Hollyoaks confirms 30th anniversary plans as ratings surge following major changes

Hollyoaks has confirmed plans to mark its 30th anniversary on air later this year, while also revealing a ratings surge after last year’s major schedule changes.

The Channel 4 series first hit screens back in October 1995 and has since become a staple of Britain’s soap landscape.

The broadcaster has now announced that it will mark the milestone in October this year with a number of “high-stakes” episodes.

These will include “dramatic developments, shock twists and devastating revelations that will have lasting consequences for the village and its residents”.

It comes as Channel 4 revealed much higher ratings since its schedule changes last September, which saw a major time jump and the soap reduced to three episodes a week from the previous five, as well as shorter 20-minute episodes.

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Episodes also stream first on Channel 4’s streaming service on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, before airing on E4 in the evenings.

According to the broadcaster, there was a 23% increase in year-on-year viewership, with 11% higher engagement with the key 16-34 demographic. Consolidated viewing shares on E4 have also increased by 35% generally, and 38% in the 16-34s.

Additionally, episode streaming views have increased by 71% year-on-year, while episodes released on YouTube have enjoyed a nearly 20% increase in watch times in the first three months of 2025.

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The biggest non-Christmas episode on streaming was 15 January’s JJ Osborne trial and its exploration of sibling sexual abuse, which took in 562,000 28-day views.

“We are delighted with how well the audience has embraced the new format,” said Commissioning Executive for Channel 4 Drama Louise Donald.

“It’s testament to Hannah’s vision for the show, the amazing storylines and performances. As Hollyoaks celebrates its 30th anniversary it’s fantastic to see the show continue to tackle important social issues whilst keeping viewers entertained.”