Chris Gascoyne
(Peter Barlow - Coronation Street)
The apple never falls far from the tree they say, but if it wasn’t for his surname, you would never guess that Peter Barlow is the son of the highly moral Ken. This year Peter fell off the wagon (again), and went into rehab. However, he did manage to find love with Leanne - awww.
Simon Gregson
(Steve McDonald – Coronation Street)
He may be 21 years on the Street, but Simon Gregson came of age a long time ago as his alter-ego Steve McDonald. His most recent pairing with Becky, played by Katherine Kelly, has given him some meaty storylines of late, something that accomplished actor Gregson has relished.
Tom Hopkins
(Christy Phelan – Fair City)
Christy has had his share of ups and downs over the years in Fair City, most notably with the storylines around his son Floyd’s doomed relationship with his half sister Heather. Over the years, under the careful guidance of gifted actor Tom Hopkins, Christy has become one of the most-loved characters in Carrigstown.
Jeff Hordley
(Cain Dingle – Emmerdale)
Jeff Hordley returned as Cain Dingle to the Dales in 2009, and has been involved in top storyline after top storyline ever since. His most recent “Bonnie and Clyde” style storyline with long-term love Charity has been a huge hit among viewers – and marks a return to the humorous Dingle storylines of a few years ago.
Michael Le Vell
(Kevin Webster – Coronation Street)
Kevin has been a popular character on the Street since his first appearance in 1983, but the mild-mannered mechanic finally got the chance to step into the limelight this year when he embarked on a steamy affair with Molly – and the best is yet to come!
Tom Lister
(Carl King – Emmerdale)
The Romeo of the Dales, Carl King has had a bumpy ride of it romantically over the last year, especially with his latest love, Lexie, and her pregnancy woes. Now that Lexi is out of the picture, his thoughts return to his first Dales love Chas – and we think they’re a match made in heaven!
Steve McFadden
(Phil Mitchell – EastEnders)
Phil might once have been the lesser Mitchell brother, but since the departure of Grant, Steve McFadden has had the opportunity to develop. Most recently Phil has shown a softer side with the return of his children, but we reckon it won’t be long before he’s in trouble once more!
Scott Maslen
(Jack Branning – EastEnders)
It’s certainly been a big year for Jack Branning – not only is his on/off relationship with Ronnie still ongoing, but he was also a major player in the huge “who killed Archie?” storyline and the subsequent live episode, where Scott gave a stellar acting performance.
Danny Miller
(Aaron Livesy – Emmerdale)
Portrayed by Danny Miller since 2008, this young man was originally the quintessential teenage tearaway. But the past year has seen a remarkable actor emerge at the fore of a bold storyline which saw Aaron struggling with his sexuality, leading to a tragic suicide attempt. Can guardians Chas and Paddy steer Aaron in the right direction?
Pól Ó Ghríofa
(Mack Ó Rian – Ros Na Rún)
Another soap Romeo, but this time as Gaeilge in the lively village of Ros Na Rún. Pól Ó Ghríofa has become popular as his character Mack Ó Rian, a successful businessman who is sadly unlucky in love. Bet plenty of viewers would like to be in a position to console him…
Tony Tormey
(Paul Brennan – Fair City)
Paul Brennan hasn’t had an easy life in Carrigstown, but actor Tony Tormey has certainly enjoyed the top storylines the Fair City team has granted him! Paul is currently attempting a reconciliation with the love of his life Niamh, but with Yvonne about to give birth to his child, there may not be a happy ending in sight just yet…