Hollyoaks' Original McQueen Star Reflects on Nostalgic Return to Soap
The iconic McQueen family has reunited for a special episode of Hollyoaks, marking the emotional departure of John Paul McQueen as actor James Sutton concludes his two-decade tenure on the Channel 4 soap opera. This nostalgic gathering brings back familiar faces, including the very first McQueen to grace screens.
Michaela McQueen Makes a Triumphant Comeback
Hollie-Jay Bowes has returned to Hollyoaks, reprising her role as Michaela McQueen exactly twenty years after her initial appearance. Michaela will join other beloved family members—Carmel, played by Gemma Merna, Tina portrayed by Leah Hackett, Sally embodied by Annie Wallace, and Sylver McQueen acted by David Tag—in a special episode airing next week. This installment centers on John Paul McQueen's exit from the village, featuring a series of 'What If' scenarios during a perilous situation that leads him to make a life-altering decision.
Michaela holds the distinction of being the first McQueen family member seen on-screen, debuting in 2006 under the name Michaela Jones. Hollie-Jay Bowes portrayed the character intermittently until 2012, and now, fourteen years later, the 37-year-old actress has reunited with her on-screen relatives for this poignant storyline.
'It Felt Like Home,' Says Returning Star
In an exclusive interview, Hollie-Jay Bowes opened up about her return to the show, expressing deep sentiment. 'Michaela was the first McQueen,' she revealed. 'I was originally booked for just six episodes in someone else's storyline, focusing on Amy Barnes and Ste Hay's teenage pregnancy. Three months later, I received a script through the door stating Michaela McQueen. I was called into a meeting where Bryan Kirkwood informed me they were building an entire family around my character.'
Hollie-Jay, who has since appeared in BBC drama Waterloo Road, continued: 'Stepping into the character again felt like home. I specifically requested her signature hair bow. I can't imagine that 34-year-old Michaela has truly grown up. She was renowned for her loud and wonderful fashion choices. Michaela will always be my baby; I loved every bone in that girl's body. She was a lovable rogue with immense heart.'
Reflecting on her time with the McQueens, she added: 'Being a McQueen was an honour. Looking back, I think, we genuinely achieved something remarkable!'
McQueen Reunion Hailed as 'Absolute Gold'
Jennifer Metcalfe, who has played Mercedes McQueen on and off since 2006, also shared her excitement about the family reunion. She described bringing back the McQueens as 'amazing,' stating: 'It was absolute gold. For personal reasons, seeing everyone was absolutely beautiful; getting the original McQueens behind a camera again was just amazing. They have been deeply missed by fans and cast alike.'
Jennifer elaborated on the family's appeal: 'Everyone knows a family like the McQueens. Growing up, I encountered many similar families, including within my own. They make people feel warm and seen, representing normal everyday life at its very best.'
Fans are eagerly anticipating how John Paul will exit the village, as actor James Sutton bids farewell to his iconic role after two decades of portraying the Hollyoaks High school teacher. The special episode promises to deliver emotional depth and nostalgic moments for long-time viewers.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm, with first-look episodes available for streaming on Channel 4 from 7am.
