Hollyoaks star Annie Wallace has posted an important message to fans in light of the soap's episode reduction news.
From September this year, three 20-minute episodes will air per week on E4 and Channel 4 Streaming instead of five, with a weekly hour-long omnibus airing on Channel 4. The show has confirmed that it is likely the cast will be trimmed, and that has led to speculation online.
Wallace, who plays Sally St. Claire, responded to the speculation on X, formerly Twitter, yesterday (February 29).
"Following the news about #hollyoaks today, it would be quite nice if social media and web forums didn't rush to start 'axe list' threads," she wrote. "These are people's lives... and we see you."
Related: Hollyoaks star Annie Wallace reveals behind-the-scenes role in special episode
Up to 135 roles could be affected by this transmission change — a third of the soap's staff — with Channel 4 citing changing viewing habits for the decision.
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Research suggested that many Hollyoaks viewers only watch three episodes across the week, in part down to the amount of alternative streaming entertainment out there.
Lime Pictures' managing directors Kate Little and Claire Poyser shared in a joint statement: "Given the success of the new streaming-first model, we are delighted that Hollyoaks remains at the forefront of Channel 4's digital first strategy.
"There are implications that will mean we have to reshape Hollyoaks' production model and amidst the buoying news for the future of the show and its audience, we must also acknowledge that a reduction in cast and crew will be very difficult and we will support everyone in that process."
Related: Hollyoaks filming cancelled for the day after news of major job cuts
Philippa Childs, the head of the Broadcasting, Entertainment, Communications and Theatre Union (Bectu), called the job cuts "devastating".
"For decades, Hollyoaks has entertained generations and it is the hardworking and talented crew who brought the iconic storylines to life," Childs said.
"It has also provided brilliant employment opportunities and skills development for film and TV workers in the north west, and has served as an incubator of talent for the entire industry. Today's announcement is a huge loss for the whole sector."
Hollyoaks streams first online via Channel 4 each weekday at 7.30pm. Episodes then air on E4 the following day, before getting their YouTube premiere a week after that.
Selected omnibus episodes are available via Prime Video.
