EastEnders star slaps down critics after BBC actors accused of ‘booing’ castmates at Soap Awards
EastEnders actor Colin Salmon has moved to clarify that his co-stars Rudolph Walker and Angela Wynter were not booed at the British Soap Awards on Saturday night, but rather the audience was chanting “RUUUDI” in celebration.
The confusion arose when some viewers believed they heard booing as Walker and Wynter collected their Best On-Screen Partnership award for their roles as Patrick and Yolande Trueman.
Salmon, who plays George Knight in the BBC soap, took to social media to set the record straight after rumours began circulating online about the alleged incident at the Hackney Empire ceremony.
Writing on X, Salmon said: “Just want to clarify; No one was booing Rudi and Angela at the@SoapAwards we were singing RUUUDI , RUUUDI , RUUUDI. Which obviously confused some people.”
He added: “Appreciate some were concerned, as we should be, but it’s all good. #NoDrama#WeLovePatrickandYolande @bbceastenders.”
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The clarification came after fans on social media and forums had discussed hearing what they believed to be booing during the ceremony.
Salmon’s explanation was welcomed by viewers, with one follower responding: “Thank you for shutting the rumours down Colin xx.”
Another wrote: “Good to know. Congrats on the wins, well deserved!”
EastEnders dominated the awards ceremony, securing eight gongs including the coveted Best British Soap award.
Walker and Wynter’s Best On-Screen Partnership win was part of a sweep that saw the BBC soap leave its rivals trailing, with Hollyoaks receiving three awards, Emmerdale two and Coronation Street just one.
The Walford-based programme’s success followed its 40th anniversary celebrations, which included a live episode and special anniversary week.
Other major wins included Scene of the Year for Angie Watts’ shock return and Best Single Episode for Phil’s Psychosis: The Mitchells in 1985.
Steve McFadden won Best Dramatic Performance for his portrayal of Phil Mitchell, though he did not attend the ceremony.
Patsy Palmer secured Best Comedic Performance for her role as Bianca Jackson, whilst Navin Chowdhry won Best Villain for playing Nish Panesar.
Lacey Turner, who portrays Stacey Slater, took home the Best Leading Performer Award.
The ceremony, which took place on May 31, will be broadcast on television on June 5.
Colin Salmon joined the BBC soap in 2023 as George Knight, who currently runs the Queen Vic alongside his wife Elaine Peacock.
Walker has played Patrick in EastEnders since 2001, whilst Wynter has portrayed Yolande on and off since 2003.