(This post was originally posted by Graeme N on the Coronation Street Blog in August 2013.)Poor old Eileen Grimshaw. What has happened to her? The vast majority of Corrie fans seem to have gone off our Eileen in recent times.
Yes, she's been saddled with some less than exciting storylines, and yes, she's been saddled with a rather less than exciting on-screen boyfriend, but I think the problem lies deeper than that. I've always loved both the character of Eileen and the actress who plays her. Sue Cleaver has been a part of Coronation Street for thirteen years now and some might already consider her a stalwart. However as far as I am concerned the spark has left her character.
When Eileen first appeared she was strong, opinionated and stood her ground. She also frequently showed great comedic potential, particularly in the wonderful cab office scenes with Steve and Lloyd. However men have always been her downfall. I guess the truth is I've never really liked Eileen when she's been involved with someone long term. It's just not quite the same.
The Eileen Grimshaw I love is the battling single mum, standing up for her boys and supporting her friends. Some people have said the character should be scrapped, but I think that is far too drastic. Eileen is one of the most human, realistic characters the Street currently has. We all see "Eileen's" every day. And that is what Corrie is all about.
I think Eileen's grit and spirit need to return. We all know Jason is going to become embroiled in Karl's dodgy dealings again, so wouldn't it be nice to see Eileen supporting her son and standing up to Karl? Hopefully Todd's imminent return to Weatherfield will also put a smile back on his mother's face too. And with Brian Packham set to leave Corrie in the coming months, wouldn't it be good to see Eileen being the supportive, caring half-sister Julie really needs?
So those are my suggestions for Eileen, moving forward. What are yours?
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