EastEnders films Jackson tribute

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/entertainment/8122171.stm

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EastEnders' bosses filmed a new scene at the last minute to make reference to the death of singer Michael Jackson.

Broadcast on Friday night, the characters Denise Wicks and Patrick Trueman are seen discussing the news.

Producers said the show "always aims to reflect topical events that strike a chord with the audience".

Additional scenes were also shot to include the election of US President Barack Obama and England's participation in the World Cup.

Diederick Santer, executive producer of the BBC1 soap, said: "There are some news stories and events which get everyone talking, and this is one of them.

"Given the quick turnaround, it's only a small scene, but I hope it reflects to some extent the impact Michael Jackson's death has had."

Jackson, who was just 50, died at his Los Angeles home on Thursday after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest.

His death comes just weeks before he was due to start a sell-out comeback tour in London.