Liverpool-born actors Philip Olivier and Suzanne Collins are set to reprise their iconic Brookside roles following the recent soap crossover episode celebrating Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary.
A brand-new trailer, available to watch on Hollyoaks’ social media channels from 4pm today, teases sparks flying between Liberty and the loveable Tim ‘Tinhead’ O’Leary this January. However, the seemingly innocent Scouser may not be all he appears, as it’s revealed he has an ulterior motive…
Meanwhile, Nikki Shadwick forms a new friendship with Mercedes McQueen in upcoming scenes, after the pair meet at a local rehabilitation facility.
Also at the clinic is Jenson, played by Ryan Clayton. The New Year trailer teases an attraction between Jenson and Mercedes.
The trailer also reveals Jenson confronting Tinhead over his use of Warren’s identity, paving the way for tense scenes ahead. Ryan Clayton is best known for his roles in Waterloo Road and Coronation Street.
Olivier and Collins were last seen in October last year for Hollyoaks’ anniversary special episode.
Hollyoaks is available to stream from 7am Monday to Wednesday on Channel 4 or watch live on E4 at 7pm.
Speaking about her latest upcoming Hollyoaks scenes, 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.
“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, aka Brookie’s loveable rogue Tinhead, 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.” October’s Brookside combo episode was UK’s first ever soap crossover episode, and became Hollyoaks’ best-performing episode for consolidated Individuals viewing (645k) since October 2021, and its highest consolidated share (5.8%) since February 2020.
The same special Hollyoaks/Brookside hybrid also delivered record-breaking digital performance, becoming the best ever Hollyoaks episode on streaming (0–7 Day O&O), reaching 522k views, and generated widespread demand for a permanent return for 80s favourite Brookside.
