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Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 02:10 PM

Tonight at 8pm on BBC 1. Just seen an advert for it and so excited! Apparently there are 10 episodes in the autumn term, concluding on 25 October.

Here's a clip from the website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00x9mr3

Posted by: Cremey 23rd August 2012, 02:18 PM

Actually ridiculously excited for this. Only got into it last series but it's so addictive!

Posted by: Regina 23rd August 2012, 02:26 PM

I gave up on the last season but I adore Daniela Denby-Ashe so will get back into it <3

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 02:49 PM

Series 1-5 will forever remain the best moments of Waterloo Road. The recent series have quite a few really great moments, but also quite a few average episodes and storylines.

Posted by: Regina 23rd August 2012, 03:01 PM

It well uphill when Rachel arrived and downhill when she left

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 03:09 PM

Rachel will always be the best headteacher!

Posted by: T Boy 23rd August 2012, 04:22 PM

Might watch this after seeing what others think. The last block of ten episodes were so farcical withthe gang crap and the silly move to Scotland. The only gem was Grantly's very emotional storyline.

Posted by: Jark 23rd August 2012, 04:45 PM

Seasons 1-4 were genuinely brilliant. Since then it's been shit.

Posted by: Doug 23rd August 2012, 04:53 PM

I'm one of the few that actually think that the last series was the best. maybe that's because I paid more attention to it than the other series, but I still enjoyed it a lot. not sure what the new setting will be like though, I didn't like the idea of the school moving to scotland and taking the kids with them because it doesn't make much sense. I'm still looking forward to it though!

Posted by: aprilj 23rd August 2012, 05:01 PM

For me, the show peaked at Series 3 with arrival and early stages of Rachel's headship. They made a crap exit for her and then was succeeded by the awful Karen Fisher. There's been a bit of a lull in quality since then. I'm worried this is going to be even worse after the ridiculous and unrealistic move to Scotland.

Surely they could have just said they moved the school to a new building in Rochdale rather than making up this ridiculous storyline.

Excited to see Laurie Brett on here (formally Jane in EastEnders)!

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 05:05 PM

The death scenes back then were some of the best scenes in the history of TV - Lorna's, Izzie's, Maxine's. And the characters involved in their storylines were fantastic too, especially Steph's incredible bond with Maxine - I bet Steph's tears at her death scene were real!



The audio isn't too good, it sounds like someone speaking into a microphone to close to their mouth, but it was the best quality clip I could find showing just that scene. This scene gives me major goosebumps! And when Steph is talking to Rachel on the stairs!

Posted by: Liаm 23rd August 2012, 05:07 PM

I also gave up last series, I watched up until the Dale Sken Crew crap started taking off and then just went off it. I do miss it though and will be interested to see how the move works, because it was a totally ridiculous storyline. Perhaps moving to Scotland in real life was the only option but it's not like anyone would notice that the set is actually in Scotland, I mean they could have least just moved to an adjacent town or something not all the way up in Scotland :/

Posted by: Jark 23rd August 2012, 05:10 PM

I don't know why but in season 5 they started focusing on random students who came in for one episode, had an 'issue' storyline (bullying/mental health/drugs/gay etc) then were never seen again. What a bloody stupid method of storytelling. Nobody cares about one episode guest characters. Also they shifted the focus from the teachers and older students to the younger students who were all bratty and uninteresting. Tom hooking up with Rose was the final straw for me I think. As if.

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 05:11 PM

The end to series 7 was the worst thing I've ever scene. What on EARTH were they thinking sending a lorry hurtling towards pretty much the whole cast of Waterloo Road! Far to over the top and completely unnecessary.

Posted by: cookie_monster 23rd August 2012, 05:24 PM

I LOVED the first two series with Jack and Andrew and Kim! Rachel was great too, I'm glad she was in it for a while. Series 4 and 5 were also very good. The latter with the Max/Kim/Rachel/Chris storylines were so gripping.

It went very downhill when Karen took over. And more one-off character stories happened. And I wasn't a great fan of the Jess/Bex/Karen storyline.

And since Michael took over, the flowing storylines have improved IMO, but I would like less of the one-off characters.

But I am looking forward to the new series and the new cast as well!

Posted by: Liаm 23rd August 2012, 05:25 PM

Oh god the whole Bex/Jess thing was absolutely awful, so glad them and Karen are long gone!

Posted by: Regina 23rd August 2012, 05:40 PM

What actually happened last series for them to move to Scotland?

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 05:55 PM

Some blonde bitch who used to be a student at Michael's old school asked Michael to set up a school with her in Scotland. I think that sounds about right!

Posted by: Regina 23rd August 2012, 06:01 PM

So nothing dramatic or major they coulda gone up the road then.

Posted by: T Boy 23rd August 2012, 06:07 PM

Also the school in Rochdale was closed despite the fact that standards there were better than they had been in earlier series where they escaped this fate.

Last series the teachers were dull as. The only ones with personality were underused. I miss the strive you could feel in Jack and Rachel to improve the school for the kids. Andrew and Kims will they/won't they was actually interesting to watch. Poor Lorna and her fate. Grantly and Steph bitching about everyone. Even later characters like Jasmine, Matt and Ruby were all interesting. I hope some of the newies can help restore this.

But the focus should shift a little more to the teachers. And I don't want any stupid students of the week with an issue. Storylines need to run through the whole series not just a single episode.

Posted by: C.W 23rd August 2012, 06:13 PM

That's one of the reasons that's put me off the show. It just seems incredibly ridiculous to resolve everything for the student in that time scale and then move on again, I don't necessarily have a problem with how unrealistic it is, but that just takes the biscuit. It doesn't help that the kids are really unlikeable for the most part (like you said)

I think I may watch this though for the hell of it, Finn bloody Sharkey and Josh aren't still in it are they?

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 06:23 PM

According to Wikipedia, Josh is but Finn isn't.

Characters that have left:
Nicki Boston (but is due to return some point in this series)
Matt Wilding
Denzil Kelly
Lauren Andrews
Emily James
Finn Sharkey
Kyle Stack
Rhona and Shona Mansfield
Trudi and Naseem Siddiqui
Zack Diamond
Eugene Garvey

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 07:04 PM

Denzil is dead? Poor Rose, two kids dead and one in prison for murder!

Posted by: liamk97 23rd August 2012, 08:06 PM

Well the sure like knife crime on Waterloo Road! I can remember cutting myself on a kitchen knife when I was younger and fainted, so I always buckle at the knees when I see someone threaten someone with a knife on TV! Tonight's episode was quite good, it may have had a single episode storyline but it looks like their could be an interesting storyline with Laurie Brett's character's alcohol addiction and her son having to look after her.

Posted by: T Boy 30th August 2012, 08:29 PM

2 episodes in and this is killing the last series. So far no random one week characters. The new teachers seem good as do some of the new pupils. Even Sian who was boring and lifeless in the last series seems a lot better. Though that could be because her crap husband is gone.

Posted by: Liаm 30th August 2012, 08:55 PM

I agree, I stopped halfway through series 7 but these two episodes have been very good. Tom and Grantly are great as always, and I'm loving Christine and Connor, Imogen is so lovely too. The excorsism thing with Lula was a bit stupid though, if that had to have her as a troubled pupil to be such a disruptive (for want of a better word) pupil then she could have been abused or something surely?

Posted by: liamk97 31st August 2012, 10:02 AM

I'm worried about how Waterloo Road will continue once the students from the old school in England leave (surely it's "Scout's", Tariq's and Phoenix's last year). I don't want to end up having an all-Scottish cast as Waterloo Road is an English show and for seven series has been an English-based program. The two episodes so far have been good, but there needs to be an episode which is really exciting, emotional or whatnot. Just something which has some fantastic acting in and shows that this series p*sses over the last two.

Posted by: Suedehead2 31st August 2012, 10:49 AM

No random one week characters? What was Lula then? Or the two runaways last week?

Posted by: liamk97 31st August 2012, 11:01 AM

I think Lula was on the "next time", but the two runaways seem to be one-weekers, although the girl might return if she's pregnant.

Posted by: Liаm 31st August 2012, 12:34 PM

Lauren (the pregnant girl) did say she was staying at Waterloo Road so I assume that she'll be back, it would be a bit stupid to just leave her as an off screen character really.

Posted by: cookie_monster 31st August 2012, 12:53 PM

I thought the girl was in the episode yesterday? Albeit as an extra - though maybe it was someone else. I hate how much they use the one-week characters though.

Posted by: T Boy 31st August 2012, 01:25 PM

Lula was actually in it last week. She had one line I think. The pregnant runaway was also in last night's episode. She didn't say anything but others talked about her so I think we'll be seeing her story run through the series albeit quietly to begin with. The other runaway was only needed for that one episode and he may come back towards the end anyway for the birth of his child.

Posted by: Suedehead2 31st August 2012, 09:55 PM

I never watch the "next time" bits. I'd rather wait until "next time" and see them in context.

Posted by: liamk97 6th September 2012, 08:28 PM

The best episode of the series so far, me thinks. I think Laurie Brett's character is great, I don't at all think it's just Jane out of Eastenders.

Posted by: liamk97 30th September 2012, 09:57 AM

Apparently, these characters leaving:

Josh Stevenson
Billy Byrne
Daniel Chalk
Jodie "Scout" Allen
Sian Diamond
Tariq Siddiqui
Madi Diamond
Jade Fleming

Josh is leaving on episode 7. There's quite a few new characters due to turn up some point, like the Barry family.

Posted by: Chris_2k12 30th September 2012, 03:42 PM

Janeece has gone now too so that's just Tom and Grantly left from the beginning.

Posted by: T Boy 30th September 2012, 04:25 PM

The series seems to be getting back on track I think. I got series 5 on DVD the other day and that still seems a lot better than the current series but we're past the awfulness of last series I think.

Posted by: colourfulstate 11th October 2012, 04:56 PM

Waterloo road all the way, i forget what school was like, now that im all grown up it all seems so unreal at times

Posted by: liamk97 11th October 2012, 07:09 PM

Tommy Knight from Sarah Jane Smith Adventures playing a troublemaker?

Posted by: liamk97 19th October 2012, 03:47 PM

Apparently, Daniel Chalk (Mark Benton) is going to adopt Kevin Skelton (Tommy Lawrence King)

Posted by: T Boy 19th October 2012, 03:52 PM

With one episode to go, I think this series has been a VAST improvement on the last. Only really one 'pupil of the week' has crept in (the girl with the creepy father from last week) and all others introduced have had more episodes to come. Though the pregnant girl seems to be a crap actress with not much else going on.

Posted by: liamk97 19th October 2012, 09:26 PM

I've enjoyed Christine's storyline with her alcohol problem, but aside from that, the series hasn't been brilliant. I feel the writers are running out of ideas - the majority of series 6+ doesn't have a patch on even the less exciting episodes of series 1-5. I wouldn't mind if the programme finished after this series (which is 50 episodes long! ).

Posted by: liamk97 25th October 2012, 09:32 PM

Again, I loved Christine's scenes! Especially the part where she went to that meeting and finally admitted she was an alcoholic (it was a very simple line, but very effective I think). The actress, Laurie Brett, has been better in Waterloo Road these past 10 episodes than the whole of the time she was in Eastenders!

Waterloo Road should be back Spring 2013.

Posted by: Suedehead2 27th October 2012, 01:45 PM

Dear Ofsted,

I think you should be concerned about Waterloo Road school. The last day of term has regularly been marked by a fire or an explosion. The school's recent move from Rochdale to Glasgow does not seem to have made any difference. Last term again ended with a fire and one girl is in hospital with serious burn injuries. Please note that your enquiries cannot start with the headteacher as he has been arrested. Again. However, an urgent inspection is clearly required.

Posted by: liamk97 27th October 2012, 11:27 PM

With exception of the one in series 3, all the fires have been crap.

Posted by: liamk97 27th December 2012, 10:30 PM

Next Thursday at 8pm!

Posted by: liamk97 4th January 2013, 02:55 PM

Looks like there could be some interesting storylines involving the Barry family. Loved Grantly's "now that's what I call punishment" one-liner!

I've just realised that Daniela Denby-Ashe (who plays Lorraine Donnagan) also played the suppy teacher in Series 4 Episode 16!

Posted by: liamk97 6th January 2013, 12:54 AM

Now there's no source to back this up, but Wikipedia says that Bolton Smilie is returning on Episode 16!

Posted by: Jamesy 7th January 2013, 02:00 PM

I've recently got into Waterloo Road, I think it's brilliant. A lot of people say the show is a shadow of its former self, which surely means the first few series were fantastic?

Posted by: liamk97 7th January 2013, 02:38 PM

The first 5 series really were fantastic, I've been watching series 6 and 7 recently and they were actually quite good too. Series 8 has been quite a good drama, but it's not really Waterloo Road any more.

Posted by: aprilj 7th January 2013, 02:59 PM

Series rank time...

Series 3>>>>>>Series 2>Series 1>>>>Series 4>>>>>>>>>Series 5>>>>>>>>>>>>Series 8 (so far)>>Series 6>>>>>>>>Series 7

Posted by: liamk97 7th January 2013, 03:08 PM

The chemistry between the characters in Series 5 was the best!

Posted by: Jamesy 8th January 2013, 02:26 PM

I'm seriously gonna have to buy the DVD's... they aren't available in one big boxset are they?

Posted by: liamk97 10th January 2013, 09:01 PM

No, the best you can get is each individual series as one boxset.

-

Wow, you know they are struggling for storylines when its the case of the lost lesson plans! I also don't get why the episodes recently are so quiet, everyone just seems to whisper and there are too big gaps in between dialogue.

Posted by: T Boy 11th January 2013, 04:33 PM

At least the kid with the massive hair is gone. His only facial expression was blank. That Miss Boston is an utterly terrible character too. No teacher would still have a job if the manhandled kids the way she does. A friend at my last school got in trouble for pulling a boy off another boy in a fight by his jumper. So her grabbing hold of them really makes light of something serious like that.

Posted by: liamk97 11th January 2013, 04:46 PM

Saying "at school, I control you" or whatever she said is a bit out of character for a teacher to say. Especially with that sly look she had on her face.

Posted by: liamk97 11th January 2013, 04:46 PM

.

Posted by: Suedehead2 11th January 2013, 11:38 PM

That was rather desparate. Don't teachers do their lesson plans on a laptop? Couldn't she just print another copy?

Posted by: JosephSimpson 12th January 2013, 09:55 PM

I actually love Nicki, as a student, I know that she's the type of teacher I'd actually really like to have. Someone who's firm, but fair and approachable at the same time.

Posted by: T Boy 13th January 2013, 12:06 AM

But in real life she'd be sacked for her tactics. Though she isn't the only teacher on Waterloo Road to have ever manhandled a student. I usually take everything on this show with a pinch of salt but given what I've seen in the workplace, this inaccuracy really bothers me.

Posted by: JosephSimpson 13th January 2013, 12:27 PM

Oh yeah, she would, but then Waterloo Road isn't REALLY like any other school.

Posted by: T Boy 13th January 2013, 08:48 PM

I know that and as I said, mist things don't bother me but that issue does just for personal reasons.

Posted by: JosephSimpson 13th January 2013, 09:08 PM

Yeah, fair enough, and you're definitely right that she wouldn't get away with it in a real school.

Posted by: Jark 13th January 2013, 10:43 PM

It used to be. Series one was bloody excellent and very believable. It's a real shame the way it's become such shit.

Posted by: liamk97 14th January 2013, 02:52 PM

Agreed, even with the school on the very edge of being shut down and all the bad behaviour and attitude from the kids (which now-a-days would be incredibly exaggerated and basically shit), it was still very well acted and believable. Same goes to series 2 and 3.

Posted by: liamk97 21st January 2013, 12:53 PM

Some news about Bolton Smilie's return http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/spoilers/a451757/s08e16-bolton-smilie-returns-to-waterloo-road.html

Posted by: liamk97 24th January 2013, 08:59 PM

Waterloo Road is getting seriously good: these past two episodes have been excellent!

Posted by: liamk97 31st January 2013, 04:16 PM

New "bad boy" character in the episodes 21-30 of Waterloo Road:

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/news/a455321/waterloo-road-role-for-eastenders-shameless-star-jody-latham.html

Posted by: liamk97 7th February 2013, 08:59 PM

Well a disappointment would be an understatement.

Posted by: StAndrews1875 7th February 2013, 09:19 PM

What is this becoming? Job Seekers for Ex-soap actors? Surely there are plenty of unknown talented actors and actress who would love a chance?

The show is a parody. Stereotypical Scousers being chavs - check. School in Scotland with pupils and staff with Yorkshire, Scot, Manc and Scouse accents - you wouldn't go to school/work if your job was relocating 300 miles - you'd transfer to a local school!

Mad. Lazy writing, shock tactics with the hostage and the one teacher hiding his identity. This is NOT DRAMA!

Posted by: T Boy 9th February 2013, 09:54 AM

They really have lost the plot. I urge any viewers that haven't to go back and start watching from series 1. Now that was good drama.

Posted by: StAndrews1875 9th February 2013, 11:08 AM

Its as if nothing can be serious and hard hitting anymore. You would think the BBC would strive for authentic drama but no...sensationalised crap.

This should face the axe. Invest in something else.

Posted by: Liаm 9th February 2013, 11:14 AM

I agree it's really going downhill, obviously just watching a normal school day isn't that entertaining but it's just way too OTT to have a hostage situation/fire/theft/assault/rape/death EVERY week. I know it's merely a TV show, but if any real school had all this happen they'd have been shut down years ago! It might be 'just a TV show' as I said, but it still has to be believable, which it really isn't at the end of the day.

Posted by: liamk97 9th February 2013, 01:01 PM

And then after the hostage situation was over, everyone was fine! You had teachers going back into the staff room talking about everyday life!

Posted by: T Boy 9th February 2013, 02:00 PM

Problem is everyday school life can be entertaining. In the first series, the relationships between the characters were interesting and strong. The school had a goal-to improve itself amd renew its reputation. All stories about death, pregnancy, bullying, etc were spread over the entire series not forgotten about the next week.

One of the worst offences is this current pregnant girl. She had one episode, no personality and has just been in my mind as 'token pregnant girl' since then. She'll have a big birth episode next week and then she'll drift back to the background but this time without a gimmick.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 13th February 2013, 10:17 PM

Waterloo Road's fantastic. I've loved it right since I first watched Series 1 back in 2006.

But, the real days of Waterloo Road were from the moment Eva Pope stepped in the door, right to the moment she left with Adam. She truly is, in my opinion, what the show is all about.

Series 7 and 8 - well, they're just repeating storylines from the early days of the show (Series 1-5), and it's always a predictable solution or outcome to each episode. Its saving grace, though, is Jaye Jacobs. Stunning woman and fabulous actress. Will be a shame to see her go.

Posted by: Common Sense 21st February 2013, 06:15 PM

I've never missed an episode and still love it. A big money-spinner for the BBC worldwide apparently so maybe that's why it keeps getting re-commissioned.

Posted by: Regina 21st February 2013, 08:57 PM

Waterloo Road went to SHIT the moment that everyone favourite former prozzie Rachel left.

Posted by: liamk97 21st February 2013, 09:06 PM

Really enjoyed tonight's episode. I don't think transgender is an issue Waterloo Road have tackled before, so it's nice to see them trying something new instead of churning out the same old storylines. I thought they were going to do another Francesca/Jonah student-teacher relationship from series 6 with Sian and Barry, but it seems to be more of a stalker issue looking at the next episode spoilers at the end of tonight's episode.

I hope Lisa Riley didn't have to put all the weight back on to get into the role of Scout's mum! Ooh and apparently Sian is leaving next episode, with Daniel Chalk and Scout leaving episode 20.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st February 2013, 09:12 PM

You SAID IT.

Tonight's episode was good.

Have known about Sian leaving for a while now, but don't want her to go. Her leaving story surrounds her slapping Barry and then "reconsidering her future at the school".

Posted by: liamk97 21st February 2013, 09:33 PM

They were very discreet about next week's episode, so I guess something spectacular will happen.

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 21st February 2013, 09:52 PM

I feel bad for Sian. She's my second favourite after no-nonsense Nicki! Actually I thought they'd go down the Kim/Lewis Seddon route of him attempting to rape her in Series 2.

Posted by: T Boy 21st February 2013, 10:55 PM

Switched off after 15 minutes tonight. It felt like a chore to watch and has done for some time now.

Posted by: liamk97 21st February 2013, 11:05 PM

*Series 1 Thinking about it, Sian and Kim do seem quite similar in some respects. I guess they could have done, but I'm not sure they would do that storyline justice.

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 22nd February 2013, 12:45 PM

Ooops. Series 1 and 2 are just merged into one in my head for some reason (probably because after Series 2 there were a lot of changes). I didn't like Kim but like Sian. I think it's they way they've built Sian to be the fair, nice and moral teacher [ignoring her affair]. But it will be sad to see her go...it seems she was the only one who could get through to Barry.

Posted by: liamk97 22nd February 2013, 07:09 PM

Well I guess Kim 'stole' a child so it kind of makes Sian's affair a normal thing!

I can see why you'd mistake Series 1 and 2 - Series 2 did follow on from 1, mainly revolving around the Tom-Lorna-Izzie storyline. Plus both series were very short in comparison to today.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 22nd February 2013, 09:56 PM

I think that's why they decided to make Series 3 onwards 20 episodes, because Series 1 and 2 seemed like a conjoined 20 part series in itself.

Posted by: liamk97 22nd February 2013, 11:41 PM

Yeah, that and due to the show becoming increasingly popular which meant they could extend the budget a bit more.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 22nd February 2013, 11:43 PM

Well, I'm hoping we get more episodes commissioned because all we have thus far is a 30 episode series 8 and a 20 episode series 9... Let's hope we get another 20 episodes or so.

Posted by: connor111 23rd February 2013, 12:10 AM

All the previous episdoes are being repeated on CBS Drama from April 10.

Posted by: liamk97 23rd February 2013, 12:21 AM

In order from Series 1? Ooh, that will be interesting. Anyone who hasn't watched all the episodes, I seriously recommend you do so!

Posted by: connor111 23rd February 2013, 01:11 AM

I read about it on Digital Spy forums but the article they've now posted seems to say it's just Season 1 at the moment but I guess they'll probably aquire the rights to the later seasons. I only started watching from the 4th series so I'll be watching these as I've heard there really good. From the one's I've seen, it seemed to lose it's way towards the end of the 6th series.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 11:37 AM

Series 6 is probably the weakest series of the whole show (including Series 7A). Karen's era just didn't add anything to the show at all. Eva Pope all the way

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 23rd February 2013, 12:15 PM

Wasn't this series confirmed for 50 episodes? I guess the realised it would be a bad decision and have added it to the next series!

Will be good to see the golden years of the earlier series again, thanks for the heads up!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 12:59 PM

Wikipedia have it down in their episode guide as a 30-part eighth series, and a 50-part series would muck up the DVD releases. There are only four seasons, unless they showed 20 episode at once, and called it the Winter Term.

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 23rd February 2013, 01:07 PM

http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2011/08_august/23/waterloo.shtml

This was where I saw it. Maybe they meant a 30 episode series followed by a 20 episode series?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 01:13 PM

Yeah, that's what's happening as far as we all know.

I just hope that by making Series 9 reduced in length, it doesn't mean the show's drawing to a close.

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 23rd February 2013, 01:18 PM

If they just keep re-using storylines, I don't mind if it ends. Waterloo Road is a shadow of its former self and although it's been better in Series 8B, I can't see it improving majorly back to the golden days!

Series 3>Series 1+2>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Series 5>Series 4>>>>>Series 8B>>>>>>>>>>>Series 7B+C>Series 8A>>Series 7A>>>>>>>>Series 6

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 01:35 PM

Yes! The Bolton/gun story was TOO 4.1 for me, and Jade's baby/adoption story was TOO 4.18/Chlo for me...

And I would agree completely with your ordering of good>bad for the series'.

Posted by: liamk97 23rd February 2013, 01:57 PM

I've seen that too. It does seem that they've said they are filming 50 episodes, not filming 50 episodes for a particular series, so yeah, probably 30 episodes this series and a 20 episode Series 9.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 02:42 PM

Still waiting for them to update the official site with the 8.18 and 8.19 episode titles.

Posted by: APRIL minaJ 23rd February 2013, 02:58 PM

I don't understand why they just suddenly started adding episode titles this sub-series. It's a bit weird...

Posted by: Common Sense 23rd February 2013, 03:09 PM

I read somewhere that this series was 20 episodes in length, 10 before Christmas and 10 after. So only two left, then series 9 starts in the Autumn.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 23rd February 2013, 03:18 PM

They did them for 8.1 - 8.10 too.



There's thirty episodes in Series 8, because the BBC have already spoken of the Summer Term, and new cast members, etc joining for the last 10 episodes of series 8 (8.21 - 8.30).

Posted by: Good Grief 28th February 2013, 08:40 PM

I'm not an active viewer - what's been going on tonight? It's a great show though!

Posted by: liamk97 28th February 2013, 09:05 PM

I loved tonight's episode! The little "ooh" she blurted out after slapping him made it much more realistic. As for next week, I don't care much for the wedding but the Scout's mum will she/will she not die story seems interesting.

Apparently tonight's episode was recorded a year ago, therefore before Lisa Riley joined Strictly, so I'm thrilled she didn't have to put all that wait back on!

Posted by: Good Grief 28th February 2013, 09:18 PM

I can't wait for the wedding! It looks so idealistic and beautiful.

Posted by: APRIL J 28th February 2013, 09:40 PM

Sian I didn't want her to go, even though I knew it would happen. I loved the slap and the oooh after. I felt they could have done so much more between her and Barry though. Bit of an anti-climax really.

Posted by: liamk97 28th February 2013, 09:58 PM

I'm still not sure what's meant to be happening with Barry - is he a stalker, a pervert, does he have something wrong with him? And I don't think they've explained his fascination with Sian in particular.

Posted by: Common Sense 1st March 2013, 12:01 AM

Last one next week and my TV Guide just says "back later in the year"

Posted by: liamk97 1st March 2013, 08:39 PM

I'm guessing end of May/June - Series 8 Episode 10 was 25 October and Episode 11 was 3 January.

Posted by: APRIL J 1st March 2013, 09:05 PM

Going by past airdates, they usually have a 2 month gap between a run of 10 episodes. I'm guessing the next run will begin around 9th May...

Posted by: Calum Sandé 3rd March 2013, 04:29 PM

Well, it's usually Spring and Autumn airings, but the Autumn airings are starting to go from October > September > August, so maybe a mid-summer airing this time for Series 8C?

And what can I say about Sian's last episode? That was simply BEAUTIFUL. She went out on a HIGH.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 6th March 2013, 11:20 PM

Sorry to double post, but: spoiler!

Zoe Lucker has finished filming for the character Carol Barry. Her final episodes will air between 8.21 and 8.30

Posted by: liamk97 7th March 2013, 09:07 PM

Another good episode tonight. Scout's acting was brilliant and she had some great scenes with her mum, as did Kevin and Daniel. I'll be looking forward to see further development in the actress who plays Scout's acting skills in Corrie. The wedding was pointless and can't say this possible relationship between Lorraine and Nikki is one I'm looking forward to!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 09:12 PM

The wedding really was pointless, to be honest - it was too quick, and didn't seem as well acted as Chlo and Donte's wedding, Adam and Rachel's wedding and Jonah and Cesca's all were.

Overall though, the episode was fabulous. The scenes in the hospital with Scout and her mum were absolutely wonderful, and the music accompanying it was just great. Really well directed episode. Sad to hear about Grantly, too.

Roll on 8C, though!

Posted by: APRIL J 7th March 2013, 09:25 PM

Lorraine and Nikki? I did not see that one coming!

Posted by: liamk97 7th March 2013, 09:40 PM

I really don't know what to think! Erm....hmm.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 09:41 PM

I didn't either TBH. It was quite an awkward scene.

Posted by: liamk97 7th March 2013, 09:43 PM

I looked like Nikki was about to go in for a kiss! I guess it was good acting because it was meant to be awkward and they sure did make it just that!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 09:46 PM

The Wiki page for Series 8 has just been updated, and it reads the following:

It has later transpired that Michael Byrne (Alec Newman) will be leaving the show and Christine Mulgrew (Laurie Brett) will take over from him as headteacher.

To be honest, if that's true. G'WON LAURIE BRETT

Posted by: liamk97 7th March 2013, 09:49 PM

Not feeling to good about that, don't get me wrong she acts brilliantly as a teacher, but as a head? Nah. I want someone new, preferably someone as near to Rachel Mason as possible.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 09:52 PM

Or get Rachel herself back. She's the only fantastic head we've had.

Posted by: liamk97 7th March 2013, 09:54 PM

Jack Rimmer was fantastic also. But yeah, nothing compares to the big R.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 09:57 PM

Jack annoyed me so much (especially in his final episodes, after Izzie's death).

3.6 - 5.20, honestly the best episodes that show ever had

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th March 2013, 11:35 PM

Aaand, it's no longer rumour. Fact! http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/news/a464073/waterloo-road-christine-mulgrew-to-be-head-teacher.html

Posted by: T Boy 8th March 2013, 03:50 PM

That would be a really stupid move. Honestly, this show has gone to the dogs. Can't they even try to be a little bit realistic?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 8th March 2013, 04:38 PM

Starting to question whether Lorraine will stay or not, given Michael's departure (soon).

Posted by: APRIL J 8th March 2013, 04:42 PM

Certainly shocked by that news. It will be interesting to see what leads up to that happening. Personally, I think Christine is the best they've got atm and I guess they're just capitalising on using their strongest characters. Does this mean Michael or leaving, or maybe demoted?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 8th March 2013, 04:45 PM

Well, they're keeping their cards close to their chest at the moment in regards to how Christine gains the headship, for the moment.

And the official FB page have confirmed that the show will return before the summer.

Posted by: Common Sense 8th March 2013, 05:58 PM

What a daft move. I just can't see Christine as a Head at all. They should have brought someone new in.

I'll miss Chalkey, good character. Suppose he'll pop in now and then.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 8th March 2013, 08:13 PM

They've not said whether she's the Head permanently, or temporarily. But I couldn't see them putting her name as Head on the sign if it wasn't permanent.

Posted by: APRIL J 8th March 2013, 08:56 PM

Maybe it'll be something like the Series 2 storyline where Jack was forced to resign and so Andrew became the new Head, only for Jack to be reinstated not long after. With that, everything was officially changed to Andrew in terms of signs etc iirc.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 8th March 2013, 09:31 PM

Well I'm hoping Michael isn't reinstated.

Laurie Brett's their best actor at the moment, and putting her in the most powerful role would just be amazing!

Posted by: T Boy 8th March 2013, 10:01 PM

But totally ludicrous given the character's STILL VERY RECENT history. No way would she even be in the candidate pool.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 8th March 2013, 10:19 PM

If only Sian were still there. She'd be the best Head.

Posted by: StAndrews1875 11th March 2013, 06:05 PM

Guess not. Remember - it's not about drama and realism....it's all let's have ratings. It's what killing TV today.

If they think this will win the flock back.....think again - even a programme aimed at old grannies "Emmerdale" gets more viewers.

Posted by: connor111 11th March 2013, 08:13 PM

Grantly is leaving.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th March 2013, 08:18 PM

Very sad to hear. Hope he gets a proper, emotional send off.

Posted by: Jamesy 11th March 2013, 08:20 PM

^^ Is that confirmed anywhere? I haven't seen any news about that!

Posted by: APRIL J 11th March 2013, 08:20 PM

Possibly death? Anyway that would be a shame since he's one of the two remaining original characters. Tom remains the only person to fly the flag of the initial series! [Maybe bring Steph Haydock back to represent the old series! )

Posted by: liamk97 11th March 2013, 08:23 PM

Isn't Tom meant to die at the end of Series 8 though? Not too surprised at a possible death for Grantly with this kidney failure issue. It's going to be a shame to see them go, going to mean the longest running characters started in Series 7! I second bringing Steph back! And Rachel whilst you're at it.

Posted by: connor111 11th March 2013, 08:24 PM

On the actor's twitter page.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th March 2013, 08:27 PM

Rachel needs to come back

Don't bring Steph back, though. Whilst she was the comedy value of the show, she's terrible

Posted by: liamk97 11th March 2013, 08:28 PM

Terrible teacher, fantastic actress!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th March 2013, 08:29 PM

Oh yeah, Denise Welch is fantastic, but Steph got a bit irritating (especially with her bust-ups between Max and Jo in Series 5).

Posted by: liamk97 12th March 2013, 05:40 PM

You should watch (if you haven't already) some of Steph's scenes with Jack Rimmer from series 1-3! Her scenes with Grantly were always excellent too, especially when she returned for a couple of episodes in Series 6.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2013, 05:42 PM

She is amazing in the early Series 1-4 episodes, but when Liz Berrington joined the show, that's when Steph became annoying.

The funniest memory of Steph (for me) is when Rachel's away for the week and Chris is standing in as head. Camilla, the head of another school, comes to speak about a sports partnership and in the staff room Steph talks about how they use bricks as shot puts, etc. That's just hilarious!

Posted by: liamk97 12th March 2013, 05:56 PM

I seem to recall that episode! Oh and when Maxine died! She did some brilliant acting in that scene!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2013, 05:57 PM

Yeah, that was really emotional. Still cry when I watch that.

Posted by: liamk97 12th March 2013, 06:03 PM

Always puts a lump in my throat. As does Lorna and Izzy's deaths.

Posted by: T Boy 12th March 2013, 06:05 PM

AHEM. Steph was NEVER irritating at any point. Such a classic character.

This show is officially sunk. I count 1 Rochdale teacher to make it past one series in Scotland now.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2013, 06:08 PM

Izzy was my favourite from Series 1-2. Her death is one of the best moments in the early days of the show. They need to bring back moments like that, the fire, the gun, etc.

Posted by: liamk97 12th March 2013, 06:22 PM

If you were unaware of her leaving Waterloo Road, I would expect at the time her death would have been a surprise. Only at the point she starts running towards Jack suggests she would die.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2013, 06:24 PM

TBH, I watched it (for the first time) back when it first aired - so I wasn't really clued up.

Having the DVDs is a great way to just skip to most-loved episodes.

How about we all list our favourite episode from each series?

Posted by: liamk97 12th March 2013, 06:40 PM

That's easier said than done! I'll have a go:

Series 1: Episode 7, Kim's sexual assault
Series 2: Episode 10, Lorna's death; Episode 12, Izzy's death
Series 3: Episode 20, fire; Episode 11, prison visit
Series 4: Episode 8, Maxine's death; Episode 1, Earl brings a gun to school; Episode 18, Rwanda is taken from Kim by Home Office officials
Series 5: Episode 9, Lindsay is sent down in court; Episode 1, Waterloo Road vs. John Fosters; Episode 17, Ross kisses Jo
Series 6: Episode 9 and 10, Steph's return and Fleur is put into a home
Series 7: Episdoe 25, Fleur's death; Episode 6, Sam's death

Then many of the individual episodes between series 1-5 were fantastic too, even ones with one-off characters.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2013, 06:52 PM

Mine'd probably be:

Series 1 - Episode 8 (Lorna's suicide, etc)
Series 2 - Episode 12 (Izzie's death, drugs-burger-van, etc)
Series 3 - Episode 6 (does it need explaining? Eva Pope's début ), Episode 20 (the fire, Rachel's past exposed, etc)
Series 4 - Episode 8 (Maxine's death), Episode 18 (Chlo gives birth, Grace is taken from Kim)
Series 5 - Episode 9 (JLC's () trial, sent down), Episode 20 (Eva Pope's last episode )
Series 6 - Episode 20 (it was a pretty poor series overall, to be honest! - but Lucien Laviscount all throughout )
Series 7 - Episode 25 (Fleur's death), Episode 30 (the closure of Waterloo Road, lorry crash, etc)

Posted by: connor111 10th April 2013, 12:45 PM

Tom, Michael and Lorraine are all leaving! Oh dear, can't see it lasting much longer!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 10th April 2013, 02:05 PM

TBH, it was inevitable that the latter was going to leave - she can manage the school from afar.

Sad to hear about Tom leaving, though. I don't think it means the show's coming to an end - it just means more Scottish actors are going to get work, because the English can't live up here forever.

Posted by: liamk97 10th April 2013, 06:59 PM

Which is exactly why they just finish the show - moving up to Scotland was always a stupid idea because it's also metaphorically moved on from what the show used to be.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th April 2013, 03:59 PM

Caitlin Gillespie (Christina from River City) is joining the cast of Waterloo Road.

PLUS...

The show itself returns on 2 May 2013.

Posted by: Neon Tiger Boy 11th April 2013, 05:04 PM

Bin this show now. Not only will no original characters be left (Many shows have survived this) but not one character (I think) has managed to stay on for more than one series after the Scotland move. Utterly ridiculous joke of a programme now.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th April 2013, 05:31 PM

We're not finished Series 8 yet (the first Scottish set series), but there are lots of them staying on for Series 9, though.

Posted by: Common Sense 11th April 2013, 05:34 PM

Any date for it's return yet? I still enjoy the series and wouldn't miss it.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th April 2013, 05:37 PM

Top of the page.

Posted by: Neon Tiger Boy 11th April 2013, 05:41 PM

I meant that moved from Rochdale. I count 2 characters (0 teachers) who have managed to remain in the series past one Scotland series. It's not the show it was and no one can defend the quality of it in comparison to the first few series. The show is now a flop.

Posted by: liamk97 11th April 2013, 05:45 PM

It's a shame as it was once one of the best dramas on TV. Sigh, every good thing must come to an end. I just hope Series 9 isn't 30 episodes.

Posted by: Common Sense 11th April 2013, 05:51 PM

*Reminds self to read further backwards*

Posted by: Calum Sandé 11th April 2013, 05:56 PM

Eva Pope's days. <3

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st April 2013, 03:29 PM

Series 8, Spring Term
Available 3 June 2013

Posted by: Calum Sandé 25th April 2013, 04:42 PM

Titles of the first two episodes of 8C:

8.21 - Nowhere to Run
8.22 - Princess of Spices

Also, there's a new boy, and a promo picture has been released:
http://www.waterlooroad.co.uk/2013/04/22/8-21-nowhere-to-run/

Posted by: liamk97 2nd May 2013, 08:28 PM

Blimey, that was such a chore to watch tonight!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd May 2013, 08:30 PM

I'm not sure I liked that, everybody seemed to be acting like cunts. :/

The sexual tension between Nikki and Lorraine is hilarious, though!

Posted by: Griff 2nd May 2013, 09:02 PM

I only watched the first half hour, what happened to the kid from Londonderry? I felt sorry for him.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd May 2013, 09:07 PM

He handed himself in for selling drugs to schoolchildren.

Posted by: liamk97 3rd May 2013, 05:19 PM

What I don't get is why Kevin is still at Waterloo Road when Daniel Chalk isn't.

Posted by: Griff 3rd May 2013, 05:22 PM

Cheers. Does his mother still work at the school?

(I should watch the rest of it but I can't be arsed )

Posted by: Calum Sandé 3rd May 2013, 05:27 PM

Obviously Tommy Knight's contract didn't expire at the same time as Mark Benton's, so they've just had him move into the school house. At the same time, why would he move, yet again, when he's nearly completed his time at school (I think he'll leave early Series 9, tbh)?



Yep, I think she does - although I don't know whether he'll be let back. I doubt it, though.

Posted by: Griff 16th May 2013, 07:49 PM

Tonight's episode is very good! I can't help adoring that ditzy lady who ended up in that laptop scenario! SO CUTE.

Posted by: C◢lum Fox-Sandé 16th May 2013, 08:04 PM

That was absolutely fantastic! Although I can't stand Steve-O, I'm loving the dark direction that the show's going in with his presence. That scene where he tried to see if Kacey had any balls was utterly horrific, though. Really frightening. Really annoyed that Barry didn't do anything.

Next week looks BRILLIANT, though!

Posted by: Griff 16th May 2013, 08:07 PM

THIS. It's a shame that he felt that he was too "cool" for that. Or he might have been scared. Who knows.

Posted by: liamk97 16th May 2013, 08:11 PM

I was quite impressed with tonight's episode too: things are getting more exciting now rather than having stupid one-off storylines and tones of quiet, boring scenes. Next week's episode looks like it will be at least equally as good, and it's apparently Tom's last episode.

Also, is it just me, or do the characters really get to grips with the kissing scenes more than before?

Seems to me that Steve-O is the one person Barry is afraid of and doesn't want to let down this bad boy persona otherwise Steve-O will get at him for it. I don't think he necessarily thought it wouldn't be cool to stick up for his sister, it's just he wouldn't dare stick up to Steve-O (I hate calling him this, can I just call him "Steve"?).

It was quite a shocking scene and, like Calum said, was frightening too. But that's what Waterloo Road used to be about, be entertaining (not a fun sort of entertaining, not in this case at least), be compelling and shocking, so it's kind of nice to see that coming back.

Posted by: C◢lum Fox-Sandé 16th May 2013, 08:13 PM

That kiss scene between Dynasty and Kevin! *.* Such a good match!

Posted by: liamk97 16th May 2013, 08:19 PM

She is incredibly hot - the close-ups in the chess scene. *.*

Posted by: C◢lum Fox-Sandé 16th May 2013, 08:25 PM

I was paying more attention to Kevin in the chess scene, TBH.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 23rd May 2013, 08:02 PM

Another fantastic episode. Really cannot stand Steve-O. The Dynasty/Kevin relationship is TOO cute to handle. Such a perfect match. (not being pervy, but Kevin with those red/white boxers at the end ). The story with Lorraine and Sonya's mother was really sad (), and I'm glad Sonya and Lorraine made it up in the end. </3

It's on Wednesday next week, though, just as a reminder.

Posted by: liamk97 23rd May 2013, 08:14 PM

Yeah, loved the scenes with Lorraine, Sonya and their mother. Anyone know the title of the Kate Bush-esque track used during the Lorraine/mother scene towards the end?

Posted by: Dandy* 23rd May 2013, 08:19 PM

This Woman's Work...

Posted by: liamk97 23rd May 2013, 08:27 PM

Cheers, I've just checked out The Whole Story but it wasn't on there as it was released a few years after the compilation. I've heard this several times on depressing charity adverts but haven't ever found out what it was called.

Need to get my hands on an unofficial and recent-ish greatest hits from Kate Bush!

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 25th May 2013, 12:15 PM

Promo for Love Hurts (8.25):

Posted by: Jamesy 27th May 2013, 09:58 PM

I think the actors who play them both are together in real life, which may explain it!

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 29th May 2013, 08:00 PM

This is such an emotional run of episodes. I feel so sorry for both Kevin and Dynasty. They were honestly the best coupling the show has had since Chlo/Donte, but Steve-O. Urgh, I honestly want to kill him. Dynasty and Kevin have become my favourite characters of the show because of these past few episodes.

Really like Esther, even if she seems a bit devious. And Lula is hilarious to watch, as ever. Next week’s episode looks fantastic, too.

Posted by: Common Sense 29th May 2013, 09:48 PM

Steve-O had better get his comeuppance soon.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 29th May 2013, 09:51 PM

I hope the show goes back to its gritty and dangerous roots and has somebody kill him when his time comes. It'd be the only acceptable justice for such a devious and disgusting character.

Posted by: Common Sense 30th May 2013, 10:11 AM

As I was telling my old mum, there are lads like him in the real world unfortunately.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 30th May 2013, 01:19 PM

Revenge (8.26)



PLUS, both Michael and Lorraine leave in 8.28. Read the synopsis here: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/spoilers/a485795/s08e28-michael-and-lorraine-decide-to-leave-waterloo-road.html

Posted by: グリフ 6th June 2013, 07:11 PM

Steveo makes me feel sick. What a vile character.

Anyway, I'm really enjoying this episode so far! I'm really interested to see how the Lula scenario works out as well.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 6th June 2013, 08:01 PM

That was another fantastic episode, even if the ending was too predictable. At least Steve-O got his just-deserves though.

The scene with Dynasty confiding in Christine was absolutely beautiful. And the final moments when Kevin and Dynasty rekindled their relationship was stunning. *.*

Next week looks great, too! Fab run of episodes so far.

Posted by: Griff 13th June 2013, 07:21 PM

This is genuinely the most exciting show I'm watching right now. It's so captivating!

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 13th June 2013, 07:56 PM

That was a brilliant episode, really glad Ndale's left now, because he was such an irritating character. Sonya's starting to get on my nerves too.

Lula is SO hilarious, though! Honestly, she steals the show every episode with her lines, and the way she says things! Esther's such a great character too, I have really warmed to her. Nikki was so annoying as Head, so I'm glad she didn't stay on.

Really looking forward to the episodes to come, judging by the synopsis' on Digital Spy - they sound fantastic, especially episode 30.

Posted by: Griff 13th June 2013, 08:19 PM

Yeah, I agree. She's the heart and soul of the show. I'm looking forward to the next few episodes that involve her!

Posted by: liamk97 13th June 2013, 08:33 PM

A bit "meh" in comparison to the previous few episodes, although I did think Audrey was rather excellent in the second half of the episode. Next week should pick up a bit more though if Michael and Lorraine are due to leave.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 13th June 2013, 08:50 PM

George Sampson returns as Kyle Stack in 8.30, and threatens to jump from the roof of the school, but Tom attempts to save him and the episode ends in tragedy.

Posted by: liamk97 13th June 2013, 09:19 PM

So basically, Tom falls off and dies. HOW PREDICTABLE.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 13th June 2013, 09:39 PM

Basically.

Posted by: Common Sense 14th June 2013, 03:27 PM

It's just-desserts actually.

Posted by: Common Sense 14th June 2013, 03:29 PM

I'm fed up of this animal rights crap. Animals have to be experimented on. Better than humans. Hope they get really punished for their stupidity and what they're going to do at the research place.

Posted by: Liаm 14th June 2013, 03:52 PM

I love Lula too, she's brilliant! So much so I've begun hating Lorraine for calling for her expulsion Not that Lorraine was particularly likeable beforehand.

And Tom dying is so predictable, I expect Grantly will too now he won't have a donor...

Posted by: liamk97 14th June 2013, 03:55 PM

Exactly what I was thinking. Too predictable. Well, I guess it won't be too bad if it's done spectacularly with great acting and writing...oh, wait!

Well, to be honest Grantly is one of the best characters if not the best that is currently in the show, but like I say, the writers will bring that down.

Posted by: C▲lum Sandé 14th June 2013, 04:33 PM

I don't understand how they only seem to be picking up on Grantly's donor every couple of episodes, while in other episodes forgetting about it altogether. Maggie didn't seem phased in any way, shape or form in last night's episode - not even when it was suggested that helping out more would keep her mind off things.

And also, Grantly refuses to accept Tom's kidney, it's not a matter of Tom dying and as a result Grantly can't get the kidney (because organs can still be donated after death, can't they?).

Plus there's a new Deputy coming into the show in episode 30, Simon Lowsley - new management team: Head = Christine Mulgrew, Deputy = Simon Lowsley.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th June 2013, 12:12 PM

Picture from tonight's episode:

Posted by: liamk97 20th June 2013, 07:11 PM

No-one at my school gets so involved in English debates as they do in Waterloo Road!

Posted by: Liаm 20th June 2013, 07:19 PM

It's probably because it's the only subject they can take given the critical teacher shortage

Posted by: liamk97 20th June 2013, 07:55 PM

Julian Noble Show? Scotland's alternative to Jeremy Kyle?

Posted by: Liаm 20th June 2013, 08:01 PM

SO glad to see the back of Lorraine, absolutely cannot abide her. Looking forward to seeing how the school moves forward with Christine at the helm though!

Posted by: Griff 20th June 2013, 08:08 PM

This is genuinely my favourite show that I'm watching, I love it! That was a great episode - I'm so worried for Dynasty and Kevin though, I hope that her bitch of a mother doesn't get her own way.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th June 2013, 10:44 PM

This episode dragged out for FAR TOO LONG, even if it was rather emotional at parts.

Lorraine showed tonight just how much of a true bitch she really is, so I'm glad she's gone. Michael's exit was a little underwhelming too. The relationship between himself and Christine all ended a bit too quickly. I'm sure he hadn't just fallen out of love with her so suddenly, even if there was a bit of tension last week.

Lula's campaign was absolutely fantastic, once again she stole the show tonight with her humour and just the way she acts. SO SAD that Esther is gone, though. </3 She was amazing, hope she returns, but I doubt it.

Next week's looks fab, and from the synopsis it sounds like it's going to be fab. Dynasty and Kevin are just fantastic, two of the best characters the show has. And Christine as head, BRING IT ON! *.*

Posted by: liamk97 20th June 2013, 11:48 PM

Do you spend your mornings watching Jeremy Kyle then? Next week is going to be so bad - it will be so fake and such a joke! It will probably be funny but for all the wrong reasons!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st June 2013, 12:28 AM

Indeed I do not. Not all the time, just sometimes. Just most mornings.

I do feel as if it's a bit of a joke for the show, but nonetheless, more screen time for Abby Mavers.

Posted by: liamk97 21st June 2013, 11:39 AM

I'm hoping they go a bit Jerry Springer and have a massive fight. Would liven things up a bit.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st June 2013, 11:41 AM

Oh yeah, more Jerry Springer would be good. Admittedly I watch that rather a lot too.

Pics from the episode:

Posted by: liamk97 21st June 2013, 01:33 PM

It looks so bad already, just from two photos!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st June 2013, 01:38 PM

I hope there's not too many scenes from the show in the episode, but apparently one of the scenes is that Kevin's real mum is in the audience, and he is so shocked to see her. That should be interesting.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th June 2013, 05:12 PM

This week's episode is on tonight at 8pm, not tomorrow!

Can't believe next week's episode is the last in the series already. Hopefully it's around August time that Series 9 starts, and we don't have to wait too long.

Posted by: :basil: 26th June 2013, 05:23 PM

Oh wow! I'm obviously going to watch then, so excited!

Posted by: liamk97 26th June 2013, 07:39 PM

My mum tells me that Kevin's mum played Debbie Bates (Nigel's wife) in Eastenders during the 90s. She's certainly let herself go a bit!

The Julian Noble show was embarrassing to watch as expected, although I quite liked it at the end when Christine turned up and Carol slapped Kevin's mum!

Posted by: :basil: 26th June 2013, 07:58 PM

Imogen's mum is FIT.

Posted by: :basil: 26th June 2013, 08:00 PM

And as much as I should hate that new teacher, I can't help finding him HILARIOUS.

at his relationship with his wife as well!

Posted by: liamk97 26th June 2013, 08:01 PM

So do I! His witty comments are so funny!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th June 2013, 08:05 PM

At the beginning of the episode, Nikki was pissing me off so much, trying to tell Christine that the job wasn't for her, etc. When she said she would be handing in her resignation, I was overjoyed, but then at the end of the episode when she said she would be staying I was rather irked. She needs to leave, for good, and never come back, like, ever.
Christine didn't really look comfortable in the role of Head to begin with, but I was so happy to see her in such a powerful position at the school, as opposed to being just that recovering alcoholic of an English teacher. Absolutely loved when she burst into The Julian Noble Show (he was a bit of a prick, and was annoying me every time I saw him talking to Kevin and Carol, and his assistant), and told all the pupils to get out, and made her speech. That was just incredible! Christine's probably my favourite character on the show since the show moved to Scotland. Was killing myself with laughter, though, when Audrey got annoyed by what they were all saying in the audience, and got out her seat and shouted at them, but then run back to her seat when the security guard came back, that was HILARIOUS! The whole thing was rather embarrassing to watch, but at the same time it was absolutely hilarious, and it was a funny direction to take the show in. The inclusion of Kevin's mum, though, was absolutely terrible. She was such a bitch, and by the end I was glad Carol punched her like she did. Great scene. Glad Carol made it up with Kevin in the end, though, because they should be getting on, and not fighting. The scene at their home was really nice to watch, a family at peace. It'll be great seeing Barry sticking up for Kevin now, and not threatening him.
Dynasty and Kevin continue to be two of my favourite characters, and the best couple that the show has produced. They are just made for each other, and are amazing to watch every single week.
I did think that was the end for Grantly, though. The whole episode was kind of leading up to that, what with Rhiannon and Harley looking through his things, Maggie getting upset, and Tom's lovely speech to him in the hospital, talking about the past. Kind of underwhelming that by the end he started to breathe by himself, but I suppose the longer he's there, the better, because it'll be so sad when we eventually do lose Grantly.
Loved the end of the episode where Christine got back to the office and Sonya told her about Jack's mum on the phone and she was SO direct with her, proving just how good she can be and IS as Head. Her and Sonya are going to make a brilliant team, more so than Michael and Sonya. I actually feel glad that both Michael and Lorraine are gone now. The show has a better atmosphere in general now when watching.

And finally... HELLO SIMON LOWSLEY. Quirky, capable and HOT. Bring it on! *.*

Posted by: :basil: 26th June 2013, 08:12 PM

Christine's superiority complex pissed me off quite a bit. I mean, I know she wanted to create a sense of power, but she went the wrong way about it.

Posted by: Liаm 26th June 2013, 08:57 PM

Meh didn't really enjoy tonight's episode. It was bit far fetched, but I did like Carol actually warming to Kevin. Aside from that meh, but yes I agree we have some eye candy with Simon now That's one thing to look forward to.

Posted by: liamk97 26th June 2013, 09:15 PM

I really do question the taste of some Buzzjackers. Seems anyone under 30 (unless you're Regina, when it's anyone of 40! ) and they are deemed attractive!

Posted by: :basil: 26th June 2013, 09:23 PM

I know! He seems so cringey as well.

"Talk about awkward turtle!"

Posted by: Liаm 26th June 2013, 09:35 PM

To be fair we take what we can get in Waterloo Road, we only have Kevin!

I have a weakness for 'smart' men though

Posted by: Regina 26th June 2013, 09:36 PM

18-50

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th June 2013, 09:40 PM

Connor has his moments too.

Posted by: Suedehead2 26th June 2013, 10:24 PM

The Angus Deayton character is hilariously awful

The way Christine spoke to Jack's mum was the highlight of the episode. As for the Julian Noble show, that was rather far-fetched even for Waterloo Road. Any show that pulled that stunt with Kevin's mum and his background would be in serious trouble with Ofcom even if it wasn't broadcast. No broadcaster (not even Channel 5) would even think of doing that for more than a few seconds

Posted by: liamk97 26th June 2013, 10:51 PM

That was indeed a highlight for me! Christine has been my favourite new character since series 8 began, but that made me like her that little bit more! Even though introducing Kevin's mum was a completely unrealistic thing to do, it did at least distract us from the embarrassment of the acting and the atmosphere of the Julian Noble Show - something tells me the cast members sat down, watched an episode of Jeremy Kylie and took notes! And it was worth it for that slap from Carol!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th June 2013, 10:59 PM

Am I the only person, too, that thought that would NOT at all be what Kevin's mum would look like? How could SHE produce such a beautiful offspring like Kevin?

On an unrelated note, I've ordered the Series 8 Spring Term DVD, so I look forward to revisiting those episodes, especially the devastating 8.19 where Sian departed the show, that was truly emotional.

Posted by: Suedehead2 27th June 2013, 12:18 AM

Because the father was gorgeous?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 29th June 2013, 10:57 PM

New DVD set to be released on 16 September 2013, including 6 of the best Waterloo Road episodes:

1) 3.11 ... Waterloo Road's students take a school trip to prison
2) 4.08 ... Pupil Maxine discovers the truth about her lover, Earl
3) 4.11 ... Career's Day brings eye-catching glamour to school along with a very arresting copper
4) 5.01 ... Waterloo Road joins forces with John Fosters school for the welcome - and riot - of a lifetime
5) 5.19 ... While one teacher, Ruby, falls into a drug-induced breakdown, the others undertake a 'Calendar Girls' style calendar shoot
6) 7.07 ... Young Sambuca faces her final hours surrounded by friends and family

Posted by: liamk97 30th June 2013, 08:14 PM

Big yes to these, but where is Lorna's death episode and Izzy's death episode?

Posted by: #GentlemanCalum 30th June 2013, 08:33 PM

IKR, they've missed so many good episodes, so I hope this is only 'volume 1', and that there are more to follow.

Namely: 2.10 (Lorna's death), 2.12 (Izzy's death), 3.20 (the fire), 5.20 (Rachel leaves Waterloo Road) - all such fab episodes, yet SNUBBED.

Posted by: Suedehead2 30th June 2013, 08:36 PM

Maybe they didn't want to draw too much attention to the unusually high death rate

Posted by: Calum Sandé 1st July 2013, 12:25 PM

Confirmed cast for series 9:

Phillip Martin Brown | Grantly Budgen
Kane Tomlinson-Weaver | Harley Taylor
Melanie Hill | Maggie Budgen
Heather Peace | Nikki Boston
Georgie Glen | Audrey McFall
Laurie Brett | Christine Mulgrew
Shane O'Meara | Connor Mulgrew
Rebecca Craven | Rhiannon Salt
Kirstie Steele | Imogen Stewart
Marlene Madenge | Lula Tsibi
Tommy Knight | Kevin Chalk
Victoria Bush | Sonya Donnegan
Carl Au | Barry Barry
Abby Mavers | Dynasty Barry
Brogan Ellis | Kacey Barry
Angus Deayton | George Windsor
Richard Mylan | Simon Lowsley
Elizabeth Tan | Princess Windsor
Mark Beswick | Darren Hughes
Caitlin Gillespie | Lisa Brown
Joe Slater | Lenny Brown

Only 20 episodes commissioned, too, which makes me think that this might be the last series, or the show starting to draw to a close, with series 10 possibly being 10 episodes only? Series 7 was originally only meant to be 10 episodes, and the finish of the show, before it relocated to Scotland, and was commissioned for 50 more episodes, so anything could happen really.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th July 2013, 08:10 PM

Well that was a FANTASTIC finale. Makes me really sad that series 8 is done and dusted now, it really has been such a brilliant start to the new show in Scotland, and I hope series 9 is just as brilliant! It probably had some of the most finely told stories in the show's history (apart from the Rachel Mason era), in regards to Kacey's identity issues, Sian's exit and the consequences, Christine's drinking problem, the Barry family's troubles, Connor's fire-starting, Connor and Imogen's wedding, Michael and Lorraine leaving, Grantly's kidney, and of course Tom dying. Such a well produced series, and I can't wait to get the final part of series 8 on DVD.

In this episode, though, Christine was just as fantastic as last week. She's such a powerful headteacher, even though she is so vulnerable at points (especially in the scene where she commemorated Tom in the assembly hall). Found myself tearing up so much to the scene where they all stood in the assembly hall, and Christine told them to remember Waterloo Road as the school that Tom put the children first in, it was honestly so sad to see the biggest character leave.
The death scene was perfectly executed, all of the directing and clever camera angles, the slow-motion and the reaction from everybody after it had happened. Christine is such a fantastic character, and the way she stayed with him. Grantly and Maggie, I feel so sorry for them both, so this must be how Grantly's bowing out (the lack of a kidney now). It was so nice to see Grantly back, too. The scene between him and Tom where Tom told him to get a grip was so powerful, and it was so sad. I honestly dread the episode where Grantly leaves, because there'll be no more originals left. </3
Simon's a really great deputy head, I can see myself really warming to him as deputy if he stays for the full duration of series 9, and he is some SERIOUS eye candy (although I don't like the way the scene with Barry and Kyle fighting in the IT suite was handled). Kyle's return was all a bit cringe on the whole, TBH. The scenes at the beginning with Rhiannon were dreadful, proving she is such a terrible actress. And the scene where he spoke about the book in the English classroom was just "eek!". Connor's another terrible actor, too. They need to get shot of him as soon as possible, so that the young cast isn't given such a bad name.
Kevin and Dynasty continue to be the best couple the show has ever had, and they are two of the best characters the show has at the moment. When Kevin pledged himself to get the massage from Dynasty, that was hilarious! True love, aww. <3 Lula was absolutely hilarious, too, though. She steals parts of the show every time with her witty one-liners, and just her mannerisms in general. Love it, hope she stays long into the show's future. Sad that this was Liberty's last episode, though. She is a fantastic character (even if she became a bit of an extra towards the end of series 8). Really loved her.

Roll on series 9, now!

Posted by: Hitstastic 4th July 2013, 08:31 PM

I actually watched Waterloo Road for the first time tonight in an absolute age (and I was addicted to this program when it first started in 2006 ). I really wasn't expecting Tom to fall to his death though. Maybe I should've seen it coming after the whole promising to donate his kidney to Grantly in this episode (remember, I've not watched this for a long time).

It's interesting to note that Waterloo Road won its first ever National Television Award in 2011. I'd sort of got bored of the show by that point, think it was the 2009 or 2010 series when my interest in the show started to wane. Maybe after tonight I might well watch the 9th series although the first episode has to draw me in, otherwise I'll lose interest all over again.

Ha, I'm so fickle!!!

Posted by: Connor 4th July 2013, 08:34 PM

I was a little disappointed with Tom's exit but I suppose it bought a full circle of how he brought the headteacher down from the roof in the first ever episode.

Anyway, not sure if I will watch Series 9 which will most likely be the last. I thought Series 8 was quite poor overall.

Posted by: Griff Newman 4th July 2013, 08:53 PM

LOVED this series so much and I began watching when the new term started back in April or May. I think that the cringiest bit was Rhiannon singing - what the fuck was that about?!

Posted by: liamk97 5th July 2013, 09:09 PM

I definitely think that would be have been best as 7x11 was when the show began to really go downhill.


Hmm, that's quite a good way of thinking about it!

Pretty underwhelming end episode but I guess that reflects the whole series. I've never seen someone die before but I think my reaction would show a bit more expression than the majority of the pupils and staff watching! Apart from Christine though, although she's always been the best thing about Waterloo Road during Series 8. I particularly liked the vodka and speech scenes with her at the end.

It would be nice if there was a funeral for Tom in series 9 and Chlo made a one-off return, but then again, they've done such things with Bolton and Josh this series which were disappointing to say the least.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 5th July 2013, 09:12 PM

I doubt it'll even cross their mind to do something like that. They'll probably only do something like that for Grantly (except there's no characters to bring back for his exit, unless they've filmed an episode with Denise Welch which she's kept very hush-hush).

Posted by: Suedehead2 5th July 2013, 10:21 PM

Well, rather a lot of the characters who were close to Tom ended up dead so they won't be back for his funeral

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th July 2013, 05:12 PM

Posted by: liamk97 26th July 2013, 05:56 PM

I *won't* be buying that, or any of the Series 8 DVDs. I think I'll only go up to the first 10 episodes of Series 7, before the show nose dived!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th July 2013, 06:22 PM

Get them all, beyond 7.10, even if just for Jaye Jacobs.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 9th August 2013, 02:23 PM

Series 9 apparently begins on 22 August, according to a post on Official Waterloo Road's Facebook page, and they have also teased that one of the new pupils is "dramatic, outrageous and self-centred, and ready to cause chaos".

Posted by: T Boy 9th August 2013, 05:02 PM

It's hard to get excited by news like that when that's pretty much the go to description of every new student at the school. Either that or they have a BIG SECRET.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 19th August 2013, 06:58 PM

Confirmed to be starting on 5 September, two weeks after originally was planned, running until 7 November.



As the new run of episodes begins, the school is still in mourning for Tom - especially Kacey Barry (Brogan Ellis), who is struggling to cope without her teacher and mentor.

New faces at Waterloo Road will include teenage twins Lenny and Lisa Brown (Joe Slater and Caitlin Gillespie) and recently-qualified science teacher Sue Spark (Vanessa Hehir).

Lenny and Lisa immediately feature in a storyline with Audrey McFall (Georgie Glen) as she suspects they are being neglected at home, while Sue finds the reality of teaching much harder than she expected.

Elsewhere, fans will also be interested to see how Christine Mulgrew (Laurie Brett) is settling into her new role as head teacher, while deputy head Simon Lowsley (Richard Mylan) hides a secret which could affect his career and unsettle the staff.

Posted by: liamk97 20th August 2013, 05:41 PM

I can't imagine the show is going to get better, so I just hope it can be similar to series 8 at least, which did have the occasional fantastic episode here and there. I wonder if they'll totally forget about Tom after episode 1 - like they did with Denzil.

I'm altering the title of the thread for the new series, much to the request of Calum!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th August 2013, 11:26 PM

Thanks Liam!

New character, Lenny Brown:



New pupil, Lisa Brown:

Posted by: Calum Sandé 22nd August 2013, 01:16 PM

9.01 is titled Beyond the Call of Duty



With the school still in mourning for Tom Clarkson at the start of the new term, Audrey is out of her depth when she suspects new pupils, Lenny and Lisa, are being neglected; newly qualified teacher, Sue Spark, feels the pressure on her first day; and deputy head, Simon, harbours a secret from his colleagues.

Enrolled into Waterloo Road by their older brother and guardian, Larry, scruffy twins, Lenny and Lisa Brown make quite an impression on their first day – for all the wrong reasons.

Visibly dishevelled, Lenny and Lisa’s appearance worries Audrey who barely recognises the bright, happy children she once taught at Havelock High.

When Christine dismisses Audrey’s concerns about the Brown twins, she takes matters into her own hands, visiting their home. Once there, a horrified Audrey discovers Larry is growing and dealing drugs.

Less-than-impressed, Larry lashes out at Audrey who quickly escapes to Waterloo Road – but before she can report the incident, Larry arrives to remove the twins.

Later, at the school’s football match, Audrey’s private concerns become public – with far-reaching consequences for the Browns. And, unbeknown to Audrey, her actions make her the target of a hate campaign by Lisa.

Elsewhere, the school mourns the passing of Tom – especially a troubled Kacey Barry who struggles to cope without her teacher and mentor, much to the concern of Nikki.

There’s a new face in school as recently qualified science teacher, Sue, finds the reality of teaching harder than she thought; and new deputy head, Simon, harbours a secret which could affect his career and unsettle the Waterloo Road staffroom.

Posted by: T Boy 22nd August 2013, 01:21 PM

How amazing Audrey cam find the time to wander over to a students house in the middle of the school day.....

Posted by: Suedehead2 22nd August 2013, 01:58 PM

We already know that Waterloo Road experiences time very differently from everywhere else.

Posted by: liamk97 22nd August 2013, 02:12 PM

Exactly, this is the place where lessons end just as the teacher begins teaching!

Posted by: Common Sense 22nd August 2013, 06:26 PM

I eagerly await the new series as I still enjoy it and haven't missed an episode yet.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 24th August 2013, 04:27 PM

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9ATMuB6D4Ds

Looks FANTASTIC!

Can't wait to see more of Dynasty!

Posted by: liamk97 25th August 2013, 10:51 PM

Speak for yourself! Looking through the comments, most seem to be unhappy with the way the show has changed, especially since moving to Scotland, which is exactly how the majority of us feel.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th August 2013, 02:06 AM

Are they all English commenters?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 27th August 2013, 05:11 PM

I really hope this series we see Kevin and Dynasty getting engaged and married. They're the best thing about the show right now.

Posted by: Regina 27th August 2013, 06:35 PM

Well it appears I now have a reason to get back into this show. *.*

Posted by: JosephStyles 27th August 2013, 06:42 PM

Calum it's odd enough to have one married couple in school, let alone two Although, this is Waterloo Road, it's not meant to be realistic I guess, lol.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 27th August 2013, 06:54 PM

It's basically just the same thing as Chlo and Donte all over again, though, and it's obvious that's where they're going with it, so it'll be great to see. But yeah, I can see it's maybe a bit too soon after Imogen and Connor.

Posted by: Liаm 27th August 2013, 06:56 PM

Audrey looks really creepy there

Posted by: Calum Sandé 30th August 2013, 06:48 PM

6 days to go! Kevin and Dynasty just look so PERFECT together.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 31st August 2013, 12:09 AM

Sorry for the double post , but new photoshoots for Series 9:



That's now the updated banner on the website, glad they've changed it. Was getting sick fed up of seeing Michael and Lorraine still on it.











There are also three new pupils called Darren, Archie and Shaznay (who I get the impression they are going to try and make the new Michaela or Aleesha).

Posted by: liamk97 31st August 2013, 12:15 AM

Michaela is irreplaceable.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 5th September 2013, 08:13 PM

What an amazing first episode for the series! The whole episode had a really sad feel because of all of the memorials to Tom, and the flashbacks at the beginning with Christine arriving at the school were really well done, glad they've tackled this storyline in the way they have, and it's been executed perfectly.
The way they had Casey dealing with Tom's death was really good too, Brogan's probably one of the stars of the show now, under Laurie, Abby and Tommy for me now, and I really liked the scene where she made her own memorial for Tom, and when she was boxing with Nikki (even if that is just a rehash of the Bolton-starts-boxing storyline ). Can't wait to see more of the developing friendship between Casey and Nikki, looks like it could be good; seeing as they didn't exactly get along before.

Lisa is fantastic, though. Absolutely love her, and think she could grow to be one of my favourite characters on the show. Loved her in River City, so hopefully with the diversity of this role and how different it is to who she was on River City, it'll be great to get to know another of her characters. Some of the lines she came away with, just amazing! The ending though... She's a bit too rebellious. Hopefully there's not too much trouble in store for Audrey throughout the rest of the series. Was nice of them to introduce a first proper what-happens-next? moment at the end of the episode, though, even if it was really obvious what was about to happen.

Sue's really irritating, despite me wanting to like her from the trailer, and the promo clip(s) we had seen. And the fact that she is the councillor's daughter is a great plot, but at the same time makes me hate her even more, and makes me hate Simon a hell of a lot more than I already did. Hopefully Simon doesn't get the job as Head, because Christine really needs to stay; glad she's getting to stay for all ten of these episodes though, and she really shone through tonight, amazing. Probably the second best they've had, just under Rachel. On Christine, too, don't really want her to have a drinking relapse. It would probably make for amazing viewing seeing her go off the rails while in the role as Head, but I'd rather she stayed as Head for as long as she can.

Was a shame we didn't get to see more of Dynasty and Kevin tonight, though. They really are my favourite characters at the moment, but Dynasty on the football pitch when she ran to try and attack Lisa, OMFG. AMAZING moment. Can't wait for next week's episode, looks great, and glad that they're starting to seem like more of a continuing episode as opposed to a different thing every week.

Posted by: Tommy G 5th September 2013, 08:17 PM

Some of the scenes were really not needed, like the amount of football scenes.

But other than that, it was a good episode.

And I loved that final scene with Simon and the new Science teacher!!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 6th September 2013, 10:13 AM

9.2 is titled Sue Spark's Bad Day

Posted by: liamk97 6th September 2013, 03:32 PM

You are really optimistic, aren't you Calum?

I thought last night's episode was horrendous! Could quite possibly be the worst yet. If it stays like that or gets worse - if that's possible - I'll have to stop watching it. The only thing that keeps me watching is hope!

Posted by: ConnorVICKERS 6th September 2013, 04:16 PM

I'm sad to say I agree with this.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th September 2013, 01:30 PM

Well somebody's got to love it.

I really thought it was a fab episode , although my only qualm with this series is that Heather Peace said this series will be full of laughs and joy and comedy to try and move away from the fact that Tom's dead - it'll probably mean we get a really watered down cliffhanger at the end of the series or something.

Posted by: Liаm 12th September 2013, 07:50 PM

Forgot this was on last week, but I couldn't even get through the whole episode this week. There's hardly any variety in the students, to me too many of them just seem horrible little shits. Sue Spark has promise, she seems a bit of a wet drip but she's kind of endearing for it Not that I'll bother watching anymore (probably not anyway), just grim for a TV show that 2 or 3 series ago would be one of THE shows I could never miss.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th September 2013, 08:06 PM

After tonight's episode I get the impression a lot of this series is going to be hit or miss, what with them trying to keep it light-hearted and comedic after Tom's death at the end of Series 8, but it just didn't seem to work tonight. There was far too much *attempted* comedy, and those who were given the lines like that were just terrible, and it was quite cringey to watch. On the episode itself though... The whole idea of an episode being about Audrey sobbing for her lost cat was a bit... um... STRANGE.

Simon's just become such an annoying twat though (despite his fantastic looks ). Can't stand him and his arrogance, and hopefully he leaves soon. So glad Christine appointed George joint deputy at the end of the episode - that should spell Simon's downfall, and put a spanner in the works. Glad that Christine has her own type of eyes and ears in the form of George too, should be good to see their friendship develop more than it already has, and see how George does in the role of deputy (although no doubt he'll be fantastic). Some of the lines he gets too... Christine's pure OWNAGE of Simon at the end of the episode in regards to 'Twinkle, though *.*

Sue's just as bad as Simon too. Can't stand the hopeless type of teacher they seem to introduce once every series, and end up leaving after a short while, aka. all spin-offs of Helen Hopewell - that's the route I can see Sue going down. Imogen was a right pain in the arse in tonight's episode too. Can't stand her attitude (even if it is just the way the scripts are written for her character), but the whole character just pisses me off majorly. She and Connor need to leave at the end of this series. Subjected to torture watching those two "act". Felt sorry for Christine too throughout the episode what with everybody just constantly having a go at her. Hopefully it doesn't jeopardise her chances of staying on as Head after this half-series. Something hilarious about this episode though was when the supposed fire broke out, and they had slow motion, emotional music, people running and screaming, and making a big fuss, etc, but when there was an actual fire (or fires) in Series 8, they didn't have any of that. #confused

Hopefully next week's much better than tonight's episode, and there better be more Lenny and Lisa (even if Lenny's a bit cringey). We need more Dynasty too.

Posted by: Tommy G 13th September 2013, 05:21 PM

I found last night's show interesting. I've only started watching since last series, and while the plot lines are becoming more unrealistic, they're still enough to keep me interested in the show with all the action that goes on in it.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 19th September 2013, 08:02 PM

That was probably the most boring episode so far... Not that enjoyable, but it did have its moments. Was great to see Christine and George teaming up against Simon. Really can't stand him, despite how good he looks. Hope he doesn't get the Headship, and I don't want Christine to turn on George just because she likes what Simon's doing, surely it's going to backfire on her? Imogen was annoying tonight too (surprise, surprise), she needs to shut the fuck up about these cuts, and stick a tampon up there... It's not that big a deal not getting to do a silly Apprentice competition that didn't make for good viewing at all.

As gorgeous as Tommy Knight is too, I really don't like the direction they're taking the character in. I liked when he was just the innocent geek who was getting it on with Dynasty, but the whole storyline with Princess and him becoming the rebel child of the school is just strange. Hopefully he goes back to normal soon enough, because that's when the character's really good. George is just hilarious, though. The one-liners he comes away with in every episode are just amazing! <3 Hoping next week's episode is a bit better than this week's. They need to go back to proper drama too instead of making it as light-hearted as they are.

Posted by: Suedehead2 19th September 2013, 08:23 PM

The whole Apprentice thing was monumentally boring.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th September 2013, 10:45 AM

Neil Pearson and Nicola Stephenson have joined the cast as Vaughan Fitzgerald and Allie Westbrook - a new teaching duo. They have already started filming, but will not appear in the show until Series 10 which starts airing next year (so series 9 [episodes 11-20] must have already been filmed by now).

Posted by: liamk97 20th September 2013, 03:28 PM

I haven't watched the past two episodes but I have a very strong feeling that the producers are trying to make George a Grantly Mark II. Bad move.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th September 2013, 08:03 PM

The episodes are just getting worse, TBH. That episode started off really slow and was very watery. Started to pick up pace after Rhiannon's picture was sent around the school. The story itself was really good, and Rhiannon was excellent but that mixed with the horrendous relationship between George and Princess was just too much to take. Clearly the best thing about the episode was the fantastic directing and the scenes with Dynasty at the end. On that note, so glad she's got rid of Kevin now... Obviously it wasn't going to last, but they've just completely ruined Kevin's character by having him away from Dynasty now. We need more episodes like episode one of this series was, that was action-packed but the following have all just been... shit.

Dynasty is by far the best person they have in the show just now. Looking forward to next week, as always, and the fact that they've cast Clive Russell as Lisa and Lenny's grandfather *.*

Posted by: T Boy 26th September 2013, 09:33 PM

Wait a minute, weren't you a massive Kevin/Dynasty shipper and had them married by the end of the series like Chlo and Donte (IRL they could nevah)?

I haven't watched since halfway through the last block. I can't do it. This show is well passed the sell by date.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th September 2013, 09:37 PM

I was, but they've just completely ruined Kevin. The whole plot with Princess was just diabolical and you could see the pair of them splitting up a MILE OFF. Obviously prefer Dynasty out of the pair, though, so she remains my firm favourite. <3 Just hope they get back together again later in the series like Chlo and Donte did do (even though that's just further proving that they are recycling the same storylines).

Posted by: Calum Sandé 3rd October 2013, 09:04 PM

Well tonight's episode was certainly a massive improvement on the past two episodes. It just felt like such a well written story, and it actually had structure. The past few were just all over the place and were pretty sappy stories. The conclusion of the storyline itself was amazing too, was nice that they actually formed a close bond with their granddad (that acting from Clive Russell was amazing too), and that they now seem to have made up with Audrey and have gotten past the teething problems. I kind of hope Lisa remains the naughty evil sister that she has been since they both arrived, though. She is honestly such an amazing character, definitely close behind Dynasty for me now. When she counted to two and then kicked the bin, I was literally in stitches; and when she shouted at her granddad in the pastoral care office! *.* Such a great little actress.

Kevin continuing to be a massive dick, though. Really not liking this now - I want him and Dynasty to get back together and just be how fabulous they were before this horrid storyline with Princess came up (it doesn't detract from how hot he is though, those scenes in the classroom were amazing ). Was OVERJOYED when Connor and Imogen were talking to one another about applying for uni, though. HOPEFULLY this means that they're gone by the end of this series (or, wishful thinking, this half of the series). He's honestly just such a moaning faced shit and she's no better. They started off as really good characters but since half way through series 8 they just became so boring and a flop attempt at being the next Chlo and Donte (who it seems ALL couples that the writers create on the show now are trying to make them like).

Was laughing SO much at George saying when Christine went to get him "I'm not an alcoholic, that's your turf" The one-liners in every episode are amazing! And the comedy in the episode between Shaznay and Lula was amazing, we need to see a full-on bitch fight between the pair of them soon! *.* Christine and that alcohol near the end of the episode though, EEK. I want her to have it so she becomes an alcoholic again and that will be amazing viewing, but I don't want her to have it because I want her to be Head forever (unless Rachel Mason miraculously reappears ).

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th October 2013, 02:14 PM

Episode 7 spoiler: Nikki's daughter turns up...

Posted by: Calum Sandé 10th October 2013, 09:11 PM

Well tonight's episode was fab in many ways. Although the whole Simon and Sue situation is REALLY pissing me off now, at least they're not dominating every episode. I loved that the whole episode was setting up a lovely send off for Grantly, but the ending where he did die seemed a bit too rushed and it didn't quite work as effectively as it could have. The directing was quite poor, too. Overall though a lovely episode, pleased that he got a happy ending, but it's just sad that there are now no originals left. He will be remembered always.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 15th October 2013, 11:22 PM

It's been confirmed that Neil Pearson will be taking over as the new head in series 10... POOR CHRISTINE

Posted by: JosephStyles 16th October 2013, 10:29 AM

Well she was only temporary anyway so it's not a massive shock, surely?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 16th October 2013, 10:31 AM

Yeah but this whole half-series is about her preparing herself for trying to get the job. (hopefully she does get it and stays on for the last ten episodes of Series 9 in 2014).

Posted by: liamk97 16th October 2013, 02:44 PM

I hope we start hearing rumours and speculation of the show finishing after series 10; it's got far too stale and such a chore to watch - I only watch it out of habit really (but that said I haven't actually watched the show since E2).

Posted by: Calum Sandé 16th October 2013, 03:42 PM

I do agree, it needs to end after series 10. Of course it's an ever-evolving show, but there's only so many stories they can tell before they start to just repeat them but tell them in different ways (which they've already started doing because they're running out of ideas). I do think though that when the time comes they need to give it an appropriate send off - they need to have old cast members return; Denise Welch, Eva Pope, Chelsee Healy, etc, all of them returning would make for a very fitting ending to the show (although a story to fit them in would prove difficult). A "life goes on at Waterloo Road" type ending would be good too, like how Desperate Housewives came to an end.

Posted by: liamk97 16th October 2013, 04:46 PM

Yeah, a fitting ending is definitely needed - some well loved characters from the past returning like Janeece and Rachel like you mentioned would be great, but I agree it will be hard to think of an relevant storyline. I suppose it wouldn't be too much of a surprise if the school did close when Waterloo Road finishes since throughout the show, the school has had trouble with staying open. But equally it could go the other way and it stays open and everyone lives happily ever after.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 17th October 2013, 08:46 PM

I think if they managed to (this would never happen, but it's worth DREAMING of because it really would be the perfect ending for the show) get Eva Pope back, it'd have to be a story like the education board calling back a much-loved Head and asking them to take over the job if the school is failing and hope that she can get it back on track; having her back in the role and then we have the show end with that - Rachel back in the saddle and just being the fantastic Head she was. Janeece returning is easier to do because she could just drop in and see how things are, or return for a reason like Bolton did.

Anyway, tonight's episode was absolutely fantastic, they're getting better as this series goes on despite the start of it being quite silly and annoying (even if there are a couple of good characters who come close to saving it). The funeral scene at the beginning of the episode was absolutely beautiful, and a fitting way for them to commemorate Grantly properly. I thought at the end of last week's episode that that would be the end of it and we'd just hear them briefly mention him, but it was nice of them to add that in. Kevin looked amazing, as always. Simon and Sue are really dragging the series down, though. They're such HORRENDOUS characters. Can't bare to watch the pair of them and the dreadful nightmare Simon's turned into (although he always was that, TBH, just a ticking time bomb waiting to try and drag Christine down and nab the job for himself). Christine laying into him was one of the best things about the episode though, she really does know how to assert her authority when she needs to, and Laurie's just so good at it.

I love that they've started a 'traditional' thing with the directing too in the way that they have text appear on the screen when somebody gets a text. Nice addition. I love that we're finally getting to delve deeper into who Nikki really is, though. We've never really been told anything about her and it was great to see this story play out. She was a bit wooden at the end when she was saying goodbye to Eve, but meh. Eve's actress was really beautiful, need to see if she's been in anything else and try and watch it - her acting was really quite amazing too. The whole story between Eve and Nikki was amazing though, especially the scene when they first see each other and Nikki just stands there saying nothing... Quality acting. The scene at the end with Nikki too in her car was just REALLY emotional.

George continues to steal the show (in some ways) for me, though. His comment about Sue being able to get an Oscar after she "broke" her neck was hilarious. I hope he has some involvement in helping Christine fend off Simon and Sue and stop him from getting the Head job. Connor's normally really quite horrendous a character too but I love how he's kind of Maggie's confidant now, and the pair of them really work well together. Hopefully this continues beyond the grieving period. And finally (yay), Dynasty when she was cleaning the toilets was HILARIOUS - absolutely love her.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 18th October 2013, 12:37 AM

News about the show:

• The BBC Scotland commissioning for the show has been extended from 50 episodes to 70 episodes. 30 episodes comprising Series 8 have already aired and Series 9 has been extended from 20 episodes to 30, leaving 10 episodes for Series 10.
• Nikki, Connor and Imogen will be leaving at the end of Series 9 (or in 9.20). Heather Peace has tweeted suggesting she has now left the show and is going to work in England.
• Charlie De'ath has joined the cast as Vincent Wark, supposedly Gabrielle Wark's (a new character) father.
• Max Bowden has joined the cast as Justin Robinson who is supposedly Vaughan's son - so it's another Karen-Fisher-with-baggage storyline.
• Tommy Knight will be leaving at the end of Series 9 or during Series 10.

Posted by: liamk97 18th October 2013, 09:58 PM

Hopefully that's a sign the show will finish after that final block of 10 episodes (although there's every chance they extend it again).

Posted by: Calum Sandé 18th October 2013, 10:02 PM

I really hope it is, unless they manage to somehow start to think of original and gripping ideas before the end of Series 9. But that was the case with Series 7 too - it was originally only commissioned for 10 episodes before they extended it to 30 episodes. I can see it getting extended again, but there's only so long you can show people what happens in a fictional school before they start to tire of it, no matter how many times you get a new Head or new teachers/pupils and switch the storylines slightly.

Posted by: liamk97 18th October 2013, 10:08 PM

I don't really mind the recycled storylines exactly, it's just the bad acting and writing for me. Watching it makes me feel awkward and it looks very set-up whereas with earlier series - whilst some of the stuff that happened would probably never happen at a school, not on a regular basis at least - it was still very believable.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 18th October 2013, 10:12 PM

Oh yeah I do agree there, a lot of the acting in the recent series' has seemed very forced (although there are still a few who are extremely good in their roles and it seems very natural). Even Tom seemed a bit wooden and unnatural in his last few episodes; it was like they had forgotten how to write the character and it was a bit annoying. Like you said, it was so much better back between Series 1-6 (as terrible as Series 6 was in comparison to the previous 5), the characters were so easy to relate to and you could feel what they were going through, etc. It seems like they're just keeping the show going for the sake of it now, just like Shameless kept going in its last three series' before it eventually finished. I can't see this having any more than two years left in it.

Posted by: liamk97 18th October 2013, 10:46 PM

I thought Laurie Brett played Christine brilliantly when she had her alcohol addiction storyline - I think I actually said she was better than she was for the most part in Eastenders - but now I've gone off her a bit. Even the first 10 episodes of series 7 was good, most significantly Sambuca's cancer storyline as many seemed to be able to sympathise with her character. Yeah, my mum compares it to Shameless as she was a big fan of that before it dragged on too long. I'm not sure of the love/hate ratio of the recent series have been like but I know a large amount have all felt it's gone considerably downhill since moving to Scotland so that must affect the producers decision as for how long to continue.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 18th October 2013, 10:57 PM

Oh yeah, I completely agree. Laurie really was the star of the show during her addiction storyline (which is probably the best storyline they've had running since the show moved to Scotland, and probably the only outstanding one they will have). The character does seem to have been watered down a bit though since she became sober, so I think a relapse is about due (hopefully this happens soon and is one of the reasons Simon can dig at her further and prove she's a failing Head).

I think the show has definitely attracted new fans since moving to Scotland, but I don't think there's a considerably larger fanbase at all, and I think it'll have lost a few fans along the way during the settling in period, and it's probably lost a few fans since the storylines have become a bit dry. I'd say it's definitely not as popular as it was back in its heyday, but it obviously still has enough (don't know how many that would be for the BBC to consider it okay for continual commissioning) fans to keep it going. I reckon they'll end it sooner rather than later though when they do realise they're levelling off on the amount of people watching and the storylines really don't have anywhere else to go.

Posted by: liamk97 18th October 2013, 11:24 PM

A relapse was hinted at the end of series 8 when Tom died so I think it's very much possible.

I've read reports about cast members claiming the show "reinvents itself" (lets not even go there) but they do say the show gains new audiences so like you say, that's obviously good enough for the show continuing. However, the latest episode got 2.61m views according to DigitalSpy and that's one of the lowest in terms of all the series (series 1-7 all had 4-7m aside from one episode in S5 which had 3.5m) and series 8 to now has seen it drop from ~4.5m to ~2.5m which is quite significant. The show must be coming to a close soon - after 10 series that's a good time to stop.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 18th October 2013, 11:48 PM

Yeah, there's only so many times she can keep pouring it down the sink before giving in to temptation when something REALLY serious happens. I expect she's going to go off the rails again if Simon gets his way and ultimately she doesn't get the Headship. It would probably make for an excellent storyline, and something to live up to the high standards that 8.14 set (I mean, that episode where she had a breakdown in the medical room and turned on Audrey was unbelievably beautiful acting - she needs to stay for as long as possible because she's keeping the show running, IMO).

I suppose the only audience that the show is going to attract now is hardcore fans who have stuck with it since the beginning, but even then along the way I think they've lost some of them because of the piss poor storylines, or the acting that isn't exactly up to scratch, or the constant removal of characters that have been there since the very beginning. It's all good for the cast to say that they like the dynamic of the show and that it is ever-changing, but it just seems as though the writers can't be bothered putting the time in any more to make space for storylines concerning the most important characters who have been there since the first day we saw the school and who are essentially what the show is about. They're not going to make any more characters that the audiences can fully relate to or begin to love, I don't think, so I do think that with that and the continual decline in viewing figures the show will end soon. They're bound to know that the move to Scotland would ruffle a few feathers, probably more-so than they expected.

Posted by: APRIL J 19th October 2013, 12:42 AM

I agree that Laurie Brett's brilliance is keeping the show afloat. Without her, it would be dead in the water!

I only continue to watch it in the hope that it will return to Series 1-3 amazingness. Clearly not!

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 11:28 AM

Yay! I'm glad I've found a decent forum to post about Waterloo Road

I just needed to vent somewhere about how bad the last couple of series have been. I originally started watching in mid-2009 halfway through Rachel Mason's days as head and I instantly fell in love with it. The acting was great, interesting storylines, great characters (Rachel, Steph, Grantly, Tom, Ruby etc.) and I've stuck with it since. I'm also currently catching up on Series 1-3 and I'm halfway through watching Series 2.

I'm just so sad that the show is now a parody of its former self. What on earth has happend? How did it go from being a brilliant, gripping drama that was must-watch TV to something little better than a children's TV show? It's crazy. I agree that it lost its heart when it moved to Scotland, but Series 6 and 7 weren't exactly great so I don't think it was just that. There just no real soul to the show now, it's become very formulaic, with shallow characters, badly thought out storylines, lack of continuation, suspension of disbelief.

Watching Series 2 on DVD whilst also watching Series 9 on a Thursday has just made it so clear to me just how far the show has fallen. I'm not saying it's all bad, there have been good moments from this series - Heather Peace is brilliant, I like Laurie Brett's characters, Audrey is funny and I'm quite liking Angus Deayton. But, as a whole, it does need to be put out of its misery. To think that now all the Rochdale characters are gone apart from Maggie and Harley.

They should never have done series with 30 episodes, it just watered down the quality completely. Series 1 worked great with just 10 episodes. With dramas it's all about quality, not quantity. I'm excited to watch Series 3 though as most people say it's the best of the lot! Each time I watch old episodes though it makes me sad that the show couldn't sustain that level of quality.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 11:41 AM

I agree with almost everything you've said there. I do think that by having 30 episodes a series they find it extremely difficult to maintain storylines and keep them going throughout the series, but even back in Series 3-6, they struggled to maintain characters and what had happened to them and if they were there with even just 20 episodes. They really should have stuck with an 8 or 12 episode format following from Series 2, although saying that if that had happened we probably wouldn't have got some of the amazing and beautiful episodes we have now.

The show was so much more mature and treated its audience with respect in its early days (namely Series 1-4) - it was a proper drama about proper people with properly gripping storylines, but they seem to have changed the whole ideology of the show and now target it at children just because of its educational nature. All of the violent and gripping scenes have been cut or watered down which is just terrible, and they tend to focus less on the serious issues themselves, go around them in a delicate way instead of tackling them head-on and have other stories running alongside it so that it doesn't take the episode's central focus either. I mean, Series 1 we had real life situations with Tom/Izzy/Lorna, we had Chlo and Donte's love for each other causing a whole load of trouble, we had Janeece doing all of the crazy things she was doing, we had the school close to closure, we had Jack and Steph at it like rabbits, Andrew trying to control Donte, etc - there was so much going on and they actually managed to pull it of in the way that they should be now, but it just... doesn't happen now.
The stories that will stick with the viewers who have watched since the start will probably be all of the Series 1-5 finales, and episodes in-between. Even Series 6 and 7 weren't that bad (the series' weren't as enjoyable as previous ones, but they did actually deal with a few mature storylines, e.g. Bex's disappearance, Sam's cancer, etc), but since the move to Scotland the storylines have just become such chores for the writers. I suppose as well though that's probably down to Maureen Chadwick leaving who was one of the original writers between herself and Ann McManus. Ann's still there, but Liz Lake has taken Maureen's place - it's quite obvious that together Ann and Liz just... can't think of the same compelling drama that she and Maureen once did. The show needs to end, soon.

Posted by: liamk97 20th October 2013, 11:43 AM

Welcome to forum Simon!

Couldn't agree more with what you've said there. The amount of episodes in each series is definitely an issue - I think 20 is just right, whilst 30 just drags it on too long, especially since the show is struggling for storylines as it is.

You'll definitely enjoy series 3. I in fact just finished revisiting that series a couple of weeks back. There's several highlight episodes but I won't spoilt it for you!

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 12:16 PM

Thanks Calum and thanks Liam! It's great to have somewhere to chat about this show

I was wondering about Maureen Chadwick and Ann McManus, Calum - I see they wrote a lot of the Series 1 episodes together, but after that it seems that there were a lot of guest writers for each episode. I wonder if that's at the root of the show's problems? Does Ann McManus still write for the show then? It makes sense that different writers will take a different spin on characters and storylines, hence why now there seems such discrepancies between episodes. For instance, Rhiannon goes from being kind and friendly to suddenly being a bully? Christine, as good a character as she is, also varies considerably episode to episode! She seems to have calmed down a bit now, though, but there is a certain 'where do we go with her now?' question mark hanging over her character.

I also forgot to say that I'm really liking Dynasty as a character, there's a lot of potential there for her to grow and develop.

And I definitely agree with you about the strength of the Tom/Izzy/Lorna storyline - it's great. And Steph/Maxine and Kim/Andrew in Series 2. Contrast these storylines with the ones we have now and it's worlds apart!

That's great Liam - I can't wait to start watching! I'm trying to go through the episodes slowly so I don't watch them all in one week (which I easily could!)

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 12:22 PM

It's great to have other people to talk to about the show, so you're very welcome!

Yeah, they did write a lot of series 1 together, and that was good because the series was all connected so strongly and all of the episodes made sense one after the other. But they did introduce guest writers as the series length continued to increase (mostly in series 3), and that's where it kind of started to fall apart in terms of how tight the storylines in each series were/are. Ann McManus does still write for the show, but she only writes the occasional episode with Liz Lake, I think - and Liz Lake also writes episodes by herself - some of the opening episodes for each series. Like you said, the sudden change from Rhiannon being the rebellious bully who was able to threaten anybody to being one of the most delicate and sensitive people there. I do agree about Christine too - it seems they don't know whether they want to come or go with her. I don't think they've decided whether they want to go back to alcoholic Christine or keep her as she is, and it's ruining the character a little, although she's still fantastic!

Glad you're liking Dynasty too, she's one of my favourite characters too!

Posted by: liamk97 20th October 2013, 12:30 PM

Good luck with that! I watched Series 1-Series 5 Episode 10 for the first time earlier this year and I watched almost half a series each week because they were so gripping and entertaining!

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 12:41 PM

Haha Liam, I'll do my best not to watch them too fast!

That's interesting that Ann McManus does still write for the show, Calum. It must be strange for her - it says at the start of each show that she and Maureen created it, I wonder if Ann herself has recognised how far the show she made has dropped in terms of quality? I wouldn't be surprised if the decent episodes these days are written by Ann! When did Liz replace Maureen?

I just think there's so many missed opportunities with the show these days, but that might be down to its relocation to Scotland. Grantly's furneral, for instance, was the perfect opportunity to bring back old favourites such as Steph and Ruby, and maybe some former pupils. Granted, they did bring back Tariq, but he was in just a handful of scenes so there really wasn't much point to that! I honestly think that if Denise Welch returned on a permanent basis then the show would be tons better. I'm not ashamed to admit that she was one of the best things about the show! She was so funny, but also had a real connection with the pupils that really came into its own especially with Maxine moving in with her (this is where I'm up to on Series 2 now). There's a chance she could return, but it's not likely now that the show has relocated.

I'm intrigued by Neil Pearson taking over as the new head teacher, as well. He seems like a good actor. Hopefully Christine is demoted and sticks with the show, maybe goes back on the booze and has a relapse now that she's not head anymore? Her storyline in Series 8 was probably the best one.

They also need to get rid of Sue and Simon! Awful characters. She is so one-dimensional it's crazy, she's like a parody of Lorna! Simon had potential, but so far he just seems creepy and try-hard.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 01:01 PM

She's bound to know herself that the quality of the show has rapidly decreased since the show moved to Scotland, and since Maureen left. Ann's written a lot of episodes with Eileen Gallagher too, who seems to be like Liz Lake, but the last episode(s) Maureen wrote were for series 5 - and it was after that time that the quality of the show started to decline, so I think that's a big factor right there. It's probably more Eileen that has replaced Maureen, because they've written a lot of episodes together (some more than one at a time), but Liz is still quite prominent apparently - but in answer to your question: just after series 5.

I do agree with you about Grantly's funeral - that was such a good opportunity for them to bring back some of the show's greats like Steph (I mean... she was his best friend, just because they're in Scotland it doesn't mean the Rochdale characters don't exist any more ), and bringing Rachel back would just have been AMAZING. Is Ruby really viewed as a favourite, though? I really hated her when she was on the show, especially when she slapped Rachel in 5.19 and was trying to steal Adam, etc - she was nothing but a moaning faced shit and an up-tight bitch most of the time. I do agree with you that bringing Denise Welch back would probably work wonders for the show, and she's quit Loose Women and isn't exactly doing anything else with her life right now, so now would be a perfect opportunity, but they probably don't even want her back.

I do think Christine will probably have an alcohol relapse when she doesn't get the job (but hopefully she has it from 9.11 to 9.30 before Neil comes to the helm in series 10). I'm not sure I'm keen on him as Head though, and I've not really been keen on any of the male leads. Jack was probably the best but Michael was just a complete NO. Rachel is the best by far (you'll see why when you get to her era, Simon). Completely agree about Sue and Simon though, the pair of them are just terrible. Simon would have been alright if he wasn't a villain, but I guess they just want him to be Max Tyler pt. II - and Sue is Helen Hopewell pt. II.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 01:22 PM

Wow, so Maureen's exit as a writer for the show coincided exactly with the show's demise! It seems pretty evident that the two things are connected then.

I absolutely loved Ruby but I think that was because I like the actress Elizabeth Berrington. Plus I liked her and Steph's friendship and the arguments that Ruby had with Rachel were great because of their contrasting personalities, but overall I suppose she isn't looked back on as a WR legend. Her and Grantly's friendship was pretty good, too.

I think you're right about saying the producers probably don't want Steph to come back - in fact, it seems like there has been a cull on nearly all the Rochdale characters apart from Maggie and Harley. I can't see Maggie being in it for much longer, as without Grantly I can't see her having an awful lot of story lines. Harley was really good in Grantly's final episode, but overall his character is quite dull and I can't see them doing much with him. It's mad that in just two series we've got a near-on complete new cast

Another good idea would be for them to bring back Scout. She left to become a Teaching Assistant, didn't she? If so, there's a great window for her to return. I think the actress is in Coronation Street right now though so that probably won't happen! I know she was just a replacement for Sambuca (she came into it the episode after Sam died funnily enough!) but she was a really good character.

I agree, I think the male leads aren't as strong as the female. Michael was dire, worst head by far (talk about dull!). I've seen the second half of Rachel's era, and I'm excited to see her first series as Head. Neil Pearson might be good, though, I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I was going to stop watching the show but I think I'll stick with it to the bitter end as it is still fairly good now and again, and I do think Series 9 has had its good bits. I can definitely see it ending after Series 10, though.

If it does end, I'd love to see a new school drama that emulates the original Waterloo Road!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 02:01 PM

Yep, there has to be some sort of connection between the two - and I think I preferred a lot of the episodes that Ann and Maureen wrote together as opposed to those currently being written by Ann and Eileen (most of the Ann and Eileen episodes are series 8 episodes and while that series had its moments, it was quite abysmal at points). I really like Elisabeth Berrington normally (I loved her in 'Northern Lights' (if that's what it was called?), but I guess the character was just really irritating in this! I suppose they kind of hoped she would be the new Steph for Grantly when they faded Steph out at the end of series 5, but she was never going to be that. And she just kind of... disappeared suddenly when the character did leave.

It's strange to think that of the people left on the show from when it was in Rochdale, Harley is the longest serving cast member. I don't think Maggie will last much longer, nor will Harley. It seems as though Harley's been in the same year at school since he was introduced to the show, and I think they'll have a grieving period for Maggie, have her settle in, maybe find a new love interest that won't go down well at all, have the school house close and then finally have her character leave - although I imagine it'll be sped up a lot more than that and I can see her leaving in series 10, probably. And agreed about Scout, it was so obvious that they attempted to make her the new Sambuca after she had been faded out - she turned into the exact same girl coming from a rough background but with bright ambitions. I suppose the only thing they did to alter their characters was have Scout with a happy ending (apart from her mum dying). I don't think I'd want her to return permanently but a Bolton-style return would be good for the character.

I probably shouldn't make a pre-judgement but I don't think I'm going to like Neil at all as the Head. There's just something off-putting about him, like there was with Michael (I had known him previously from 'Hope Springs' - the drama with Alex Kingston, and he was a bit of an arse in that which put me off the actor, and he was always just a bit unnerving in the role of Michael). There's just something about women in power on the show, and Rachel was AMAZING at that. While Karen wasn't exactly the best of Heads, she had her moments and was utterly brilliant at times; and the one thing that I LONGED for that never happened was seeing Sian become the permanent head because she's probably my second favourite character to have ever been on the show, just behind Rachel.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 02:29 PM

Yes, I see what you mean about Ruby! I liked her in Northern Lights too, or was it called Lapland? The show with Sue Johnston? It was weird when she just disappeared to write a novel, I imagine Elizabeth left as there wasn't much further for her character to go.

I knew Michael from Hope Springs too (off topic but I really liked that show and it shouldn't have been axed! Wasn't the actress who played Helen Hopewell in it as well?!) I never really liked him, the close-ups on his face were especially unnerving! I actually quite liked Karen, too, but I imagine Amanda Burton left the show because of the silly storylines she was given, they didn't really stretch her to her full potential as an actress. Power women are definitely the best as Heads though. Actresses such as Amanda Redman (Sandra from New Tricks) or Amelia Bullmore (Gill from Scott & Bailey) are examples who would be great!

Sian was brilliant, but unfortunately she was given pretty rubbish story lines. Her husband in Series 7 (forgotten his name, PE teacher...) was such a bad match! She would have made a great Head, though. I always wonder when characters leave if it was the actor's choice or whether they were pushed / written out of it. Sian would have made more sense as a replacement for Michael, Christine felt like she had been forced into the role and only got it because of her relationship with Michael.

Another Series 9 character who has potential is Shaznay - she's not been in it much yet (and she does seem a bit of a Michaela Part II) but I've actually really enjoyed her scenes so far! I wonder if she'll have a storyline or whether she'll just disappear like a lot of the pupils seem to do.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 02:38 PM

That was it, 'Lapland' - forgot for a moment. And yeah, the one with Sue Johnston (on that note, she was fab in that! - wasn't Anne Reid in it too?). Helen Hopewell was indeed in 'Hope Springs' too. I do think Amanda will have left off of her own accord too. She seems like a fantastic actress (I've not watched anything else that she's been in), but the character just didn't suit her and some of the acting seemed very forced, and she was NOT a good match for Charlie at all - she was more suited to Robson Green near the end of her tenure which we didn't get to see a lot of after they hooked up. One woman aside from Eva Pope who I would love to take the role of Head is Suranne Jones. It'll never happen because she's made a name for herself now, but she's just fantastic!

I agree about Sian, she was given some really poor storylines, although for the most part it was her that drove them and made them as good as they could be. Jez was terrible for her, though. All of the stories with him were terrible, but I did slightly prefer her being with him than being with Michael which was just really vile to watch. Sian would have been the perfect replacement for Michael had she stayed on, but I'm glad we've had the episode we have with Christine as Head (especially 8.29 when she interrupted the Adrian Pile Show ). It's so obvious that Shaznay is just an attempt at a second Michaela too, and I think if they handle it the right way they can make her a good character. I think she was just a background character to begin with but they've slowly revealed more layers to her, and hopefully it develops into a storyline concerning her in a later episode.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 02:59 PM

Sue Johnston was great in it, yes! I don't think Anne Reid was in it, are you thinking of Last Tango in Halifax?

And yes - Suranne Jones would be great! She's the kind of actress who makes a show her own, in fact if I see a show is on with her starring in it I will watch it just for the fact that she is in it!

I'm glad we've got Christine as head, too. I honestly think they could have offered Jason Done the role as Head, though, and it might have stopped him from leaving. Tom would have been a great Head and it would have provided continuation from the first Series when he was Jack's right hand man. Then maybe Steph could have come back, Grantly could have survived and it all would have been great! Oh well, maybe Jason just wanted out and that was that. Do you know if he chose to leave or if he was axed?

Yes, I hope Shaznay gets a storyline. The pupils overall really are pretty dire - Rhiannon, Connor, Imogen, Lula, the twins, Archie etc. are all really bad characters (well, not so much Connor, but he's been a right grump this series!) The only decent pupils in my opinion are Dynasty, Kacey and Kevin, but I think Shaznay has potential.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 03:08 PM

Suranne really does - when she was in 'The Doctor's Wife' (an episode of Doctor Who) she really made it her own and she was the star of the episode. I keep meaning to try and watch all of Scott & Bailey just for her too because she's fantastic, and what I've seen of the third series was sensational! I'm not sure I would have been keen on Tom being the Head, though. I understand he was there for a while and really should have been offered the job given his loyalty, etc - but he's just somebody I can imagine being very awkward about it and being quite terrible at making decisions, etc. He did decide to leave, though. He wanted to go on to do new projects, he didn't get axed.

I do agree that a lot of the pupils are terrible. They really need to get rid of Rhiannon, Imogen and a few of the other regulars very soon. Connor's story with Maggie is going to be interesting, I think, so I'll let him off. Lula isn't bad either, granted she has a good story (see the Nox story with Esther - that was amazing!). Dynasty, Kacey and Kevin really are the best, I agree with you there. They've all had stories that match their characters so well and the acting doesn't seem forced either, it's just very natural.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 04:21 PM

Oh you must watch Scott & Bailey - it's amazing! Suranne is brilliant, as are Lesley Sharp and Amelia Bullmore

True, I guess Tom was more of a 'behind the scenes' kind of character as opposed to a Head. Wish he was still in in though Why on earth they thought it was a good idea two kill of both the original characters within episodes of each other is beyond me - there's no chance of a possible return for either of them now. If that doesn't demonstrate a culling of the Rochdale characters I don't know what does!

I'm interested by the Connor/Maggie storyline, too. I wasn't a big fan of the Nox storyline, really, it dragged a bit but I admit Lula did come into her own there.

Have you seen the trailer for next week's episode yet? Seems like it's reverting to being a kid's TV show again!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 04:28 PM

I've got the DVDs on my to-get list. I'm sure it was the last couple of episodes of series 3 I watched, where they fell out, wasn't it? And the woman who was one of the daughters in 'Last Tango in Halifax' was in it as the woman in the car who was a bit psychotic?

I have seen the trailer, yeah, and it does look a bit strange. Hopefully there's plenty of action among this silly World War 2 façade.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 05:21 PM

Yes they did fall out in Series 3. Yeah haha, Nicola Walker was the psychotic character in the back of the car. Great actress. Coincidentally, the actress who played Lindsay James in Waterloo Road played one of Scott's daughters in Scott & Bailey!

I think next week's episode is centred on Audrey. I like her as a character, but next week's episode is going to be a bit cringeworthy I'm thinking!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 05:23 PM

Jenna Coleman was in Scott & Bailey? I must check that out if that's the case! One of my favourite actresses.

Yeah, it's probably gonna be Audrey and Christine/George/Simon/Sue (that whole feud) ongoing. It's a bit tiresome now, hopefully it can get more interesting soon though. I expect Simon and Christine will be at WAR by episode 10.

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 06:15 PM

Sorry, my mistake, I meant to say the actress who played Emily James, not Linsday James! Apologies

Yes, the feud is getting a bit tiresome now. Simon's character is so predictable.. he'll have some dodgy back story which will result in him being sacked. Sue won't be able to cope without him and she will leave. Yawn. They really need to get some decent teachers on board now, surely it can't be that hard to write in some interesting characters and make some informed casting decisions!

They also need to stop with the daft, childish storylines and get back to the more gritty, darker themes. It's definitely doable, but whoever is in charge of this show always seems to make the wrong decisions! Oh well, wait and see what next week brings

Posted by: liamk97 20th October 2013, 06:28 PM

Whatever happened to Emily James? I can't ever remember her leaving!

Posted by: simonc13 20th October 2013, 07:20 PM

No idea! So many pupils randomly disappear from series to series that I lose track. All I can remember about her is that she had a crazy personality change in the space of one series.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 20th October 2013, 11:21 PM

Ah right, she was always annoying, so I'm not really fussed at all by her. Jenna Coleman on the other hand... She should have returned to the show after she was released from prison, I would have loved to see her in action again.

I think with Simon and Sue, the only thing that can happen at the conclusion of this storyline is if Robert Bain gives him the Headship and somehow Christine and George find out that he only got it because with Simon and Sue being together he has connections to Robert who is Sue's father... If that all comes out and is played out well it could work and hopefully that Robert git gets the sack and Christine is given the job until Neil Pearson comes in.


She never was given a proper exit, was she? I suppose with the young cast they have to just come and go (like Gus from series 8... I REALLY miss him but it was never explained why he was prominent in a couple of episodes and then just vanished ), but somebody with such prominence like her was just faded out. I mean, she didn't exist until she suddenly became a prominent character again in series 7 before vanishing for good. Hopefully they learn from this, although they're never going to do it.

Posted by: Connor. 20th October 2013, 11:25 PM

Emily left at the end of Series 7 if I remember. She just stayed in Rochdale.

Posted by: APRIL J 20th October 2013, 11:38 PM

Thank God. She was such an awful character!

Posted by: Ramz 20th October 2013, 11:42 PM

I hope the series ends with Linda Radleigh coming back and blowing up the school with everyone still inside. That goddess deserved so much more than a mere 8 episodes!!!

Posted by: Parallel Reality 20th October 2013, 11:56 PM

Glad there's a few other WR fans here! I've watched all the series of WR - and have 1 to 6 on DVD but am aiming for the rest in the future. I agree that the early days of the show were the better. I think series 1 and 2 were amazing. 5 was also great too and 4 was really good. I found series 3 to be very poor though.

Rachel is my favourite headteacher to date and the actress was suited perfectly to the role. Jack was also good, the first couple of series were so intense with Jack, and then Andrew and Kim and it focused on the staff's lives just as much as the pupils which was good. I found series 6 onwards to be pretty poor, I did not like Karen as the head teacher at all. It seemed to be really good characters got incredibly weak storylines and any good storylines kind of just fizzled out. The whole thing with Bex could have been so much more dramatic than it was.

I didn't mind Michael as a headteacher, I think the show improved slightly towards the latter half of his stint, and now it kind of fluctuates. Characters I think are good for the show at the moment are: Christine, Connor, Nikki, Sonya, Audrey, Kasey, Barry, Maggie and Lula. The ones I don't think add much to the show are Imogen, Simon (He's basically just a weak Max trying to overthrow the head), I also think Harley's ran his course as well now. It's a shame that many of the characters are so one dimensional, like the twins for example. I know they've been put in for a purpose to stir things up but people often have more than one side to them.

Out of the current teachers, although I was sad to lose Tom, he was kind of a non-event by the end. Characters like Sonya and Audrey, although annoying, you can't help but kind of like them because they always mean well, I don't feel they would get old as both seem quite versatile. Christine is good, pretty much what you'd expect from a stressed out headteacher, and her story previous series' was good. Sad to lose Grantly obviously, he was always such a great grump! I still remember the time he made a door out of cardboard. Maggie is great and I hope she stays for a while as she has good relationships with both the kids and the teachers. Sue Spark could be really interesting but she seems to have one dimension which is a shame. I don't think that she's shading Lorna, maybe slightly in the relationship stakes but only a small amount. She reminds me more of Helen Hopewell. Simon annoys me so much as a character. I feel they are rushing him into being a potential baddie too quickly and I think it would be better to be more drawn out. I think we need more cast than we currently have for both students and teachers.

It is so frustrating to see such watered down storylines. I understand the target audience might be young but they're not 5! Meanwhile I'm sitting here with all these ideas whilst they repeat stories that have happened 5 years ago.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st October 2013, 12:00 AM

Don't you mean Stevie? She really should come back though, she shouldn't have left when she did.


It is annoying - there's so many ideas that the fans have that the writers either haven't thought of or just can't be arsed writing.

Posted by: simonc13 21st October 2013, 10:57 AM

I agree with all these points you guys have raised!

I think the main problem with the show Series 6 onwards is that it has become lazy. Around the time it won the National Television Award, it seems the BBC became complacent and assumed that fans would stick with the show just because of its past popularity.

I takes a lot more thought, effort and creativity to create a show which was as high quality as Series 1 & 2. Developing believable characters who we actually care about is much harder than writing for one-dimensional characters like Simon and Sue. I suppose, if a show still attracts 4-5 million viewers regularly after four series, then it's not surprising that the quality will drop off a bit because of complacency. Hence the situation the show has found itself in now!

The significant drop in viewing figures will probably result in one of three things: 1) it will carry on as it is and figures will probably level off at around 2 million 2) producers will aim to improve the show in order to raise viewing figures or 3) it will be axed.

I think option 3) is best in Waterloo Road's case. It all seems a bit pointless now... starting off as a seriously run-down school in the middle of Rochdale to now being a Scottish school which does rather well and doesn't seem anywhere near as rough! And, even though Tom and Grantly weren't given much to do from Series 8 onwards, their loss - and the fact that there are not only no originals left but also no characters pre-Series 7, just makes it feel very empty.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st October 2013, 11:07 AM

Completely agree with all of what you've said. The show really did decline in quality from series 6 onwards, and the fact that they've now banished all of the original characters in a bid to claim that the show is "always changing its dynamic" is just pathetic - it is no longer 'Waterloo Road', it's just a show about some silly antics in a school now. There is less and less being shown of the characters' personal lives, and that will only continue. I think it's fair to say 'Waterloo Road' ended after Waterloo Road Reunited was broadcast, showing the characters now in their lives outside of the school.

It's a shame because it probably remains my second favourite show on TV, but it's not supportable any more. The only commendable era(s) are series 1-5, and then after that there are only a few highlights.

I think we're due a Waterloo Road Rate, TBH.

Posted by: simonc13 21st October 2013, 11:23 AM

You've hit the nail on the head there - in the earlier series, the general running of the school was only really in the background and the personal lives of both staff and pupils was at the forefront. Now the show seems to centre on how a school should be run, with the odd personal story popping up here and there. For instance, the whole episode with Nikki's daughter took place inside the school - why wouldn't her daughter have gone to Nikki's house instead? It would have been nice to see Nikki away from the school and in her own environment, but that whole mother/daughter story fell flat because it all took place in school. (In fact, we've never even seen where Nikki lives, have we?!)

That's probably why the show seems to insist on 'reinventing' itself, because that's essentially what happens in schools, but producers don't seem to have realised that the reason viewers tuned in each week was to see certain characters - I fell in love with it because of Steph, Rachel, Kim, Tom, Grantly, Sambuca both at work and at home etc. etc. I didn't fall in love with it because I wanted to see the inside of a school the whole time and see silly class projects and budget meetings! The running of the school now seems to be bigger than the characters.

There's still a lot of potential with the show, but it doesn't show any signs of reverting to how it used to be, in fact it seems to be running in the complete opposite direction!

Posted by: simonc13 21st October 2013, 02:18 PM

Oh dear me

The preview for next week's episode looks pretty dire. It won't let me post a link but you can find it on the BBC Waterloo Road website.

Evidently Waterloo Road is now aimed at primary school children!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st October 2013, 05:11 PM

I did watch that and it does look sappy. I suppose that's the kind of thing you WOULD get in an ordinary school - but that's what the show seems to have forgotten. This isn't an 'ordinary school', it's 'Waterloo Road'. That whole basis is lost.

Posted by: APRIL J 21st October 2013, 11:21 PM

I couldn't take her seriously though. I kept expecting her to pull out Heather in one her classes and start singing...

Posted by: simonc13 22nd October 2013, 07:36 AM

Or for Miranda to randomly appear from nowhere! I liked Linda, it was a shame she wasn't in it for long, but she was only really used for comedy (even the attempted murder of Michael was humorous!)

So, I watched Series 2 Episode 8 last night and it was so good. Loving the relationship between Steph and Maxine, especially the scene in the car at the rubbish dump.

Watching Series 2 and Series 9 together really is like watching two different shows!

Posted by: Connor. 24th October 2013, 07:58 PM

I'm sorry but that was without a doubt the worst episode of Waterloo Road ever. Maybe even one of the worst episodes of television either. I felt utterly embarrassed watching it.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 24th October 2013, 07:59 PM

There are honestly no words for that episode... It was so TERRIBLE but it was so AMAZING at the same time.

Posted by: Suedehead2 24th October 2013, 08:42 PM

It was seriously rubbish tonight.

Posted by: APRIL J 24th October 2013, 09:19 PM

Oh dear! Please just put the show out of its misery...

Posted by: simonc13 24th October 2013, 09:22 PM

What on earth was that episode all about? I admit, I switched off after 15 minutes... too cringey for words! I instead watched more of Series 2

This show really needs to end. Sad times but true! Or, alternatively, maybe they could carry on making it but just transmit it on CBBC or something haha.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 24th October 2013, 09:25 PM

If they carry on with episodes like that, they really should consider that. I think a lot of the actors would leave if that were the case, though. They're all under the impression they're dealing with serious issues but at the same time keeping the show light-hearted, so if it moved to CBBC they'd probably feel different about the show...

Next week's does look like an improvement, though.

Posted by: simonc13 24th October 2013, 09:30 PM

Good point, actually. I didn't see the preview for the next episode - what's it looking like? I'm so undecided whether to carry on watching this show or not. I feel like I should out of duty haha. I might dip in and out - let's hope this kind of episode was a one-off and never happens again!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 24th October 2013, 10:17 PM

It looks great, although apparently the storyline is a supply teacher taking Lenny away fishing and he ends up being somebody he's not made himself out to be... It's Janeece and Wilson all over again.

Posted by: simonc13 25th October 2013, 07:43 AM

Just seen the preview and it does look a lot better. However, like you said, it's just more repetitions. There is a serious lack of originality with this show now - pretty much everything has been seen or done before in some way or another.

And I know they made a conscious effort to up the 'humour' in this series, but it really doesn't work! It's so cringeworthy most of the time. The humour in the early series worked so well because it was set against the gritty storylines so it created a nice balance. Last night's episode really was the worst I can ever recall seeing.

Posted by: simonc13 25th October 2013, 09:15 AM

Viewing figures up this week from 2.61m to 2.97m according to Digital Spy.

Posted by: APRIL J 25th October 2013, 03:55 PM

That's still pretty terrible. I can't believe how much viewers have dropped off in the last few series. It's hard to think a couple of series ago it was regularly hitting 5 million, occasionally even 6!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 25th October 2013, 03:57 PM

It's hard to believe that the show's highest viewing figures (for a series on average) is series 7 which had 5.1m viewers on average throughout the series. I suppose that's down to the increase in episodes from 20 to 30 - with the next highest being series 3 which had 5.0m viewers on average with only 20 episodes.

Posted by: JosephStyles 25th October 2013, 05:23 PM

That episode was so poor it was actually funny. They really have run out of ideas haven't they?!

Posted by: Parallel Reality 25th October 2013, 08:11 PM

I agree that the show has really nosedived, but it can definitely be saved. Just please for all of our sakes, get rid of the current writers!!!!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 25th October 2013, 08:20 PM

So last night's episode was written by the same person who wrote 8.22 - the episode where Rhiannon was working in the kebab shop... Not surprising that the quality was severely poor given that episode was horrendous too.

Posted by: APRIL J 25th October 2013, 08:41 PM

It can't be saved! The move to Scotland is what killed the show off, every since then it's just been getting worse! What do you really think could genuinely improve the show after the amount of damage they have caused?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 25th October 2013, 08:54 PM

I don't think it's necessarily the move that's changed it and ultimately killed it, it's the writers that have killed it by trying too hard to radically change the school since it did move. Other shows can go through a change of the same amount, but the writers here just don't have the same grasp on the show and what it actually stands for as they used to. There are a lot of one-off writers coming in now and being hired to write maybe one or two episodes per series for a couple of series' and then just leaving and not coming back. They don't have a committed team behind the show any more, that's where it has broken down.

Posted by: simonc13 26th October 2013, 07:45 AM

Series 7 is the most-watched of all the series?! Didn't expect that. It makes the move to Scotland even more idiotic - the show was doing just fine and then they went and ruined it. Had it stayed in Rochdale it could have easily returned to its former glories, but there's just no point to the show anymore now it's in Scotland. None of the old cast can realistically return on a regular basis, and that's a real killer.

The kebab shop episode was pretty bad, but I can honestly say that this week's episode is probably the worst there has ever been in the show's history. I actually feel quite embarassed watching this show now, and to think just three years ago it was my favourite show on TV!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th October 2013, 11:48 AM

Well, moving away from Rochdale wasn't something they could have prevented because it was being taken over by local authorities there and actually turned into a housing scheme in real life. It wouldn't have been a very good ending (although saying that, moving to Scotland for new ventures in a new school could possibly have been an excellent end to the show). That really is one of the main problems with it being so far away from where it originally was - none of the cast can secure a long contract and that's ultimately killed the dynamic of the show.

Average viewing figures, each series:

Series 1 - 4.6m
Series 2 - 4.3m
Series 3 - 5.0m
Series 4 - 4.7m
Series 5 - 4.8m
Series 6 - 4.9m
Series 7 - 5.1m

Posted by: Connor. 26th October 2013, 11:58 AM

That was only after the BBC decided to relocate it too Scotland because they needed more content to be part of their Scottish brand so they could have prevented it but they chose to move it, therefore it's entirely their own fault.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th October 2013, 12:02 PM

It was going to be closed down after series 4 (when Ralph Mellor tore it apart), but they decided to let it stay open. As you say, they could have chosen to end the show or relocate when that time would eventually come when the building would be knocked down, but we have had some absolute cherishes since the show moved to Scotland. I can't imagine an ending like series 7 would have been that great for those who have stuck with the show since it began - and at least now if they want to end the show they have a) a permanent location and b) can plan it thoroughly.

Posted by: simonc13 26th October 2013, 12:18 PM

True - the image of a mini-bus heading to Scotland wouldn't have exactly been a fitting end to the show. They could have chosen a better location, though. Greenock just looks too picturesque on camera (no idea what it's like as a place though!) whereas Rochdale was a more fitting setting.

If they do want to salvage this show (and surely losing 2.5 million viewers in the last one or two years is an incentive to do something!) then I definitely agree that they need to get new writers and producers on board. It was obviously a conscious decision to send the show down this new route, but maybe they'll do a U-Turn now. They need to remember that the show started out as a drama, not a children's TV show!

Posted by: Connor. 26th October 2013, 12:22 PM

They could have potentially keep it set in Rochdale but filmed in Scotland. Obviously, they would have had to find a setting that resembled more of Rochdale but they could have potentially had a storyline where the actual school just moves building etc or something.

It's too late to save the show now. I don't even know why they're bothering to do another series. The best thing probably to do is move it to BBC2 on a Friday at 6pm and air it in 30 minute episodes especially with the route they seem to be taking it down. OK, the ratings will probably go down a bit again (would probably be good for the timeslot and channel) but it could be rejuvenate as an early evening show and they seem to be watering it down a lot so it could work. It really isn't suitable for Thursday evenings anymore.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th October 2013, 12:25 PM

I think that's one of the main problems. Rochdale was a rough area and it was with that that most of the drama derived from, but Greenock is very picturesque as you say and seems calm and a getaway place to go to - it doesn't look as rough as Rochdale did and they're not going to capture the same drama that they once did in that area.

Posted by: simonc13 26th October 2013, 02:07 PM

I agree with both your posts. I'd also say that Waterloo Road would probably work best as a daytime soap now - something akin to Doctors. It's just far too weak to be in the prime time position it is now.

I think one of the reason's behind the show's change is that it's now aimed at a different audience - primarily kids. I mean, goats inside the school and playing dress up?! But the really weird thing about this show is that, amid all the childish elements, writers will chuck in themes such as rape (Dynasty) and drugs (Barry in the last episode), which just does not work at all. I just had to laugh when they played dubstep music to represent the mental affects of taking drugs

There's nothing particularly shocking or dark in the show now. The earlier series were aimed at adults and late-teens, I would say, hence the much grittier themes. Does anyone know if it's always aired at 8pm? I might have read somewhere that Series 1 & 2 aired past the watershed but I'm not sure.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th October 2013, 02:24 PM

I agree with you completely. They say they try to tackle these issues as appropriately as possible but they are just NOT dealt with in the way they should be when there's all this comedy going on at the same time. It's just like taking the piss out of the subject that they're trying to deal with (don't get me wrong though, the way they dealt with Dynasty's rape story was absolutely FANTASTIC).

I think the show's always aired at 8pm, though - apart from on one occasion where 4.1 was 90 minutes and it aired at 7:30pm (how they got away with that though I will never know - it was a gun storyline and they had it on an hour and a bit before the watershed?)

Posted by: Common Sense 26th October 2013, 02:47 PM

Having been a fan from the start, never missing an episode, I'm not enjoying it very much these days. I think the series should move to 9pm frankly and beef itself up a bit with some swear words. Must be the only secondary school in the world where no-one swears!! Also the storylines could beome a bit more aimed at teens/adults, more about sex etc. Does anyone agree with me? Yes I know you can have such series without swearing but is just an idea.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 26th October 2013, 02:53 PM

They used to swear a lot in series 1-3, and there was the odd swear word thrown in here and there in series 1-6, but after that they seemed to just cut it out completely. When they moved to Scotland they did have the odd swear word here and there at the start of series 8, but then it was just removed. Either it doesn't fit in with the scripts that they're writing (aimed at children), or it's that they're being far too cautious and need to move the show to after the watershed to explore these issues in depth and actually have them mean something (I'm willing to bet it's them being over-cautious and it not just being a case of not fitting in with the script(s), though).

Posted by: Parallel Reality 26th October 2013, 07:00 PM

IMO, it's a school based drama, and the overall theme will always be relevant and will have people interested in it. I.e. people who go to school. I think going to Scotland has caused some damage but that can change as it's all about the storylines, and characters, for WR anyway which is only on once a week. It's the predictable characters and boring plots that have severely contributed to the demise IMO, which is largely the responsibility of the writers. I don't think the majority of viewers are particularly bothered about the location. I do agree about them needing a committed team though.

Posted by: liamk97 26th October 2013, 08:34 PM

I saw Angela Griffin (better known as Kim Campbell) in One Man, Two Guvnors at theatre in London on Thursday night. The show itself was horrendous but Angela was great acting-wise and looks - BOOBS. *.*

Posted by: simonc13 31st October 2013, 02:28 PM

Not entirely sure if I dare to attempt tonight's episode. I almost died of cringing at the last one! I guess it's still good for a laugh or two though (or I might just stick on the end of the Series 2 boxset).

Posted by: Calum Sandé 31st October 2013, 03:05 PM

This week's looks a lot more serious, more about Kacey and Nikki's relationship, and Nicola Adams is also guest starring, so probably worth tuning in - and we'll likely see more turns in the friction between Christine and Simon.

Posted by: simonc13 31st October 2013, 06:57 PM

You've convinced me to give it a go! Nothing can be as bad as last week.. I think!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 31st October 2013, 09:00 PM

Well that was certainly an improvement on last week's episode. The scenes at the river were quite dramatic, but Simon is just THE WORST. I honestly hope he gets sacked next week or doesn't get the job. George's witty comebacks to everything he says

Looking forward to seeing who gets the job next week (better be Christine)!

Posted by: Suedehead2 31st October 2013, 09:03 PM

Let's face it, it couldn't really have been worse than last week. The incident with the "supply teacher" was all a bit telegraphed but at least it was something of a return to form.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 1st November 2013, 02:31 PM

Oh my god... The end of this preview! *.*

Posted by: Ramz 1st November 2013, 07:02 PM

It just got interesting!!!

Who the hell is Steven though, I hope we're not venturing back into pupil of the week storylines, I thought even they had realised what an awful time for the show that was.

Posted by: simonc13 1st November 2013, 09:27 PM

This week's episode was much better... but the cringe-o-meter rocketed back up to 100 when Shaznay said to Darren "when you mess with one sister, you mess with us all!" Possibly the worst and most lazy feminist line I've heard in a while!

Also - when the show tries to do more controversial storylines now (such as the whole Lenny and the supply teacher etc.), it sits quite awkwardly amid all the jolly, childish atmosphere the show has these days - like it's just been copied and pasted in as a token gesture. At least they're trying though.

That Steven pupil looks interesting!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 1st November 2013, 09:30 PM

Oh I agree with you - it's like they don't want to confront the serious issue they're dealing with at all and instead want to just add in comedic scenes so that they don't have to show everything that's happening and something like that that you'd see in real life. They've just stopped actually telling the story of issues that happen to real people in real life which is a shame.

I do agree that Steven looks interesting - hopefully he sticks around for more than just the one episode (and he does look rather beautiful ).

Posted by: simonc13 2nd November 2013, 01:11 PM

Oh yes he's very beautiful! I imagine that he's Connor's replacement (as he is slightly similar looking...) for when Connor goes off to cookery school or whatever. The sooner him and Imogen have left it, the better. There is a serious lack of good pupils in it at the minute, they need to bring in some genuinely interesting ones soon. And please let them stop with the dramatic introductions that then lead to nothing... Lula's crazy family haven't been heard of or even mentioned since her opening few episodes, the twins barely talk about their older brother after all the fuss at the start of this series. The connections between episodes as far as these storylines go are seriously weak.

I keep on saying all this, but it does seem a little pointless now as the show is way past its sell-by date. In hindsight it should have just ended after Series 7, with something like a 2-hour special tagged on the end in which the legendary characters returned for the finale. The whole Scotland thing just isn't working and I can't see how it will suddenly pick up and return to former glories!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd November 2013, 01:21 PM

I hope he replaces Connor - he looks like a less irritating and more SEXY version of him (although will Connor be leaving after Thursday coming's episode, or after 9.20?). I agree about the lack of good pupils. Connor and Imogen being the two main pupils (and the main relationship) of a rather dry group is really terrible for the show. What they need to do is just keep Dynasty and Kevin but bin everybody else and get a whole new group of pupils in. (and also get Gus back because he was extraordinarily sexy ).

They really need to do another feature length episode in the future - the 1hr 30m episode with the gun in the school was so, so good. They need to try and pull something like that off again.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 7th November 2013, 09:02 PM

Wow, that was actually one of the best episodes since the show moved to Scotland! Such a good ending to the term - there was so much going on too! SO glad Christine got the job in the end! They keep hinting at a relapse though, so I'm suspecting half way through the next ten episodes she'll turn to alcohol again and that'll be how the new Head is appointed. Glad Barry got found out as well, didn't think Carol would disown him, though! The show's gonna feel somewhat very different without Kacey now, though. Hopefully she comes back and isn't gone for good. Definitely the best episode of the series so far, hopefully it gets better from here!

Posted by: Common Sense 8th November 2013, 02:37 PM

Great episode last night. Glad she got the job and not him. Both me and my daughter said before we watched it together that we weren't watching when it returned but have both changed our minds!!

Posted by: simonc13 8th November 2013, 04:30 PM

Well, colour me impressed! Just caught up on iPlayer. Definitely, like Calum said, one of the best Scotland episodes so far. Steven is a great new addition. Kacey had a great last episode. Liking the possible new relationship for Nikki. Simon has grown on me, too. To compare this to that awful 'history' episode we had a few weeks back - well, let's just say to forget about that one forever! Glad to see this show can still pull off a semi-decent episode.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 13th December 2013, 07:44 PM

Returning on 8 January at 8:30pm.

Hopefully the change of time is not just because there's something random is on before it. That would be a much better time to have it airing! (getting excited about a change in transmission time )

Posted by: Calum Sandé 15th December 2013, 02:31 PM

Sounds like a BOG standard start-of-term episode, but hopefully it's good and keeps up the massive increase in quality from episode 10!

Posted by: simonc13 17th December 2013, 05:42 PM

Definitely looking forward to Nikki's new relationship with Sue's sister - this show desperately needs a good adult relationship! They had a good chemistry. Too much focus on the kids recently.

One request from me: less cringe, more believable drama. That's it!

Thanks for posting the info Calum

Posted by: Calum Sandé 17th December 2013, 05:54 PM

I really hope they don't end up moving away from it because they don't want to focus on a serious issue that CAN actually work, ala Nikki and Lorraine (that fabricated after about one or two smooching sessions )

Agree with you about there being less cringe. They need to simmer down the comedy and focus on drama.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 21st December 2013, 02:39 PM

9.11 is titled 'Bad Girl'

Posted by: Calum Sandé 22nd December 2013, 02:36 PM

9.12

Posted by: simonc13 26th December 2013, 09:10 AM

Hmm, 9.12 looks good - Zoe Lucker was great in Footballer's Wives, so it's nice to see her actually get a storyline of her own away from her children. Her character actually has a lot of potential, so fingers crossed they don't mess this one up!

I honestly think the key to getting this show back on track is to cast some brilliant new teachers. Let's face it, the show was more or less focused on the adult's lives in the earlier series, and it worked. The problems started when too much focus was put on the kids (hence the show resembling something from CBBC!) and the teachers/adults fell into the background of the drama. All they need to do is cast quality actors and get in some good writers who can think up new and exciting stories (I'd volunteer myself for that one!)

The show can still be saved, but if the rest of Series 9 is as bad as the first half then the end may be nigh after Series 10! That 'historical' episode will surely go down as the worst episode ever..

Posted by: simonc13 9th January 2014, 05:30 PM

Did anybody watch this last night? Tried for ten minutes but it was just so dull!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 9th January 2014, 05:37 PM

I watched it. I really like Gabriella, brilliant addition and I'm already loving her story, but my fear is that the conclusion's gonna be so wishy washy. The episodes need to grip us and have action in them again, but now they're probably representative of what would happen in a normal school any other day, and it's quite boring.

Best part of the episode was obviously Connor naked in the kitchen

Posted by: APRIL J 10th January 2014, 12:11 PM

It was pretty terrible, I switched off at 9pm for CBB instead!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 10th January 2014, 12:15 PM

I really think they need to stop commissioning so many episodes so far in advance. Series 9 is already telling the producers that the viewers aren't quite as happy with it as they have been previous series' (well, it hasn't been as great as it was since series 6)... I doubt a new Head and a different cast in Series 10 is going to make the show any better when the real problem is the stories. They've ran out.

Posted by: APRIL J 10th January 2014, 12:16 PM

They need to cut their losses and axe the show before they start filming for series 10. Otherwise, the BBC will release they will be stuck with it into next year!

Posted by: simonc13 16th January 2014, 04:49 PM

It needs to be axed now. It's turning into a bad daytime soap. I don't think the BBC will though!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 16th January 2014, 05:11 PM

It really isn't getting any better. Which is a shame, but the BBC need to put an end to it. I'm really surprised it's still managing to attract a large (enough) audience week after week.

The only characters worth tuning in for now are Dynasty, Kevin, Christine, Gabriella and Connor (trust me to start liking him just as he gets ready to leave ).

Posted by: APRIL J 16th January 2014, 10:26 PM

Laurie Brett is the only saving grace of the show, without her it would be in a black hole of awfulness!

Posted by: simonc13 19th January 2014, 03:17 PM

I wonder if the BBC realise what a mess they have made of this show?!

I think the high amounts of viewers comes from predominantly younger viewers now. I can't imagine many young adults tuning in for this anymore! I'll dip and out and see if it improves but I doubt it will.

Also - looks as though a potentially good storyline with Nikki and her girlfriend has been wrapped up in record time! I guess now they're engaged that'll form the basis for Nikki's exit.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 19th January 2014, 03:19 PM

I wonder how it's actually going to play out? Do we think she'll do a Rachel and just disappear so madly in love?

Also, I'm SO glad Eve's back in this week's episode - one of my favourites.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 5th March 2014, 08:58 PM

That was by far the best episode in a LONG while tonight!

Posted by: Common Sense 6th March 2014, 03:49 PM

I read that all that's saving it from the axe now is that it's profitable as it sells to a lot of countries including the US.

Posted by: Common Sense 6th March 2014, 03:50 PM

Yep, good episode and next week's last in the series looks good too. Assume it returns in the autumn?

Posted by: Jạy 6th March 2014, 04:29 PM

That moment when Christine storms out of the meeting and flings her arms up in the air... that seriously needs to be made into a gif.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 6th March 2014, 04:57 PM

OMG YES JAY - that was one of the best Christine moments ever

Yep, I'm assuming series 10 will start around August/September time seeing as it most if it's apparently been filmed already!

Posted by: APRIL J 12th March 2014, 04:01 PM

I decided to watch last week's episode just now on BBC iPlayer. I was very pleasantly surprised. The best episode in a very long time (although I haven't watched the episodes since January, so I don't know whether they were any good). It's spurred me on to give the show another chance with tonight series finale. I really like Christine, and felt for her which is what they episode needed to do. Laurie Brett really is a fantastic actress. I'm hoping they wrap her story up, and show her moving on from the alcohol addition in the next series. Obviously she's not going to be head teacher anymore, but it would be nice to see her as a Deputy Head and back in the classroom, which is where the character worked best. I was VERY unrealistic that Christine would've become Head Teacher in real life. The Acting Head job would've gone to the Deputy Head (Tom or Nicki), and either one of them or someone new would've been promoted permanently after one term.

Posted by: Common Sense 12th March 2014, 06:14 PM

Agreed. Christine would never have been made head in real life due to her drinking problems.

Posted by: Suedehead2 12th March 2014, 06:41 PM

It is also rather unlikely that Simon would be appointed acting head by his father-in-law.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2014, 09:00 PM

Fabulous end to the series! So glad Christine's staying; although given her status in EE now I assume she'll be a mere background character.

Posted by: APRIL J 12th March 2014, 09:23 PM

I assume the only reason for this storyline was because Laurie Brett now has to split her time between the two shows. It would've been odd for her to continue as head teacher if she wasn't on screen that much.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 12th March 2014, 09:27 PM

Apparently it was the plan since she joined that she would be a struggling alcoholic, get help, get the Head job then have a relapse so she'd probably have returned to being a normal teacher / had less screen time either way.

Posted by: Common Sense 13th March 2014, 06:18 PM

Anyone know who becomes the new head then? In spoilers of course! Lowsley seems too young and inexperienced to me!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 13th March 2014, 06:27 PM

Vaughan Fitzgerald played by Neil Pearson

Posted by: Common Sense 13th March 2014, 06:43 PM

Thanks.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd April 2014, 10:20 AM

The BBC have officially confirmed that the show will be ending after Series 10!

So sad to see something I've grown up with finally coming to an end but I would agree with them that it's come to its natural end (even if it stopped being as amazing as it once was a long time ago). Hope we get an amazing episode to finish on!

Posted by: G R I F F 2nd April 2014, 01:06 PM

Does anyone even still watch this?

Posted by: Rabbit Heart 2nd April 2014, 01:11 PM

Yes, Calum.

Posted by: G R I F F 2nd April 2014, 01:16 PM

Well that explains it. Looks like it's taken a blow by Calum Sky Plussing the episode to watch half of it instead

Posted by: Regina 2nd April 2014, 01:18 PM

--

This should have ended long ago, no decents actors left in it now. It all went to shit when Rachel left.

Posted by: April 2nd April 2014, 01:59 PM

As usual, incorrect opinion. Laurie Brett is one of the best they've ever had! Other than that, you're correct.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd April 2014, 01:59 PM

So true, it probably would have been a completely different show now had she stayed on.

Posted by: Regina 2nd April 2014, 02:01 PM

Umm, no.

Posted by: April 2nd April 2014, 02:11 PM

Umm, yes.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd April 2014, 02:14 PM

April stahp

Let's just appreciate the many MOMENTS Laurie's given us before the show's time is up

Posted by: G R I F F 2nd April 2014, 02:26 PM

True QOL

(of mundane Scottish secondary schools)

Posted by: Regina 2nd April 2014, 02:28 PM

Laurie is a truely godawful, unbearable woman and actress.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 2nd April 2014, 02:32 PM

let's go back and remember the many moments of Rachel tbh.

1) standing in front of the digger as the school collapsed around her



2) basically all of 3.20 (the fire and the school finding out she was a hoe)



3) going back into the school after the gun shot



True Queen.

Posted by: Common Sense 2nd April 2014, 02:52 PM

Sad news for me. Haven't missed an episode and still enjoy it.

Posted by: T Boy 2nd April 2014, 04:08 PM

The end of this shows life cycle was at least 3 years ago if not longer. Truly great for a long time but shocking over the last few years.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th April 2014, 10:02 PM

The site will be demolished following the end of filming in May, Greenock Council have confirmed!

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/news/a562591/waterloo-road-building-to-be-knocked-down-following-show-cancellation.html#~oAvwYozmAhUaUQ

Posted by: liamk97 4th April 2014, 10:27 PM

Can it be demolished with the writers of the past couple of series still inside?

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th April 2014, 10:29 PM

! That would be a sensible idea.

Keep the one(s) that wrote Christine's alcohol storyline from start to finish though x

Posted by: Liаm 4th April 2014, 10:29 PM

Laurie is amazing as Jane Beale but Christine never appealed to me. Didn't watch much of her though, I gave up on Waterloo Road a while ago.

Posted by: liamk97 4th April 2014, 10:50 PM

I think I liked Christine more than I would have done because of her being portrayed by a recognisable face. But even so I still think I would have thought she was a good character anyway, especially with the alcohol storyline which was the only good thing the writers created, like Calum said. That was probably the only thing that kept we watching the Scottish series for as long as I did.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th April 2014, 10:50 PM

Have you not watched the relapse episodes yet Liam?

Posted by: liamk97 4th April 2014, 11:13 PM

I don't think so! I can remember when she was tempted to drink again after the death of Tom - in fact I think that may have been the last episode I watched in full!

Posted by: Calum Sandé 4th April 2014, 11:14 PM

OMG you need to watch the last few episodes of series 9 - some of the best of the show! Laurie's acting is just top notch

Posted by: Suedehead2 4th April 2014, 11:21 PM

I haven't watched Eastenders since some time in the last century so I had no idea who Laurie Brett was when she turned up at Waterloo Road. She's certainly better than the plank of wood who "portrays" Nicki Boston.

Posted by: _Nīck_ 5th April 2014, 11:41 AM

Nooo cannot deal, gone before its time.

Posted by: Common Sense 5th April 2014, 02:46 PM

I agree but seems we're in a minority.

Posted by: Cameron 5th April 2014, 03:01 PM

I haven't watched this since series 8 I think, so it doesn't affect me

Posted by: Common Sense 6th April 2014, 03:36 PM

It was hardly worth introducing a new Headteacher was it really? Christine could have just continued.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 6th April 2014, 05:20 PM

Or at the very least having Simon step up.

I think the writers obviously wrote the series 10 scripts not knowing that it would be ending after that series.

Posted by: Calum Sandé 1st June 2014, 03:50 PM

Filming has started on the final episodes!

Posted by: Calum Hood 1st July 2014, 05:38 PM

A load of new castings have been announced for series 10; the final episodes.

Laura Aikman, Rege Jean Page, Stefano Braschi, Andrew Still, Holly Jack, Finlay MacMillan, Charlotte Beaumont and Armin Karim will all be appearing.

Holly Jack is going to be just PERFECT, she was by far and away the best thing about River City And great to see Laura Aikman's going to be a lead character as well, very interesting!

Posted by: Common Sense 22nd August 2014, 03:13 PM

Sad day today as filming ends for good. Anyone know when the final series starts? Nothing on t5he official website.

Posted by: lewistgreen 22nd August 2014, 03:19 PM

I remember reading somewhere that it wouldn't start until 2015. If this is the case then maybe there's still another few episodes of Series 9 to show?

EDIT: From http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/news/a591929/waterloo-road-to-film-final-scenes-today-after-ten-series.html#~oNGxHToWpJo8p7, "The next block of ten episodes is expected to air this year, while the final series will be shown in 2015."

Posted by: Aprilconda 22nd August 2014, 04:15 PM

I might tune back in for this series since it's the last! Just for nostalgia reasons.

Posted by: liamk97 22nd August 2014, 04:50 PM

^Same. May catch up from where I left off too, although I can feel it may be a bit of a chore.

Posted by: Calum Hood 22nd August 2014, 05:00 PM

Liam you NEED to watch the last block of 10 episodes (particularly the last two). Laurie Brett at her absolute FINEST.

Posted by: liamk97 22nd August 2014, 05:08 PM

It'll be worthwhile then if it means watching great acting from Laurie Brett! She was easily the main attraction to the Scottish series with her alcohol addiction storyline.

I think it was soon after Series 9 began that I stopped watching - almost a year ago now, wow!

Posted by: Calum Hood 29th September 2014, 08:34 PM

FINALLY we have some new information on when this will be back - 10 episodes due to air in October!

Posted by: Calum Hood 2nd October 2014, 07:10 PM

Back on Wednesday 15 October!

Posted by: Common Sense 12th October 2014, 04:07 PM

Yeah. First 10 of the final 20 episodes.

Posted by: Suedehead2 19th November 2014, 11:40 PM

All this excitement about the new series and no comments

Posted by: Common Sense 4th December 2014, 06:40 PM

Really enjoying it so far and like the new Head-teacher. Wish it hadn't been axed. Suppose it had run it's course though.

Posted by: Saint Maurice 11th December 2014, 03:21 PM

The last 10 episodes will be moved to BBC Three starting on Monday the 5th of January at 8PM. Weird move as it only were the last episodes.

Posted by: December 11th December 2014, 04:04 PM

Bit bizarre, but not surprising since it's tanking in the ratings. It's been losing to BBC Two every week, which is very poor.

Posted by: Ultraviolence1989 11th December 2014, 04:23 PM

Wish it stayed on BBC1 but this series has been really poor (bar Queen Gabriella's return episode). When this 10 block of episodes is done I am planning on doing a mid series review and review the characters

Posted by: Calum Hood 11th December 2014, 06:38 PM

I'm not surprised it's been moved to BBC Three, but it's something that should have happened a while ago.

I must say though, this series has had me gripped but has annoyed me in so many other ways. The Justin/Tiffany relationship is just the cutest thing ever I bloody hate Allie, but all of the scenes with her have been so dramatic! Very much looking forward to the conclusion.

Posted by: Saint Maurice 11th December 2014, 07:20 PM

I actually hate that relationship and everything has been done before again (Donte/Chlo and Connor/Imogen)

When they moved to Scotland the series has been a bit shit but i still watched it. The best series were 1-5 IMO. Was a bit disappointed when Chlo/Donte and Mika/Brett didn't come back for Tom's funeral last series tbh.

Posted by: Calum Hood 11th December 2014, 07:28 PM

Well it's probably in the criteria that once one of the power couple moves on, they need another one, but I'd say Justin/Tiffany has been quite different to the likes of Donte and Chlo in many ways.

Posted by: Ryan. 11th December 2014, 07:55 PM

It's been a great series yet again, my favourite episode so far being the Gabriella comeback episode - I wish they'd used her more this series but I guess they couldn't considering the last series was largely about her. Hopefully she'll be back as one of the mainly featured characters in the next 10 episodes!

Posted by: Common Sense 4th January 2015, 07:06 PM

Back tomorrow, Monday, 8pm on BBC3 but also 10.35pm on BBC1.

Posted by: Calum Hood 6th January 2015, 12:33 AM

Actually felt quite emotional watching that episode (mainly at the start with the 'Into the Blue' scene and at the very end there).

I feel like that episode was such a return to form for the show though, it really feels like they've tried to recapture what made series 1-5 so good, and it seems to have worked! Laura Aikman is just PERFECT as Lorna, loving her so much already!

Posted by: Robot 6th January 2015, 01:19 AM

I only watch this on and off but I actually welled up at that scene with Kenzie and Lorna - superbly acted all episode by Kenzie's actress in particularly. I agree that the drama and how well it was portrayed actually did hark back to the emotion that it used to evoke from me back in the early days.

Posted by: Maurice Horan 6th January 2015, 12:42 PM

The first scene with all the students outside reminded me of the opening scene of the very first episode.

Don't think they will bring old characters back but i do hope they do some winks to the past. But i would be funny to have cameos from Steph Haydock or Jack Rimmer but they don't have any connection with the current cast. Only Harley and Maggie are still there from the Rochdale days.

Posted by: Maurice Horan 12th January 2015, 10:06 AM

Kevin Chalkey is leaving the series in tonights episode

Posted by: Calum Hood 12th January 2015, 05:59 PM

Thank god for that! He was great to start with, but since his stroke they've kind of forgotten he exists.

Personally looking forward to Marco joining the cast next week

Posted by: April 4th February 2015, 12:24 PM

It's such a shame that they've moved Waterloo Road out of primetime because this half-series has been fantastic so far. I'm getting the same vibes as S3 of WR. Why they've waited until the last half-series to improve the quality is beyond me? At least quality wise, they should go out with a high.

Posted by: Jamesus 4th February 2015, 12:30 PM

I feel like this show has been on the constant decline for years I can't bring myself to watch it anymore..

Please tell me it's improved over the last 2 series I've missed out on??

Posted by: Ultraviolence1989 4th February 2015, 05:19 PM

This series (apart from I think it was last weeks episode) has been way better than the last couple, such a shame it is on BBC3 now

Has Gabriella left as she has barely been in this series?

Posted by: Calum Hood 4th February 2015, 05:20 PM

I thought the first four episodes were brilliant (particularly the first and the fourth), but last night's was just a bit of a shambles really. Wasn't quite sure what to make of it. And I can't help feeling (as bad as it is) that Sonya's cancer story would have been much more powerful had she actually been diagnosed with cancer rather than her colleagues thinking she had it when she doesn't... Unless there's a major fallout to come of it.

Posted by: Maurice Horan 11th February 2015, 03:20 PM

They started demolishing the school in Greenock
http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s24/waterloo-road/news/a628253/waterloo-road-demolition-work-begins-at-shows-scottish-home.html#~p3ZNyS8arie34y

The previous school in Rochdale has been demolished for a while now and they are building houses on that site now.

Posted by: Common Sense 13th February 2015, 03:48 PM

Really enjoying this series more than the last couple.

Posted by: April 23rd February 2015, 10:48 PM

It looks like they're finally going to be exploring Lorna's backstory next week.

Posted by: Calum Hood 23rd February 2015, 11:04 PM

In the penultimate episode of the whole show. Yay?

Posted by: Ultraviolence1989 5th March 2015, 11:11 PM

It's such a shame this was moved to bbc3, this series has pretty much been a return to form and an excellent series. I have absolutely loved Bonnie and Lorna of the new additions. My only problem so far has been the fact Leo was the stalker as I guessed it was him from the first text.

I can't believe it's the last ever episode next week, it's going to feel so sad

Posted by: Ultraviolence1989 9th March 2015, 09:38 PM

Loved tonight's episode but really it didn't feel like the end of Waterloo road forever apart from the last minute or so. I also wish Lorna's husband's story went on a bit longed, I did think it was going to get a bit more interesting. Though it was a really good episode and it showed the spirit of the school

So sad to see this finished now This series really was a return to form

I am also going to do my favourite 50/100 Waterloo road characters soon I am interested to see where they end up as I am only certain on my top 2.

Posted by: Maurice Horan 9th March 2015, 09:44 PM

My 2 favourite pupils from all series were Josh Clarkson and Mika Grainger. Favourite teachers were Grantly Budgen,Steph Haydock,Tom Clarkson and ''Chalkie''.
This series were really good but series 1-5 will always be the best.
The last episode aired exactly 9 years after the first episode was aired.

Posted by: Common Sense 10th March 2015, 03:38 PM

Sad this has ended. May have said this before but have never missed an episode. Started to watch Series 2 on BBC1 and loved it so borrowed the series 1 DVD set from our local library, brand new as it had just come in. Never missed one since.

Posted by: Klaus 17th May 2017, 10:57 PM

The Waterloo Road YouTube channel will apparently be uploading a different FULL episode each week. It won't be all the episodes but some 'classic' episodes. The first ever episode was uploaded today:

Posted by: common sense 18th May 2017, 07:52 AM

Thanks. Will watch that later.

Posted by: Maurice! 18th May 2017, 06:04 PM

They have uploaded all 8 episodes of series 1 so they might upload all episodes after all.

Posted by: Klaus 20th September 2019, 07:09 PM

The full series (all episodes S1-10) are now on iPlayer for any fans wanting to reviist the multiple school explosions and randomly moving a school to a different country!

Posted by: Jordan Lee 20th September 2019, 09:32 PM

I don’t know if I want to watch from where I stopped watching or go back to the start.

Looking at comments on here it seems the end series was quite good

I stopped watching during S8 I think.

For me the first three series were the best but seasons 4-6 were also watchable and had their moments but the original students and teachers were my favourites with the exception of Rachel Mason and the Kelly family.

The quality would’ve held up better with less episodes per season though. I think that’s why I loved S1 and 2 so much because they were shorter so there was less padding. From S4 onwards there’d be episodes of nothing going although that was a bigger issue by the time S7 happened tbh.

Posted by: Botchia 21st September 2019, 01:17 PM

The first three series of Waterloo Road were so good!! The show kinda died when Rachel left, it just wasn't the same after that </3

Posted by: Billy. 25th June 2020, 11:45 PM

I’ve been watching Waterloo Road for the first time and I’m obsessed although I’m really sad as all the great characters seemed to leave at the end of Season 5 and theres such a noticeable dip in quality from 6.

My favourite students were Danielle, Karla and Aleesha, they were so underrated. In terms of teachers I love Ruby, Steph and also Jasmine Koreshi!

Posted by: Liam.k. 26th June 2020, 12:01 AM

I've been rewatching the series too! There was definitely a dip after Series 5 but I thought the first half of Series 6 held up well. I'm onto Series 7 now and it's getting a bit of a struggle now. I enjoyed it at the time but having watched Series 1-4 since and now rewatching everything all together, I can see that the wheels were really coming off. There's only one story keeping me interested (I won't spoil it for you if you've not got up to this point yet).

Posted by: Billy. 26th June 2020, 12:15 AM

I’m just at the end of Season 6 at the moment but really struggling to keep going / Kyle, Ronan, Vicky are no good substitutes and Karen Fisher has been atrocious. I miss Rachel - its weird because i wasn’t too fussed when Chlo/Dante etc left but Karla,Michaela etc leaving has disappointed me. At least Janeece is still there!

Posted by: Liam.k. 26th June 2020, 12:31 AM

I actually liked Karen throughout Series 6 and was wondering why fans mostly seem to dislike her. She's become a bitch in Series 7 so if you hate her now, be prepared!

I know what you mean about feeling different about the end of Series 4 and Series 5. I noticed a change after Series 4 but there was enough going on in Series 5 to keep me interested as well as there still being characters like Rachel, Steph, Kim etc. that I really liked so, although I missed Chlo, Donte, Janeece etc., it didn't feel like there was too much of a hole in the show. The exits in Series 5 were much more noticeable.

Posted by: Billy. 26th June 2020, 12:41 AM

You know, I think through Rachels tenure there was such a focus on the school and how to make it better and you could tel she lived for it, whereas with Karen the job is clearly just that to her and the focus is on her family life.

I’m so glad that Janeece came back, and Ruby has been a saving grace this series too!