[alex_front2]

CS is now a different show. Its now 100% plot driven. Big iconic characters like Bet Lynch are from a bygone era. Its about iconic SLs now.

The characters now are mere conduits to affairs explosions pregnancy rivalry and alcholicism. Characters are now safe identikit interchangeable and generic. When Kym Marsh (Michelle) fell preggers they gave the Frank Foster almost rape SL to Samia Ghadie's character (forgotten name). Both characters were samey. You couldn't really have hand over a Bet Lync storyline so easily. Bet was idiosyncratic.

They can recast characters now who been on show for a while as the characters are bland and forgettable. They could never recast Bet even if JG been on show for a week. I am no fan of JG or even Corrie but Bet was an iconic role.

Actors now get little rehearsal time, film for 4 - 5 eps and despite good salaries are no longer treated like stars. Free foods been cut. They pay for parking. JG would hate not being treated like a huge star. The show has changed. There is no place for Julie or Bet.