The Gallaghers, the Maguires and all the lawless, loveable characters of the Chatsworth Estate return for 16 new episodes in January on Channel 4. Yippeee!

This sixth series promises benefit fraud, brothels, stints in jail and stings gone wrong, with fake suicides, cold turkey, joyriding, lesbian romps, lingerie parties, revenge and a trip to the seaside to boot – all life-affirming events in the world of this Manchester estate.

Debbie hits sweet sixteen and the Gallaghers are going to celebrate the only way they know how – a party! Frank suffers post natal depression with baby number nine while Monica is busy re-decorating the house and regaining her womanhood.

Micky Maguire goes to college and discovers a talent for porn, plus his ‘Madchester’ tours in his pink limo get him and his brother Shane into trouble. Liam’s talents continue to burst forth when his school discovers his leaning towards genius status.

And new to this series, there’s feisty auxiliary nurse Maxine who, after seducing Carl, gets her feet firmly under the Gallagher’s table when she becomes best mates and clubbing partner with Debbie while Mandy meets a charismatic new love interest, Joe.

Some sinister dealings and the breakdown of families on the Chatsworth Estate sets a darker tone to series six. The highly un-orthodox yet extremely tightly knit Gallagher family is torn apart, while the Maguires’ past deeds finally come back to haunt them. Even Yvonne has some serious explaining to do when an unexpected visitor turns up. How will they all cope?

Cracks appear in Karen and Jamie’s marriage and Paddy Maguire discovers that temptation comes in various forms. Ian questions if Chatsworth’s the right place for him and introduces a strange newcomer to the estate whilst Norma makes a grim discovery while refurbishing The Jockey, and an even grimmer one when she goes in search of her own past.

I can’t wait for the new series to start! Here’s a clip to remind you of just how gruesomely spectacular life is as portrayed by Shameless… but be warned, it contains swearing and scenes some viewers may find offensive – which is why we love it!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=jBPkRa65×1w