Lime Pictures-produced Channel 4 drama Hollyoaks has seen a surge in viewers since it underwent a strategic schedule shake-up in September 2024, reducing its weekly output from five to three episodes and shortening episode durations, with viewers growing across both linear and digital platforms.
The revised schedule, designed to “enhance storytelling impact and align with evolving viewer habits,” has delivered a +23% year-on-year increase in total viewership. Engagement among Hollyoaks’ core demographic of viewers aged 16–34 has also grown by +11% year-on-year, while consolidated viewing share on E4 is up an impressive +35% overall and +38% within the 16–34 demographic.
The show’s performance on streaming platforms has also been particularly strong, with views per episode skyrocketing by +71% year-on-year and release of new episodes via YouTube is also proving a success, with total UK watch time in the first three months of the year up almost 20% year on year, firmly establishing Hollyoaks as a powerhouse in Channel 4’s digital portfolio.
Notably, the episode airing on 15 January 2025 became the soap’s highest-performing non-Christmas episode on streaming, generating 562k 28-day views. The episode centred on the verdict in the JJ Osborne trial, concluding a sensitive and powerful storyline exploring the complex topic of sibling sexual abuse.
In 2025, over half of Hollyoaks’ total viewing is done via Live and VODSAL, (Viewing On Same Day As Live), which the broadcaster cites as evidence that reducing to three episodes a week has been an effective strategy.
The programme continues to deliver high-impact narratives that tackle real-world issues, balancing suspense and social commentary with accessible, character-driven storytelling, with EP Hannah Cheers at the helm.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the show will be spotlighting Ro Hutchinson’s journey through gender transition and his struggle to open up to someone he can trust. In May, an emotionally resonant episode will be dedicated to him calling a crisis hotline, simulating what this conversation looks like. The episode aims to demystify the process of seeking support and provide a platform for awareness and education.
Looking ahead, Hollyoaks will celebrate its 30th anniversary in October 2025, celebrating three decades of bold storytelling and revolutionising British soaps with its youthful cast and cutting-edge social issues. The Channel 4 show will mark the milestone by delivering a month-long series of high-stakes episodes, promising dramatic developments, shock twists and devastating revelations that will have lasting consequences for the village and its residents.
Louise Donald, commissioning executive for Channel 4 Drama, Hollyoaks said: “We are delighted with how well the audience has embraced the new format. It’s testament to Hannah’s vision for the show, the amazing storylines and performances. As Hollyoaks celebrates its 30th anniversary it’s fantastic to see the show continue to tackle important social issues whilst keeping viewers entertained.”
