Eva Almighty

(This post was originally posted by Scott Willison on the Coronation Street Blog in July 2014, reposted with permission.)

A few months ago, when it was announced that first Sue Johnstone, then Michelle Collins were leaving the Street, an odd thought occurred to me.  It came spontaneously into my head, completely out of the blue.  It was, "I hope that doesn't mean Eva's leaving as well."

How did that happen?  How did Eva, of all people, end up as my favourite Price?  She came into the show as such a cliche - blonde, recently wronged by an unseen fiance, spoilt.  Now she's a wonderful character and an asset to the show.

Part of it came from knocking the edges off her.  For her first year or so Eva's selfishness manifested itself through manipulation - leading Nick, or Rob, or Leanne around, conniving behind their back.  She's nicer now.  That's what happens when you hook up with Jason Grimshaw - his inherent pleasantness rubs off on you.

She now reminds me of another classic barmaid, Raquel.  Both were bombshells whose sexy exterior gave way to a sweet funny interior.  I didn't like the way she left Underworld - far too sudden - but putting her behind the bar of the Rovers means she finally fits.  Eva was always wasted stitching knickers, and her departure from clipboard clutching duties at the factory means that we get more of Sally Webster being a domineering shrew, which is always joyous.

Eva's also overcome her issues with Leanne - with no Stella to fight over, they've bonded as proper sisters.  It was lovely to see her in this week's episodes having a glass of wine with Leanne, giving her birthday gifts, gently ribbing her about her age.  I especially liked the scene in the cafe, where another great new character, Steph, was chatting with the sisters; I like the idea of the three of them getting plastered on tequila slammers next time they have a disastrous relationship meltdown.  It'd be good to see her friendship with Kylie reignited, too.

The Street always needs a sweet sexpot, and I hope that Eva will continue to totter down the cobbles with her expensive handbags for many years.  Perhaps she can be the girl to finally make an honest man of Jason?



Follow the Bluenose CorrieBlog on Twitter and Facebook