Hollyoaks is reportedly experiencing a significant cast exodus, with actor Harry French said to have departed the popular Channel 4 soap after a mere six-month stint. This news follows earlier reports indicating that two other established stars, Alex Fletcher and Chelsee Healey, are also stepping away from the Cheshire-based drama.
Harry French's Brief but Explosive Tenure
Harry French joined the Hollyoaks ensemble in late 2025 as part of the show's 30th-anniversary celebrations. He portrayed the deeply villainous character Connor "Sully" Sullivan, a corrupt police officer and rapist. According to sources speaking to The Sun, the actor has already completed filming his final scenes, which are described as 'explosive'.
A show insider elaborated on the dramatic exit, stating: 'Sully’s a truly evil villain and there will be explosive consequences as he pays for what he’s done.' The source added, 'Harry knew going into the show that there would be an end to Sully but he’s loved his time there and is looking forward to doing new things.' It appears the role was always conceived with a finite storyline in mind.
Alex Fletcher's Emotional Departure After 16 Years
In a move that has reportedly left production bosses 'gutted', actress Alex Fletcher is said to be leaving Hollyoaks after an impressive 16-year tenure. Fletcher, 49, who first rose to fame as Jacqui Dixon in Brookside, joined the soap in 2010 and has played the beloved character Diane Hutchinson.
Her decision, communicated to producers late last year, is now leading to plans for an 'emotional' on-screen exit. This departure will bring a poignant end to her long-running and cherished on-screen partnership with Nick Pickard, who portrays her husband, Tony Hutchinson.
A source close to the show highlighted her significance: 'Alex is one of the show's most popular characters both on and off screen – everyone just adores her. She has been at the heart of Hollyoaks alongside Nick for more than a decade and bosses are gutted she's leaving. But they are doing everything they can to come up with a memorable and fitting exit for her much-loved character.'
Chelsee Healey's Permanent Exit
Completing the trio of departures is actress Chelsee Healey. Healey, who debuted as the vibrant Goldie McQueen in 2016, is also reportedly stepping back from the show on a permanent basis. While she has taken temporary maternity leave from the series in the past—in 2017 and again in 2024—this latest move is understood to be a final farewell.
The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for Hollyoaks for official comment regarding these significant cast changes. The simultaneous exit of three key cast members, spanning from a new villain to long-standing fan favourites, marks a pivotal moment for the soap as it navigates its future storylines and character dynamics.
