Hollyoaks tragedy as heartbroken Diane sobs her heart out after devastating news
Hollyoaks spoilers follow for Wednesday’s (March 4) episode that is now available to view on Channel 4 streaming. The episode in question will air on E4 on at 7pm.
Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) was left crying her eyes out after a visit to the hospital for an emergency appointment proved traumatic, with devastating news issued by doctors.
The legendary soap matriarch has been having pains in her abdomen and with husband Tony (Nick Pickard) away on a trip with brother Dom, she made an appointment to find out what was going on.
Emotional scenes were on the cards for her, as viewers came to learn when she was sent a reminder for an urgent appointment on the day in question.
And helmed by a heartbreaking performance from the incomparable powerhouse that is Alex Fletcher, Diane was subsequently seen exiting the hospital, having been given upsetting news.
The landlady of The Dog took a seat in the hospital to catch her breath, dropping her handbag to the floor and sobbing, devastated by what she had learned.
It was confirmed earlier this week by Hollyoaks that Diane will be diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in what will prove to be an exit storyline for Alex, who is departing the long-running soap after 16 years.
In emotional scenes next week, Diane will learn that the treatment options are very limited due to the advanced stage of the disease.
The cancer has already spread to her lymph nodes, her liver, and the lining of her lungs. While chemotherapy is an option, the doctors are not sure how affective it will be.
Hollyoaks has worked closely with the charity Ovarian Cancer Action who have advised on the storyline throughout the writing process. According to their studies, more than 75% of affected women are diagnosed at an advanced stage of ovarian cancer.
Diane will first confide in Nancy Osborne (Jessica Fox) and Leela Dexter (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) and, with their encouragement, she finds the strength to tell Tony.
Tony is absolutely heartbroken by the news but determined to get a second opinion. As Mother’s Day approaches, Dee-Dee makes jabs at her mum, unaware of what she’s going through.
On taking on the story, Alex Fletcher said: ‘This storyline has been a completely new challenge for me and something I’ve never explored before. Unfortunately, in some way or another many of us have been touched by cancer, I know my family certainly has this past year, so the storyline can be very relatable.
‘At times it’s been difficult to film but I’m glad that Hollyoaks are telling this story and raising awareness about ovarian cancer, with the hope that it encourages people to prioritise their health.’
