Whittle credits "fan power" for 'Oaks twist

Hollyoaks star Ricky Whittle has claimed that pressure from fans prompted the soap's producers to create Calvin Valentine and Carmel McQueen's wedding twist.

The Channel 4 drama's forthcoming 'flashforward' episode will see the estranged couple, played by Whittle and Gemma Merna, enjoying their second wedding day.

However, in a tragic turn of events, Calvin will end up being shot dead by a mystery assailant in the dramatic instalment, which is set in May 2010.

Discussing the pair's surprise reunion in an interview with DS, Whittle explained: "Calvin's completely besotted with Carmel. She's the one he's always wanted - she's always been his true love since they first started seeing each other and everyone's always wanted them to get back together, which has been nice.

"I think it's a very good example of fan power. The producers weren't going to put these two together ever again because everyone wanted them together. It was a Ross and Rachel situation - they're meant to be [together], but something would always happen for it not to quite work out."

He added: "I think Calvin and Carmel fans will be happy that they're back together in the episode - it'll just pull a few heartstrings when Calvin's shot at the end."

The Chester-based show's recent episodes have seen Calvin embarking on a secret affair with Carmel's sister Mercedes Fisher, played by Jennifer Metcalfe.

Hollyoaks' 'flashforward' episode airs tonight at 6.30pm on Channel 4.

> Click here to read our interview with Ricky Whittle
> Click here to read more from Ricky Whittle in Soap Scoop