Ep 1. Episode 1

Benidorm season 8 episode 1, titled Episode 1, follows the hilarious misadventures of a group of British holiday makers who are staying at the Solana resort in Benidorm, a popular tourist destination on the Spanish coast. The show is a comedy about the lives and loves of the colorful characters who vacation there, as they navigate through the challenges of being away from their homes, jobs, and families.

In this first episode of the season, viewers are introduced to some new characters, as well as reunited with old favorites. There's the charming, but hapless manager of the Solana resort, Joyce Temple-Savage, played by Sherrie Hewson, who is trying to find new ways to boost business. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Stewart, played by Janine Duvitski, is the resident swinger who has been enjoying a quiet retirement with her husband, Donald (Kenny Ireland), but has some surprises in store for him.

There's also the Dawson family, who have returned to Benidorm for another holiday. Geoff, played by Johnny Vegas, and his wife, Noreen, played by Elsie Kelly, are looking forward to a romantic getaway, but their plans are interrupted by their two adult children, Pauline, played by Selina Griffiths, and Martin, played by Nicholas Burns, who have brought along their significant others.

Rounding out the cast is the lovable transvestite barman, Les/Lesley, played by Tim Healy, who is busy trying to impress the new guest relations manager, Liam, played by Adam Gillen.

As the episode opens, it's a typical day at the Solana resort, with the guests lounging by the pool, enjoying the sunshine, and sipping cocktails. However, things take an unexpected turn when a group of rowdy stag doers arrives, led by the obnoxious Jed, played by David Easter. Joyce is initially thrilled to have the extra business, but soon realizes that Jed and his friends are more trouble than they're worth.

Meanwhile, Jacqueline has a surprise for Donald when she reveals that she has won big at the casino and is planning to buy a yacht. However, Donald's joy is short-lived when he realizes that Jacqueline has also invited her ex-husband, Mel, played by Geoffrey Hutchings, along for the ride.

The Dawson family is having their own set of problems, as Pauline's vulgar boyfriend, Gareth, played by Jake Canuso, proves to be a thorn in everyone's side, and Martin's uptight girlfriend, Kate, played by Abigail Cruttenden, is struggling to unwind.

As the episode progresses, the various storylines intersect and the tension builds, leading to a series of hilarious mishaps and misunderstandings. By the end of the episode, some characters have found love, while others have experienced heartbreak, but everyone has had a memorable holiday in Benidorm.

Overall, Benidorm season 8 episode 1 is a raucous, riotous comedy that is sure to delight fans of the show. With its colorful characters, witty banter, and outrageous situations, this episode sets the stage for a season of non-stop laughter and fun in the sun.