BEEB to shell out for Colm

EASTENDERS star Colm O Maonlai who has shot to fame in the much loved soap has been told he will be paid for the full term of his BBC contract.

The BBC had big ideas for Colm's character promising more gripping storylines. However, producers got together and organised Colm's demise. First he was given a 12 month contract and told that it could be renewable. Then after a short screen life he was given his marching orders.

A set insider said: "Colm took the sacking on the chin and has vowed not to speak badly of the BBC. Everyone liked him and other members of the cast are wondering if they're next in the firing line.

"He has another job lined up and will be off to shoot a film shortly in Ireland. He's still getting loads of fan mail and I'm sure viewers will be sorry to see him go."

Because of Colm's quick exit scripts have had to be rewritten and scenes re-shot. The insider added: "Colm was being groomed as a main character and this is how they've treated him. If I was him I wouldn't accept the payment. I would sue them in the courts for breach of contract.

"He has been offered other work while working on EastEnders but he turned it down because of conditions in his contact.

"So the BBC owes him big time and it wouldn't surprise me if they make a one-off payment for his embarrassment."

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