Back in the old East End

On the BBC Writersroom blog, scriptwriter Abi Brown gives an inside account of writing for EastEnders.

There’s always so much to cram into an episode of Eastenders, bit like playing Tetrus - all the pieces need to fit smoothly together and move around the square with ease. 5 different stories are playing at any one time in a typical episode - count them next time you watch. Then there’s the added fun of the scheduler’s notes.

For example:
“Only 3 pages in the Vic please, I know it’s Peggy’s story but, Peggy is not available. Stacey can’t be seen with Steven and Bradley, Bradley can be seen with Stacey - but only in the Allotments. You can only use the Minute Mart if there’s an ‘R’ in the month. Wellard is on holiday…etc”