Ex-Hollyoaks star Fabrizio Santino shares sister's breast cancer battle
Fabrizio Santino's sister battles breast cancer

Former Hollyoaks actor Fabrizio Santino has shared an emotional tribute to his sister, revealing she is currently battling breast cancer. The 43-year-old star, best known for playing Ziggy Roscoe on the Channel 4 soap between 2013 and 2015, posted the heartfelt message on his Instagram Story.

A Touching Tribute on Social Media

On Monday, Santino posted a poignant black and white photograph of his sibling, who appeared to be sitting in a hairdresser's chair after having her head shaved as part of her cancer treatment. The image accompanied a powerful written tribute celebrating her courage during this difficult time.

Fabrizio wrote: "Today I celebrate this super human… my sister! She's been battling with breast cancer and I can't scream out anymore at how incredibly proud I am of her and her strength and positivity!" He continued, emphasising that her bravery and resilience were truly inspirational, adding: "This girl's built different… This evil bug ain't gonna beat you darling you have so much love around you!"

The actor concluded his message with a promise of unwavering support, stating: "I am here with you every step of the way. I love you with all my heart and soul."

Santino's Career and Recent Roles

Fabrizio Santino remains active in the acting world following his early career in soaps. After his stint in Hollyoaks, he returned to the genre in 2023, landing the role of Brett Nelson in BBC's EastEnders. His character was a HIV-positive former steroid user who had to confront his former training partner, Zack Hudson, about potentially passing on the illness.

More recently, Santino starred in the Prime Video series The Unlock. The thriller's synopsis describes a plot where a Russian diplomat is kidnapped, and his driver, who suffers from amnesia, may be the only person who knows his whereabouts. The story follows a race against time to unlock the driver's mind before the diplomat is executed, potentially plunging the world into war.

The actor, now based in London, has also been linked romantically to various figures in the past. He was once connected to actress Daniella Westbrook, and in 2020 was seen spending time with model Summer Monteys-Fullam. However, Monteys-Fullam later clarified to The Daily Mail that they were "JUST friends!", despite earlier reports from The Sun suggesting a romantic connection after they were spotted together in a London park.

Raising Awareness and Support

By sharing his family's personal struggle publicly, Santino joins a number of celebrities who have used their platform to highlight breast cancer, a disease affecting thousands in the UK every year. His candid post not only offers support to his sister but also helps to raise awareness about the realities of cancer treatment and the importance of family support during such challenging health battles.

The actor's move to share this private journey resonates with many followers who have faced similar situations, turning a personal moment into a broader message of hope and solidarity for those affected by the disease.