I have never been a big person on Soap Operas. Particularly British ones. And thats coming from a huge Wrestling fan, which is basically Soap Opera with fighting by the bucket load.

I also am a fan of Comedy, and believe that if you cant laugh, then theres no point in living.

Back in 2005, I started watching Coronation Street, thanks mainly, to my other halfs obsession with the Soap Opera Culture. I honestly thought it was rubbish. Familiar characters that I knew of previous, after living with my Mother, who was also big on the Soap Opera Culture.

Then, in 2006, a shock. I actually slightly enjoyed an episode of the program! I didnt understand how this travesty occurred. Was it that I was actually getting a little older, and the Streets Cobble Stones were inviting me in, and I was powerless to stop it? Well, no.

It was that, after years of Soap Operas taking themseleves so seriously, and always having to have something major happen on their respective streets and areas, Coronation Street actually got real. It began to show actors acting about real life situations. Not Gangs of London-style like other shows. Not constant who-done-its overtaking the other stories being told. No. Corrie actually showcased a typical street in the North West of England, in the 21st Century, where everyone is up for a laugh, but keeping the gritty drama aspect they have always had. Corrie was the first to do this, Emmerdale soon followed, and recently, Eastenders showed that they can even crack a smile every now and again.

Right now, though, Corrie sits quite safley in first place in viewership numbers, slightly ahead of Eastenders, which I find completely believable.

Accents are a hard thing for some to see past, and many may see the Mancunian Accent somewhat of a barrier (I, myself, being of the Lancastrian variety of Human Beings, dont mind it) as many Northerners find with Eastenders. But once you get past all of that, you will see a good set of characters, protrayed by some of the best actors in the Country, and a brilliant set of writers that keep you drawn in.

Particular favourites in this soap are Steve McDonald, Lloyd the Taxi Driver and Becky, who, believe it or not, is the lady from the Leadamer adverts. This was before her role in Corrie, but many arent aware of this fact. You may ask, 'why these characters?'

Well, they are great storytellers, but they are very humorous too, and they work very well together, as a current storyline involves them all.

I wouldnt say Im a hard fan now, but given that I love my Girlfriend very much, I cannot say no to her missing it... and its one I dont mind sitting and watching with her, as opposed to Eastenders, where I will probably leave the room.