Whittle films final 'Hollyoaks' scenes

Hollyoaks star Ricky Whittle filmed his final scenes for the soap in the early hours of this morning.

The actor bowed out from his role as Calvin Valentine during a night shoot for an episode which is due to air in May.

In a special 'flashforward' instalment which was broadcast last year, viewers saw Calvin being shot dead by an unknown assailant on the day of his second wedding to partner Carmel (Gemma Merna). The 'whodunit' mystery will be resolved next month when the show's real-time episodes reach the couple's big day.

Writing on Twitter yesterday, Whittle confirmed: "It's my last filming day at Hollyoaks, really gonna miss a great family there, but exciting offers in pipeline. Will keep you posted."

During a break from re-filming Calvin's death scene early this morning, the 28-year-old complained that he could "feel the flu creeping in" after hours of lying outside on a "cold floor".

In a later update, he added: "Wrapped finally, can hardly walk to my car, can't wait for bed! So ill and tired, worked me hard 'til the end meanies! Goodnight, sleep well, I will!"

Whittle decided to quit Hollyoaks last year because he is hoping to launch a career in Hollywood.