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End of an era!
Hi everyone,
Thank you to those who sent birthday presents and cards and to all of you who left such nice messages, I was really blown away by the amount this year. It means so much to me. Thank you! Being 40 has been painless so far!
I will avoid talking about my beloved Everton's start to the new Premiership season in this message. A bit of a slow start so far...
Most of all I have to encourage you all to watch 'The Bill' tonight as it is our last one. It has been a two-part story called 'Respect' which I think is quite apt. We are really proud of the episode and of the show. I know it has been an important TV programme to a lot of people.
I haven't seen the documentary that follows but I hear it is a fitting tribute. Let me know what you think! It is the end of an era but I think we have ended on a high.
Contrary to what some people may think I do read messages sent here and to my Facebook page regularly and I thank you all for taking the time to say hello.
There are some exciting things on the horizon which I will talk about in greater detail soon with an update of whats next. But for now thank you again for all your support over the last seven years as DI Neil Manson and for one last time here's to 'The Bill' tonight ITV1 9pm.
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 31/08/2010Updates and news from 'The Bill'
Hello everyone,
Firstly I hope those of you who were stuck in some far flung land due to the ash cloud are home safe. My wife was marooned in Spain for six days - so our little boy was missing his Mummy - I say little, Isaac..... is approaching two and half fast!
Some of you will know I was a friend of Kristian Digby and we were devastated to lose such a wonderful thriving remarkable man. I was honoured to know him. God Bless you Kristian.
Good Luck to my friends and colleagues including Chris Simmons and director AJ Quinn who are again tackling the London marathon. Maybe one day.....
Ben Richards will be joining the cast of Priscilla Queen of the Desert in the West End in June - he'll still be with us at Sun Hill but I can't wait to see him in that dress! Louise and I were on holiday with Ben and his wife in the UAE at the wonderful Hilton Resort in Ras al-Khaimah recently - highly, highly recommended.
Ok - I know it's been a while and the news has been rather big - worldwide actually, so of course its about time I said something about 'The Bill' not being recommissioned.
Well firstly of course its sad - its been a part of peoples lives on TV and a livelihood for so many for a long time. It's the longest running drama in our history, an institution and one of a kind.
For nigh on seven years I have had a ball playing - or tackling DI Neil Manson - the job and he have been a gift and I have loved it. I have worked with simply the most talented, kindest people you can imagine day in and day out. Its hard work and I will miss it and them .....But it aint over yet!!
We'll be on your screens for a good while yet and I promise you the episodes are outstanding - stronger each week. From mine and Neil's point of view its been very emotional and challenging with the storyline involving Jake and Grace....ooooooo! Get your hankies out!!!
But I urge you to watch them - tell your friends - people who have never seen 'The Bill' - we are all so proud of them and regardless of the changing times they deserve to be watched and I promise you wont be disappointed. There is an irony that its coming to an end now as I think its the best its been, fitting in this precarious TV environment so well - but its a funny, difficult time and things change in difficult times.
So many of you - hundreds of you, wrote to me when the news was announced and I really appreciate that - I was deeply touched and so sad for those of you who are feeling a real loss but, as I said, there are plenty more yet and 'The Bill' will always be out there.
From my point of view I am very busy at work and each script is a new gift. This weeks episode is a real emotional roller coaster with an outstanding guest performance by Lee Ross and directed by Gary Love, its really worth a look...as is the week after...and week after...Please do let me know what you think!
Pastures new beckon and I have exciting things to tell you about very soon but right now...
The Bill 9pm Tuesdays.
As I say....it aint over!!!!!!!
Come on you blues!
Love and so many thanks
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 24/04/2010Please vote in this years NTA's & support Bernie and Gary too!
Hi everyone,
Belated happy new year to you all and big thanks for all your lovely messages.
The NTA's have a new slot this year and are on 20th January. 'The Bill' is nominated again in the best drama category and as always there is some tough competition. If you want to vote online you can go to - http://www.nationaltvawards.com and submit your votes. We all really appreciate the support you show us in these awards and hope you will continue to do so.
Also needing your support are Gary Lucy who has just started in 'Dancing On Ice' on ITV1 and Bernie Nolan who is appearing in 'Pop star to Opera Star' also on ITV1 starting Friday 15th. Tune in and cheer her on!
Thanks again for all your support.
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 12/01/2010Children In Need, Mastermind and more!
Hi Everyone,
Can't believe it's nearly Christmas time...it's been a full on year for me but mostly enjoyable.
Thank you everyone who voted for The Bill, me, Amita and Dom for the NTA awards - I'm hoping the work the show has done earns it a nod (and hopefully another win at Bafta!) - I really don't expect to make the cut myself but it was a wonderful feeling to receive so much support. Thank You.
I must start with some terribly sad news, some of you will already know that my beloved dog Chester died on October 1st. He was 10 and had been poorly for a while. You all know he meant the world to us and was by my side a long time. Louise, Isaac and I miss him terribly.
This was a dog that got fan mail, presents from people who had never met him and when I would meet up with you guys or fans of the show Chester would almost always be asked after. No words can articulate the love I had and have for him and I have always appreciated how you included him in your thoughts and correspondence. Chester was remarkable and life is just not the same without him.
Isaac however is fast approaching 2...can you believe it! He and his Mum have been down in London a lot as mine and Manson's schedule continues apace - the show is still shining as far as I'm concerned and the reactions have been terrific. Yes its different and yes its finding its feet in its new slot but we are all very proud of it and very excited about the future.
From my point of view I have some terrific storylines including a very emotional time with the return of Neil's son...Keep watching...and don't believe what you read....we are doing more than fine!!
Ali is doing amazingly well in Strictly and we are all rooting for her and we'll be wrapping up and supporting Gary when he takes to the ice for Dancing on Ice in the New Year.
I can reveal that I will be taking part in this years Children in Need...singing live with Ben Richards, Patrick Robinson and John Bowler....not gonna tell you what we'll be singing but we've been busy rehearsing between scenes and the butterflies are starting....so wish us well, watch and dig deep for that amazing cause. Children In Need BBC 1 - Friday November 20th.
I'm also about to record an episode of Celebrity Mastermind...broadcasting around Christmas - again for Charity - this time for Bati-About-Kidz which I am a patron of...check out their website at http://www.batiaboutkidz.org So wish me luck for that....Specialised subject? Guess!!
The Facebook situation has got confusing with some very unofficial sites being set up - whilst we are fine with that in general I'm afraid I cant endorse false posts and information particularly when my family are involved...I am very sorry for any of you that received friend requests or messages from the 'fake' profile of me, please be aware this was in no way connected or endorsed by me and Facebook have now removed that profile. To confirm what I said in the previous blog about it - the Fan & Group pages are genuine and I regularly check them to read your messages and there is a link to my genuine profile on each if you wish to add yourselves. The URL for my GENUINE profile is http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?ref=profile&id=691528827
Sticky start for Everton but we'll start building up the squad and momentum as the year rolls on and injured players return. I've been lucky enough to go a lot this season and have been getting involved with the fantastic Everlution - the Everton Collection - the largest football memorabilia collection in the world and an incredible experience. This has led me to meet and interview boyhood heroes like Bob Latchford. Check it out online at http://www.evertoncollection.org.uk, and go and see it at Liverpool central library until spring 2010.
More soon...off to rehearse for Children in Need...!!
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 12/11/2009Facebook Fake account
Hi everyone,
Well it seems I now have to post a blog to try and let some of you know that there is a fake account out there on Facebook. It's very sad that some people still feel the need to do this but there you go.
To confirm to you, hopefully, the FAN PAGE on Facebook is GENUINE, the GROUP PAGE on Facebook is GENUINE, and the PROFILE PAGE that you see linked on both the FAN & GROUP pages is GENUINE.
The FAKE page currently has around 500 'friends' has status updates (which I never do), is run by someone whose email is anders1970@live.com and has photos taken exclusively from the internet or The Bill homepage. The profile photo is currently a group shot taken with Chris Moyles - though this will doubtless change as soon as the faker reads this.
The URL for the FAKE account is http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=100000273877706
I hope that clears up some confusion for some of you - indeed if you are reading this then you are on my website and I would hope that gives you all the authenticity you need!
I am very sorry for any of you that have been taken in by this individual.
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 04/11/2009The National Television Awards
Hi Everyone,
As ever a big thank you for all the birthday cards, presents and messages. One away from the big Four-O - don't know how that's happened!
There's lots of changes at work as you know and as you will have seen Manson and I have been very busy. I am so proud of the new look and format - though I don't think its changed as much as people and the press have been saying. 9pm is a massive move and in these testing TV times the show simply had to move on.
I think its the best work we've done and whilst its been sad to lose so many colleagues in front and behind the camera we are working very hard on delivering the show that old and new viewers want to see. Stick with us...you wont be disappointed!
I was flattered to be on the long list for the National TV Awards, once again it's a very tough category with some strong competition but my wife wants a new frock so I'd appreciate your votes for yours truly and the show!
If I get nominated I promise you all an exclusive behind the scenes with all the gossip and pics!!!
A wobbly start to the football season for my beloved blues. I was very proud to watch them at Wembley - we just didn't have enough in the tank on the day but we are finding our feet and I think Everton will have a good stab at the Europa league. I was honoured to be made an Ambassador of Everton Football Club earlier in the year.
I cant wait to take Isaac to his first game - he's doing really well - 22months and taking over the world!
Some of you know our legendary dog Chester is poorly at the moment so thank you for your prayers and well wishes.
More soon but keep watching and keep in touch.
Love
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 22/09/2009New time slot and exciting changes at 'The Bill'
Hi everyone,
As I'm sure most of you know 'The Bill' is now on at 9pm Thursday starting tonight with a brilliant two-parter (second part tomorrow for one week only) its been a huge change at work - recreating a show, format and institution while keeping some of the traditions. But for me its worked and we are all really excited and proud about the direction the show is going in.
For those of you who watch or dip into 'The Bill' and for those of you who never do...... give it go. You wont be dissapointed!
Check out the website for news and trailers or have a look at our ever so posh new ad from itv, look out for the billboards and poster campaigns and don't forget to post your comments and let me know what you all think of the show.
Write again soon.
Love Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 23/07/2009BAFTA for The Bill & Everton in the FA Cup Final!
Hi everyone,
We are all so happy here at The Bill after the recent BAFTA win, it was such a terrific honour and with the upcoming storylines and changes planned it's a very exciting time on the show. We were thrilled with the win. Many of you will know that Claire Goose is leaving the show soon as she is expecting a baby and she will be greatly missed by us all.
In other news of course my beloved Everton football club have reached the FA Cup Final after a tremendous and much deserved victory over Man Utd, it was a wonderful atmosphere at Wembley and as ever the Evertonian support did their team proud. It also means guaranteed European football once more at Goodison next season. Come on you Blues!
On the home front Isaac is walking now and thanks you all for your kind messages (As we all do!) and continues to be an absolute joy every day, as of course does Chester our other, four legged pride and joy, who will soon be celebrating his tenth birthday!
Thanks to all of you who have signed up at my Myspace page and the new Facebook fan page. As these are looked after for me the fan page is a lot easier as I can now access your messages and comments straight away. It really does mean a lot to me that you take the time to drop a line and say hello.
Keep tuned to The Bill as we have some great episodes lined up. A big thank you again for your support and kind messages.
Will write again soon.
Love Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 23/07/2009Happy New Year!
Hello everyone and Happy New Year
Thank you for all your support last year and of course for all the cards and presents for me, Louise and Isaac. He is a fast growing 14 month old and my pride and joy (along with Chester of course!)
The Bill continues to be as exciting as ever and we are all very busy down there doing some great new episodes. You'll have heard about the changes and our new time slot which is amazing news and it proves how highly thought of the show is.
I've said before that I think the show is in its best shape ever and this new era will only enhance that.
Keep watching - its going to be fantastic.
I must plug by mate Neil Tennant of The Pet Shop Boys - yeah, I know its a name drop but I am so proud of him and Chris getting the Outstanding Contribution award at this years Brits - they'll be doing a medley and me and Lou hope to be there to cheer them on.
Speaking of Pride (again) I was flattered and proud to be asked to become a patron of the Unity Theatre in Liverpool. It's a fantastic place where I have seen terrific theatre since i was a boy and I really am delighted to be associated with them. Please check them out by following the link in the websites links section.
More Pride...the mighty Everton are doing amazingly well with our limited resources - nipping at the heels of the top four. I was at Anfield twice this week to see us beat Liverpool one all (ha ha!)
If you fancy a laugh I make my second appearance on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire with Gary Lucy on ITV on Saturday (31st) night.
Great causes benefit from our pain!! This time I do it for Dreamflight who take children with life limiting illnesses to Disneyland.
Finally a word on messages and things - I look at as many emails and messages from here, Myspace and Facebook as I can and I so appreciate them. All messages are moderated on my behalf by Russell who looks after my sites for me but they are read, though I hope you understand I can't always reply to them.
Lots of Love
Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 27/01/2009News
Hi everyone,
A big thank you for all the lovely messages and presents, and especially for all the lovely comments about Isaac. He's doing well and is behaving himself! He was baptised on my birthday and it was such a wonderful day. I make sure he reads all your messages - he says thanks too.
Also thank you (this is a lot of thank yous!) again to all those who voted for my friends band Blake and helped them win their classical Brit. Their album is out now and climbing the charts - an ideal early Christmas present!
Things at The Bill are as busy as ever - there are two great episodes this week called Hold Me Tight which I am so proud of. Some of the best work I've been involved in and a wonderful performance from a young lad called Richard Whisker who plays Mason. Would love to know what you all think of the episodes.
The TV awards are just around the corner again and Alex Walkinshaw is nominated along with the show itself so make sure they get your vote!
I'm also very proud to have become one of the patrons of the wonderful Unity Theatre in Liverpool. I dearly hope to be doing something there next year. It's an exciting time in the city in it's year as capital of culture and the Unity continues to be a jewel in the northern arts scene.
Thanks again for all your messages, and your support.
Love Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 15/10/2008Updates
Hi everyone. Thank you all for your kind messages on our new baby. He is amazing and doing really well.
Thanks too to everyone who voted for my friend Dom and his group Blake. They won the coveted Best Album at the Classical Brits which is an amazing achievement.
As you will probably know I am back on screen next Thursday 22nd - it is a cracking episode which you can see me talk about on Loose Women that day. I don't think the show has ever been better than it is now and we're all very proud of it.
Congratulations to the mighty blues for qualifying for the UEFA cup again. Onwards and upwards.
Thanks for all your continued support.
Love Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 16/05/2008Please vote BLAKE for a classical Brit
Hi everyone,
My good friend Dom Tighe and his mates in the fabulous quartet BLAKE have been nominated for a classical Brit award for their first album.
I am really proud of him. I used to do workshops at the school Downside near Bath and Dom was always brilliant. Please check out their website at www.blakeofficial.com. You can also view what they do over at youtube.
Also if possible please go over to www.classicalbrits.com and vote for them! Its so cool when you guys support me and my pals. Its just so appreciated.
Thanks
Love Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 12/03/2008Thank you!
Well as many of you have been saying...I owe you a blog... and I agree.
Its been a life changing few months but I’ve been checking in and Russ keeps me posted. I’m always so chuffed by the amount of posts and messages and of course your mail. Thank you so much for all your Christmas gifts and cards. They mean so much.
One of the reason I’m so behind on mail and blogs is that I’ve been off work since early December. As some of you will know it’s been for a very good reason. My wife Louise and I had our first baby on December 7th – a little boy called Isaac.
Its simply wonderful and we are very proud and totally thrilled. So while I’ve been off screen I’ve been home in real life being a Dad – I feel very blessed. My bosses at The Bill have been great – so so supportive and understanding and I thank them for that - it was a terrific year for me as DI Manson and the reactions to the show now are I’d say, the best ever. I’m very happy there and I know there have been a lot of rumours but....... I am not leaving show just now! After 4 years I was ready for a break and of course with the baby it was sort of essential but it’s a great show and great part and I am very pleased to say I’ll be there for a while longer. I’m off screen for a few months and there will be a lot of changes – not just with Neil Manson - but I am back filming now. So its official – I’m staying.
The birth of my beautiful boy has coincided with not only a new golden age of The Bill but the return to top form of my beloved Everton. I went out to Norway with them and when not changing nappies I’ve been able to get along more. Our names on the Uefa Cup – mark my words.
My home city of Liverpool is well into its year as capital of Culture which I am doing some bits and pieces for and there was never a better time to visit the place.
You can all see some pics of my gorgeous son and wife in Hello! this week.
Lots of Love to you all.
Come on the blues
God Bless
Andrew
Posted by Andrew on 05/03/2008The National Television Awards
Thanks to all of you who voted for me at the NTA's, but as you may know unfortunately I didn't make the shortlist. I will be cheering on my good mate David Tennant instead. I will be there with some of 'The Bill' mob because as you may know 'The Bill' has been shortlisted in the most popular drama category so please get voting and lets see if we can do it!! It would be wonderful for the show and much deserved. I'm pleased many of you seem to have enjoyed the recent episodes, I am very proud of them. There are some great storylines coming up soon for Neil so stay tuned. Thank you for all your messages, I am touched that so many of you take the time to get in contact. Thank you. Don't forget to vote! Andrew x
Posted by Andrew on 26/10/2007Cardiac Arrest on DVD
Just to let you know that the complete collection of 'Cardiac Arrest' will be released on DVD on April 16th. It's a five disc set and contains every episode from all three series. I can't believe it was so long ago and how young everyone looks! I will be doing some promotion with Helen Baxendale and the writer Jed Mercurio too so I'm really looking forward to catching up with them. It's such an important show to me and I hope that those of you that didn't see it first time around are able to catch it on DVD.
Best wishes
Andrew x