Alex Fletcher is leaving her role as Diane Hutchinson on Hollyoaks after 16 years, with her character set to die from ovarian cancer. The actress has already finished filming, and her final scenes are expected to air soon.
Co-star Kieron Richardson, who plays Ste Hay, revealed at the Royal Television Society Awards that the event was Fletcher's last with the cast. He told The Mirror: 'She has not got long left with us. It is heartbreaking to watch.'
With soap scenes typically airing six to eight weeks after filming, Diane's death could occur around May or June. Fans recently spotted cast filming a funeral, sparking speculation it was Diane's send-off.
Jessica Fox, who plays Nancy Osborne, expressed her dismay at Fletcher's departure, saying: 'I was fuming with her. How dare you make a decision about your own life?'
Hollyoaks airs on E4 from Monday to Wednesday at 7pm and is available on Channel 4's streaming service.
