Coronation Street

One thing I think is a bit sad is that we've come to expect big, dramatic episodes like this now, meaning they're not quite so special and don't quite stand out in the same way as they used to. Nevertheless, a good episode.

Another observation as well. Has anyone else noticed when Jonathan Harvey is writing, he often re-uses lines from Gimme Gimme Gimme (which of course he also wrote)? Friday's line by Claire about 'chewing corn for gummy parrots' was a Linda La Hughes line. I also remember Blanche using 'The things you see when you haven't got a gun' which was also from GGG. Not that I'm complaining - just fun to spot them!

Mmmm - didn't even make the connection!

Liam also used a Gimme Gimme line "spontaneously human combusted" which was a Linda La Hughes line. I'm glad I'm not the only one who noticed!

A very good episode last night. They really pushed the boat out, well done to all concerned. Good writing, directing and acting.

That's what this soap should be like.

Yes I agree. Reminded me of the time Tracy went missing after the lorry crash when she was a baby and the end credits scrolled over Deirdre walking down the back lane clutching Tracy's teddy bear. It would have been far better if we had some decent credits last night, or at least no announcer over them!

Isn't Malcolm Hebden allowed time off? I know what you're saying though Blanche fulfilled his role last night I think.

Of course the fire should have been next door, and I don't mean the Platts

I'm waiting for Sean to say: "He was so far back in the closet, he was in Narnia!!"

Speaking of which, Wikipedia (!) claims that Antony Cotton writes some of his own dialogue. This reminded me that last year he used this line in Coro: "Straight? So is spaghetti until you boil it". He said this line in the sitcom Having It Off , co-written and co-starring the man himself!

A big mistake in tonights first episode ... cellphones are not allowed in or around the ICU ward in hospitals.

Not according to a recent change in policy from some care trusts. Others apply the ban where they have exclusivity contracts with by-bed telecoms providers.

A ban on mobile use around ICU beds may still apply, but there were extraordinary circumstances at play and she wasn't on a ventilator or other critical equipment.

Engage yourself in the magic of the drama and all those little things will seem less important.

From the end of the first episode, it looks like they havn't changed the script and Freddie is missing.

Also, I agree that ITV should ditch the generic credits, maybe just have them as they are now, over a program-specific background, like Emmerdale has, and not use an announcer, we can find out what's on next for ourselves, you know.

I think he is going to be missing for only a short while though, rather than a major storyline lasting many months

I'm glad I've been proved wrong and Freddie's been found, and Claire's alright (judging by her shouting ability!)