon. Tuesdays episode saw Phil still struggling with his emotions, claiming that Nigel was already gone. Sam coming round didn’t help. It was at a worst time as well, as the doctor told Julie that his treatment needs to stop for his own sake, and it made the Mitchell clan know that it’s time to think about gathering everyone to say goodbye. When Billy found out the news, he also convinced Phil to see him after recalling what Nigel said to Grant, knowing that he wasn’t gone yet, and also recalling his moment with Lola, but that also didn’t help. It was only then when Nigel mentioned a stone which Grant was looking for, and after chatting with Phil about it, Grant managed to find the place he was. It also couldn’t have come at a worse time, as Julie then updated him to reveal that Nigel was moments from passing away, but made it his mission to convince Phil to let him see Nigel ones last time. Elsewhere on the street, Priya was convincing Nugget and Avani that Ravi was okay, but making a sale at the car lot said otherwise, and things got too much for her. I’m just glad that Max was able to do a half decent thing and give her compassionate leave given the situation, but his good streak wasn’t about to last long when nearly getting caught with Cindy by Lauren. Cindy herself wasn’t happy after making it clear she doesn’t want to be kept a secret. But soon Max apologised for his behaviour, and showed that he does want to be with her, but wanted to do it in his own time. But it was back to square one when Lauren and Peter walked in on the two. There was also plans put into action for Big Mos celebrations, and it’s safe to say that it was a hit. I did find it amusing on how Oscar wanted to be the stripper, but Shrimpy’s piano playing skills were enough. Wednesdays episode was an emotional one, as it was time to say goodbye to Nigel. But not before Grant convinced Phil to come back, talking about the old times. But along with finding the stone Nigel was talking about, he finally decided to come with him. But it wasn’t off to a good start when Phil’s car got clamped and Grants was drained with energy. But some help from a pizza delivery man saved the day, with Grant staying behind knowing he’d needed to patch things up with Mark and how he said all he needed to say. At the care home meanwhile, Julie had visitors in Yolande, Lexi (who was fine knowing she went through it with Lola) and Linda. Julie then confided in Yolande how she wasn’t ready to say goodbye, but she was right to say that he was holding onto something, and that something was Phil, who somehow knew what stone he wanted. I liked how we transported to his version of “the gates of heaven” in the form of a beach, where Nigel explained why that stone was precious, and for him heaven himself was being back as a boy throwing stones. With the toughest part of saying goodbye, it’s going to be a challenging journey for Phil and Julie in particular. Finally, Thursdays episode saw the aftermath of Nigel’s death, where the residents gather to celebrate his life, whilst there was still tension between Grant and Mark. I liked how Kat and the slaters celebrated by replaying his film, but not before Julie gave a heartfelt speech about why he liked Walford so much. But an unseen clip got too much for Phil, where at first Linda reminded him not to push anyone away after the last time he hit rock bottom, followed grant checking in on him, with him wanting to be left alone. Phil then decided to grieve in his own way (which was bizarre but if it helps him then so be it), and Grant reassured everyone that he’ll be fine. They then all recalled some funny stories linking to Nigel, and soon they were dancing in his honour. I think a new hashtag “dance like Nige” would be a hit soon. But this event had a lot of realisations within the family, as Mo was wondering if anyone would remember her when she’s gone after thinking about Julie. The family reassured her that it won’t be the case at all, and I think Jasmine is definitely feeling like a proper slater. Outside of this chaos, Lauren was still upset following Cindy and Max’s love affair, and even more infuriated when Oscar was sent to change her mind. But a pep talk from Mark after recalling his memories with Grant made Lauren reconsider, and particularly after Nigel’s death, I think she realised that life is too short. I’m still suspicious about it Lauren and Mark will end up in an affair, but no matter what happens, after the flash-forward episode, something tells me it’s just the beginning. 

Small Prophets:

This week I started the show that featured Pierce Quigley, Michael Palin and Lauren Patel. Episode 1 saw lonely man Michael Sheep leaving the house, with neighbour Clive asking about his garden and the letter from the council. Shop manager Gordon was speaking to Trish following an announcement she gave via headset whilst hearing Michael about a sales technique. It moments like this where it was so relatable to me when being asked to do another job, and there’s always a colleague like Brigham being a lunatic. He was then heading to golden years gardens to see his dad Brian, testing his contraception and mentioned how he ate the Brazil nuts (which was amusing). But his dad was showing signs of dementia, as he was reminding him of Clea’s disappearance, getting hit with a pontifrake cake and getting asked about a competition. Michael was then coming home to post and going into Clea’s room with the Christmas stuff still not being taken down (as Christmas Eve was when she disappeared). back at work, he was then giving a unique sales technique again linking to a colour called Frelliple, soon taking his break and meeting fellow worker Kacy, whilst gossiping about Gordon, who asked them about the breaks again. During their breaks, Michael  to Kacy about his past as an underwater welder, striking up a friendship between the two. He then visited his dad again where he talked about him collecting empty water bottles. His dad then talked about a homuncoli, explaining his travails where he came across them, who offered to look for the journal he got the findings for and encouraged him to use the prophets to finds Clea. Michael then came across his brother in law Roy, who claims be forgot his calls, with Roy talking about how life is going (which is not great). The two were then talking about Clea, possibly linking to a death after mentioning the location of her car and wants to sell the house. Michael then bumped into neighbour Olive, who revealed about Roy coming to the house, and soon came across Clive and Bev, reminding Olive that Clea wasn’t officially married to Michael. The episode then ended Michael looking through Brian’s stuff and found the journal, and here he found out he was telling the truth about the Homuncoli. Episode 2 saw Michael waking up to a paper seagull whilst realising he was late for work. He was then making a joke about selling buckets to a customer, with Kacy also making the same joke, asking about a celebrity version of a tv show. She then invited him to someone’s birthday, with the customer complaining to Gordon and Kacy playing along. Michael then got a call about Brian, where Hilary showed him a box. We then saw Brian complaining about them stealing the ”poison”, which was the antidote to dissolve the Homunculi. He then went onto explaining how to summon them, showing him the picture with and confused as he initially believed it was a bedtime story. Brian was then giving him more letters, with one of them from his friend Vic in Vancouver, asking for him. On his way back, Michael spotted some jars he brought back, and discovering Olive using ant powered to get rid of her ants. It was then that Michael getting everything set up, pulling a sickie from work. It then got Clive being curious, where he mentioned about chaffinches and his security lights disturbing them, with Roy sneaking into the house. Soon enough, Michael was distracting Brigham and found Kacy, who requested her to get some stuff. Whilst that was happening, Roy was spying in the house and avoiding Clive, who’s taking Michael’s advice (which was quite entertaining). Once Michael got the stuff, he claimed it’s for a project when Kacy asked about it, soon setting up the shed, with Brian’s voice talking about how the Homunculi will grow with each of them having different items. Clive was then spying on Michael, with Bev encouraging him to ignore him, whilst also listening to a podcast that’s very out there. Michael was then doing the chants, only to get a call from Kacy about the pub. But I could only imagine he wasn’t having the best time, as Brigham teasing him, but told a story of his previous workplace, with Kacy telling a story of a murder that happened and not realising it’s his house, soon trying to lighten the mood. Michael was then soon getting drunk and revealed of Clea, and soon revealed the Homunculi to gain one up. I’m just glad Kacy was there to walk him home, where he was explaining what Homunculi are. The episode ended with Michael checking in to see if there coming, with no success. But he then noticed something strange when he touched the glass where one of them was forming, causing the hole neighbourhood to be affected. 

A Woman of Substance:

This week I watched this show which my dad can confirm was really good. Episode 1 saw us meet icon Emma Harte, who was meeting Mr Fairly who talked about her health but brushed it off. But she was secretly worried after wishing an anniversary to Bernie, and after chatting with her colleagues about the papers, Mr Fairly mentioned her children are in on it, with Emma revealing she dedicated her life to revenge. We were then transported to the past, seeing a young Emma bumping to a man called Shane ‘mac’ O’Neill to Fairly hall. It was there that Emma met Edwin (someone who she had feelings for) who was going to see his family for dinner. It was there that we discovered that Emma worked as a maid, working with the family., with his father giving him an update on a trading deal. We also saw someone hiding whilst Edwin finds Emma, who doesn’t care about his fate if his family were to find out about the two. Emma was then playing chess with her mum, who encouraged her to be brave with her dress making skills , using a chess analogy, suggesting to her dad about a doctor. The morning after saw Emma’s brother Frank showing his skills, whilst being cheeky with the bread. I can also only imagine the awkwardness when Emma walked in on Edwin’s brother and her fellow maid Polly, who was convinced she’ll be fine. And it turns out that the woman hiding was Adam’s real wife Adele, giving into temptation, whilst Emma and Shane were talking about Polly. Soon Emma offered to take Polly’s place, where she found out about the situation with his other wife Olivia, Adele’s sister, with Emma calming her down. Adam made out that Adele was worse than she is whilst Adele asked Emma if she gets frightened. She then revealed what really scares her and the things she did, with Emma giving her a pep talk which she liked. Soon she was meeting Edwin, only to be interrupted by her boss to find Frank, encouraging her to go and say goodbye to her mum alone and Shane offering to bring Frank home, and her dad fulfilling their dying wish. Soon enough though, Emma was returning to work, but was still being grilled by her boss, with Olivia coming in to ask Adele about her book and about Sir Vikram Adam. After Adam sent his condolences, he was also quick in asking her about looking after Adele overheard by Polly, followed by Shane comforting her and using a hungry analogy to cheer her up. But this was only interrupted by her boss to take Adele’s tray, reminding Polly about what Adele needs, resulting in a food fight. This then resulted in Polly getting fired and Emma getting overwhelmed, later on confiding in Edwin about what she wants in life, who convinces her they are the same. I’m just glad that Frank was able to find the funny in this horrible situation, and Adele was wondering about the party, with Emma encouraging her to go and edit the dress. Adam was soon tempted to see adele, but also saw Olivia to discover that their feelings for each other are real, but soon controls himself. The party was then taking place with the Fairlys talking with Sir Vikram, trying to set up him with his daughter Priya. Sir Vikram then brought up heheh wife drama, who claims to be unwell, only for her to come down dressed to the nines. After the party, Edwin showed with the egg that he and Emma are the same, wanting to start a love affair between them and not wanting to go back. The present then saw Emma Harte having a panic whilst the past saw Edwin finding a lose button, soon finding rings and consummating their connection. Episode 2 saw Emma in the 70s overhearing a story with her children getting involved, impressed by Mr Jim Fairlys evidence, introducing him to pula and was willing to mention him in a magazine which was part of betrayal. Paula was then speaking to him, which then revealed that they were in a couple when asking why he's really there, but kept pause about wanting to tell her about it. Emma making her trust on Jerry and Paula clear. We were then going back to the past to see Adele catching Emma and Edwin, with Emma getting to work and remembering the ring from her intimate encounter, with her boss being a pain. We also saw Olivia narrowly avoiding Adam whilst Adele gives Emma a hard time, making a suggestion on the dresses, and Adele trying to get Emma to confess her moment with Edwin. The family were then talking about Gerald’s and Edwin’s strengths when it comes to the Mill, with Adam agreeing with Olivia, whilst Gerald was causing more trouble for Emma and Edwin. I’m just glad that Shane defended Emma when her boss gives her a hard time, with Adam confessing his feelings for Olivia, with her feeling guilty of Adele. We then saw Emma ranting to Shane and her checking in on her family, where she plans to make her own funeral, where he encouraged her to take a leap and advising her not to listen to Edwin’s advice. It then came to Emma and Edwin discussing their relationship, and making him see the impact it’ll have if it gets found out. I could also imagine her shock when Emma found Frank with Edwin playing skittles, but soon joined in the fun. Back at the house,  Adele and Olivia were discussing the party, with Adele convincing her to go home, and Olivia getting irritated after a comment on children was made, and getting a sense of her and Adams connection. It then prompted in Olivia coming to Adam to confess her feelings for Adam, putting her needs first, but Adam suggested to take their time after an intimate moment goes wrong, suggesting a date to the theatre. We then saw Emma’s dad coming home to find Edwin, who explains about a new role in the Mill, but the talk of money soon changing his mind about taking it, soon questioning Emma on it he can take care of his family. Emma then found her mums jewellery ready for her funeral, with her dad advising her not to bring it, soon finding a slab stone possibly being made by Shane and reminiscing the memories. Frank was also saying a few words but forgot, with Emma reassuring him their mum knew how much they loved each other. Emma then went back to Fairely hall whilst Edwin spots Emma’s dad and Frank at the mill. Whilst helping her, Olivia was correcting emma language and complimenting her dressmaking skills, encouraging her to do more things. It was then that Emma suggested to edit the uniform and wanting to alter a dress previously warms by Adele soon changing into it, but Adam was less than impressed. And it’s safe to say that Adele seeing the two got her overwhelmed, and Edwin soon came in to apologise to Emma, claiming he was overexcited and wanting to talk about the future, and how the Mill was the only way to help, nearly getting caught by her boss. But things were about to get more complicated when Adele called for Emma to fix her dresses, wanting to change her mind about the dress but also tried to torment her about the red one Olivia wore. It then got Emma and Edwin discussing a plan, but thankfully Olivia and Adam came home early, as they were what he really wants, letting Adele have the dress back. It then came to a point where Adam was accusing Adele of trapping him, and she trying to defuse him into what he really wants, but soon rejected her and moving onto Olivia. Emma was then pushed to breaking point when Adele got her to try on the dress, with Adam needing to speak to Gerald and Edwin, whilst Adele made her get a drink in the dress. Her plea that Adele made her wear it didn’t help, and Edwin failed in standing up to Adam after mocking her, advising him to go to Sir Vikram's place and spend time with Priya, with Emma letting her rage out at the end of the episode. 

The Cage:

This week I watched the start of the new high stakes drama set in Liverpool. Episode 1 saw cashier Leanne and manager Matty getting into their roles at the local Envoy casino, with Leanne clearly having a struggle, trying to cover up her stress to a stranger, whilst Matty was having a rough one, also having his own struggles whilst getting a text from Paul. Paul then asked about his money with a flashback linking to his addiction, telling him to sort his life out, hitting him as punishment. Paul then offered him a lifeline, which he was unsure if linking to his addiction. Elsewhere Leanne was going back into the office, ignoring her colleague and tampering the money. Matty was also came in, claiming he was hit by a door and asking where he stayed. After Leanne got the stuff printed off and Matty was getting the drugs, with Leanne nearly getting caught by him, who’s also tampering the file. But he soon spotted the coffee cup with finding Leanne, soon realising what they’re up to. One of Matty’s friends spotted the two together , getting suspicious, and they were soon discussing how much they took, with Matty revealing his addiction and getting distracted by the slot machine, Leanne begging him to stop, commenting on the breakfast as a start. Elsewhere, Alan was talking to Gary about his appearance in the envoy casino, with Gary finding notes in his fathers office, only to be caught by his mother. We then saw Leanne heading to her nannas house waiting for the milkman, who’s got dementia and reminding her she hasn’t got a cat and also of Sharon’s death (Leanne’s mum and her nannas daughter), with the stress of her and her children taking its toll but had a lovely moment with her. Gary was then reporting back to Alan to resort to a plan, worried about his friend Neil. We then saw Matty sorting the money and seeing his ex to give money to his daughter, which was not enough and then refused to see his daughter in fear of not making her late for school. His ex then begged him to sort himself out, but soon caught him out. Leanne’s son Thomas was then seen attending a drug den, whilst Alan was visiting Neil about the situation, asking about his mum and Alan asking about his fiancée. He was then explaining how it works, with fiancée herring confused, and him getting frustrated. We then saw Leanne’s sister Kel giving her a letter from the hospital, and finding her notes, with Leanne adding to her stash of money with Matty wondering about the deal. Matty was then asking his mum for wrapping paper as a way to hide the drugs, and soon Leanne was having a dream about her health (hence the letters from the hospital), only to find the cat and her ex Danny in, who thought her nan was the milkman. Whilst claiming he was looking for shoes, he soon took her money, with Kel asking how it happened. The drug den was also getting arrested, with Thomas being rescued, only to be caught out. Things weren’t looking good for Matty, as he daughter Emily came in, who wanted help with her school work, and mentioned about the secret Santa present coming early and convinced her he’s fine, only to have it stolen. Enraged, Leanne was then ringing Danny and finding her son Thomas and found Paige, taking the blame for it. Matty was also trying to get hold of Emily, who threw the drugs away, followed by Alan meeting Gary at the base to ask if he “got it”. The episode ended with Leanne and Matty, with Leanne needing the money for a house, and Matty getting her to meet him at the save, with the female friend (a police officer) getting suspicious and Alan meeting with Neil, and Leanne and Matty making a plan. Episode 2 saw another casino night taking place, with Kel giving Leanne an update about Danny and wondering about her taste in men. To cover up her stress. Leanne was trying to make conversation with her colleague about the house going up for auction in 2 weeks, who then gave her advice to go for what she wants. Elsewhere, Matty was still struggling to get hold of Emily, and reminding Leanne to plan the robbery out, with bookkeeper Nancy entering, who also happened to be Gary’s mother. Nancy was thinking that Matty was still sleeping in the office, telling him to stop and also pointed out the drugs some of the females were using. She then soon revealed the takings going up, getting away with it eventually. DC Ning was then asking Meg about why she hasn’t thanked her for an arrest where the boy died, whilst Alan was reporting back to Gary about Neil’s fiancée, reminding him of the boundaries and penalties. We then saw Gary seeing Leanne outside and reporting to him back on the meeting. He then met with Ning, each grilling each other on their “troubles”, with Ning reminding him of the job, whilst Leanne was asking Matty about the plan, only to be interrupted by a phone call about the drugs, and found out the consequences after revealing how Emily took them and their strained relationship. This got Leanne suggesting about going to the school and speaking to her kids. The two were then doing just that, where the teacher mentioned issues which Michael had no idea about, and soon Emily revealed what she did with them, agreeing to show them after school and also about how she has issues with him. The two were then visiting Paul and helping them track Danny, with the neighbour revealing he’s in Benidorm. Leanne’s daughter Ruby then came home to find graffiti on the house, sending it to Thomas and realising how severe it is. But soon Leanne, Matty and Emily were going to the place she threw the drugs with Leanne fetching it after he revealed to be sacred of water, cashing some memories and Emily leaving. The two were then going to Leanne’s house to see the graffiti and aiding Michael, whilst kel mentioned about the house and Leanne’s Nanna asking him about the milk. Whilst that was going on, Thomas was going to Paige’s house, amazed by where she lives, but we’re interrupted by Leanne coming in and Paige’s mum coming in to make her welcome. Trying to be a protective mother under the stress she was in, Leanne convinced him Paige is bad, with Thomas revealing he knew about the letter, offering to show him the potential new house. Meanwhile, Matty was ringing Trace about Emily, who reassured him she’s okay and he also asked if her issues are because of him, with her working out he’s at Otterspool, offering her services. It then got Matty recalling a memory and the flashbacks he has (hence why he mentioned he’s scared of water), with Trace reassuring him that Emily loved him. Leanne and Thomas were then seeing the new flat, which wasn’t as glamorous as he wanted, but Leanne made it clear he has no choice, with Thomas hitting back about being in care. If then got Leanne reminding him of how this better than nothing, using the saying on the wall to win him over and to at least think about it, which is also worked. Alan was then confiding in his partner Taylor about everything, and she then convinced him to stop trusting him, with Alan revealing he’ll have to punish Neil. Meanwhile, Ning managed to locate Matty, revealing her job description whilst Gary gave more orders to Alan. And Ning was then interrogating Matty about stealing from the casino, and offered him a job to spy on Gary, who thought he was just a taxi driver. Ning then went onto explaining the consequences and threatened to arrest him, so he then reluctantly decided to take on the job. In the back of the van, Gary getting Alan to punish Neil, who soon gave him, with Gary coming in to finish the job, and Alan stopping him from further consequences. But pretty soon Leanne was having a panic, with Gary turning on the charm and asking her out, who accepted and mentioned the new house, with Gary offering to help out. The episode ended with Matty setting up his job whilst Leanne was riding high, little did she know about the danger she was about to be in. 

Saturday Night Live UK:

This week I watched another instalment of the entertainment show, with Aimee Lou Wood as the host for this one and music from Meek. The cold open featured Charles and Camilla, and if I were to hear “Dangerous woman” by 2 guys 1 girl, I would definitely buy the album. We also had three parodies, in the form of Dr Who, Super Mario and “Famous Five” called “Famouz 5”. We also saw a unique trip to lost property, and the Weekend Update featured professional lip reader for Charles and Camillas state visit (which Anya couldn’t contain herself), Nigel Farage, a pigeon nest, and Larry Dean showing his range when it came to how to tell who people will vote for, and I think it was the first one where Anya and Paddy nearly broke character. We also saw “Made In Chelsea” parody called “Posh G**s”, and we also saw some actors working on a British Pork commercial, where there was nearly a break in character and had the actual pork advert itself. 

Paddington Films & Soundtrack: 

This week in preparation for me seeing the show next week, and after watching the first film, I watched Paddington 2 and Paddington In Peru starring the marmalade loving bear. I also listened to the first part of the soundtrack for the show, and a combination of the films and soundtrack had made me more excited and ready for seeing the show itself. I’ll be doing a special blog based on this adorable bear very soon, with lessons I’ve taken from the film and musical, but all I can say is the films and soundtrack for me on an emotional rollercoaster and ready for next week. 

Personal:

Exercise:

This week I slacked a little bit on the exercises, only doing 2 gym sessions instead of 3, but I did work really hard on these sessions. And on the bike, the timings this week included 13mins 38secs when I got to 10k on the Monday, and then 13mins 13secs when I got to 10k on Saturday. So I felt like I did well to get them in, along with plenty of yoga to keep my mind at rest.

Survey:

This week I did less surveys than I normally would. This was mainly due to being busy, and having other things on my mind. But the important part was I got them done, so at least it’s better than nothing. 

Darts:

This week I managed to squeeze in my two dart games at the end of the week. The first game I managed to finish on double 5 with 6 missed match darts, and the second game I finished on double 4 after 13 missed match darts and two bust scores, so it was quite a difference between the two. But after not being able to do them separately due to the decorator sorting out the kitchen, I’m glad I managed to get them in after talking a breather. And sometimes that’s all you need, and I managed to get some brilliant scores as seen below!

Premier League of Darts:

This week the tournament was placed in the wonderful city of Aberdeen. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t really concentrating as much due to having other tasks I needed to do before I go to watch a show next week, but it was safe to say that there were some tense moments. These included Michael Van Gerwan and Luke Humpheries, which determined who would be through to play offs week. But it was Luke Littler who was successful, and with him definitely qualifying for play offs week, I think at this point he’ll be unstoppable.

Britain's Got Talent:

This week I watched the second live show of the iconic talent show, with a guest performance from the Great Ormond Street Hospital choir and Sydney Christmas. I did have two predictions on who would get to the final, but after watching the show I think my mind was swayed after seeing the performances. Once again I got one of my predictions right, and I can see why the second act from the public vote got through. I also loved the performance from the Great Ormond Hospital Choir and Sydney Christmas, and their plans to help those affected by cancer I think was an inspiring thing to do, and having Sydney join them was also a really special addition. It’s safe to say that everyone had upped their game, and I can’t wait to see what the next three weeks have to offer! 

Gogglebox:

This week once again I watched another episode of the show where I watch people watch TV. They also had more adventures during the week. Tristan was asking his brothers about compliments after a comment from his girlfriend got him wondering, and David was talking to Shirley about his breakfast. We also got to see Giles offering to do Mary’s hair after a resemblance to someone from a play, which quite entertaining. Jenny was asking Lee about her car going to a “Russian station”, and Ellie and Izzi were talking about who they would load want as a neighbour between their mum and auntie Margaret. Finally, Baasit thanking Raza for babysitting his children, and Pete was talking to Sophie about his and Jimmy's lad and dad day. They also watched more of the biggest moments on the box set. “I’m A Celebrity South Africa” saw Jimmy being honest about why he left the show, but it all got heated, and “How To Clean Up For Cash” saw Dan help his fiancée Natasha, which didn’t go down well. They also watched “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire”, seeing contestant Roman getting off to shaky start using a lifeline early, but did well, to the point using just one other lifeline to win the full million prize. “Made In Chelsea” saw play out Philip in a pickle romantically speaking, with Sam causing drama, and “Widow’s Bay” seeing a man called Shep Clark coming in, with Wyck reporting to local mayor Tom, who got caught in the crossfire. Finally “The Neighbourhood” saw a challenge to get to know each other, and “Virgin Island” seeing a phase on “shame” making the Goggleboxers cringed out, but felt sad for Joy after revealing a deeper understanding as to why she finds intimacy hard. 

Challenges I Faced & How I Overcame Them:

Some of the challenges faced this week included nearly losing my purse, and colleague of mine having a health scare which got me panicked. What I just remember though was that I need to support them through this journey, and whilst I can’t let it take over my life, I needed them to know I’d be there for them. I also had the gruelling task of having to delete a lot of stuff from my phone to make room, which took ages. But deep down I knew that some of the stuff I didn’t need anymore, and that if I needed to record then again (like my ident for auditions or a different version of a scene), then I know it’ll be better than the original. 

What Have I Learnt This Week? In the words of Aunt Lucy, if we’re kind and polite, the world will be right. And that is what this little bear has shown us and we need more of, especially in today’s society. 

See you soon for another blog. Until next time…

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)