'Hollyoaks' will be unmissable, says Channel 4 boss

Channel 4's chief creative officer Jay Hunt has pledged her commitment to Hollyoaks' future, dismissing claims that she is planning to axe the soap.

Earlier this year, tabloid reports suggested that Hunt wished to scrap the serial following a fall in viewing figures - but the rumours were quickly denied by Channel 4 and the programme's production company Lime Pictures.

More recently, fresh speculation about Hollyoaks' future began when reports revealed that Channel 4 had received pitches for new shows to take over the 6.30pm slot. However, the broadcaster insisted that the pitches had been unsolicited.

In a new interview with The Guardian in which she sets out her vision for Channel 4, Hunt has confirmed that there are no plans for Hollyoaks to be axed or replaced.

Hunt, who previously worked as BBC One's controller, commented: "People rush to panic about these things. I've had the luxury of seeing EastEnders going through highs and lows.

"It's certainly true that Hollyoaks has had a tough time. I am encouraged by where it is going creatively now. And my priority is making sure it is unmissable."

In January, Gareth Philips was announced as Hollyoaks' new producer after his predecessor Paul Marquess decided to leave the soap following a one-year stint in charge.

Current storylines include the aftermath of Jacqui McQueen's rape ordeal, Ste and Brendan's dark on-off relationship, Bart and Sinead's forbidden romance and the sinister antics of serial killer Silas.

Read our recent Hollyoaks interviews:-
> Stephanie Davis on Sinead's future
> Jessica Forrest on Leanne's future
> Nicole Barber-Lane on the McQueens and more
> Rob Norbury on Riley, Mercedes, Lynsey and more
> PJ Brennan on Doug, Brendan, Bex and Silas
> Hollyoaks' Kieron Richardson wants Ste and Brendan to marry