Emmerdale legend joined by former Coronation Street stars as whole new family unit confirmed for Hollyoaks
This is the first new family to join the E4 soap in five years.
Some familiar faces are heading to Hollyoaks - as three soap favourites become the first names to be announced as part of a new family. The Keanes - who will start a new life in the Chester village this spring - are composed of Emmerdale legend Matthew Wolfenden and Coronation Street's Rebecca Ryan and Lewis Walton. Wolfenden called time on his ITV soap stint in 2023, after 17 years of playing shopkeeper David Metcalfe. He pursued a career in the West End production of Elf: The Musical, and launched podcast Celebrity Side Hustles with former co-star Roxy Shahidi. Ryan is no stranger to the Dales herself, having appeared as Bob Hope's daughter Carly in 2006. She later starred as stalker Lydia Chambers in Corrie, who harassed Adam Barlow and Sarah Platt for months, but is best known for her breakout role as Debbie Gallagher in Channel 4 comedy drama Shameless. Newcomer Walton, who plays the youngest member of the Keane clan, received acclaim for his portrayal of a younger Mick Michaelis in a special flashback episode of Corrie last year. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/03/Hollyoaks-New-Family-Matthew-Wolfenden-Rebecca-Ryan-Lewis-Walton-LimePictures-71-2e9a085.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Matthew Wolfenden, holding a basketball, with his arm around Lewis Walton filming a scene for Hollyoaks beside a removals van" title="Hollyoaks New Family - Matthew Wolfenden, Rebecca Ryan, Lewis Walton - @LimePictures (71)" /> He follows in the footsteps of co-star Brook Debio, who played young Kit Green and recently took over as Ant Hutchinson in the E4 serial drama. Pictures released by production company Lime Pictures show the trio filming playful scenes on location in the Childwall suburb of Liverpool, where Hollyoaks is produced. The characters can be seen donning giant sunglasses and packing boxes into the back of a removals van ahead of their relocation. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Speaking of his return to soapland, Wolfenden said: "I’m so excited to finally share that I’m joining Hollyoaks as part of a brand-new family arriving in the village. It’s an absolute privilege to step into this world and be part of something so iconic. "From the moment I read the scripts, I knew this was going to be something special. I can’t wait for the audience to meet them and see how they turn a few heads along the way… it’s going to be a ride, buckle up." Ryan, who also played Vicki MacDonald in Waterloo Road and Gem Dean in Casualty, added: "I am so excited to be joining the cast. My character is feisty and a bit of a firecracker but fiercely loyal. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/03/Hollyoaks-New-Family-Matthew-Wolfenden-Rebecca-Ryan-Lewis-Walton-LimePictures-41-13ed049.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Lewis Walton looks towards Matthew Wolfenden and Rebecca Ryan outside of a new build house and a removals van in a scene from Hollyoaks" title="Hollyoaks New Family - Matthew Wolfenden, Rebecca Ryan, Lewis Walton - @LimePictures (41)" /> "I am so excited for everyone to meet her. I am having the best time so far and can't wait for her story to unfold.” Walton agreed with the sentiments, saying: I’m thrilled to be joining. My character is charismatic, sporty and someone who’s always been the fun, positive presence in the room. "He’s incredibly close to his family and determined to follow in his dad’s footsteps, while chasing big ambitions of his own, especially when it comes to sport. But life doesn’t always go to plan, and an unexpected challenge will force him to dig deeper than ever before…" Given this is Hollyoaks village, this 'unexpected challenge' could be absolutely anything... Hollyoaks is available to watch on Channel 4 catch-up and airs Monday to Wednesday, from 7pm on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks favourite set to exit after 8 years – as two dead characters from iconic family return
Another Hollyoaks star is set to exit this year, with Chelsee Healey bowing out of the Channel 4 soap to pursue other projects. Healey, who has played Goldie McQueen since 2016, has already taken a step back from her soap commitments in recent years so that she could complete a guest stint in Waterloo Road – where she found fame – and was a contestant on last year's Dancing on Ice. A source explained to The Sun: "Chelsee has decided it’s time to move on from Hollyoaks for good. "She hasn’t had a full time contract on the show for some time now and has been doing other stuff on the side for a while – but she’s taking the leap fully now." It comes following reports that James Sutton is also about to depart as her on-screen cousin John Paul. Sutton, who has been part of the Chester-based serial for the last two decades, has been tipped for an "explosive" final storyline, which the publication claims will feature the returns of his dead sisters Carmel (Gemma Merna) and Tina (Leah Hackett). "The episode is a special one-off that looks at how John Paul McQueen’s life could’ve been different had his sisters not died," the source continued. “[They] jumped at the chance to return and reunite with her soap family. The episode will air next month and will be one not to miss for fans.” A Hollyoaks spokesperson declined to comment when approached by RadioTimes.com. Merna was introduced alongside the rest of the McQueen clan in 2006, and continued to appear until 2014. Carmel was killed off in an explosion following a train crash. Things were just as dramatic for Hackett, who ended her two year stint in 2008 with an explosion within a church. Tina was briefly seen again in flashback scenes that aired following Carmel's demise. Read more: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers this week: Brookside reunion for troubled Donny Clark as Lucas Hay spirals Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4 and airs Monday to Wednesday on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks icon to exit soap in "explosive scenes" after star films final scenes 20 years after debut
The character is a member of the soap's most iconic family.
A major soap exit is on the way – as Hollyoaks' John Paul McQueen (James Sutton) has reportedly filmed his final scenes after two decades in the role. The character first arrived in September 2006, and has been at the centre of several huge storylines during that time – from his highly-acclaimed relationship with Craig Dean (Guy Burnet) to his addiction battle and discovering that trans headteacher Sally St Claire (Annie Wallace) was his estranged parent. Upcoming scenes will see him struggle at work when wayward Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio) causes yet another incident, and he's forced to call in the police. This leads to him to attend an addiction support group, where he opens up about his past domestic abuse at the hands of PC George Kiss (Callum Kerr). A source has told The Sun that Sutton's exit will be "explosive", in true Hollyoaks fashion. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6660-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-MCQUEENS-Theresa-Warren-Mercedes-Prince-John-Paul-Dodger-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LimePictures-27-af8e68a.jpg" width="4880" height="3253" alt="John Paul, Theresa, Mercedes and Price pose on the McQueen sofa wearing onesies on Christmas Day in a shot from Hollyoaks" title="6660 CHRISTMAS AT THE MCQUEENS - Theresa, Warren, Mercedes, Prince, John Paul, Dodger, - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LimePictures (27)" /> “[Sutton has] been a huge part of the show for the last 20 years and everyone is sad to see him go. But these things happen and it’s going to be an explosive exit," they explained. RadioTimes.com has contacted a Hollyoaks spokesperson for comment. This isn't the first time that Sutton has exited the Channel 4 soap. He initially departed in 2008, taking a four year break in which he portrayed Ryan Lamb in Emmerdale. After a five year stint, he took another two year break before returning for guest appearances in 2019 and a full time return the following year. The actor is set to continue with his podcast, Male Mind Matters, and focus on his self-improvement guru business. Read more: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Brookside reunion for troubled Donny Clark as Lucas Hay spirals Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4 and airs Monday to Wednesday on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Brookside reunion for troubled Donny Clark as Lucas Hay spirals
John Paul has a bad day at work, Sienna is suspicious of Tinhead and Cleo is struggling.
With nowhere else to turn, Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry) hopes that a trip down memory lane will be just the ticket for her troubled father Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) in Hollyoaks next week. Partner Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) is struggling to find a way to move forward following his destructive behaviour at Christmas, but is pleased to see him with a smile on his face after making a Mick Johnson special pizza for old Brookside mates Tinhead (Philip Olivier) and Sinbad (Michael Starke) next week. Meanwhile, Tinhead is ruffling feathers for Sienna Blake (Anna Passey) - who is convinced that he's stalking her family - and there's worrying times ahead for Cleo (Nadine Mulkerrin) and John Paul McQueen (James Sutton). Elsewhere, Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) comes face-to-face with son Lucas (Oscar Curtis), who demands to know more about his affair with Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass). Here's a look at everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 19th and Wednesday 21st January 2026. 5 Hollyoaks spoilers for next week 1. Sienna Blake is suspicious of Tinhead <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/HO-EP-6668-SIENNA-TINHEAD-LIBERTY-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-TUESDAY-6TH-JAN--LIME-PICTURES-2f2e32d.jpg" width="5765" height="3843" alt="Tinhead, in a burgundy jumper and black jacket, stands in the centre of Liberty Savage, in a green jacket, blue dress and green beret and Sienna Blake, who is wearing a long yellow raincoat in Hollyoaks." title="HO EP 6668 SIENNA, TINHEAD, LIBERTY - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL TUESDAY 6TH JAN @ LIME PICTURES" /> Having heard someone lurking around Jez's allotment, Sienna is adamant that they're out to get her family and rushes home to warn them. Liberty isn't interested, and instead tells her to confide in Cleo about her recent struggles instead. As she heads out, she spots Tinhead's van as the same one that was spotted darting away from the shed the previous night. Is he responsible? <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/HO-EP-6668-LIBERTY-TINHEAD-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-13th-January--LIME-PICTURES-2-ad27179.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Liberty, in a green and blue coat and green beret, smiles into Tinhead's eyes in the Dog carpark in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6668 LIBERTY, TINHEAD - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 13th January @ LIME PICTURES (2)" /> Whatever the situation, he seems to be getting his feet firmly under the Blakes' table, as later in the week, he enjoys a double date with Liberty, Dodger and Theresa. 2. Cleo McQueen is struggling with baby Joseph When Sienna reaches out, Cleo tells her that although she still loves her, she needs space. Leela clocks Cleo's struggles and asks her to accompany her and baby Clara to a baby group, hoping that seeing other mothers in a similar situation might give her peace of mind. However, when Joseph won't stop crying, she becomes overwhelmed. 3. Ant Hutchinson's behaviour is a cause for concern for John Paul <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/HO-EP-6668-JOHN-PAUL-SMITHY-ANT-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-13th-January--LIME-PICTURES-2-3ff1e6f.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Ant Hutchinson looks worried in the direction of John Paul McQueen, as Officer Smithy and another policeman look towards him in Hollyoaks High" title="HO EP 6668 JOHN PAUL, SMITHY, ANT - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 13th January @ LIME PICTURES (2)" /> Ant's behaviour begins to spiral at school and John Paul is forced to call in the police. The teenager is distraught when the officer, Smithy, considers taking him to the station. JP is triggered by the day's events and decides to attend an addiction support group, opening up to the attendees about his past abusive abusive relationship with a policeman. 4. Ste Hay is left alone with Lucas after Rex Gallagher's intervention Rex extends an olive branch to Lucas when he announces his intentions to leave Chester for London. In order to delay him, and in the hope he'll make amends with his family, he sets up a bed in the garage for the youngster and allows the rest of the village to believe that he's missing after being released on bail. Despite Rex's efforts, Ste isn't ready to meet with his son and asks him to keep him hidden so he can face the full consequences of his actions at trial. However, later in the week, Rex realises that Ste's in danger – having come face-to-face with Lucas. Ste tries to stay calm and distract him, but he's adamant to get answers about his dad's affair with Dillon. Leela is made privy to the disturbing contents of Lucas's notepad, and alongside Rex and Dillon, they begin a search. 5. Gemma Johnson hopes that a Brookside reunion is just the ticket for Donny Clark <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/HO-EP-6670-SINBAD-TINHEAD-DONNY-GEMMA-MISBAH-VICKY-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-13th-January--LIME-PICTURES-706a069.jpg" width="5612" height="3741" alt="Vicky, Gemma, Misbah, Sinbad and Tinhead gaze towards Donny, who is wearing an apron and a hat, in Casa McQueen in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6670 SINBAD, TINHEAD, DONNY, GEMMA, MISBAH, VICKY - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 13th January @ LIME PICTURES" /> Misbah and Donny continue to lead separate lives, torn apart by his secret past as Brookside's Mick Johnson. She admits that she only said what she knew would bring him back to the village, while Gemma and Vicky refuse to give up on their dad. They realise that the events of the night in Liverpool are still causing extreme distress and encourage him to face Superintendent Singh, while Dodger also attempts to help when he spots that he's hit the bottle. In turmoil, Donny lashes out, and Dodger reminds him that they have both been through the same thing and he's the only one to truly understand the pain. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/HO-EP-6670-SINBAD-TINHEAD-DONNY-GEMMA-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-13th-January--LIME-PICTURES-d10206c.jpg" width="5549" height="3700" alt="Donny hands a pizza to Tinhead in Casa McQueen in a scene from Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6670 SINBAD, TINHEAD, DONNY, GEMMA - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 13th January @ LIME PICTURES" /> Gemma decides to inject a bit of Brookie flare back into her dad's life and introduces Mibsh and Vicky to Sinbad, and the group come up with a plan to surprise Donny with a surprise meal at Casa McQueen. Donny is warmed by the gesture, and having reunited with Tinhead and Sinbad, recreates one of the famous pizzas he used to dish-up at Pizza Parade. Vicky is impressed by her dad’s culinary efforts. Read more: Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4 and airs Monday to Wednesday on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale
Kieron Richardson and Greg Finnegan talk James's return.
It was the twist nobody saw coming – during Hollyoaks' 30th Anniversary celebrations last year, James Nightingale (Greg Finnegan) was shown to be very much alive despite dying in a car explosion. His initial exit coincided with the Channel 4 soap's cost-cutting measures, with five, 30-minute episodes per week reduced to just three, 20-minute episodes. That meant that swathes of village favourites had to leave, and James was unfortunately one of those casualties. The following week, as the drama sky-rocketed one year into the future, his husband Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) was still in a coma after the incident and after waking, refused to believe that his beloved had perished. We even saw the rest of the Hay-Lomax clan paying tribute at James's grave. However, it later transpired that he had seemingly survived, and blackmailed Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor-Dawson) into not saying anything. Peri Lomax (Ruby O'Donnell) spotted them together, though died in a plane crash before she could reveal all. In today's episode, Ste initially thought he was hallucinating his hubby after being poisoned by twisted son Lucas (Oscar Curtis). James quickly realised that Ste was unwell, and called an ambulance. However, when Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey) arrived, he fled the scene – but not before telling Ste how much he loves him. Later, with Ste recovering at home, James paid him another visit and explained that the reason he fled the village was because he believed he was in love with Rex, and that they had no future together. His fugitive son Romeo (Owen Warner) was also in need of help. Overwhelmed with anger and emotion, Ste pondered whether he could ever forgive James for putting him through so much turmoil. Speaking of the upcoming story, Richardson teased: ‘Talk about timing for James’s return. It’s New Year, which normally means fresh starts but for these two we have to go back… “Ste has to get over the shock of James returning initially but then there is also everything that has happened during him not being there to unpack. He has been raising his grandchild, dealing with abuse from Lucas and complex relationships, while grieving. “It’s been great to work with Greg who is so great and giving as an actor that it’s felt special again.” Finnegan added: “The moment we’ve been waiting for is finally upon us. James and Ste, two characters who have been circling each other for a decade are about to come face-to-face once more. “They’ve loved, they’ve hated, they’ve had joy and they’ve had plenty of sadness… so what does the future hold for them now that James is back on the scene? “I loved working on these scenes, back working with Kieron and my Hollyoaks family. I can’t wait for the fans to see what happens.” Read more: Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4 and airs Monday to Wednesday on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village
The returns were confirmed in the 2026 trailer.
The worlds of Hollyoaks and Brookside are set to combine once again, as fan-favourite Tim 'Tinhead' O'Leary swans into the village - and into one resident's bed! He's not alone, as sister-in-law Nikki Shadwick (Suzanne Collins) strikes up a friendship with Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe), and Thomas 'Sinbad' Sweeney (Michael Starke) is also roaming the Chester streets in his black cab. Cheeky chappy Tin' made his first appearance on the now defunct Channel 4 soap in 1996, before becoming a resident of the cul de sac the following year. He would continue to appear until the final episode in November 2003. During his time on the show he caused a near-fatal accident that almost killed his sister Melanie (Elizabeth Lovelady), found an unlikely mate in Sinbad and turned to a life of crime, which saw the death of wife Emily (Jennifer Ellison) in a botched robbery. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2026/01/Tinhead-Liberty-Sienna-LimePictures-6d5ee3d.jpg" width="5796" height="3864" alt="Tinhead, in a burgundy jumper and black jacket, stands in the centre of Liberty Savage, in a green jacket, blue dress and green beret and Sienna Blake, who is wearing a long yellow raincoat in Hollyoaks." title="Tinhead - Liberty - Sienna @LimePictures" /> So beloved, actor Philip Olivier was selected as one of a few former Brookie actors to reprise their roles in a special crossover edition of Hollyoaks. He shared scenes with Collins as Nikki, who first joined the cast in 1998. The instalment, which aired as part of 'Oaks's 30th Anniversary celebrations, came into fruition as a result of the two soaps being created by Sir Phil Redmond. At the conclusion of the episode, Tinhead batted his eyelashes at troubled Marie Fielding (Rita Simons), who had bought a house on the famed Liverpudlian housing estate. Starke played Sinbad across two stints between 1984 and 2000, first arriving in Hollyoaks as taxi driver 'Benny' in 2021. No explanation was given for his name change, and folk now refer to him as Sinbad once again! Now, in upcoming Hollyoaks scenes, Liberty Savage (Jessamy Stoddart) is on cloud nine after finding a potential new love – her first chance of a relationship since controversially hooking up with her half-sister Sienna's (Anna Passey) murderous dad Jez (Jeremy Sheffield) - it's Tinhead! It seems he has somewhat of an ulterior motive for being in Chester, but what is it? Meanwhile, as the 2026 trailer shows, newcomer Jenson - played by Waterloo Road and Coronation Street star Ryan Clayton - enjoys a flirtatious moment with Mercedes. Later we see him having words with Tinhead, who is seemingly using Warren’s identity. Elsewhere, Nikki strikes up a friendship with Mercedes at a local rehabilitation facility. Elsewhere, having broken up with partner Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) at Christmas, Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) – who lived most of his life as Mick Johnson on Brookside – needs to escape from the village. He's troubled following a sexual assault last year, and calls on old pal Sinbad for help. Speaking of her return, Collins said: “I couldn’t believe my luck when I saw Nikki has a friendship with the iconic Mercedes. I’m a huge fan of Jen, always have been. She’s an incredible actress. View oEmbed on the source website “The response to the crossover was incredible, so warm and positive. I’ve been sworn to secrecy, but since getting the news that Nikki would be returning I’ve been floating around on cloud nine with the biggest secret smile on my face.” Olivier added: “I’m so happy to be back in the building. Tinhead’s got a new fling this time around but he’s also got some unfinished business lurking in the background.” Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4 and airs Monday to Wednesday on E4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as huge secret rocks the Hutchinsons
Everything happening in Hollyoaks this Christmas time.
Hollyoaks is dishing up not one but four separate Christmas Days, as the special occasion is stretched out across two weeks. We'll see the same day from the perspective of the Osbornes and the Hutchinsons, the McQueens, the Maaliks and the Lomax-Hays. Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna) is planning a big surprise, Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) is struggling with withdrawal, and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) is hiding a huge secret. Here's a look at everything happening on Hollyoaks between Monday 22nd and Tuesday 30th December. If you can't wait to watch the full two weeks as they play out on E4, every episode will be dropping on Channel 4's streaming service on 22nd December. Hollyoaks episode guide for Christmas and New Year Monday 22nd December <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6661-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-OSBORNES-Jack-Pearl-Darren-Nancy-Charlie-Oscar-Frankie-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LIMEPICTURES-9-456fa40.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Hollyoaks's Jack, Nancy, Charlie, Jack, Pearl and Frankie pose beside their Christmas tree in festive jumpers. Nancy is wearing a Santa hat." title="6661 CHRISTMAS AT THE OSBORNES - Jack, Pearl, Darren, Nancy, Charlie, Oscar, Frankie - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LIMEPICTURES (9)" /> Jack has a secret mission on the Osbornes' big day, and wants to make it extra special for everyone. It's a hopeful time as Darren and Nancy put their problems aside, and after Pearl distributes presents throughout the village, she and Jack head to The Dog for a special moment. Upstairs, Dee Dee hides a gift as Diane struggles through the morning, her only blessing being that Tony is there to celebrate with them. Ant is continuing to cause trouble, and reluctantly sets the table. He discovers a burner phone and secretly pockets it. On the other side of the room, Eva decides to take a look at a present, a move which horrifies Dee Dee. A furious Ant bounds downstairs into the bar and disrupts Jack and Pearl, dropping a huge bombshell. Tuesday 23rd December <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6660-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-MCQUEENS-Theresa-Warren-Mercedes-Prince-John-Paul-Dodger-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LimePictures-1-83a41fa.jpg" width="5472" height="3648" alt="Warren, dressed as Santa, stands beside Mercedes. On the sofa in front of them are Prince, Theresa and John Paul, all wearing pyjamas in a decorated house for Christmas in Hollyoaks" title="6660 CHRISTMAS AT THE MCQUEENS - Theresa, Warren, Mercedes, Prince, John Paul, Dodger, - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LimePictures (1)" /> Over at the McQueen residence, the sparkle has faded for Mercedes. She's become dependent on prescription anxiety pills and can't face Christmas Day without them. Jack and Pearl show up with presents for everyone, swiftly followed by Warren dressed as Santa Claus. Merce realises that she'd forgotten to wear her matching elf costume. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6660-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-MCQUEENS-Theresa-Warren-Mercedes-Prince-John-Paul-Dodger-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LimePictures-3-6e9c505.jpg" width="5554" height="3703" alt="Dodger, Myra-Pocahontas, Mercedes and John Paul sit around a Christmas table in pyjamas and paper crowns in Hollyoaks" title="6660 CHRISTMAS AT THE MCQUEENS - Theresa, Warren, Mercedes, Prince, John Paul, Dodger, - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LimePictures (3)" /> Slipping out into the garden, she notices Gemma next door and asks her over the fence for more drugs. Meanwhile, inside, romance seems to be in the air as Theresa excitedly awaits Dodger's arrival. Monday 29th December <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6661-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-CLARKS-Misbah-Donny-Gemma-Dillon-Vicky-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMEBR-LimePictures-5-0a51465.jpg" width="5535" height="3690" alt="Dillon, Donny, Gemma, Misbah and Vicky pose around their sofa in Hollyoaks. Vicky is wearing a Santa hat and Gemma has tinsel in her hair, there are presents on the coffee table in front." title="6661 - CHRISTMAS AT THE CLARKS - Misbah, Donny, Gemma, Dillon, Vicky - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMEBR @LimePictures (5)" /> We head next door for Christmas at the Maaliks, and things are frosty between Misbah and Donny. He wants to make amends as it's his first festive period with both his daughters, but his phone is blowing up with messages from the sex worker he recently spent the night with. A knock at the door sends alarm bells ringing through his head, but luckily it's just Jack and Pearl with more gifts. Gemma knows that her dad is hiding something and tells him not to be unfaithful towards Misbah again. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6661-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-CLARKS-Misbah-Donny-Gemma-Dillon-Vicky-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMEBR-LimePictures-6-a7f5e1e.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Donny kisses Misbah as they unwrap presents in Hollyoaks" title="6661 - CHRISTMAS AT THE CLARKS - Misbah, Donny, Gemma, Dillon, Vicky - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMEBR @LimePictures (6)" /> However, Donny's fears are realised when the sex worker arrives on the doorstep demanding her cash. Will he be able to get rid of her? Over at Basswood Road, Sully has decided to join the Osbornes. Frankie tells Dodger, and is instructed to record the conversation in the hope of finding out that he put a hit out on JJ. Tuesday 30th December <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6662-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-LOMAXES-Leela-Lucas-Daniel-Leela-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LimePictures-3-c7ef248.jpg" width="5472" height="3648" alt="Daniel hands Ste a present as Lucas and Leela pose for the camera around their Christmas tree in Hollyoaks" title="6662 CHRISTMAS AT THE LOMAXES - Leela, Lucas, Daniel, Leela - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LimePictures (3)" /> Leela is preparing to make a special Christmas for Clara, Lucas and Daniel, however hard that may be. She speaks out loud to late daughter Peri, wishing she was there to join them. A downtrodden Ste is spending the day alone in his flat, while Rex is all alone at The Loft. Lucas tells his aunt to stop blaming Ste for what happened, but she's not convinced he needs a second chance. However, later, she has a change of heart and invites him to join them. In the hope of reconnecting with Dillon, Lucas fires him a message. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/6661-CHRISTMAS-AT-THE-OSBORNES-Jack-Pearl-Darren-Nancy-Charlie-Oscar-Frankie-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-9TH-DECEMBER-LIMEPICTURES-11-3edaf5c.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Jack, wearing a red blazer, stands beside Pearl, who is wearing a green and red dress, beside the Christmas tree in the Osborne living room in Hollyoaks" title="6661 CHRISTMAS AT THE OSBORNES - Jack, Pearl, Darren, Nancy, Charlie, Oscar, Frankie - EMBARGOED UNTIL 9TH DECEMBER @LIMEPICTURES (11)" /> Meanwhile, Darren asks Jack why he hasn't proposed to Pearl yet, and he explains that he thought it might be a bad idea to propose on Christmas Day. Read more: Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Gemma Johnson convinces Warren Fox to intercept a robbery to save Mercedes McQueen
Ant spirals and Ste turns to Dillon for support...
Hollyoaks is lining up another eventful week for Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe), as her blackmailer gives her just 24 hours to cough up the cash. In a desperate bid to help her, Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) is tempted by an intriguing offer from Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry). Meanwhile, Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio) is a cause for concern, and Donny Clark's (Louis Emerick) secret Brookside life continues to be a nuisance. Here's everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 15th and Wednesday 17th December. 4 Hollyoaks spoilers 1. Gemma Johnson meddles in Mercedes McQueen's relationship with Warren Fox <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/HO-EP-6656-GEMMA-WARREN-MERCEDES-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Thursday-4th-December--LIME-PICTURES-2b12720.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Mercedes watches an altercation between Warren and Gemma in an alleyway in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6656 GEMMA, WARREN, MERCEDES - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Thursday 4th December @ LIME PICTURES" /> The clock is ticking and Merce has just 24 hours to secure the funds to pay off her blackmailer – or the secret about Tony's shooting will be outed. Warren is prepared to go to extreme lengths to protect her, even if it means working with Gemma. Little does he realise, she's the one plotting against them. Gemma proposes joining her on a job to raise money for Mercedes, to attend a robbery and intercept the heist so that they can steal the cash for themselves. 2. Ste Hay can't resist temptation <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/HO-EP-6650-SCREEN-GRAB-DILLON-LUCAS-STE-JOHN-PAUL-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-25th-November--LIME-PICTURES-81aca2f-e1767790646644.jpg" width="995" height="672" alt="Ste has an argument with Dillon and Lucas as John Paul watches on in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6650 SCREEN GRAB DILLON, LUCAS, STE, JOHN PAUL - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 25th November @ LIME PICTURES" /> Dillon and Rex try and make a breakthrough with Ste, hoping he'll intervene on Lucas's worrying decline. Rex has no idea that the two are having a secret relationship, and is confused when he overhears a conversation. Ste feels more inclined to push Rex away than ever before, and falls into Dillon's arms again... 3. Ant Hutchinson's behaviour is worsening Against her better judgement, Diane decides to give Ant his phone back, and he quickly turns back to the worrying online community of misogyny that he's been following. The next day, having heard that he's skipped school, she's forced to leave Mercedes to look after Tony. 4. Donny Clark's past life is catching up with him Gemma voices her concerns about meddling in dad Donny's new life to Froggy. Things soon take an unpleasant turn when Sully arrives at a family lunch and Donny is left unable to answer Misbah's questions. Meanwhile, Frankie confides in Dodger about another troubling message and tells him that she thinks Sully could be behind it. Read more: Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Lucas Hay's behaviour spirals as Frankie Osborne receives messages from beyond the grave
Dodger offers support, Cleo struggles with separation from her baby and Gemma's scheming continues.
Hollyoaks is lining up a sinister stalking storyline for both Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Curtis) and Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith). As the latter starts to receive messages from her dead twin brother JJ (Ryan Mulvey), Dillon knows who is targeting him – vengeful Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis). Meanwhile, Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry) continues to plot against Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe), and Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin) can't bear to be away from her baby. Here's a look at everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 8th and Wednesday 10th December. 4 Hollyoaks spoilers 1. Lucas Hay is caught in the act Frankie and Vicky are convinced someone is watching them in the park, and when they unhood the figure, they discover it's Lucas. He's been sending continuous messages to Dillon, and Frankie believes she may be being harassed by him too. Dillon is scared of what his ex-fiancé might be capable of, but Ste thinks it's not wise to call the police as he might be sent down. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/HO-EP-6653-VICKY-FRANKIE-DILLON-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Saturday-29th-November--LIME-PICTURES-1-478d088.jpg" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Dillon and Frankie hold back a hooded Lucas as he stares at Vicky holding a phone in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6653 VICKY, FRANKIE, DILLON - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Saturday 29th November @ LIME PICTURES (1)" /> Later in the week, Dillon decides to confront him, but that doesn't stop his desperate attempts at a reunion... 2. Frankie Osborne turns to Dodger Savage after receiving messages from 'JJ' As Darren prepares to say goodbye to JJ, Frankie is alarmed as a flurry of messages – supposedly from her dead twin – hit her phone. She decides to confide in Dodger about the bizarre interactions she's having with someone pretending to be her brother, and his interest is piqued. He clocks that she's still perusing a relationship with Sully, and knows that it isn't good for her. The next day, Vicky hopes that a drink at The Loft will take her mind off things. Charlie checks in on the girls and notices that Vicky's flirting with the DJ, so whips Frankie off for pizza. 3. Theresa McQueen is desperate to help Mercedes Theresa can see that Mercedes is becoming ever reliant on the pills and calls in Warren for help. Meanwhile, Gemma is pleased with her scheming and encourages Diane to continue with the operation to make her pay. 4. Prince McQueen offers advice to an unwell Cleo Cleo learns that baby Joseph is well enough to return home, but she must stay in the psychiatric ward following her diagnosis with postpartum psychosis. Still unable to separate her internal thoughts from reality, she becomes suspicious of Cleo's intentions when she and Prince take the baby home. It's an uphill battle for her to be away from her son, and Prince hopes that his shared experience of being separated from their children will help her. Read more: Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen
There's never a dull day in Hollyoaks village...
The sun is setting earlier, the Christmas decorations are going up, and there's more incentive to wrap up warm and sit in front of the telly. Enter Hollyoaks, with an exciting few weeks ahead that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Meddling Brookside resident Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry) makes her mark on the Chester village by teaming up with Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) to bring down Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe). Meanwhile, Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) can't resist the advances of son Lucas's (Oscar Curtis) ex-boyfriend Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass), and Frankie Osborne's (Isabelle Smith) life changes forever following a shock death. View oEmbed on the source website Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin) deals with a postpartum psychosis diagnosis, and her cousin Theresa (Jorgie Porter) stages her grand return. Here's a look at everything happening in the lead-up to the festivities... Hollyoaks winter 2025 preview 1. Gemma Johnson and Diane Hutchinson blackmail Mercedes McQueen Diane wants nothing more than to have a fresh start with husband Tony, but there's one thing getting in the way – the fact Mercedes shot him on their wedding day. Teaming up with Gemma, the pair decide to split up Mercedes and Warren, while making sure she pays for her actions. Merce is shocked to receive a demand for £50k, unaware that her reliance on pills has stemmed from Gemma spiking her. 2. Lucas Hay is determined to find out who ex-boyfriend Dillon Ray is sleeping with This is going to be incredibly awkward. As Lucas continues to behave violently towards his dad, Ste turns to Dillon for support. Dillon has been pretty open and honest about his feelings for his ex-fiancé's father, while also trying to desperately conceal the matter. After spending the afternoon in one another's arms, the pair are spooked by Lucas's arrival. Will he catch them in the act? There's also the matter of Ste's ex-boyfriend Rex returning, and going straight into Lucas's firing line. 3. The Osbornes receive some shocking news about JJ Recent scenes have shown Frankie enjoying a date with gangster turned police officer Sully Sullivan. He's desperate to show her family that he's a good man, but as we know, he's quite dangerous. Darren gets distressing news that son JJ – who sexually abused his twin – has died in prison, and in the aftermath, Frankie realises she's being stalked. Teaming up with Dodger to bring Sully down, she hopes he'll confess to putting a hit out on JJ. Will he face justice? 4. Cleo McQueen is diagnosed with postpartum psychosis Sienna stumbles across Cleo's notebook, which contains the same message written repeatedly throughout the pages. This is an obvious concern, and she turns to the McQueens for help. After convincing Cleo to go to hospital, Misbah explains that she is suffering from postpartum psychosis. Speaking of the new storyline, actress Mulkerrin said: “It’s been a new challenge taking on the role of motherhood and the difficulties that being a new mum can bring, especially the strain it can have on your mental health. "We had a consultation with APP [Action on Postpartum Psychosis] whilst filming this storyline, and it was helpful to hear other people’s experiences – my heart breaks for poor Cleo.” 5. Theresa McQueen returns with her eyes set on Dodger Savage Theresa makes a grand return to the village, trying to lay low out of Warren Fox's sight. She can't resist the temptation of going to see Dodger to thank him for getting her off the hook, but with him still in turmoil over his sexual assault, will she be the one he opens up to? 6. Donny Clark's relationship with Misbah Maalik crumbles Things were never going to be the same for Donny and Misbah after she learnt he was actually former Brookside resident Mick Johnson. Everything she thought she knew was a lie, and he's still keeping one big secret from her. During Hollyoaks Later in October, Donny was sexually assaulted by Sully. Will he be able to open up to Misbah about the ordeal? Read more: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Lucas Hay stalks Dillon Ray in a desperate attempt at a reunion Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Lucas Hay stalks Dillon Ray in a desperate attempt at a reunion
Ste and Mercedes spiral, and Theresa returns to the village.
Hollyoaks is lining up a huge week for Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis), as he makes several attempts to drive Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass) closer to him. It comes at a dreadful time for the family - Ste (Kieron Richardson) has relapsed with Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe), and baby James's future is at stake. Elsewhere, Theresa McQueen (Jorgie Porter) returns to Chester, hoping to evade Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas). Here's a look at everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 1st and Wednesday 3rd December. 4 Hollyoaks spoilers for next week 1. Ste Hay crumbles ahead of a meeting with social services <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/HO-EP-6650-SCREEN-GRAB-DILLON-LUCAS-STE-JOHN-PAUL-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-25th-November--LIME-PICTURES-81aca2f-e1767790646644.jpg" width="995" height="672" alt="Ste has an argument with Dillon and Lucas as John Paul watches on in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6650 SCREEN GRAB DILLON, LUCAS, STE, JOHN PAUL - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 25th November @ LIME PICTURES" /> Gemma is smug to see Ste and Mercedes stumbling out of Casa McQueen and heading home to continue their party. However, when he receives a text from social services informing him of a meeting the next day, he has doubts. John Paul is worried when his sister goes AWOL, and is shocked when Sienna explains that she saw her with Ste – and that they were both high. With Goldie, he decides to track them down, but when Tony is mentioned, Merce is sent spiralling and rushes off to the hospital to visit him. Later that day, Dillon and Lucas come across Ste and realise that he's relapsed. John Paul tries his best to sober him up, but he enters self-sabotage mode, believing that he doesn't deserve to have baby James in his care. Dillon then spots him heading to Price Slice for more alcohol. 2. Lucas Hay goes to desperate measures to rekindle his relationship with Dillon Ray Frankie summons Dillon and Lucas to The Dog, and the atmosphere is frosty. Lucas goes through Dillon's messages and then downloads a cloning app so that he can keep track of his every movement. Adamant that they should be together, Lucas forces himself into Dillon's inner-circle at any opportunity, but it backfires. Later, Lucas sees a text from Ste to Dillon and jumps to conclusions, beginning to manipulate the situation and reaching a concerning new height. 3. Concerns for Dodger Savage following his ordeal Donny is worried about Dodger's intentions when he sees him heading into the superintendent's office. Liberty is equally concerned, and attempts to pull the Blake family back together. At a loose end, Dodger confronts Donny on the man he's become. 4. Theresa McQueen reunites with cousin Goldie <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/HO-EP-6652-SCREEN-GRAB-DODGER-THERESA-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-Tuesday-25th-November--LIME-PICTURES-1-4e7312f.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Theresa looks emotional in a conversation with Dodger in Hollyoaks" title="HO EP 6652 SCREEN GRAB DODGER, THERESA - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL Tuesday 25th November @ LIME PICTURES (1)" /> Theresa returns to the village and Goldie is shocked to see her. The two chat about how Theresa was conned out of her diamonds and is laying low from Warren. The McQueen's are behind her every step of the way – as Theresa heads to see Dodger and thank him for getting her off the hook. Read more: Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Gemma Johnson schemes against Warren Fox
Cleo receives a diagnosis, and Donny juggles his double life.
Brookside resident Gemma Johnson (Tisha Merry) makes her mark on Hollyoaks village next week, as she forms a plot against Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) and Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe). Elsewhere, Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin) is diagnosed with postpartum psychosis following her family's intervention, and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) tries to rebuild his life with Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) after his past living as Mick Johnson was exposed. Here's everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 24th and Wednesday 26th November. 3 Hollyoaks spoilers for next week 1. Gemma Johnson plots against Warren Fox and Mercedes McQueen Goldie is suspicious of Mercedes as she reunites with Warren, though Gemma decides to use this to their advantage. The women are in cahoots against Warren, and when Mercedes is spotted handing over a suspicious bag to him, they come to the conclusion that he's dealing again. Later, Gemma warns Warren about Goldie's suspicions, unbeknownst to him that she's placed a tracker on his car and is watching his every move. Now living in the village, she tries to worm her way into Misbah's good books by quizzing her for information on the neighbours, and then introduces herself to Diane ahead of an interview at the hospital. She then tries to build bridges with Mercedes – but is there an ulterior motive? 2. Cleo McQueen receives a diagnosis Sienna is trying her best to offer support to Cleo amid her spiralling mental health. When she overhears Cleo talking to herself, she gently asks who she was chatting to – only to receive a dressing down. Later that day, Sienna uncovers a notepad that has the same sentence written several times over. With Cleo refusing to open up, Sienna tells John Paul her concerns and they call in the wider family. With Dodger's help, they get her admitted to the Dee Valley Hospital psychiatric unit. While Liberty and Sienna stay with baby Joseph, the McQueens standby Cleo as she receives a postpartum psychosis diagnosis. 3. Donny Clark tries to return to normality Donny is furious when Sully defies him at work, and Dodger is concerned. Wary of the consequences that crossing with a Black could have, Donny warns Dodger to focus on his work. Later, Misbah allows Donny to open up and they hope that their relationship can be saved. She admits that despite finding out he'd led a double life, she'd never stopped loving him. Read more: Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Donny Clark issues a warning as Tony Hutchinson receives tragic news
This article contains references to sexual assault that some may find distressing. Hollyoaks is lining up a big week for Dodger Savage (Danny Mac) in the wake of his sexual assault. Struggling with the prospect of coming face-to-face with his rapist Griff (who is actually now dead), he turns to colleague and friend Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) for support. But the two men realise they could be playing with fire by befriending twisted Sully Sullivan (Harry French). There's drama for the Hutchinson's too, as Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) supports Ro (Leo Cole) through a troubling time, and tells Tony (Nick Pickard) about their baby loss. Here's a look at everything happening in the village between Monday 17th and Wednesday 19th November. Hollyoaks spoilers for next week 1. Donny Clark warns Dodger Savage to play nice with Sully Sullivan The search is on to find missing Griff – unaware that he's actually dead. A power clash soon escalates between Sully and Dodger, with the latter later voicing his concerns about the incident with Donny. Donny warns him to play nice – after all, he is Froggy Black's son, and we know what that family are capable of! Later, a furious Dodger has an outburst, and his boss encourages him to make amends with his colleagues by organising a pub trip. He simply isn't coping in the wake of his sexual assault, and admits to Donny that he won't be able to face Griff. The following day, Dodger confronts Donny. Both men are broken by what has happened to them and as they discuss how much they're struggling, Sully listens in and begins to question whether Griff is even alive. 2. Ant Hutchinson's behaviour worsens after being confronted about the gun Diane is at a loose end with Ant and, with help from Ro, decides to confront him about the picture of him wielding a gun. He strikes up a defence mechanism and lashes out, smashing a vase. The incident worries sister Dee-Dee, who asks her mum to help before it gets too much. 3. Mercedes McQueen delivers some bad news to Tony Hutchinson Tony has a physio session and Mercedes offers her support – Diane notably absent due to the ongoing situation with her children. He's devastated to hear that she's lost their unborn baby, yet another blow to the system after being shot by an as yet unknown assailant. A troubled Ro rushes to the hospital and is hurt to see how much his dad is struggling. Mercedes is on hand to comfort him, with them both confused why anyone would want to shoot Tony. Read more: Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Ant Hutchinson's behaviour spirals as Lucas Hay proposes to Dillon Ray
Frankie arranges a date with Sully and Cleo struggles with motherhood.
An oblivious Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis) pops the question to Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Curtis) in Hollyoaks next week – unaware that his boyfriend actually has feelings for his dad Ste (Kieron Richardson)! Meanwhile, Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith) arranges a date with sex offender Sully Sullivan (Harry French). Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin) struggles with postpartum psychosis, and Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio) is seemingly 'confirmed' as dad Tony's (Nick Pickard) shooter. Elsewhere, Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) settles back into village life, much to the frustration of girlfriend Gemma Johnston (Tisha Merry). Here's a look ahead to the episodes of Hollyoaks airing between Monday 10th November and Wednesday 12th November. 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week 1. Lucas Hay proposes to Dillon Ray Following his kiss with Ste a few weeks ago, Dillon admits to Frankie that he no longer loves Lucas. Little does he realise, his boyfriend is still head over heels, admitting to aunt Leela Dexter (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) that he can't imagine life without him. Boosted by her words, he arranges a surprise proposal. Getting down on one knee in front of Ste and Leela, Lucas pops the question. But what will Dillon say? 2. Frankie Osborne arranges a date with vile Sully Sullivan Having swiped right on him in Liverpool, Frankie is overjoyed to have matched with Sully online. She's lied about her age, and has no idea of the sort of man he really is. When he bumps into her at Price Slice, the two exchange numbers. She then explains to Dillon about her doubts, and he offers to play wingman should things get uncomfortable. 3. Ant Hutchinson is in the frame for dad Tony's attempted murder Darren returns to the village having been arrested (but with not enough evidence to hold him) for Tony's shooting – something which infuriates Ant. Sister Dee-Dee (Chloe Atkinson) attempts to calm him down, before her grandad Froggy Black (John Middleton) intervenes. His mum Diane (Alex Fletcher) is sick of seeing him glued to his phone and confiscates it until he calms down, and later, brother Ro (Leo Cole) shows her an image of him holding a gun on the day Tony was shot. Was Ant responsible? 4. Cleo McQueen struggles in the wake of her childbirth Cleo is given the green light to be discharged from hospital, and girlfriend Sienna Blake (Anna Passey) decides to move in with her for support. When she's unable to express milk for son Joseph, she admits to Sienna that she feels like a failure and is struggling. 5. Warren Fox gets a cold reception as Gemma Johnston plays happy families Mercedes is grateful to have Warren around in her time of need, and arranges for him to come and spend some time with their twin daughters. Gemma watches on, and later acts friendly towards her boyfriend's ex. Meanwhile, Goldie McQueen (Chelsee Healey) is less than impressed to see Warren back in the village, still blaming him for son Hunter's death. Read more: Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth
It follows a worrying week for the character.
Hollyoaks have partnered with charity Action on Postpartum Psychosis for a new storyline concerning Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin). The character – who was carrying ex-boyfriend Joel Dexter's (Rory Douglas-Speed) baby – went into early labour this week after finding out about lover Dodger Savage's (Danny Mac) sexual assault. She was rushed into hospital and gave birth to baby Joseph shortly after, though when Sienna Blake (Anna Passey) went to hand the child to her, she took a turn for the worse and began to haemorrhage. In the meantime, Joel's mum Marie Fielding (Rita Simons) planned to steal Joseph from the hospital and start a new life in Brookside Close. She'd told legendary Brookie residents Sheila and Billy Corkhill (Sue Johnston and John McArdle) that she was expecting a child with Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard), though she was actually wearing a fake bump. After some wise words from Tony's wife Diane (Alex Fletcher), she decided against her plot and climbed into Billy's car for a new life in the famous cul de sac – admitting that she had a lot to tell him, including the fact she was never pregnant in the first place. With Cleo conscious again, Sienna took her to see Joseph, but she failed to recognise him as her son. In upcoming scenes, with the infant receiving specialist care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit due to being premature, Cleo is discharged, but soon begins to lose track of time and worries that she's unable to produce milk. When Sienna, Dodger and the McQueen clan realise her concerning patterns of behaviour, she is admitted to a general psychiatric ward. Speaking of the new storyline, actress Mulkerrin said: “It’s been a new challenge taking on the role of motherhood and the difficulties that being a new mum can bring, especially the strain it can have on your mental health. "We had a consultation with APP [Action on Postpartum Psychosis] whilst filming this storyline, and it was helpful to hear other people’s experiences – my heart breaks for poor Cleo.” Dr Jess Heron, CEO, Action on Postpartum Psychosis added: “Responsible portrayals of PP on popular TV shows such as Hollyoaks are invaluable. "With greater public awareness, partners, friends, family members and frontline health professionals will be more able to quickly spot the signs and seek specialist emergency help as soon as possible." She continued: "We’re grateful to Hollyoaks for playing a part in awareness raising and for their diligent approach to producing a sensitive and accurate storyline.” Read more: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation
Cleo struggles with her baby as Diane builds bridges with the Osbornes.
This article contains discussions of sexual assault that some readers may find distressing. The repercussions of the devastating plane crash and epic Brookside crossover continue to have a huge impact on the Hollyoaks residents next week. After Donny Clark's (Louis Emerick) secret life as Mick Johnson was revealed, fiancée Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) is left questioning everything she ever knew about her partner. At the police station, Dodger Savage (Danny Mac) has decided to report his rapist – without realising that one of the gangsters responsible may be closer to home than he thinks. There's turmoil for Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin) after giving birth, and Leela Lomax (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) is preparing for daughter Peri's (Ruby O'Donnell) funeral. Elsewhere, Prince McQueen (Malique Thompson-Dwyer) gets an update on son Theo, and Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) faces a new life with Tony's secret daughter Morgan in the frame. Here's a look at everything happening in Hollyoaks between Monday 3rd November and Wednesday 5th November. 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week 1. Dodger reports his sexual assault At Dee Valley Police Station, Donny is called into an office and finds Dodger giving a statement to the Superintendent about his sexual assault that was seen in a special edition of Hollyoaks Later last week. To make matters worse, the officer sat in the corner is none other than Sully – the man who was responsible for attacking them. Things are still fraught between Misbah and Donny, but she's hopeful that they can start to make progress on repairing their relationship. Will she be able to look past the fact he's been leading a secret life, and is actually former Brookside resident Mick Johnson? Elsewhere, Gemma finds Louis in a bad way. 2. Motherhood is too much to bare for Cleo After going into labour during the plane crash, Cleo's health is spiralling. She's struggling to bond with her baby, and Sienna – who recently found out that Cleo had a brief romance with her twin-brother Dodger – is trying her best to show some support. Will Cleo be ok? 3. Leela prepares for Peri's funeral After losing her daughter Peri in the devastation caused by the plane crash, Leela is attempting to be a tower of strength and offers a shoulder to cry on to another local. Who is struggling? The village is in mourning ahead of the funeral, and the community rallies together to give them a good send-off. 4. Prince gets a worrying update about Theo Prince receives a surprising update from Zoe, who left the village last year. As viewers will recall, she left the area for a new life – taking their son Theo with her. Since then he's had no contact with his estranged son, and is upset to receive a letter requesting permission for the youngster to be adopted by Zoe's new partner. Determined to fight for his rights to see his son, Prince starts live streaming to encourage other fathers that may be in his situation not to give up. 5. Diane extends an olive branch to Darren <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/10/HO-EP-6639-SCREEN-GRAB-DIANE-STRICTLY-EMBARGOED-UNTIL-TUESDAY-28th-OCTOBER--LIME-PICTURES-ffc0bb9.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="HO EP 6639 SCREEN GRAB - DIANE - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL TUESDAY 28th OCTOBER @ LIME PICTURES" title="HO EP 6639 SCREEN GRAB - DIANE - STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL TUESDAY 28th OCTOBER @ LIME PICTURES" /> Diane is still reeling following the revelation that Tony fathered Morgan Osborne, but realises that she deserves a part in her children's lives. She suggests a playdate for the youngster with the rest of the Hutchinson kids to try and retain some normality. Later, Diane takes Ant and Dee-Dee to the station, to show Dodger a video. What could it entail? Read more: Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hollyoaks icon reveals why character had to die after fan backlash to dark storyline
Hollyoaks continues to deliver on its punchy, unexpected storylines and its 30th anniversary week has only turned the dial up on many of its most dramatic plots – including that of Grace Black. The character, who is played by Tamara Wall, first appeared on our screens back in 2013 and has been involved in all manner of twists, including helming a human trafficking operation that saw Grace groom vulnerable teens Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith) and Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass) earlier this year. While Grace has been a mainstay of the series over the years, it seems as though that most recent storyline was literally the nail in the coffin when it came to deciding her fate on the show. Having been accidentally shot in an altercation between sister Clare Devine (Gemma Bissix) and son Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey), Gemma flatlined when she was whisked off to the hospital and unfortunately died. Grace may have tried to have some sort of redemption arc in recent episodes but actress Wall reveals that it was all a bit too late for her character. Speaking to The Sun in the aftermath of her exit from Hollyoaks, Wall said of the decision to kill Grace: “I’m devastated. But it was going to happen. We knew when we did the storyline that there was every chance that it was going to be. So we took a risk. We told the storyline. I think I told it pretty well." She added: “Well I must have done, because everyone hates me. Well they hate Grace. So as devastated as I am, at least I understand why. And it’s for the right reasons. And I don’t think Grace was ever going to get her happy ending. Do you know what I mean?” Having been involved in such a hard-hitting and uncomfortable storyline, fans of the show were vocal in their backlash of the character and so, along with executive producer Hannah Cheers, the decision was made for Wall to leave and for Grace to die. Read more: Strictly's Lewis Cope issues three-word response to potential Emmerdale return Coronation Street teases Eva Price's Rovers Return comeback in dramatic trailer – as another character's family connection is confirmed Wall revealed: “I came to the decision a while ago when I was just seeing all of this hate coming to her. And it was just… I think as well when I had a conversation with Hannah about it. “And I was like, it looks bad on the show because it looks like morally we’re not caring about what that character’s done ... I don’t want to be the cause of Hollyoaks's downfall. Do you know what I mean? That would be awful. So, you know, we came to the decision together and it was right.” The actress reveals that even though she's had years of fans loving Grace, the outpouring of hate for the character notched up and Wall started to take things personally. Becoming upset at what she was reading on X, the actress realised it looked "bad" if they chose to just ignore the impact of what Grace had actually done and the crimes she had committed. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist
The actor talks to exclusively to Johnathon Hughes about Mick, Donny and going back to the Close.
There was more to the much-hyped return to Brookside Close than pure nostalgia, as the special crossover with Hollyoaks for its 30th anniversary revealed an almighty twist that uncovered an epic plot with decades of dramatic backstory. Detective Donny Clark, who arrived in Hollyoaks village 18 months ago to reconnect with long-lost daughter Vicky Grant, has actually been Mick Johnson from Brookside all along. If this audacious development has shocked the audience, imagine how Louis Emerick felt when he was told he’d been playing his most famous role in plain sight, and didn’t have a clue? “I was summoned by our executive producer Hannah Cheers for a meeting, but she wanted to walk and talk in the park, not in her office,” recalls Emerick, speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com about the day he was let in on one of the biggest soap secrets of the year. “It was all quite covert, like a spy film. She pitched the whole thing: the Brookie crossover, the storyline that connected it, and Donny turning out to be Mick. I was waiting for her to say it was an April fool, only this was July! “Before she actually told me, Hannah was going round the houses trying to explain it and seemed to be soft soaping me, to prepare me for what she was about to say. I wondered whether Donny was going to turn gay in his middle age or something unexpected – I was ready for anything! The whole idea was so far out of left field, but I was really excited.” Explanatory dialogue tells us that 20 years ago, in the shared Brookie-Oaks universe, Mick Johnson had an ill-advised affair with gangster Froggy Black’s wife. Vengeful Froggy planned to have Mick murdered, so to protect his family, Mr Johnson faked his death and made a fresh start under the new identity Donny Clark. With Froggy now living in the same village as ‘Donny’ – what are the chances? – the detective’s past has come back to haunt him and his identity has been compromised. This forced a return to Brookside Close to warn daughter Gemma, along with assorted old pals including Sheila Grant and Billy Corkhill, who took in orphaned Gemma, that they could be in danger from Froggy’s criminal empire. The story continues in a hard-hitting edition of Hollyoaks Later, but where does this leave Donny/Mick in the main show? And what should we call him now? “Initially they wanted the character to be known as ‘Mick’ from this point, but I thought that was a step too far and went against it,” explains Emerick. “Hannah went with it too. There’s more drama in as few people as possible knowing the truth. “So Mick is gone and he’s still Donny, but trying to keep his past a secret. Donny has been a police officer for years, how will he explain he used to be someone else? And will those who know use it to their advantage? There are threats against him and his loved ones. And you’ve got to ask yourself, Donny’s kept all this hidden for 20 years – what else is he hiding?” Emerick confirms Mick’s grown-up daughter Gemma, played by ex-Coronation Street star Tisha Merry, will be sticking around in Hollyoaks wanting answers from the father she grieved for. Brookside viewers, and Emerick, remember Gemma as a sweet little kid – to say she’s changed is an understatement… “I think my Gemma has been substituted by an alien! The sweet girl Mick left is like the lead character in The Devil Wears Prada times 10! Gemma is a scheming baddie and the brains behind some terrible things that happened in the Later episode. And she’s dating Warren Fox! “Gemma wants to punish her dad. Tisha and I have spoken about this and I think it’s a bit harsh. Her dad went out of her life for 20 years but for the right reasons – Gemma’s life was in danger. We’ll see Gemma trying to get at Donny’s fiancée Misbah, and even have a go at Mercedes McQueen! Vicky likes the idea of having a big sister, and her and Gemma seem to have a good relationship. But Gemma’s not to be trusted so I’m sure somewhere down the line that’s all going to change…” Hollyoaks was conceived in 1995 as a younger-skewed spin-off from Brookside, and there were occasional crossovers and Easter eggs in the early days that acknowledged it occupied the same fictional world. Over time, and once Brookside was axed in 2003, that aspect was discarded – until now. Respectfully paying tribute to its parent show is a master stroke on Hollyoaks’ part, and has seen a wave of nostalgic appreciation for the groundbreaking Brookie, which changed the face of television drama when it was launched back in 1982. It’s also got Johnson recalling his journey to the show, and how he has an old neighbour to thank for helping him on his way. “It was 1989, I was a jobbing actor but was out of work at that time. An old lady who lived opposite called Rita knocked on my door one day, because she knew everyone else was out at work, saying she had a leak in her house and water was coming through the ceiling. I’m to DIY what an elephant is to hang gliding so I didn’t have a clue, but I knew to turn the stopcock off! So the water stopped and she got a plumber. “Rita was so grateful. My phone had been cut off, because I couldn’t pay the bill, so she offered to pay it as a thank you. I said there was no need, but asked if I could give her phone number to my agent – this was before mobile phones – so they could get hold of me. Two weeks later I got the Brookside audition, and Rita’s coming back and forth with my schedule and call time written on a sheet of A4. She was the go-between with my agent! It was a domino effect from there, one ep of Brookie led to a BBC film with Miranda Richardson and Zoë Wanamaker, then I went back into Brookside and the rest is history.” Emerick’s blend of roguish charm and air of authority has seen him work constantly since he quit Brookside in 2001, with recurring roles in Coronation Street, Casualty and Last of the Summer Wine, along with numerous guest appearances in everything from New Tricks to Vera and on stage. The charismatic actor is full of stories from his early days on Brookie, where he got his big break alongside seasoned performers who were experiencing soap fame in their later years. “Bill Dean, who played Harry Cross, was in Scum which was a huge, groundbreaking film in the 70s, and also in Dennis Potter’s TV drama Pennies from Heaven. I was already starstruck, and being a Brookside fan before I was in it, I couldn’t believe I was working with Harry Cross! I used to go down the corner shop near the Close to get Bill’s ciggies. “Another one I remember was Gladys Ambrose, who was Billy Corkhill’s mother-in-law, Julia Brogan. She and her husband were in the circus back in the day as a comedy acrobatic act, then she went on the variety circuit. She was wonderful and so glamorous, always in ridiculously high heels. When they made her a regular after years of guest stints she burst into the green room saying: ‘I’ve waited 45 years to become an overnight success!’ Hollyoaks inherited Brookside’s mantle of tackling taboo topics no other television show will touch, highlighting incel culture two years before Adolescence, and recently exploring sibling sexual abuse with unflinching commitment. As a final reflection on the impact of Sir Phil Redmond’s creations, Emerick says he is proud to have been a part of both shows that have broken so many boundaries, and praises the genre’s ongoing efforts to shine a light on uncomfortable issues. “For the audience, seeing characters on a soap go through what they’re going through in real life enables them to reach out and get help. They can relate to it. Soaps are very much still a vital part of our lives, and will continue to be for some time.” Read more: Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Are soaps letting down their power couples as Robron, Swarla and more face giant obstacles?
So much couple conflict across the board!
Soap couples have the strongest fanbases across the genre, with popular on-screen partnerships so beloved that they even have their own special names. But the likes of Emmerdale's 'Robron,' Coronation Street's 'Swarla' and more are all facing major obstacles, posing the question: are these serial dramas letting down their power pairings? Let's start with 'Robron'. Of course, we're talking about Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley) and Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller), who recently reunited after almost 6 years apart. Their renewed relationship was never going to last at this point, due to the small matter of Robert's "unhinged but lovable" secret prison husband Kev Townsend (Chris Coghill)! There are also plenty of unresolved issues between Aaron and Robert, stemming from the latter's decision to cut off and divorce the former back in 2019. Given this, plus whatever Robert is concealing about his time behind bars and Aaron's role in the murder of Anthony Fox (Nicholas Day), these two already had enough to wade through on the road to getting back together long-term. Hawley has assured us that throwing Kev into the mix is rather different to the troubles 'Robron' have previously endured, and made a good point when he told RadioTimes.com and other press that "it would be pretty boring if it was just plain sailing. "There has to be some kind of conflict and obstacles for the characters to overcome to test their relationship and see them triumph against adversity." The promise of a special episode next month, due to shed light on both the Kev conundrum and Robert's prison trauma, may give this story the lift it needs. But at the time of writing, it's hard to understand why we needed to see Robert having "deep feelings" for someone other than Aaron, mere weeks after the character insisted he was all he wanted. Moving onto 'Swarla', and poor Carla Connor (Alison King) is still reeling after her fiancée Lisa Swain's (Vicky Myers) wife Becky (Amy Cudden) pitched up alive, four years after Lisa mourned her death. While we do have some clarity in that Becky is a confirmed cobbles villain, fans had barely had time to catch their breath after Lisa and Carla's joyous engagement! Yes, Becky's arrival allowed for some sensational scenes from Myers as Lisa struggled to comprehend what she was seeing; but she and Carla have been through the mill this year thanks to kidney failure and the dangerous Rob Donovan (Marc Baylis). As big a twist as Becky was, this arc is another example of soap land throwing extreme levels of chaos at their strongest couples. Over on EastEnders, Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) and Callum Highway's (Tony Clay) marriage is no more. Affectionately dubbed 'Ballum', it all ended when Ben got day release from prison and Callum confessed to his affair with Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff). We've discussed before how Callum as a character has been let down by his choice to cheat, and it's not clear where his relationship with Johnny is going. But it's been jarring to see him and Johnny attempting to make a new family with Ben's reluctant daughter Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown). It's a disappointing end to Ben and Callum's love story, and we're fearing another may have a more permanent conclusion on Hollyoaks. Known as 'Dancy' for many years, there have been several instances where we thought Nancy (Jessica Fox) and Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) could withstand no more conflict. They've always proved us wrong, but it seemed like one cheating scandal too many when Nancy admitted that she slept with Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard) a few years back and conceived young daughter Morgan behind Darren's back. It's a twist that has caused history to be rewritten, and although Nancy is far from perfect, she certainly always had better morals than this. Caught up in the plane crash and ensuing fire during the soap's 30th anniversary week, Darren soon regretted his harsh words to Nancy when her life hung in the balance, so who knows whether they will even get the chance to patch things up again? The fallout surrounding 'Dancy' was, at least, skilfully handled by Fox and Dawson, and there has been equally strong work from everyone involved in the aforementioned plots. Meanwhile, Emmerdale knows bringing Robert and Aaron back into each other's orbit is a winning formula, and the vibe seems to be that they can get through anything - even if that isn't yet translating on-screen. As for Corrie, there's reassurance that Lisa's feelings for Carla outweigh those she has for Becky. Soaps thrive on testing such adored couples so they can emerge stronger for it, but with Ben and Callum currently unlikely to reconcile, and the hurdles faced by others getting bigger by the week, is it all too much? Many before them have survived worse, so perhaps the added intensity simply comes from there being so much unrest among these pairings concurrently. As for whether the genre is making a mistake with their power couples, it all rests on the pay-off, and despite our concerns, let's not forget that the journey is often the best part of any love story. The love will never die, but will it buckle under the pressure? We have hope that it won't. Read more: EastEnders airs shock crash aftermath in BBC iPlayer release - with major Jasmine Fisher twist EastEnders star 'to exit soap' following dramatic storyline Coronation Street's Catherine Tyldesley was asked to return to ITV soap before Coronation Street winter preview: Driscoll family drama, Swarla "explosions" and Theo shows his true colours Joe Absolom reveals Emmerdale villain Ray's truth behind Laurel connection amid "subservient" dynamic with Celia 5 Emmerdale spoilers next week: Kev Townsend threatens Aaron Dingle after Robert Sugden reveal Returning to Brookside is the perfect way to honour Hollyoaks' heritage Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Returning to Brookside is the perfect way to honour Hollyoaks' heritage
The crossover is a tribute to both groundbreaking soaps.
Soaps love to mark a significant anniversary by going back in time. Returning characters and knowing nods to the past are a reward for loyal viewers, and a way of reminding us of the show’s roots and the reasons we’ve watched it for so long. Hollyoaks is going bigger and shouting louder, as it does with most things, when it comes to the celebrations for its 30th birthday. In a gift to soap fans, Channel 4’s cheeky, rebellious flagship continuing drama is acknowledging the history of two shows – itself, and the programme it sprang from. In an audacious soap crossover, months before ITV’s much-anticipated Corriedale weaves together the worlds of Weatherfield and the Yorkshire Dales, Hollyoaks is mashing up with Brookside. This goes right back to the origin story for Hollyoaks, launched in 1995 as a sister show to Brookside by Sir Phil Redmond, who created them both. Forget the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this is the Redmond shared soap universe. It’s been 22 years since Channel 4’s iconic continuing drama was cancelled, leaving behind a legacy of breaking boundaries and highlighting the taboo topics other dramas, not just soaps, were too scared to touch. Part of the epic storylines for Hollyoaks’ anniversary week takes detective Donny Clark to Brookside Close, the humble Liverpool cul-de-sac on an unassuming housing estate that was the scene of some of TV’s most groundbreaking drama. For reasons that will become clear when he interacts with some familiar Brookie faces, some of whom we haven’t seen on screen since the '80s, it turns out there’s a strong link between Donny and the Close. But the connections between Hollyoaks and Brookside run much deeper. Brookie’s mini-return has generated a wave of nostalgia and confirmed the respectful position it holds in TV history as the first truly daring continuing drama, which Hollyoaks inherited and continues to keep alive. Starting in 1995 as a shiny teen show about a gang of good-looking friends in their late teens from an ordinary, slightly aspirational suburb of Chester, Hollyoaks quickly showed it had substance as well as style and it wasn’t afraid to take risks. Pulling the rug from under the audience by killing off leading lady Natasha Andersen following a drug overdose just a few months in, it hit its stride as a place to tell hard-hitting stories to an adolescent demographic with a bold, brave spirit. Famously the first soap to portray male sexual assault in a late-night post-watershed special, a format innovation that also influenced the genre, the list of issues highlighted by Hollyoaks over 30 years is incredible. In the last 12 months alone it's tackled sibling sexual abuse (another soap first), child exploitation, conversion therapy, child-to-parent domestic violence and transgender hate crimes. Add those to previous pioneering storylines such as far-right radicalisation, self-harm, eating disorders and county lines grooming, among others, and you realise how seriously Hollyoaks takes its commitment to helping its audience navigate a complicated world at a complicated age. It broke the mould, but it couldn’t have done any of it without Brookside. The turning point not just for soaps, but arguably all British TV drama, Brookside was revolutionary when it began in 1982, on Channel 4’s launch night. Soaps had been a staple of the schedules since Coronation Street practically invented the genre in 1960 with its relatable depiction of working class life, but by the early '80s it had traded some of the early grittiness for whimsical cosiness. Crossroads was a cheap and cheerful melodrama, Emmerdale (back then) a slower-paced slice of village life, and US imports Dallas and Dynasty were pure high-octane escapism. Brookside took the template of day-to-day struggles and relationships within a close-knit community and made it modern and relevant. It had a more realistic approach and a social conscience that put politics front and centre, examining the socio-economic impact of Thatcherism on families everybody could recognise. It also raised awareness on issues such as sexual assault, mental health, violence, class, religion and provided an early platform the representation of LGBTQ+ characters. Nothing was off limits for Redmond’s fearless creation. The death of Trevor Jordache at the hands of the wife and daughter he abused in 1993 was an unflinching portrayal of a harrowing subject, and became Brookside’s most famous, and prescient, storyline. Burying Trevor’s body under the patio, and leaving it undiscovered for two years, happened in an eerie parallel with a notorious case of real-life domestic abuse – in 1994, police discovered the victims of serial killers Fred and Rose West hidden in their family home, including their own daughter, who was buried in the back garden. The Jordache story was the ultimate Brookside plot: shocking, controversial and rooted in truth. The year Trevor was dug up also saw Hollyoaks make its debut. Produced by the same team as Brookside at the same Liverpool-based studio complex, using shared sets still used today (did you know Dee Valley Hospital was once the night club on Brookside’s shopping parade?), Redmond always considered it to be a spin-off with a youthful skew. Seeing characters cross over between the two shows isn’t a new idea, it was happening right at the start, but over time the connection was lost, especially once Brookside was axed in 2003. Reviving it as a narrative device to mark Hollyoaks’ impressive three-decade milestone makes perfect sense. What better way to recognise the simple fact Hollyoaks would not exist without Brookie by strengthening the original relationship between them, and having legends like Sheila Grant and Billy Corkhill along for the ride. And this is not just one-off fan service – Billy will follow Donny back to Hollyoaks village next week, meaning there’s scope for more back and forth in the future. Having Brookside show up as a guest at its little sister’s metaphorical birthday party also recognises how Hollyoaks, while still having an eye on serving the younger end of the soap audience, has come of age as it hits the big three-oh. It’s bold, brash, sure of itself and ready to provoke difficult conversations. Just like Brookside was. Read more: 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Tony's wedding ends in disaster and Donny heads to Brookside Close
All you need to know as some Brookie favourites return!
**As well as brand new spoilers for the following week, this article also includes major spoilers for Wednesday 15th October's streaming edition of Hollyoaks, now available on Channel 4** It's the moment we've all been waiting for in upcoming episodes, as the big Hollyoaks and Brookside crossover finally arrives. First, though, there's a wedding to prepare for, but as Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard) gets set to marry Diane (Alex Fletcher) once again, he's got a lot on his plate! Elsewhere, villainous Clare Devine (Gemma Bissix) tries to make her escape, while Tom Cunningham (Ellis Hollins) and Peri Lomax (Ruby O'Donnell) reveal some news. Then Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) meets some familiar faces as he heads to Brookside Close, where Emerick once played patriarch Mick Johnson. What on earth is going on? Well, all will be revealed soon enough. In the meantime, feast your eyes on all the Hollyoaks spoilers for Monday 20th October - Wednesday 22nd October 2025. 4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week 1. Tony and Diane Hutchinson's wedding turns to chaos amid the groom's secrets With Tom by his side, Tony gets ready for his big day, and kids Ro (now played by Leo Cole), Dee-Dee (Chloe Atkinson) and Ant (Brook Debio) arrive home to celebrate with their parents. Tony and the children have a wedding breakfast, but is it a bad omen that he's seen the bride before they get to the altar? And Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) questions his decision, covering his growing resentment towards Tony after learning that the latter is young Morgan's real father. Nancy Osborne (Jessica Fox) is relieved to see Darren getting ready for the wedding, but he tells her he had a blackout and doesn't remember the previous night. But after the second bombshell discovery that Darren has just made, that James Nightingale (Gregory Finnegan) is still alive, Darren has actually blackmailed him in exchange for his silence! Nancy warns Darren they need to pull together. Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna) is running late, and rushes to get to The Dog, while Diane is nervous. She's right to be, as whatever happens next leads to major drama at at the wedding. As the fallout continues, guests are emotional and Tony gets a huge shock and is forced to make an impossible choice. What is it? Fans have seen a series of shocks surrounding Tony, who has got both Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) and Marie Fielding (Roxy Simons) pregnant, as well as having conceived Morgan with Nancy years earlier! Are his secrets about to come tumbling out? 2. Clare Devine and Jez Blake are a flight risk – and there's peril at the airfield Clare's party for one is interrupted by a suspicious Grace Black (Tamara Wall), who questions why she's so giddy. Grace pleads with Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) to help her son Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey), and the pair urge Rex not to take young Tori away from them. At the airfield, Clare waits for Tori to be brought to her so she can flee the village with her 'adopted' daughter. But in the aftermath of a shock event, a character in peril is rushed to hospital from the airfield – is it Clare? Donny and his team deal with the fallout of Clare's unthinkable plan and the chaos she's left behind, but what has she done? And with official images confirming that serial killer Jez Blake (Jeremy Sheffield) joins Clare on the airfield, does he escape, or meet a fatal end? 3. Tom Cunningham and Peri Lomax make a happy announcement In the village, Tom and Peri head to The Dog to share some happy news. With Peri having recently proposed to her childhood sweetheart, have the couple got engaged? It's not been the smoothest of reunions, after Peri had a fling with none other than Tom's childhood tormentor, Clare! 4. Donny Clark is greeted by familiar faces at Brookside Close At the hospital, Donny's partner, Doctor Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) is worried about him. After an altercation with Fraser Black Senior, otherwise known as Froggy (John Middleton), Donny edges closer to uncovering the criminal gang, but then he's stunned by a home truth. Donny calls on his taxi driver pal 'Benny' for help, and he just happens to be played by fellow Brookie legend Michael Starke. As Donny ignores a warning from his old pal and heads to Brookside Close, are we actually witnessing a frank chat between Mick and Sinbad? They certainly look familiar! In a taxi, Donny pulls up and is met by matriarch Sheila Corkhill (Sue Johnston). It's clear that Sheila is very unhappy – and she's not afraid to make that clear. Where does Sheila fit in to Donny's case? Read more: Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover
The character has links to a Brookside favourite.
Actress Yasmin Davies has been announced to join the cast of Hollyoaks Later, as well as the soap's Brookside crossover episodes, playing "party girl" Esme. Davies is the daughter of soap veteran Alex Fletcher, who has starred in Hollyoaks as Diane Hutchinson since 2010 and previously played Brookside's Jacqui Dixon. And in the perfect twist, Davies's alter ego Esme is in fact the daughter of Jacqui! With Davies having filmed with returning Brookie stars Sue Johnston and John McArdle, who play Sheila and Billy Corkhill, she is also due to feature in Hollyoaks' late night spin-offs, where Esme heads to a Liverpool nightclub. The soap's infamous 'Later' shows typically take on a darker tone, airing in a late night slot. And that's when Esme will enjoy some fun with some of the Chester teens, including Frankie Osborne (played by Isabelle Smith). Speaking about her role, Davies said: "I’ve absolutely loved being a part of the Brookside and Laters episodes. "There has been such a nostalgic energy on set, and I’m really looking forward to seeing it all come together to celebrate 30 years of Hollyoaks." The star's television credits include ITV's Maryland, in which she starred alongside Suranne Jones, as well as The Gathering and The Tower. Davies is currently filming season 3 of the BAFTA nominated ITV sitcom G’wed, and is also beginning her studies at prestigious drama school RADA. On working with Davies, BAFTA winning director Martin Smith shared: "Yasmin is such an exciting actor and a joy to have on set. "I directed her in the upcoming series of Silent Witness in a challenging role that she embraced and shone in. A delight to work with, she is a real livewire and a talent to keep an eye out for," he added. "Not only a resourceful actor, she is a natural on the film set, and a real team player whose enthusiasm was infectious. "I can’t wait to see what she does next and being a huge fan of Brookside back in the day, am really looking forward to seeing her in this new role." We'll just have to wait and see what Esme will get up to, and whether she'll feature in scenes with Jacqui, which would be all the more entertaining considering Fletcher's memorable role within the Hollyoaks universe! Read more: Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return
Anna Friel played Beth Jordache in the iconic soap.
Soap fans everywhere are keenly awaiting the Brookside and Hollyoaks special episode, coming later this year to celebrate the latter's 30th anniversary. Details about the episode have been sparse so far, but we do have a few updates on some of the famous faces from the past we can expect to see again. So far, Ricky Tomlinson, Sue Johnston, John McArdle, Paul Usher and others are confirmed to return for the special episode. Fans will no doubt be keen to see what they've been up to on Brookside Close since the soap ended in 2003. Someone also waiting to catch-up with the old gang is Anna Friel, who starred as Beth Jordache in the soap. RadioTimes.com caught up with the actress at the National Television Award 2025 where she explained that sadly she won't be a part of the revival episode, but will certainly be tuning in. When asked if she would be back, Friel said: "Well, I'm about to fly to Australia for work and I've just finished a new production called The Dream Lands which comes to the BBC in January. It's a dystopian drama set in 2038 and I'm really proud of it! "So I'm happy to be doing that, but I wish [the Brookside team] luck and I can't wait to watch what they do and see all the old faces." Friel praised Brookside for the training it gave her, explaining how it was a "great launch pad" for her. "It was the best training for a 16-year-old entering the world of television I could ever have had," Friel added. "What was different then is that it was a real location and it was a single camera, and very tight scripts. "Real location and long, long hours, many pages to learn every single night and five-day weeks... if you can do that at 16, well, you're set up for the rest. Here I am, 30 years later. "It was the best training in the world, and what a great launch pad." Friel played Beth Jordache for two years and her character was involved in some of the most memorable Brookside moments ever. She was responsible for the killing and patio burial of her father Trevor (Bryan Murray) and was famously part of the first ever pre-watershed lesbian kiss on British television. Read more: 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return
The star played Lindsey Corkhill in the former soap.
Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney has ruled out a return for the upcoming Brookside revival episode. The Channel 4 soap is returning to our screens later this year as part of a special crossover episode with Hollyoaks to mark the latter show’s 30th anniversary. However, speaking to the Daily Star, Sweeney – who played Lindsey Corkhill – revealed she won't be taking part as she is currently committed to Corrie, where she stars as Cassie Plummer. She added: "It's wonderful that there's such excitement about Brookside coming back. I'm still a big fan of the show." Speaking about how she recently took a trip down memory lane and visited the old set, she went on to say: "I took my son to the Close a few months ago to show it to him. I got out the car and I started filling up with tears. I was in front of my old house!" Sweeney starred as Corkhill in the Channel 4 soap sporadically from 1991 until the last episode aired in November 2003. Plenty of Brookside stars have been confirmed to be reprising their roles for the TV soap’s return, including Philip Olivier and Suzanne Collins, who will be back as Tim O'Leary and Nikki Shadwick, respectively. Sue Johnston will also be back as Sheila Grant, as well as John McArdle as Billy Corkhill and Paul Usher as Barry Grant. Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Two beloved Brookside fan-favourites confirm return for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
Former Brookside actors Philip Olivier and Suzanne Collins are set to reprise their roles for the TV soap’s long-awaited return later this year. The iconic Channel 4 show is returning as part of a one-off special crossover episode to mark Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary, which is set to air in October. Olivier will reprise the role of Timothy O'Leary, while Collins will appear once again as Nikki Shadwick. "I remember my time on Brookside with great affection and will relish returning to the close," said Olivier, who has since gone on to appear in Holby City and Benidorm. "When I was first cast in Brookside aged 15, I would never have thought that 30 years on, people would still be calling me 'Tinhead'." Meanwhile, Collins said it had been "life-changing getting cast in this role all those years ago". She added: "I've been lucky to work for nearly 30 years, all over the world with wonderful people, but nothing comes close to my Brookside family. I feel like I'm going home." Shadwick appeared on the soap between 1998 and 2003. Following the death of her father, she developed a close bond with Jimmy Corkhill, played by the late Dean Sullivan. She added: "It will be emotional without our darling Dean, but I think he will be looking down, beaming with pride and smiling down on us." Tim made his debut on the soap in 1996 as the son of Carmel and Tommy O'Leary and brother to Ben and Melanie. He initially played a bully but, after almost killing his sister in a near-fatal accident, he began to reform his ways. He later fell in love with Nikki’s sister Emily, played by Jennifer Ellison, with the pair marrying in 2001. The actors join Sue Johnston, John McArdle and Paul Usher, who were previously confirmed to be reprising their roles as Sheila Grant, Billy Corkhill and Barry Grant, respectively, in the revival. Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel 4. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Two Brookside legends confirmed to reprise beloved roles for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
"I'm looking forward to seeing all of the old faces."
Actors John McArdle and Paul Usher are set to reprise their roles in Brookside for the TV soap’s highly anticipated return to our screens later this year. The iconic Channel 4 soap is returning for a special one-off crossover episode to mark Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary, which is set to air in October. McArdle returns as Billy Corkhill while Usher will be back as Barry Grant in the revival. They join Sue Johnston, who was previously confirmed to be reprising her role as Sheila Grant, later Corkhill. McArdle, who plays the on-screen husband of Sheila, said of his return: "It’s going to be a nostalgic visit back to the famous close. Also I’ve got to try and find the character of Billy Corkhill again as I haven’t played him for 35 years!" Usher added: "I'm looking forward to seeing all of the old faces." McArdle played Billy in Brookside for five years before eventually departing from the soap in 1990, with the character leaving in the same episode as Sheila. Usher’s Barry was one of the original characters from the soap’s debut episode in 1982, with the actor appearing on and off until the soap's finale in 2003. The crossover was announced earlier in August, with executive producer Hannah Cheers calling it "a love letter to both Hollyoaks and Brookside". She continued: "Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks - it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets. "For everyone at Lime Pictures (originally Mersey TV), Hollyoaks' history is deeply rooted in Brookside, and its legacy lives on through our crew and, of course, some of our cast." She added: "This special feels like both a moving and fitting tribute to our origin story and a chance for fans to revisit much-loved Brookside characters in honour of that legacy. "These iconic Brookside characters are soap archetypes that helped define British TV; soap archetypes that new generations are still discovering now through Hollyoaks." Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel4.com. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Brookside legend will reprise iconic role for Hollyoaks crossover after 35 years
The first cast member for the upcoming special has been confirmed.
This article includes discussions of rape and sexual assault which some readers may find upsetting. Since last week's announcement that Brookside was set to return to our screens for a historic crossover with Hollyoaks, fans have been speculating which former stars from the soap might be involved – and now we have our first confirmed name. It's been revealed that legendary actress Sue Johnston – also known for her roles on The Royle Family and Downton Abbey among others – will be back as her character Sheila Grant/Corkhill. "It'll be so lovely to go back and be Sheila for a day as it was such big, enjoyable part of my life," Johnston said in a press release announcing the news. Sheila was involved in many iconic Brookside storylines in her eight year run on the soap from the launch episode in 1982 until her departure in 1990, appearing alongside her future The Royle Family co-star Ricky Tomlinson as her husband Bobby. In one of the soap's most affecting storylines, Sheila was raped by a taxi driver in 1986, which resulted in her becoming pregnant and ultimately led to the breakdown of her marriage as she struggled with the long-term trauma. Meanwhile, in another dramatic storyline just one year later, her youngest son Damon (Simon O'Brien) was stabbed to death in York during a three-part spin-off titled Damon and Debbie, which had seen him run away with his schoolgirl lover Debbie McGrath (Gillian Kearney). Johnston left Brookside in 1990 after Sheila found love once again, marrying Billy Corkhill (John McCardle) and relocating with him from Brookside to Basingstoke. The upcoming crossover episode is part of Hollyoaks' 30th anniversary celebrations and comes 22 years after Brookside was cancelled in 2003. Announcing the news last week, Hollyoaks executive producer Hannah Cheers said: "This episode is a love letter to both Hollyoaks and Brookside. Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks – it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets. "For everyone at Lime Pictures (originally Mersey TV), Hollyoaks' history is deeply rooted in Brookside, and its legacy lives on through our crew and, of course, some of our cast. "This special feels like both a moving and fitting tribute to our origin story and a chance for fans to revisit much-loved Brookside characters in honour of that legacy. "These iconic Brookside characters are soap archetypes that helped define British TV; soap archetypes that new generations are still discovering now through Hollyoaks." Filming will begin on the episode in September, with permission having been granted by the owner of the close and the Liverpool Film Office – as the unadopted road in West Derby is now home to residents. Those very residents have also been invited to share lunch with the cast and crew when filming gets under way. Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel4.com. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover
Hollyoaks is going all out for its upcoming 30th anniversary, including reviving Brookside for a special one-off episode. The twist is a great way to pay tribute to Phil Redmond, who created both iconic shows. Writer Steve Hughes, who previously worked on Brookside, has delved into the lives of a select number of our old favourites, more than 20 years after our beloved Brookie Close said farewell. And among all the excitement, we're already thinking about what we want to see from the crossover. So, while we're waiting for further details on who will star in this instalment and what the storyline may involve, join RadioTimes.com as we offer up some hopeful requests. 4 things we need to see in the Brookside x Hollyoaks crossover In-universe references to Brookside history With such a rich history to draw from, we want to see some mentions of Brookside history sewn right into the fabric of this episode. Let's have characters acknowledging the body under the patio, for example. Possibly intertwined with the exposing of Jeremy Blake's (Jeremy Sheffield) killer allotment, all it would take is a comment about "that man who was dug up in his own garden" as a nod to the end of Trevor Jordache (played by Bryan Murray). Or how about a scene between Sienna Blake (Anna Passey) and girlfriend Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin), in which they discuss how decades earlier, kissing someone of the same sex in public was something that was sadly judged? Punctuated with a kiss of their own, this could honour the famous kiss shared in 1994 by Beth (Anna Friel) and Margaret (played by Nicola Stephenson). Matt Musgrove (Kristian Ealey), who rather memorably existed as the same character within both Brookside and Hollyoaks, also deserves a tribute of his own. Fun nods to Brookside characters currently starring in Hollyoaks Of course, loyal Brookside fans will know that the cast currently includes two veterans from the Close - Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick). We'd love one of the cameos coming in to suddenly recognise one (or both) of them as their Brookie counterparts. Fletcher played Jacqui Dixon, who found herself embroiled in a surrogacy storyline, while Emerick's memorable alter ego Mick Johnson was an everyman who would always step up to protect his loved ones. Imagine a confused Diane being called 'Jacqui', or police detective Donny being approached by a someone who is surprised to see Mick has retrained as a police officer. Let's wish this into existence! Throwback scene with Hollyoaks teens Hollyoaks started life as a soap aimed at teenagers, so what better way to pay tribute to both shows than by having some of Brookside's most memorable teen personalities pop up as they are now? We're thinking Tim 'Tinhead' O'Leary (Philip Olivier) and Nikki Shadwick (Suzanne Collins). While Collins did once appear in Hollyoaks in a guest role, there's still a fun opportunity for the crossover to take advantage of this and have Nikki recall her brief visit to the village. Perhaps these famous characters could bump into the likes of Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass) and Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith), or simply witness the Oaks' kids being typical teenagers and share a private laugh about their own heyday. Brookside cameo wish list Aside from the aforementioned Tim and Nikki, we can't help but go big on our list of requests here! We'd adore a cameo from Sheila Grant (Sue Johnston). And, although Sheila split from husband Bobby (Ricky Tomlinson) on screen, how special would it be to see Johnston and Tomlinson's partnership, which continued beyond Brookside when they starred together in The Royle Family, resurrected? Also on our radar is Jackie Corkhill (Sue Jenkins), and Sinbad, aka Michael Starke, who has also appeared in Hollyoaks as a cab driver and who we'd love to have back in an amusing doppelganger twist. Read more: Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel4.com. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap
Brookside Close is back after more than two decades off air.
After 22 years off air, Brookside is set to return as part of a historic crossover with Hollyoaks, as the Channel 4 soap gears up to celebrate its 30th anniversary later this year. Hollyoaks took over as Channel 4's continuing drama when Brookside came to an end in 2003, with the crossover episode honouring its predecessor and creator Sir Phil Redmond. Brookside was known for addressing groundbreaking social issues, often ahead of its time, something that Hollyoaks has taken on since. The crossover will see the return of the iconic, heritage Brookside characters as a treat for audiences and to mark the milestone. Details are yet to be announced on who will be returning. Executive producer Hannah Cheers said: "This episode is a love letter to both Hollyoaks and Brookside. Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks - it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets. "For everyone at Lime Pictures (originally Mersey TV), Hollyoaks' history is deeply rooted in Brookside, and its legacy lives on through our crew and, of course, some of our cast. "This special feels like both a moving and fitting tribute to our origin story and a chance for fans to revisit much-loved Brookside characters in honour of that legacy. "These iconic Brookside characters are soap archetypes that helped define British TV; soap archetypes that new generations are still discovering now through Hollyoaks." Cheers noted that she was "passionate" about revisiting Brookside for the 30th anniversary, and after receiving the go ahead from Sir Phil and Channel 4, the crossover was able to become a reality. "Writer Steve Hughes, who began his career on Brookside, has reimagined where these characters are more than 20 years on," she added. "We hope audiences will enjoy welcoming these old friends back into their homes once again." Sir Phil said of the news: "It is always bittersweet thinking back to Brookie, the reminders of its success and impact, but the thoughts of many, like Dean Sullivan and Bill Dean, who are no longer with us. "But it is great that Lime Pictures are paying homage in their Hollyoaks anniversary crossover episodes. "I can’t wait to see how all the gardens are coping in the heatwave, and who knows what might pop up if someone decides to relay their patio. I know we left something else down there." Filming will begin in September, with permission having been granted by the owner of the close and the Liverpool Film Office - as the unadopted road in West Derby is now home to residents. Those very residents have also been invited to share lunch with the cast and crew as filming gets under way soon. Episodes of Brookside are available to watch on STV player. Hollyoaks is available to watch on catch-up on Channel4.com. Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died
Playing the polar opposite to his last soap character.
There's a brand new villain heading to Hollyoaks, and he'll be played by a very well-known face from Emmerdale. Froggy, whose full name is Fraser Black Senior, is the previously unseen father of the late Fraser (Jesse Birdsall), and the grandfather of Grace Black (Tamara Wall), Clare Devine (Gemma Bissix) and Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey). 'Froggy' is played by John Middleton, whose most famous role was beloved vicar Ashley Thomas in the Dales. Currently in prison alongside the recently-returned Tom Cunningham (Ellis Hollins), Froggy has enlisted Tom as his unofficial financial advisor. But things are about to get interesting now that we know the older man is linked so closely to Clare. Of course, back-from-the-dead Clare is the former sister-in-law to Tom, having spent a chunk of Tom's youth torturing him among her many other crimes. Now it looks like Tom is working with Froggy to bring evil Clare down! Top dog among his fellow inmates, Froggy is due to be released, with plans to keep his nose clean so he can spend time with his loved ones – particularly his treasured granddaughter 'Gracie'. When Froggy receives some shocking information from Tom about his granddaughter's whereabouts, he'll take action – but the question is, will Froggy be welcomed into his family with open arms? Speaking about joining Hollyoaks, Middleton said: "From Vicar to Villain is quite a leap but that’s why I love this part. "Froggy has a very dark history and he could reveal everyone’s murky past. He knows where all the bodies are buried; perhaps quite literally…" We'll have to wait and see just how dangerous Froggy is, but it's clear he's ready to make his mark in the Hollyoaks village. Middleton starred in Emmerdale from 1996 until 2017, when the gentle Ashley passed away after a battle with dementia. The storyline earned widespread praise and saw the star pick up two British Soap Awards for his moving performances. Since leaving the ITV soap, the actor has played American detective Arthur Gerard in Strangers on a Train, and Frank in the one man show Hull & High Water. In 2022 and 2023, Middleton played Colonel Pickering in the UK Tour of My Fair Lady, with Doctors, The Things You Do for Love, The Gambling Man and Cracker among his many other television credits. Read more: Hollyoaks 2025 preview: 12 spoilers for the year ahead What happened to Ste Hay on Hollyoaks? Storyline explained amid time jump How Hollyoaks' new format proves why soaps can survive Hollyoaks' Jennifer Metcalfe reveals personal link to Mercedes' devastating cancer storyline Diane Langton, Hollyoaks and Only Fools and Horses star, dies aged 77 Visit our dedicated Soaps page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.