Derek Branning

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Derek Branning
EastEnders character
Derek Branning.jpg
Jamie Foreman as Derek Branning (2012)
Portrayed by Terence Beesley (1996)
Jamie Foreman (2011–2012)
Duration1996, 2011–2012
First appearanceEpisode 1282
29 April 1996 (1996-04-29)
Last appearanceEpisode 4554/4555
25 December 2012 (2012-12-25)
Classification Former; regular
Introduced by Corinne Hollingworth (1996)
Bryan Kirkwood (2011)
Terence Beesley.jpg
Terence Beesley as Derek Branning (1996)
In-universe information
OccupationCareer criminal
Businessman
Family Branning
Father Jim Branning
Mother Reenie Branning
Stepmother Dot Cotton
Brothers Max Branning
Jack Branning
Sisters April Branning
Carol Jackson
Suzy Branning
Sons Joey Branning
Daughters Alice Branning
Nephews Bradley Branning
Oscar Branning
Robbie Jackson
Billie Jackson
Ricky Branning
James Branning
Kevin
Nieces Bianca Jackson
Sonia Fowler
Lauren Branning
Abi Branning
Annie Carter
Penny Branning
Amy Mitchell
Rebecca
Other relatives Liam Butcher
Tiffany Butcher
Morgan Butcher
Bex Fowler
Sami Jackson
Charli Slater

Derek Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders , played by Terence Beesley in 1996 and then Jamie Foreman from 2011 to 2012. Derek is the eldest child of Jim Branning (John Bardon) and Reenie Branning (Joy Graham). He first appears in episode 1282, which was first broadcast in the United Kingdom on 29 April 1996, for his sister April Branning's (Debbie Arnold) wedding and departed on 2 May. The character returned as a regular in the episode broadcast on 24 November 2011, played by Foreman. In October 2012, it was announced that Foreman would be leaving EastEnders in December 2012 as part of a Christmas storyline. On 20 December 2012, it is revealed that Derek was the person who Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) had an affair with (see "Who's Been Sleeping with Kat?"). The character died of a heart attack in the episode broadcast on 25 December 2012.

Contents

Derek is originally portrayed as racist and is not pleased when his sister Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson) married Alan Jackson (Howard Antony). Upon his return, Derek was described as a "charmer" and "proper East-End". Derek has been described as "dodgy" and a "psycho". Foreman confirmed that viewers could expect "danger" and "destruction" from his character as his time progresses on the show. The BBC describe Derek as "old school". Derek served as the show's main antagonist of 2012.

Storylines

1996–2007

Derek first appears when he attends his sister April Branning's (Debbie Arnold) wedding to her Greek fiancé Nikos (Yorgos Glastras). Derek and his father Jim Branning (John Bardon) goad Derek's sister Carol Jackson's black boyfriend Alan Jackson (Howard Antony) due to their racist attitudes, and try to start fights with him. He lives with his parents and does his best to split Alan and Carol up. He does not succeed, and Carol and Alan marry the same day after April is jilted. Derek and his father walk out of the wedding in protest and Derek continues to goad Carol and Alan after the ceremony. Alan retaliates by humiliating him about still living at home at the age of 36. Derek subsequently attacks Alan, but is stopped by David Wicks (Michael French), who then beats him up as revenge for Derek beating him up when they were teenagers. A shamed Derek departs. In 1999, Jim mentions to Carol that Derek is going through a messy divorce. In 2007, Derek's brother Max Branning (Jake Wood) reveals that Derek is in prison, and is therefore unable to attend Bradley Branning's (Charlie Clements) wedding to Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner). While Derek is incarcerated, he befriends a fellow prisoner named Carl White (Daniel Coonan).

2011–2012

In January 2011, Derek is mentioned during an argument between Max and Carol after Max discovers Carol's relationship with Connor Stanley (Arinzé Kene). Max recites Carol's past relationships, including getting pregnant by David when she was 14, and he says Derek sorted David out by beating him up and saving Carol from a broken heart. [1] Derek returns in November (played by Foreman) along with Max, who has been staying with him in Leyton. They visit Max's ex-wife Tanya Jessop (Jo Joyner), (who mutually despises Derek) where Derek recognises her mother Cora Cross (Ann Mitchell) and sister Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks), to whom he is attracted. He reminds her of when they had sex at Max and Tanya's wedding. Derek then recognises David's mother Pat Evans (Pam St Clement) and forces his way into her home, and she is fearful of him. He reveals he was in prison for 10 years for armed robbery. Carol enters and is not happy to see him. However, Derek says he has changed and wants his family's support, though Carol is unwilling to give it. Derek and Max then prepare to leave for Manchester, but they are stopped by his niece, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), saying that Tanya has cancer and needs help. [2] Max goes to Tanya and Derek tells Carol and his brother Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) that the Brannings have to stick together. [3] Derek starts a sexual relationship with Rainie after she is kicked out of Tanya's home. She then sees a large scar on his back. [4] Derek then bumps into Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd), who he bullied in their youth. Michael fears Derek and after Derek agrees to help Michael's girlfriend Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks), Michael tells her to keep away from him. Janine then asks Derek to help her get squatters out of her flat, which he does successfully.

When Derek finds out that Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) has had Jack's car crushed, he confronts Phil, saying that he has made an enemy of him as well. After the local B&B is destroyed in an explosion, Derek convinces his nephew Liam Butcher (James Forde) to retrieve some valuable copper pipes from the building, leaving his great-grandmother, Pat, infuriated. Shortly after, Derek receives a visit from his probation officer and it is clear that Pat is responsible. Furious, Derek visits her and angrily threatens her, resulting in her collapsing on the kitchen floor shortly after. Pat is then diagnosed with incurable cancer, and when Derek visits her, he teases her about dying, causing a row with Tanya, who suffers a panic attack. Tanya tells Derek to leave. David returns to see Pat, and when Derek sees him, he says they have unfinished business. Derek punches David, who retaliates by punching Derek in the face. Carol takes David's side and drags Derek off David. [5] Carol and Derek later argue, and Carol asks Derek to leave Walford as everyone is sad about Pat's death but he is causing trouble with David. Derek storms off in a temper, and later tells David that the fight is not over. When David hints that he is re-kindling his relationship with Carol, Derek furiously tells him that once Pat's funeral has taken place, he is going to come after him. David tries to reason with Derek, but Derek repeats his threat. [6] When Derek finds Michael in his home planting stolen goods, Michael blames David for the scheme. During Pat's funeral, Derek discovers David and Carol have reunited and are planning to run away together. He confronts Carol and attacks her before forcing Michael to tell David that he has kidnapped Carol. When David shows up looking for Carol, he is confronted by Derek, Max and Jack, and Derek plans to kill David with a knife before getting Jack to help him dispose of the body. However, Jack and Max manage to stop Derek and David flees. [7] Derek then begs Carol for forgiveness for attacking her and explains to Max that he went too far with David.

When Phil is arrested for murder and his son Ben (Joshua Pascoe) is kicked out of his home, Derek befriends Ben to steal his keys to Phil's garage. There, he looks through Phil's accounts, and later visits Phil in prison, where he offers to be a partner in Phil's businesses, as they would make a formidable partnership, Phil has no choice but to accept. When Derek asks Michael's half-brothers, Anthony (Matt Lapinskas) and Tyler (Tony Discipline) for £4000 that they owe him for selling some of his goods, they are unable to pay. Still not having the money to pay, Derek orders them to retrieve copper wire from train tracks but the police are called by Michael which leads to Derek's arrest. He is released without charge and confronts Anthony and Tyler, saying that somebody called the police and because he is still on probation, he is being watched closer and can no longer continue with his dodgy deals. Janine eventually pays off the debt, but Derek gives Michael a beating as well. Derek continues with his criminal behaviour, getting Max to sell a stolen car for him, and getting Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) to help him with a tax scam, selling alcohol in The Queen Victoria public house that they will claim is being bought for sale in Europe. Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simons) and Alfie then attempt to intercept the alcohol deliveries to cut Derek out of the scam. Derek urges Jack to fight dirty to get custody of his daughter Amy Mitchell from her mother Roxy, lying to him that he has a daughter, Chrissy. Derek asks one of his contacts, Andy (Chris Reilly), to scare Roxy into giving Jack custody of Amy, and when Andy tells Derek that Roxy has taken his alcohol, Derek asks Andy to deliver Roxy a message, implied to be that he wants her dead, to make sure Amy stays with the Brannings. Andy knows the Mitchells and does not want to get on the wrong side of them, so pays Roxy the cash that Derek paid him. Derek is then led to believe that Roxy is missing, and Jack is furious at Derek, and especially when he discovers Chrissy does not exist.

When Phil is released from prison, he promptly tells Derek that he no longer needs him to run his businesses. Phil also warns Alfie not to store any more of Derek's goods at The Queen Victoria public house. At a poker game, Phil resoundingly wins against Derek, but Derek claims it is impossible to win all the time, you just have to pick the right battles. Derek arranges with Alfie and Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) to steal a large amount of alcohol. However he is unknowingly scammed by Alfie and Billy, and suspects Phil of conning him. Derek realises that Roxy has fallen in love with Alfie, so deliberately sends Alfie off on a job and makes it look to Roxy that he killed Alfie. When Alfie returns safe, Roxy tries to punch Derek for the humiliation he caused her but is restrained by Alfie.

Carol's daughter Bianca (Patsy Palmer) is arrested for stealing, and goes to prison in Suffolk. Carol promptly relocates to Suffolk with Bianca's children, However, she allows Derek to move in while they are gone temporarily, and Derek shares the house with Bianca's stepdaughter Whitney (Shona McGarty) and her boyfriend, Tyler. Derek confronts a young woman who appears to be following him, accusing her of being the police. It is in fact his estranged daughter, Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks), who runs away frightened. After she leaves, Derek finds her phone and uses this to track her down, asking her to hear him out. He apologises for abandoning her as an infant and not watching her grow up. Alice admits that she should not have bothered tracking him down, but Derek asks her to meet with him the next week so he can introduce her to his family, telling her he is a good man who has done bad things. Derek organises a party for Alice so she can meet the family, but just before the party is about to start, Derek is questioned by the police about some stolen alcohol. They do not find the alcohol, and when Derek returns to see Alice, she is already leaving. Derek is angry to discover that Tanya spoke to Alice and scared her away. However, Alice decides to visit, but leaves after revealing that Tanya has spoken to her, in turn Derek states that Tanya is demented and nasty. Derek later threatens to kill Tanya if she says anything else to Alice. Cora shows Alice a favourable letter Derek wrote, so Alice decides to get to know him. He promises to live a crime-free life, but Alice leaves when she discovers he has been dealing in forged banknotes. Derek then decides to pretend that he has changed. When Lucy Beale (Hetti Bywater) calls Derek's probation officer, saying he is in possession of illegal alcohol, Derek takes revenge by taking money from the tills in Lucy's absent father Ian Beale's (Adam Woodyatt) businesses. Derek's son Joey Branning (David Witts) arrives, hitting Derek. Joey tries to get Alice away from Derek but fails, even after goading Derek into becoming extremely angry. Eventually, Joey cons Derek out of money, which he pays to Lucy. Derek dislikes Alice's relationship with Anthony. The two men play poker, and Anthony bets his business, losing it to Derek. Derek then forces Anthony to leave Walford, leaving Alice upset and angry. She decides to move out but changes her mind when Derek promises not to interfere in her life again. Derek then becomes business partners with Tyler. Derek gives Alice a mobile phone, he is later unhappy when she gets a make-over, and upsets her so much that she goes leaves, where outside she is mugged. Derek blames Tanya for giving her the makeover. He inadvertently reveals to Tanya's friend Sharon Rickman's (Letitia Dean) son Dennis (Harry Hickles) the truth about how his father died, so Tanya tells Derek to stay away from her family. Max agrees, so Derek threatens to tell Tanya Max's secret. Alice then tells Derek that it was the 'phone that caused the mugging and forces him to apologise to Tanya. Derek then guilt-trips Max into making him his best man for his upcoming second wedding to Tanya. Max later tells Derek that Jack is his best man which Derek pretends to take well but is actually hurt. A letter is sent to Carol from David but Derek hides it from her when she returns.

Derek continues to remind Max about his secret, telling him that "they" want more money, and saying he will help as long as he throws Joey out, who is living with Max and his family. Derek discovers that Joey is in a relationship with Lauren, his cousin. Lauren decides she and Joey have to leave Walford, and steal Derek's car. She crashes it into a shop and Derek rescues her and Joey from the building before it explodes. Derek convinces Joey to take the blame to spare Lauren going to jail as she was drunk. Derek then blackmails Joey, telling him to either break up with Lauren or live with Derek and be a doting son, or he will tell the police the truth. Joey decides he hates Derek more than he loves Lauren so ends the relationship. Derek also blackmails Tanya, saying he will tell Max she knew about Joey and Lauren's relationship if she does not convince Joey to stay in Walford. Derek continues to alienate Max and Jack by appointing himself as the new best man for the wedding, and further upsets Jack and his girlfriend Sharon when he discovers Sharon's addiction to painkillers. Derek is beaten up by men involved with Max's secret, and Max gives him money for his honeymoon to pay them off, but Derek does not give it to them. Derek blackmails Tanya again, this time into making Joey leave Walford. At Max's stag party, it is revealed that Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) has been having an affair with Derek. Kat goes home with him and they talk about what has just happened. Derek tells her he loves her. Kat finds a message on his phone that she left for him telling him to leave her alone. Derek says he will play it to her husband Alfie but instead he plays a message in which Kat says she wants to see Derek while Alfie is asleep. Alfie punches Derek, warning him never to return to The Queen Victoria, and hands him his wedding ring.

Derek is confronted by Max who tells him that after Christmas Day, he wants nothing to do with him. Derek arrives at the Branning house for Christmas dinner as head of the family, bringing Kat with him. He is constantly undermined by Max and is shown dislike from many of those present. Kat learns that Derek played Alfie a different message, and then discovers that Derek has deleted all the messages, so she slaps him. As an act of revenge on Max, Derek calls the person involved in Max's secret, and she arrives moments before Max and Tanya are due to remarry. She introduces herself as Kirsty Branning (Kierston Wareing), Max's wife, whom he married while staying with Derek in 2011. It is revealed that Derek never handed Kirsty Max's divorce papers or the money that Max was giving to her, but allowed Max to think they were divorced, and did not tell Max about Kirsty's pregnancy, instead telling Kirsty that Max wanted the child aborted, which she did. A massive argument ensues and Derek shouts at Max and Jack, saying he has never liked Max and he was the person who locked him in a coffin as a child (Max had believed it was Jim). Derek is forced out of the house by Max, Jack and Joey, while Kat watches on. Before making one last threat, he suddenly suffers a heart attack on the street and dies.

Creation and development

Casting, introduction and departure

On 26 August 2011, the BBC announced that it would be extending the already-established Branning clan by reintroducing the character of Derek Branning into EastEnders. [8] Jamie Foreman was cast in the role, being the second actor to play Derek; Terence Beesley played the character originally for three episodes in 1996. [8] Of his casting, Foreman said, "I am hugely excited to be joining such an iconic show. EastEnders is full of fantastic actors so it is a role I couldn't refuse. The Brannings are such a great family to be joining and I am extremely interested to see how Derek is going to fit in." [8] Derek comes to Walford and "seizes the opportunity to rule the roost among his family again", his ambition is to become "King of the Square". [8] Derek's return was broadcast on 24 November 2011. [9]

Foreman said he fit in well with the cast and the EastEnders set. "It's brilliant. I've walked onto the show with all these guys who are so fantastic. I've just slid in like I've been there all my life. It's been fantastic fun. And it's a character who you can do anything you want with – I love those! It's very easy work." Asked whether if he will watch his first, he replied: "They've got me in the last scene of the day at work today, so I don't know if I'm going to get home in time for it! But all the family are there watching it, so that'll be lovely." [10]

Foreman also said it was great to have a role in EastEnders. He said: "If I did a movie and it got 8 million viewers, it'd be a box office smash. This show gets it four nights a week and once on Sunday, there you go. Its pedigree speaks for itself and it's been going for a lot of years now, and it's going to go on for a lot of years. I'd be very proud to have that on my CV." Asked what viewers can expect from Derek, he replied: "He's a habitual criminal. He's just come back from prison recently from doing a rather lumpy sentence of ten years for armed robbery." He added: "He hasn't changed, he's always been the same." [11] Tony Stewart of the Daily Mirror said that Foreman was perfect for the role of Derek. "Of course it's all about pedigree, isn't it? And when the soap bosses picked up the phone to Thugs Are Us, they couldn't have picked a better actor than Jamie Foreman to play the biggest, baddest Branning bruvver, Derek. Well, assuming Ray Winstone was washing his hair." [12] In March 2012, Foreman's contract with EastEnders was extended until October 2012. [13] In October 2012, it was announced that Foreman would be leaving EastEnders and will leave in December 2012 in a Christmas storyline. [14] [15]

Characterisation

"Derek is old school, proper East End. After years behind bars he's looking for a place to make his mark. Look out Walford, he's arrived. He's a charmer and is on the lookout for a woman who’ll understand him. But he can also out-alpha almost any man in Albert Square. Oh, and Derek never fights fair..." [16]

—The BBC on Derek (2011)

Derek has been described as the "biggest, baddest Branning brother" by executive producer Bryan Kirkwood. Daniel Kilkelly of media entertainment website Digital Spy wrote that upon his introduction, viewers would be left wondering if he is still dangerous and destructive. [8] He was called "villainous" by Inside Soap . [17] Derek's profile on the BBC's EastEnders website says, "Derek's the eldest Branning brother—and he's proper East End. When he was young, he had his own gang and they terrorised anyone who crossed their path. He ended up in prison and almost didn't make it out alive. He realises he now has his work cut out to regain his status as top dog, but he's willing to wait – although not for too long! Is Walford the place he can make his mark?" [16] The website went on to say Derek's wish was to become head of the Branning family and find a woman who would understand him. [16] Derek can "out-alpha almost any man in Albert Square" and he does not fight fair. [16] Discussing Derek's background and personality, Foreman told TV Choice "There's always this little undercurrent of, 'This guy isn't who we want around for long', if you see what I mean. Derek's just come back from a 10-year prison sentence for armed robbery. He's a very complicated character, who could either be perceived as a bully or as someone who cares for his family very much." [18] The actor went on to say people do not quite know where they are with Derek. [18] He became the head of the family when he was 14, because his father was always in the betting shop. Derek helped bring in money and made sure his siblings attended school. [18] Foreman explained Derek sees himself as the father figure and said it is hard for him to shake that off, even though his siblings have grown up. [18] Foreman said "There's a nice conflict there." [18]

In an interview with Daybreak , Foreman said he wanted viewers to like Derek. [10] He also revealed he had played similar roles to Derek before, but said playing a "hardman" in EastEnders meant he could not leave his character behind when he finished work. [19] Foreman said: "When you do a show like this you want to hit the floor running and make him warm and make the audience take to him as quickly as possible, so you keep him a little bit more close to yourself. Not necessarily all the nasty things he does, but all his mannerisms and they way he moves and things." [19] During an interview, Foreman said his character is so nasty and horrible that he "makes him cringe." [19] Foreman also revealed that Derek does not think of himself as bad, saying "I try to explain this to everybody, he thinks he's the good guy, it's everybody else who thinks he's bad." [19] Foreman added Derek would bring plenty of trouble to Albert Square. [19] Foreman confirmed that viewers could expect "danger" and "destruction" from his character as his time progresses on the show. [20] Foreman explained that Derek Branning is going to be the type of character that's going to really set things alight in the Square. Foreman said that when he was asked to play the part, they told him that he was dangerous, destructive and sexy. He commented: "Well, I haven't seen much of the sexy, but I've seen lots of the dangerous and lots of the destructive! So I think you're going to enjoy him. I think he's one of those characters you're going to love to hate. You never know what he's going to do next. And I'm just waiting for little old ladies to come and beat me with their handbags!" [20]

I didn't feel any pressure at all, because it was just such an interesting character. And I had a lot of input into it as well, before I went into the show. Because it's such an immediate show in people's living rooms, I thought it was really important to hit the floor running with it. And I have some great actors around me – the family that I've gone into, I'm wall-to-wall with good actors. And Pam St Clement gave me the best entrance I could have asked for, with her reaction to me. I was very lucky. But they say it with a smile on their faces, and I think they're enjoying the character, so I'm doing my job.

— Foreman explains his feelings before filming for EastEnders [21]

Foreman said he is "delighted" by viewers' reaction to his character. Foreman also added that member of the public approach him in the street to "comment on Derek's antics". [21] Speaking to The One Show , Foreman said that he gets some wonderful reactions and that he gets told every day that he's nasty and horrible and just wants to walk around saying, 'Thank you, thank you'! But they say it with a smile on their faces, and he thinks they're enjoying the character, so he's doing his job. [21]

Storyline development

Scott Maslen teased of an upcoming storyline where Derek hires a hitman to terrorise Roxy, who is the mother of Jack's daughter. [22] Speaking to Inside Soap, Maslen said that Jack is sickened by Derek's plans. He added that Jack may have used "underhand tactics in the past to try and get custody of Amy" but Derek is taking things too far and Jack will never forgive himself if anything bad happened to Roxy. [22] Maslen elaborated saying that Jack first discovers Derek's plan when he visits the Mitchell's household and finds that Roxy hasn't returned home. He says that Jack is furious with Derek and adds: "Jack feels sick to his stomach at the thought something terrible could have happened to Roxy. He storms straight round to confront his brother – he just wants confirmation from Derek that Roxy is alive and well." [22]

Jake Wood revealed that there is a "long-running" storyline upcoming for Derek and his brother Max. [23] Speaking to Inside Soap , Wood said that the truth is to be revealed in the coming months. [23] He said that it's incredibly exciting and everything will be explained. Wood added that himself and Foreman are "on it" and have a good idea what Max and Derek are up to. [23] Foreman later promised an "interesting new direction" for Derek. [24] He explained that he wants to keep challenging himself by exploring Derek's personality from different sides. [24] Foreman commented: "We hit the ground running to bring Derek to the Square and Pam St Clement was phenomenal. In one scene, she established my character more easily than I could have done in four episodes. To see Pat, who's never been frightened of anyone, running scared of this man showed everything about my character in a moment." [24] As stated by Jake Wood, Foreman has plans for Derek which Foreman said it will be a real challenge for him as an actor. He added that it would be easy to play a typical gangster who "growls at everyone", but he cares about showing the true side of these types of characters. Foreman also said that he is enjoying EastEnders as he has never been so recognised before. [24]

Rejuvenation

In April 2012, it was announced that viewers would see a "softer side" to Derek. Foreman told a writer from Soaplife that it was time to learn more about Derek's history, as the audience had familiarised with the character. [25] He will be played as a "different kind of Derek" and have a "fascinating" backstory. In addition the actor stated that "you're about to see a bit more of the missing years – I'm finding out things about my character I didn't know existed". [25] While he wanted to remain secretive about the plans for Derek, Foreman revealed that Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) would have involvement in the storyline. Derek asks Alfie to carry out a deed for him because he already has the "sensitivity and is the perfect foil" for his plans. [25] Later that month the serial announced their plans to introduce Derek's daughter, Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks). Alice has never met her father and wants answers; she was brought up by her mother and her brother Joey. As they had always told her that Derek no good, she decides to see for herself. [26] EastEnders' executive producer Lorraine Newman said that Alice would "help us glimpse a softer side to Derek". As they’re both from the Branning family, she also felt there was a "huge amount" of history to build their relationship upon. [26] A writer from Inside Soap reported that Alice is really keen to forge a relationship with her father. An EastEnders representative told them that Derek often talks of the "importance of family"; which will make their attempts at forming a "proper relationship" interesting. [27]

Derek's sister, Carol announces that she and her family are moving away. Derek is reluctant to see them leave and hatches a plan to prevent their departure. [28] Foreman told Allison Jones from Inside Soap that Derek has a "patriarchal attitude" where "everyone matters" because family is most important to him. Derek wants "to put his life in order" and look out for Bianca's (Patsy Palmer) interests while she is in prison. [28] Carol stands by her decision; so he conjures up a "frantic scheme" and attempts to influence Ray Dixon (Chucky Venn) into keeping them around. Foreman said that the plan ends in failure and "Derek has to let them go after all". Just as he loses one family unit, the serial introduce Alice. Derek is preoccupied with the family matter and Alice begins to follow him. [28] Foreman explained that his character initially has "no idea" who she is. [28] When Alice follows him into the pub, Derek decides to confront her. He told Allison Slade from TVTimes that Derek "has so many irons in the fire and he thinks she might be undercover police". [29] To begin with he is wary of Alice, but is soon "delighted" to have his daughter around. The actor added that the Derek and Alice share a good chemistry. [28]

Reception

Jamie Foreman (pictured) was nominated for Best Newcomer 2012 and Best Villain from the All About Soap Awards and Derek is often described as "dodgy" and a "psycho". Jamie Foreman.jpg
Jamie Foreman (pictured) was nominated for Best Newcomer 2012 and Best Villain from the All About Soap Awards and Derek is often described as "dodgy" and a "psycho".

For his portrayal of Derek, Foreman earned a nomination for Best Newcomer at the 2012 British Soap Awards. [30] While the character received a nomination for Best Villain from the All About Soap Awards. [31] BT's Tim Guest described Derek as "dodgy" and branded him a "psycho." [32] The Guardian 's Stuart Heritage called Derek Max's "malevolently pudding-faced newcomer brother." [33] Tony Stewart of the Daily Mirror described Derek's arrival: "What a busy time bad boy Derek Branning has of it. He terrorises Roxy, sleeps with Rainie and then turfs out some squatters for Janine. "Some men are born rotten," Fat Pat declares. "Derek's one of the worst." [34] Stewart later called Derek a "vicious and sadistic thug" and despite criticising some of the character's storylines, described Foreman's performance in the role as "superb." [35] He also said "wearing a heavy overcoat and a 1920s-style newsboy flat cap, Derek looks as though he could easily be one of Al Capone's hoodlum". He also added that Derek may be the "most vicious villain in Soapland". [36] Kate White from Inside Soap named Derek as the best new soap opera character of 2011. She added that the "brutish Derek stormed into Albert Square and scared the bejesus out of everyone". [37] The Guardian's Sarah Dempster said that Derek played by Foreman has the "face of a dyspeptic pug and the charm of an abandoned Threshers." She added: "Within seconds of his arrival the bastard was crashing through the Square like a herniated tank, spraying wide-boy aphorisms everywhere, insulting Pat's earrings, calling Michael Moon's handshake "a bit mincey" and banging on about his time "inside" and ow fings ain't wot they used to be wot wiv the lack of "respect" and the current proliferation of Liffooanians." [38]

Jane Simon of the Daily Mirror states that Jamie Foreman is the "best thing to happen to EastEnders in years." [39] She compared Derek and David Wicks, saying that Derek looks exactly like a "shorter, fatter, cartoon version of David drawn by someone with a cruel sense of humour." [40] Jim Shelley, also from the Daily Mirror, called Derek the "long-lost villainous brother" and a "rough diamond". [41] He also said that Derek is the "sort of bloke who has a lock-up full of 'moody' merchandise". [41] He also added that Derek is nothing like Dirty Den, Johnny Allen, Steve Owen, Jack, Max or "Whispering David Essex". [41] He continues to write: "Derek is thoroughly unpleasant: a pig’s head in Brylcreem. He looks so much like one of the Krays he’s practically walking round with a cardboard cut out of Mad Frankie Fraser." [41] Shelley also nicknamed him "Derek the Menace." [41] Jake Wood said that Foreman is "fantastic" to work with and that his character has had a "huge impact" on the show. [23] Foreman stated that Derek is worse than any gangster he has ever known. [42]

Upon the announcement that Derek was to show a "softer side", a writer from Soaplife said that Derek was certainly not a "baddie we love to hate" and more of a "baddie we [just] hate". They questioned whether Derek could even pull off a soft side and predicted that the transition would be like watching "a speeding car screeching and skidding into a U-turn". [25] Carena Crawford from All About Soap said that Derek needed to ditch his "ridiculous" flat cap, which made him look more like Del Boy than David Beckham. [43] Crawford opined that while Derek was turning the Brannings into the Kray twins; she would advise him steer clear of Phil. The latter has outlived many gangsters and Derek was not "even half as menacing as some of them were". The writer also predicted that their feud would generate weeks of "fuming facial expressions and gurning glances as they vie to become ruler of Walford". [43] David Brown from Radio Times said that Derek "connives like an East End Jabba the Hutt" in his scheme to prevent Carol from leaving. [44] Another writer for the Daily Mirror said: "Call Dirty Derek Branning an over-protective father, or just a psychopath, but Lucy isn't safe when he wants revenge because she spiked his precious daughter Alice's drinks last week." [45]

See also

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Kathleen "Kat" Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Jessie Wallace. She was also played by Kate Peck in a flashback in 2001 and Sumar-Elise Sandford in a flashback in 2018. Kat is the second eldest Slater family sister and first appeared on 18 September 2000. Kat's usual dress is very short skirts and leopard-print tops, with much make-up and heavy fake tan. Her initial stint saw her involved in many storylines, most significantly in a plot twist that sees her supposedly sister Zoe Slater, revealed to be her daughter after she was raped by her uncle Harry Slater as a child. Kat and Zoe's relationship is tested several times, and a feud forms when they compete against each other for the affection of Anthony Trueman. Another key aspect to the character's storylines is her marriage to Alfie Moon, prior to which she became briefly engaged to Andy Hunter ; after Kat jilted Andy on their wedding day, he blackmailed her into sleeping with him in his revenge bid against Alfie and Kat. Kat was absent between November 2004 and May 2005 following Wallace's maternity leave, but returned early to tie in with Zoe’s exit storyline. Kat later left the soap on 25 December 2005.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">David Wicks</span> UK soap opera character, created 1993

David Wicks is a fictional character from the BBC TV soap opera EastEnders, played by Michael French. David originally appeared from 23 December 1993 to 21 November 1996. He returned to the show on 1 January 2012 and departed two weeks later on 13 January. French returned to the role on 26 September 2013. David has been involved in various storylines, such as his troubled and dysfunctional reconciliation with his biological children Bianca Jackson and Joe Wicks, —his volatile and equally dysfunctional relationship with his mother Pat Butcher, an affair with his sister-in-law Cindy Beale, reuniting with Carol Jackson and struggling to cope with her diagnosis of breast cancer. On 17 May 2014, it was announced that French had once again decided to leave the show. David last appeared on 30 May 2014, after his relationship with Carol broke down.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Max Branning</span> Fictional character from EastEnders

Max Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Jake Wood. He made his first appearance on 27 June 2006. Wood took a four-month break from the show in 2011 and the character was absent between August and November 2011. Wood took a year long break from the show in 2015, with Max departing on 1 October. He returned on 24 December 2016. Wood took another short break from the show in 2018; Max departed on 16 February and returned on 23 April. It was announced in 2018 that Max would be taking a break from the soap in early 2019. He left on 14 February 2019 and returned on 7 May 2019. Max served as the show's main antagonist of 2017 following his release from prison and planning revenge on all his family, friends and neighbours. On 16 September 2020, it was announced that Wood would be departing from the role of Max after more than 14 years. Wood's final scenes aired on 19 February 2021.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Tanya Branning</span> Fictional character in BBC soap opera EastEnders

Tanya Cross is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Jo Joyner. She made her first appearance on 27 June 2006. Joyner left the show temporarily on 25 December 2009 for maternity leave. After a guest appearance, Tanya eventually returned on 27 September 2010. On 1 April 2013, it was announced that Joyner would be departing the role and she made her final appearance on 28 June 2013. Tanya returned in February 2015 for two episodes as part of the show's 30th anniversary celebrations. She later reprised the role again in 2017 for four episodes, appearing between 25 December 2017 and 16 February 2018.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lauren Branning</span> UK soap opera character, created 2006

Lauren Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders. The role was originated by Madeline Duggan, who first appeared on 3 July 2006. Duggan played the role for four years until her exit on 23 June 2010. Three months later, on 27 September 2010, the role was recast to new actress, Jacqueline Jossa. In August 2014, Jossa announced that she was expecting her first child. In December 2014, Jossa filmed her final scenes prior to taking maternity leave, which aired on 24 February 2015, following the show's 30th anniversary celebrations. She returned temporarily on 14 September 2015 for her father's murder trial before departing again on 2 October 2015. Lauren made a permanent return on 27 May 2016. In September 2017, it was announced that Jossa and Lorna Fitzgerald, who plays Lauren's sister Abi, had been axed by executive consultant John Yorke. Jossa finished filming with the show on 11 January 2018, and Lauren departed on 16 February 2018. Lauren returned to the show on 12 December 2022 for the funeral of her step-grandmother Dot Cotton before departing again in the following episode. Lauren made an unannounced appearance alongside Peter Beale during the episode broadcast on 22 June 2023. On 30 September 2023, it was announced Jossa will return to the role in the New Year. Lauren’s return scenes aired on 1 January 2024.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Roxy Mitchell</span> UK soap opera character, created 2007

Roxanne Lizette "Roxy" Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, portrayed by Rita Simons. Roxy arrived in Walford with her sister Ronnie on 24 July 2007 and decides to move permanently to Walford from Ibiza where they ran a bar together. Roxy is the younger of the two sisters. She is described as the "fire", as opposed to Ronnie's "ice". Simons took a temporary hiatus in 2016, with Roxy off screen from 1 January until 4 May 2016. Following the announcement that Womack would be leaving the series, Simons' departure was also announced. Roxy departed the series in scenes broadcast on 1 January 2017, when she drowned in a hotel swimming pool along with Ronnie. Simons returned in 2019 to record a voiceover as Roxy, which was broadcast on 3 May 2019. A younger version of Roxy, played by Elodie de Rohan Willner, appeared in a flashback episode broadcast on 5 September 2022, which focuses on the Mitchell family in the 1970s. Simons reprised her role on 27 April 2023 for a one-off appearance as a hallucination to her daughter, Amy Mitchell.

The Branning family, together with the Jackson family are a fictional extended family in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. Introduced in 1993 were the Jackson family, consisting of Carol Jackson, her partner and later husband Alan Jackson, and Carol's four children, Bianca Jackson, Sonia Jackson, Robbie Jackson, and Billie Jackson ; he is the only child fathered by Alan. The family becomes a more dominating presence in 1999, when Carol's father Jim Branning moves to Walford following the death of his wife Reenie due to cancer. Since then, all six of Jim's children have appeared, many of them with their own families.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jack Branning</span> Fictional character from EastEnders

Jack Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Scott Maslen. He made his first appearance on 29 October 2007. He is the youngest child of Jim and Reenie Branning and the brother of April Branning, Carol Jackson, Derek Branning, Suzy Branning and Max Branning. The character was introduced to the show during a period when EastEnders was being routinely criticised in the media for its reliance on resurrecting old characters. The casting of Maslen provoked some controversy, being the first time an actor had been poached from one mainstream soap to another. It was quickly established that Jack is a morally ambiguous character with a murky past in the police force resulting in the paralysis of his young daughter, Penny. Tabloid media have praised the character for his role as resident Romeo, commenting frequently on his good looks and attractiveness, although broadsheet press have been more critical of Maslen's acting. On 1 July 2019, Maslen filmed his 1,000th episode as Jack.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Rainie Cross</span> Fictional character from EastEnders

Rainie Highway is a fictional character from the BBC One soap opera EastEnders, played by Tanya Franks. Introduced as the drug-addicted sister of Tanya Branning, Franks has had three separate guest stints in 2007, 2008 and 2010 and between 12 April and 8 December 2011. Rainie returned on 16 June 2014, when she was revealed as Ian Beale's mystery phone contact, having been with Ian on Good Friday, the night of Lucy Beale's murder but departed again not long after. In January 2015, it was confirmed that Rainie would return for the conclusion of the "Who Killed Lucy Beale?" storyline. Rainie made another guest appearance on 19 January 2018 and returned full-time to the show on 24 April 2018, now married to her former brother-in-law, Max Branning. In June 2022, it was announced that Franks had left the show, with Rainie's final episode airing on 29 June 2022. She reappeared for a brief stint on 23 until 25 August 2022 to coincide with the departure of her husband Stuart Highway.

Michael Moon (<i>EastEnders</i>) UK soap opera character, created 2010

Michael Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Steve John Shepherd. The character is a second cousin once removed of Alfie Moon, and first appears on 1 October 2010 after Alfie's return. He is also the father to Tommy Moon, whose mother is Alfie's wife Kat Moon. Michael is later joined by his father Eddie Moon and half brothers Tyler Moon and Anthony Moon.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Anthony Moon</span> UK soap opera character, created 2011

Anthony Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Matt Lapinskas. He was introduced on 25 July 2011, as an extension to the Moon family. The son of Eddie Moon, half brother of Michael Moon and brother of Tyler Moon, his storylines have focused on the friendship between him and Tyler, and his relationships with Poppy Meadow, Jodie Gold, Amira Masood and Alice Branning.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cora Cross</span> UK soap opera character, created 2011

Cora Cross is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Ann Mitchell. Cora is the mother of Tanya Branning, Rainie Cross and Ava Hartman and the grandmother of Lauren and Abi Branning. Cora initially appeared from 11 to 15 April 2011, and returned as a regular character on 28 July. Cora is described as having "a brash, outspoken attitude and does not care who she offends", deemed "an archetypal East End matriarch" and Inside Soap says that Cora is a "brash, loud lady who likes to tell everyone what she thinks and has absolutely no shame."

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Greg Jessop</span> UK soap opera character, created 2010

Greg Jessop is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Stefan Booth. He is introduced as the fiancé of Tanya Branning, and first appeared on screen on 1 October 2010 to work on the reconstruction of The Queen Victoria public house. On 15 April 2011, Greg and Tanya wed, just before hearing that Tanya's ex-husband Max and their daughter Abi have been involved in a car accident. Joyner has warned that Tanya could break Greg's heart. In June 2011, it was announced that Booth was leaving the soap at the end of his storyline, and Greg left on 12 August 2011. Booth confirmed that Greg will return. He returned for a single episode on 21 October 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Tyler Moon</span> UK soap opera character, created 2011

Tyler Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Tony Discipline. Tyler is the son of Eddie Moon, half brother of Michael and Craig Moon, brother of Anthony Moon and cousin of Alfie Moon. He made his first appearance in the episode broadcast on 27 June 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Joey Branning</span> UK soap opera character, created 2012

Joey Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by David Witts. Introduced on 22 June 2012 by producer Bryan Kirkwood, Joey is the estranged son of established character Derek Branning and the brother of Alice Branning. Joey was featured in storylines such as a problematic relationship with his father due to his absence in his life, and a sexual relationship with his first cousin Lauren Branning. Joey and Lauren's relationship was one of the prominent storylines featured throughout 2012 and 2013. He also had relationships with Lucy Beale, Whitney Dean and Janine Butcher.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Alice Branning</span> UK soap opera character, created 2012

Alice Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Jasmyn Banks. Alice is the daughter of Derek Branning. She made her first appearance on 10 May 2012. The character and casting was announced on 14 April 2012 with executive producer Lorraine Newman stating that Alice will allow the audience to see a softer side to Derek. Banks also stated that Alice will allow viewers to see a "lovely" side to Derek. The Daily Mirror praised the character for revealing herself as Derek's daughter on her first appearance, comparing her to Danielle Jones after she kept her identity to her mother Ronnie Mitchell a secret for months and then dying minutes after revealing herself. Another critic from the Daily Mirror said that Alice has had a "colossal impact" on Derek. In September 2013, it was announced that Banks would be leaving the show as part of Michael Moon's exit storyline. She departed on 24 December 2013, after being wrongly arrested for Michael's murder.

In July 2012, a storyline began in the British soap opera EastEnders in which the character Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace, embarks on an affair behind her husband Alfie Moon's back, with an unknown person. The suspects named were Ray Dixon, Michael Moon, Max Branning, Derek Branning and Jack Branning. Ray was the first suspect to be eliminated, on 7 August, followed by Michael on 14 September. The mystery man was revealed as Derek in the 20 December episode. Richie dubbed the storyline "Who's Been Sleeping with Kat?", while critics referred to it is "the who-copped-off-with-Kat saga", "Who Banged Kat?", "Who Shagged Kat?" and the "Kat Mystery Lover storyline".

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carl White</span> Fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders

Carl White is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Daniel Coonan. He first appears in the 4660th episode, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 20 June 2013. Carl is the ex-boyfriend of Kirsty Branning, and his storylines include tracking down cash owed to him by Derek Branning – which Ian Beale has used to open a restaurant; trying to win Kirsty back; a relationship with Roxy Mitchell ; his feuds with Roxy's cousin Phil and Derek's brother Max ; blackmailing Ian for money; and developing a conflict with Roxy's sister Ronnie that ultimately results in his downfall. He became the show's main antagonist up until his death on 1 January 2014. The character was axed in September 2013 and departed in the episode first broadcast in the UK on 1 January 2014, a joint broadcast of episodes 4775 and 4776, after being killed by Ronnie.

References

  1. ↑ Director: Lance Kneeshaw; Executive Producer: Bryan Kirkwood; Writer: Simon Ashdown (18 January 2011). "Episode dated 18/01/2011". EastEnders. BBC. BBC One.
  2. ↑ Director: Nic Philips; Executive Producer: Bryan Kirkwood; Writer: Simon Ashdown (24 November 2011). "Episode dated 24/11/2011". EastEnders. BBC. BBC One.
  3. ↑ Director: Nic Philips; Executive Producer: Bryan Kirkwood; Writer: Simon Ashdown (25 November 2011). "Episode dated 25/11/2011". EastEnders. BBC. BBC One.
  4. ↑ Director: Nigel Douglas; Executive Producer: Bryan Kirkwood; Writer: Jeff Povey (25 November 2011). "Episode dated 29/11/2011". EastEnders. BBC. BBC One.
  5. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (27 December 2011). "Pat's loved ones gather to say goodbye". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 January 2012.
  6. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (27 December 2011). "Derek issues a sinister threat to David". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 January 2012.
  7. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (3 January 2012). "Emotions run high at Pat's funeral". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 January 2012.
  8. 1 2 3 4 5 Kilkelly, Daniel (26 August 2011). "'EastEnders' announces Derek Branning casting". Digital Spy . Retrieved 26 August 2011.
  9. ↑ Director: Nic Phillips; Executive Producer: Bryan Kirkwood; Writer: Simon Ashdown (24 November 2011). "Episode dated 24/11/2011". EastEnders. BBC. BBC One.
  10. 1 2 Kilkelly, Daniel (24 November 2011). "'EastEnders' star Jamie Foreman: 'I want viewers to like Derek'". Digital Spy . Retrieved 27 November 2011.
  11. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (21 November 2011). "'EastEnders' star Jamie Foreman "proud" of Walford role". Digital Spy . Retrieved 27 November 2011.
  12. ↑ Stewart, Tony (19 November 2011). "EastEnders: As Tanya and her family go into meltdown, her ex Max returns with big bruvver Derek to save her". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 1 December 2011.
  13. ↑ Millar, Paul (27 April 2012). "'EastEnders' star Jamie Foreman's contract extended until October". Digital Spy . Retrieved 28 April 2012.
  14. ↑ Rowley, Alison (7 October 2012). "'EastEnders': Derek Branning to have Christmas exit?". Digital Spy . Retrieved 23 October 2012.
  15. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (23 October 2012). "'EastEnders' David Witts "sad" over Jamie Foreman exit". Digital Spy . Retrieved 23 October 2012.
  16. 1 2 3 4 "Derek Branning played by Jamie Foreman". EastEnders. Retrieved 27 November 2011.
  17. ↑ "Who's In? Who's Out?". Inside Soap (45): 32. 12–18 November 2011. Villainous Derek will join his family to start a new life.
  18. 1 2 3 4 5 Kilkelly, Daniel (16 November 2011). "'EastEnders' Derek will bring conflict, says Jamie Foreman". Digital Spy . Retrieved 27 November 2011.
  19. 1 2 3 4 5 "Foreman: Derek makes me cringe". The Press Association . 26 November 2011. Archived from the original on 29 November 2011. Retrieved 29 November 2011.
  20. 1 2 Kilkelly, Daniel (29 November 2011). "'EastEnders' Jamie Foreman promises Derek "danger"". Digital Spy . Retrieved 29 November 2011.
  21. 1 2 3 Kilkelly, Daniel (2 February 2012). "'EastEnders' Derek reaction is wonderful, says Jamie Foreman". Digital Spy . Retrieved 2 February 2012.
  22. 1 2 3 Millar, Paul (14 February 2012). "'EastEnders' Jack "sickened" by Derek plot, says Scott Maslen". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 February 2012.
  23. 1 2 3 4 Kilkelly, Daniel (21 February 2012). "'EastEnders' to reveal Max, Derek Branning secret". Digital Spy . Retrieved 21 February 2012.
  24. 1 2 3 4 Kilkelly, Daniel (22 February 2012). "'EastEnders' Derek to go in new direction, says Jamie Foreman". Digital Spy . Retrieved 22 February 2012.
  25. 1 2 3 4 "Reveail: Derek goes soft!". Soaplife (274): 16. 14–27 April 2012.
  26. 1 2 Kilkelly, Daniel (14 April 2012). "'EastEnders' casts Derek Branning's daughter Alice". Digital Spy . Retrieved 14 April 2012.
  27. ↑ "Derek's shock as his secret daughter arrives!". Inside Soap (17): 15. 28 April – 4 May 2012.
  28. 1 2 3 4 5 Jones, Allison (5–11 May 2012). "Hello dad!". Inside Soap (18): 13.
  29. ↑ Slade, Alison (5–11 May 2012). "Who's that girl?". TVTimes . 216 (18): 25.
  30. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (5 April 2012). "British Soap Awards 2012: Full viewer and panel shortlist revealed". Digital Spy . Retrieved 6 April 2012.
  31. ↑ Kilkelly, Daniel (12 February 2012). "2012 All About Soap Awards – full nominations list". Digital Spy . Retrieved 12 February 2012.
  32. ↑ Guest, Tim. "Soap spoilers: explosive secrets and lies in EastEnders' 'Branning Week'". BT Life. BT . Retrieved 1 December 2011.
  33. ↑ Stuart, Heritage (25 November 2011). "EastEnders: can the Brannings match up to the Square's finest families?". The Guardian . London. Retrieved 1 December 2011.
  34. ↑ Stewart, Tony. "What a week for..." Daily Mirror . Retrieved 1 December 2011.
  35. ↑ Stewart, Tony (28 January 2012). "EastEnders this week: Evil Derek forces Moon boys to turn to crime". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 2 February 2012.
  36. ↑ Stewart, Tony (18 February 2012). "EastEnders this week: Roxy will regret ever crossing Derek". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 21 February 2012.
  37. ↑ "Inside...Out!". Inside Soap (52): 98. 31 December 2011 – 6 January 2012.
  38. ↑ Dempster, Sarah (3 December 2011). "World of Lather". The Guardian . London: Guardian News and Media. Retrieved 2 January 2012.
  39. ↑ Simon, Jane (12 January 2012). "We love soaps – Emmerdale, EastEnders, Coronation Street". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 14 January 2012.
  40. ↑ Simon, Jane (2 January 2012). "Emmerdale, Coronation Street, EastEnders". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 15 January 2012.
  41. 1 2 3 4 5 Shelley, Jim (5 December 2011). "EastEnders new bad boy Derek – the long-lost villainous brother". Daily Mirror . Retrieved 21 January 2012.
  42. ↑ "EastEnders' Foreman's gangster past". Yahoo! News. Archived from the original on 13 March 2016. Retrieved 21 February 2012.
  43. 1 2 Crawford, Carena (2 April 2012). "EastEnders: Derek vs Phil!". All About Soap . Retrieved 1 May 2012.
  44. ↑ Brown, David (5–11 May 2012). "My soapland". Radio Times (19): 33.
  45. ↑ "What a week for Lucy and Derek". Daily Mirror . 9 June 2012. Retrieved 17 June 2012.
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