Kieron Richardson and Gregory Finnegan have spoken about the dramatic return of James Nightingale in Hollyoaks, which aired on Wednesday (January 6). James, who was believed dead after a car explosion in September 2024, reappeared to a shocked Ste Hay, who thought he was hallucinating.
James explained he fled the village because he believed Ste was in love with Rex Gallagher. Darren Osborne, who knew James was alive, had been bribed to keep the secret. Richardson said the return came at a time of fresh starts, but Ste must process the shock and the events that occurred during James's absence, including raising a grandchild and dealing with abuse from Lucas.
Finnegan described the reunion as a moment fans have waited for, with the characters having loved, hated, and experienced joy and sadness over a decade. He expressed excitement for viewers to see what happens next. Upcoming scenes will show Ste struggling to forgive the husband who let him grieve.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm, with first look episodes available on Channel 4 from 7am.
