Hollyoaks stars have backed the decision to axe it from Channel 4.
The soap has been pulled from its schedule after 28 years and now only airs on E4 and on streaming services. Show favourite Anna Passey, who plays Sienna Blake, insists she’s happy about it.
She said: “Having the show on Channel 4 was nostalgic for people, but the reality of the times we’re living in is that’s not really how people watch telly anymore. You can dig your heels in the sand or you can go with the times. It makes sense to give people the show how they want it.
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“People want to have shows when they want and where they want… in their bedroom, on a train with headphones or with their family. And now we’re providing people with the option to get it how they want.”
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Matthew James-Bailey, who plays Ethan Williams, added: “Hollyoaks is ahead of the curve. It’s pioneering the way forward.
“We are all so excited about it. We think it’s a really positive move. Streaming is how people consume TV nowadays.” Matthew, inset with Anna, added: “A lot of us want to binge and see the next episode straightaway. And those who want to watch it live on TV can do that with E4.”
The move has angered some fans, but Anna is urging them to give the new era a chance. She said: “I understand why people are sad. But I don’t think it’s a negative thing.
(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
“It’ll take a bit of adjusting, but it’ll all work out.” Last month it was confirmed that the show will be permanently moving over to E4 after 28 years.
After beginning in 1995, it was a huge shake-up from bosses, but they opted to go online and upload shows to YouTube to suit their younger demographic. The show previously offered first look episodes on E4 after the Channel 4 episodes aired.
Now a first look will be available online, with the episode airing on E4 half an hour later.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
