Reading. Soap (A2)

SOAP
In Britain there are over 20 hours of 'Soap opera' on television each week. 'Soaps' have been popular since American businessmen found they could sell more products if they advertised between episodes of a continuing story. Millions of housewives enjoyed these stories about love, sorrow, family life and relationships with neighbours. As soap manufacturers were the first sponsors they became known as 'soap operas'.

In Britain, a popular soap with young people is Neighbours. This Australian soap is set in a Melbourne suburb and it has many young people in its cast. Natalie Imbruglia, who has become a successful pop star, was in Neighbours.

For young people, soap may be a way of thinking about their problems. As one fan said, "Any problem that you're ever likely to face comes up in Neighbours. It helps me to solve my own problems by showing me what might happen if I do certain things."

British housewives can watch over 20 hours of "Soap opera" on television each week.

Soap operas began in Britain.

American businessmen had a great success in selling products if they advertised between the parts of soap operas.