Note: This story discusses topics including sibling sexual abuse.
Hollyoaks spoilers follow.
Hollyoaks star Ryan Mulvey has opened up about playing villain JJ Osborne on the soap.
The soap has recently been exploring a sibling sexual abuse storyline as Frankie Osborne is victimised by twin brother JJ.
Scenes this week see Frankie bravely open up and reveal the truth to dad Darren, while next week JJ will be confronted by his father about his abuse.
Related: 12 huge Hollyoaks spoilers for next week
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Opening up about the scenes, Ryan explained: “When JJ is confronted by Darren he is absolutely dumbstruck as since day one his relationship with Darren has been immaculate and they have bonded greatly over the past few months.
“I believe JJ is torn on whether he’ll be able to survive the situation as he has never witnessed Darren so enraged, especially with him. He is scared and upset about the idea of his father being disgusted and losing love for him.”
Speaking about playing the role, Ryan admitted he has found the part “fascinating” as JJ has “has so many shades of personality”.
Related: Hollyoaks’ Ashley Taylor Dawson explains Darren’s reaction to Frankie’s abuse
“Even though he is a villain, JJ does not see himself as that, so playing the delusion and denial in JJ has been super interesting,” he added.
“The part has pushed and challenged me hugely as an actor but I’m super proud of the end product and humbled by the feedback we’ve received for the storyline.”
Ryan also spoke about the importance and sensitivity of the storyline, noting “it is shocking to even hear and it is taboo as people get uncomfortable talking about anything which isn’t deemed ‘normal’”.
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“I also believe the storyline is so ‘taboo’ as you don’t really hear anyone talk about this kind of abuse as many families keep it in their homes as they don’t want their family being seen as abnormal,” he added.
“Due to the lack of coverage the problem is not dealt with leading to the abuse continuing without the knowledge of how to deal with it. That’s why I’m so proud to take part in the storyline and how important it is to be represented in the media.”
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.
Read more Hollyoaks spoilers on our dedicated homepage
Hollyoaks has been working on Frankie's story with guidance from SARSAS, which provides specialist services and resources for those who have experienced any form of sexual violence.
More information is available from Rape Crisis England and Wales, who work towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
