NOW INTRODUCING RITA SIMONS TO THE STAR-STUDDED SOAP ENSEMBLE
TUNE INTO DRAMA QUEENS
WEDNESDAY 10TH APRIL AT 9PM, ITVBE & ITVX
DOWNLOAD PRESS SHOT HERE
LONDON, UK – March 2024 – Prepare for an exclusive journey into the lives of Britain’s soap royalty with the launch of a brand-new reality TV series Drama Queens, launching Wednesday 10th April at 9pm on ITVBe & ITVX for eight episodes.
Drama Queens promises an authentic and aspirational glimpse into the lives of some of the nation’s favourite stars from three of the most iconic soaps in the UK – Hollyoaks, Coronation Street and Emmerdale, taking viewers beyond the scripted drama of the screen, and into the real lives of soap personalities.
Watched by over 10 million people a week, Amy Walsh, Brooke Vincent, Ellie Leach, Jamelia, Jorgie Porter, Laura Norton, Lucy Fallon, Roxy Shahidi and Rita Simons are now opening the doors to their real lives, showcasing their personalities, struggles, and triumphs.
Focused on Manchester and the Northwest, Drama Queens promises exclusive access to the cast’s professional commitments, as they juggle late-night finishes, photo-shoots, and last-minute line learning, with their family lives.
Viewers can expect an inside look at the real, unscripted lives of these beloved soap stars, going behind the scenes of red-carpet events, awards ceremonies, holidays, house moves, and precious family moments. With the soap stars leading interconnected lives, the series introduces the genuine friendship groups between them.
Follow Jorgie as she juggles Hollyoaks with home life, navigating modern relationship complexities with fiancé Ollie and son Forrest. See how she supports Ollie’s ventures, including promoting his clothing line, and join them on a journey to Marbella for a deeper look into their history and aspirations.
Meanwhile, Jamelia embarks on a transformative journey, prioritising her own well-being and family over the glitz of Hollyoaks. As she prepares to bid farewell to the show, we witness her emotional transition, packing up her life in the UK to start anew in Dubai, all while cherishing the bond with her four daughters.
Ellie’s life takes a triumphant turn as she basks in the glory of her Strictly Come Dancing victory, shedding light on her post-soap career uncertainties and newfound confidence. However, with newfound fame comes its own set of challenges, as Ellie learns to navigate the spotlight with the unwavering support of her loved ones.
Lucy finds solace and fulfilment on the familiar cobbles of Corrie, where she has forged lasting bonds with her on-screen family and fans alike. As she embraces the joys of motherhood and romance, Lucy grapples with the desire for a deeper commitment, setting the stage for a romantic getaway to Amsterdam.
Brooke launches herself into a whirlwind journey of self-discovery, balancing motherhood with her aspirations of becoming a stage actor. Despite facing setbacks and mum guilt, Brooke’s determination shines through as she prepares to make her mark on the theatre stage.
Amy’s story develops amidst the emotional rollercoaster of her gripping storyline on Emmerdale. Juggling the demands of her career with the complexities of newlywed life and motherhood, Amy finds solace in the unwavering support of her friends and colleagues.
Laura’s return to work on Emmerdale marks a poignant chapter in her journey, as she contends with the challenges of parenting children with Ushers Syndrome. Amidst their advocacy work, Laura and her partner Mark strive to find balance in their hectic lives, celebrating milestones and overcoming obstacles together.
Roxy’s journey on Dancing on Ice offers a glimpse into her relentless pursuit of perfection, juxtaposed with the demands of her burgeoning career on Emmerdale. Amidst the chaos, Roxy finds solace in holistic therapies and unwavering friendships, lending support to her colleagues in their personal and professional endeavours.
Rita’s story unfolds as she commences a new chapter in her life, relocating to the North for a fresh start on Hollyoaks. Reflecting on her colourful career and personal struggles, Rita deals with major life decisions, from embracing a clean-living lifestyle to navigating the complexities of motherhood and career aspirations.
Drama Queens is made by Lime Pictures and has been commissioned by ITV’s Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Commissioning & Acquisitions and Controller, ITV2 & ITVBe, and Amanda Stavri, Commissioning Editor, Reality. Developed by Becky Cadman, Creative Director: Formats & Talent, Lime Pictures and executive produced by Cheryl Price.
Rebecca Kenny-Smith, Director of Programming, Unscripted, Lime Pictures said; “We’re thrilled to bring audiences a new kind of reality show that goes beyond the glitz and glamour, offering a genuine and raw portrayal of what it’s really like to be a soap star.”
Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Commissioning & Acquisitions and Controller, ITV2, ITVBe & CITV, said “ITV are excited to bring a brand-new commission to viewers screens in 2024, which will showcase the real lives of some of the country’s best loved soap stars. This behind-the-scenes journey is bound to strengthen the bond between audiences and these beloved TV personalities, reigniting your love for them in a whole new way.”
*ENDS*
For any further press information, please contact:
Catherine Hunter-Smith – Senior PR Manager – Lime Pictures, Lion TV & Wise Owl Films.
catherine.hunter-smith@limepictures.com
NOTES TO EDITORS
The talented line-up of Drama Queens includes:
Brooke Vincent @coronationstreet
Jorgie Porter @hollyoaksofficial
Rita Simons @hollyoaksofficial
Amy said, “I made my first appearance on Emmerdale in 2014! For 10 years viewers have only really known me as Tracy, and she has been through a lot. Now it’s time to show people who I am in other areas of my life and how chaotic that can be at times”.
Brooke said, “I am excited to show the authentic side of having small children whilst trying to navigate my way back into the acting world. Drama Queens allows me to showcase the reality of trying to find the work/home life balance of a young actor in what can seem a glamorous world.”
Ellie said, “I’m so excited about Drama Queens, people are so used to seeing me play the character Faye Windass and I’m just so excited for everyone to see who I am and what goes on in my day-to-day life as just Ellie!”
Jamelia said, “I’m so excited to be on the cast of Drama Queens, you’ll get to see another side to me and my reality. Motherhood and acting are two incredibly challenging jobs, but doing both at the same time? Chaos is inevitable!”
Jorgie said, “I am looking forward to letting people in on my life beyond the Hollyoaks set, Drama Queens is an amazing opportunity for viewers to get to know the real me away from Theresa McQueen”.
Laura said, “I am really excited to be involved in the show, and I love the premise. Getting a glimpse into our real lives with the struggles and celebrations of motherhood. To show the importance of the friendships of my soap family, and how we support each other through the juggle of our lives on Emmerdale with the challenges of everyday life.”
Lucy said, “I joined the Corrie family in 2015 as Bethany Platt and it has been the most incredible journey. I’m now excited for viewers to see a real ‘behind the scenes’ of my chaotic life as an actor and a first-time mum!”
Roxy said, “I’m thrilled to be part of the Drama Queens cast. Who wouldn’t want to make a show with their besties… It’s a brave and original concept. I think it might feel like Sex in The City but with less budget and more rain.”
Rita said, “After a decade on Albert Square, I’m making a big move up north to join Hollyoaks. It’s been both thrilling and challenging to leave everything behind for this new chapter. I’m excited to bring Drama Queens viewers along for the ride and to show a different side of myself. As my kids grow up, I’m ready to represent the ‘fabulous after 40’ women.
