Following what seemed like an eternity, culinary drama, Raw, returned with a bang to RTÉ One last night – and boy-oh-boy was it worth the wait.
With the introduction of three new characters to season 5, Raw seemed fresher than ever. I instantly warmed to Geoff’s temporary replacement Max played by Cristian Solimeno’s (you may recognise him from playing the part of Jason Turner in Footballers Wives). The temporary head chef is quite similar to Geoff. He comes across as being egotistical, pompous and arrogant, but underneath it all he's a big softy.
I have a feeling his character will contribute to some rewarding storylines in the near future, especially as Fiona’s health issues grow increasingly worse. With Geoff returning to the show in a few weeks, it will be interesting to see which direction Max’s character goes in (too many cooks spoil the broth after all). Will he exit the show in a dramatic storyline that reveals his shady past, or will he strike up a relationship with Fiona?
Former Footballers Wives star Cristian Solimeno plays the part of Max the steak and kidney extraordinaire in Raw
Amy Mason has also been introduced to the show as, Zoe, the new front of house server. She comes across as being sweet, caring and down-to-earth. Zoe and Shane seem to be the perfect match for each other, but with a jealous Kate on the scene it looks like their budding relationship is in for some turbulent times. Fiona already commented on how she really likes the new pro-active and upbeat Shane. Hopefully Fiona accepts his proposition about becoming project manager and Shane can begin to build a better life for himself. There may just be another wedding by the end of the series!
Shane won't be happy for long if Kate and her meddling ways have anything to do with it
Philip’s cousin Brian played by Dermot Murphy makes a welcome addition to the culinary drama. His cheeky, free-spirited and fun persona is just what the show needs. It’s difficult to know whether Emma was flirting with James to make Philip jealous or whether she does have feelings for the newbie. Either way, it looks like there could be some family rivalry on the cards. Get the popcorn at the ready!
I’m presuming Brian will land himself a gig in the kitchen in the next few episodes. I reckon that with Fiona’s cancer scare becoming known, Philip will be promoted and Brian will become the new intern. Could you see this happening?
Fiona's health scare may bring some unexpected changes to the kitchen
The big shock of the night came with Jojo's return. Following Pavel’s death (I'm still devastated) Jojo decided to go off backpacking around the world. I was shocked when she came back to reveal that she had tied the knot on her travels. Initially, I thought her new hubby, Anthony, was her soulmate. He seems to understand her wild antics and relate to her complicated past, while being incredibly supportive of her decisions. He didn’t even seem to bat an eyelid when she said she would rather work in Raw that go on their planned Sardinia trip. However, his threatening chat with Philip made me raise an eyebrow. If Anthony's controlling and overprotective ways continue, Jojo may be in for even more heartbreak.
Jojo is now a married woman, but she could be in for more heartbreak
It looks like there is loads of delicious drama in store for the series.
Roll on episode two!
Laura Delaney
