Radio Times
type: channel
link: https://www.radiotimes.com
date: 2026-03-11T21:01:03.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Emmerdale legend joined by former Coronation Street stars as whole new family unit confirmed for Hollyoaks
items: Hollyoaks favourite set to exit after 8 years – as two dead characters from iconic family return
items: Hollyoaks icon to exit soap in "explosive scenes" after star films final scenes 20 years after debut
items: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Brookside reunion for troubled Donny Clark as Lucas Hay spirals
items: Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale
items: Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village
items: Hollyoaks Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as huge secret rocks the Hutchinsons
items: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Gemma Johnson convinces Warren Fox to intercept a robbery to save Mercedes McQueen
items: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Lucas Hay's behaviour spirals as Frankie Osborne receives messages from beyond the grave
items: Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen
items: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Lucas Hay stalks Dillon Ray in a desperate attempt at a reunion
items: 3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Gemma Johnson schemes against Warren Fox
items: 3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Donny Clark issues a warning as Tony Hutchinson receives tragic news
items: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Ant Hutchinson's behaviour spirals as Lucas Hay proposes to Dillon Ray
items: Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth
items: 5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation
items: Hollyoaks icon reveals why character had to die after fan backlash to dark storyline
items: Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist
items: Are soaps letting down their power couples as Robron, Swarla and more face giant obstacles?
items: Returning to Brookside is the perfect way to honour Hollyoaks' heritage
items: 4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Tony's wedding ends in disaster and Donny heads to Brookside Close
items: Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover
items: Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return
items: Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return
items: Two beloved Brookside fan-favourites confirm return for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
items: Two Brookside legends confirmed to reprise beloved roles for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
items: Brookside legend will reprise iconic role for Hollyoaks crossover after 35 years
items: 4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover
items: Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap
items: Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died

Emmerdale legend joined by former Coronation Street stars as whole new family unit confirmed for Hollyoaks
type: item
date: 2026-03-11T21:00:31.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: This is the first new family to join the E4 soap in five years.
encoded: 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 …

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Hollyoaks favourite set to exit after 8 years – as two dead characters from iconic family return
type: item
date: 2026-01-20T12:10:57.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: It's all change for the McQueen family.
encoded: 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…

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Hollyoaks icon to exit soap in "explosive scenes" after star films final scenes 20 years after debut
type: item
date: 2026-01-13T14:14:39.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: The character is a member of the soap's most iconic family.
encoded: 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 Ma…

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5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Brookside reunion for troubled Donny Clark as Lucas Hay spirals
type: item
date: 2026-01-13T00:01:13.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: John Paul has a bad day at work, Sienna is suspicious of Tinhead and Cleo is struggling.
encoded: 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.imme…

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height: 3582

Hollyoaks stars reveal dramatic reunion for Ste Hay and 'dead' husband James Nightingale
type: item
date: 2026-01-07T13:51:26.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: Kieron Richardson and Greg Finnegan talk James's return.
encoded: 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 …

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Hollyoaks and Brookside to crossover again as three legendary characters arrive in the village
type: item
date: 2026-01-05T16:00:30.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: Contains Trailer
subject: News
description: The returns were confirmed in the 2026 trailer.
encoded: 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 …

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height: 3238

Hollyoaks Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as huge secret rocks the Hutchinsons
type: item
date: 2025-12-09T00:01:49.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: Christmas
description: Everything happening in Hollyoaks this Christmas time.
encoded: 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…

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4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Gemma Johnson convinces Warren Fox to intercept a robbery to save Mercedes McQueen
type: item
date: 2025-12-04T00:01:27.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Ant spirals and Ste turns to Dillon for support...
encoded: 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 …

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4 Hollyoaks spoilers: Lucas Hay's behaviour spirals as Frankie Osborne receives messages from beyond the grave
type: item
date: 2025-11-29T00:01:32.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Dodger offers support, Cleo struggles with separation from her baby and Gemma's scheming continues.
encoded: 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 da…

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Hollyoaks 2025 winter preview: Major death revealed as Diane Hutchinson and Gemma Johnson plot to bring down Mercedes McQueen
type: item
date: 2025-11-25T15:20:46.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: There's never a dull day in Hollyoaks village...
encoded: 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 Osborn…

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4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Lucas Hay stalks Dillon Ray in a desperate attempt at a reunion
type: item
date: 2025-11-25T00:01:37.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Ste and Mercedes spiral, and Theresa returns to the village.
encoded: 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…

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3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Gemma Johnson schemes against Warren Fox
type: item
date: 2025-11-18T00:01:08.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Cleo receives a diagnosis, and Donny juggles his double life.
encoded: 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. D…

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3 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Donny Clark issues a warning as Tony Hutchinson receives tragic news
type: item
date: 2025-11-11T00:01:58.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: All the latest drama from Chester.
encoded: 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 deliv…

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5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Ant Hutchinson's behaviour spirals as Lucas Hay proposes to Dillon Ray
type: item
date: 2025-11-04T00:01:37.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Frankie arranges a date with Sully and Cleo struggles with motherhood.
encoded: 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 g…

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Hollyoaks to air new issue-based storyline for Cleo McQueen after traumatic childbirth
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T08:00:06.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: It follows a worrying week for the character.
encoded: 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 …

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5 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Dodger Savage reports sexual assault as Donny Clark makes a shocking realisation
type: item
date: 2025-10-28T00:01:42.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: Cleo struggles with her baby as Diane builds bridges with the Osbornes.
encoded: 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 …

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Hollyoaks icon reveals why character had to die after fan backlash to dark storyline
type: item
date: 2025-10-23T10:13:47.000Z
creator: Morgan Cormack
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: "It’s for the right reasons."
encoded: 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 …

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Louis Emerick on his Hollyoaks future after Brookside crossover twist
type: item
date: 2025-10-22T18:30:52.000Z
creator: Johnathon Hughes
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Exclusive
subject: The Big RT Interview
description: The actor talks to exclusively to Johnathon Hughes about Mick, Donny and going back to the Close.
encoded: 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, …

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Are soaps letting down their power couples as Robron, Swarla and more face giant obstacles?
type: item
date: 2025-10-22T16:44:41.000Z
creator: Laura Denby
subject: Coronation Street
subject: EastEnders
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: Channel 4
subject: Comment
subject: ITV
subject: ITVX
description: So much couple conflict across the board!
encoded: 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…

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Returning to Brookside is the perfect way to honour Hollyoaks' heritage
type: item
date: 2025-10-22T11:01:08.000Z
creator: Johnathon Hughes
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Comment
description: The crossover is a tribute to both groundbreaking soaps.
encoded: 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 or…

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4 Hollyoaks spoilers next week: Tony's wedding ends in disaster and Donny heads to Brookside Close
type: item
date: 2025-10-15T11:35:49.000Z
creator: Laura Denby
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
description: All you need to know as some Brookie favourites return!
encoded: **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 runni…

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Yasmin Davies cast as legacy character Esme for Hollyoaks Later spin-off and Brookside crossover
type: item
date: 2025-10-13T23:01:54.000Z
creator: Laura Denby
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: The character has links to a Brookside favourite.
encoded: 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 ro…

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Brookside icon Anna Friel delivers verdict on revival - and whether she would return
type: item
date: 2025-09-12T10:14:21.000Z
creator: Helen Daly
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Exclusive
subject: News
subject: Video
description: Anna Friel played Beth Jordache in the iconic soap.
encoded: 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…

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Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney reveals verdict on Brookside revival and whether she will return
type: item
date: 2025-09-10T09:48:11.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: News
description: The star played Lindsey Corkhill in the former soap.
encoded: 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.

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Two beloved Brookside fan-favourites confirm return for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
type: item
date: 2025-09-02T09:58:05.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
subject: On demand
description: "I feel like I'm going home."
encoded: 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 ne…

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Two Brookside legends confirmed to reprise beloved roles for special Hollyoaks crossover episode
type: item
date: 2025-08-29T11:28:47.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: "I'm looking forward to seeing all of the old faces."
encoded: 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…

Brookside legend will reprise iconic role for Hollyoaks crossover after 35 years
type: item
date: 2025-08-23T10:43:59.000Z
creator: Patrick Cremona
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: News
description: The first cast member for the upcoming special has been confirmed.
encoded: 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 …

4 things we need to see in Brookside's big Hollyoaks crossover
type: item
date: 2025-08-19T08:42:11.000Z
creator: Laura Denby
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: Comment
description: What do you want to see?
encoded: 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…

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Beloved Channel 4 soap Brookside to return for major crossover with another major soap
type: item
date: 2025-08-16T10:52:41.000Z
creator: Katelyn Mensah
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Channel 4
subject: News
description: Brookside Close is back after more than two decades off air.
encoded: 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 D…

Emmerdale icon joins Hollyoaks as "notorious" villain - 8 years after last beloved soap character died
type: item
date: 2025-07-14T23:01:20.000Z
creator: Laura Denby
subject: Emmerdale
subject: Hollyoaks
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: ITV
subject: News
description: Playing the polar opposite to his last soap character.
encoded: 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…

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