Hollyoaks launches major new bowel cancer storyline

We’ve been supporting researchers, scriptwriters and even actors on an important new Hollyoaks bowel cancer storyline which launches today on Channel 4.??

The storyline revolves around one of the most well-known characters on the show, Mercedes McQueen, who has discovered she has bowel cancer. Over the next few months, we'll see Mercedes trying to stay positive as she juggles treatment with looking after her two toddlers. ?

The actress who plays Mercedes, Jen Metcalfe, has personal experience of bowel cancer as her father died from the disease when she was 15.??

As well as advising researchers and scriptwriters on the storyline we have also shared real life stories with the team to help the actors and writers understand the reality of living with bowel cancer. ?

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK, said:

"We're pleased to be working with?Hollyoaks on this important storyline. Mercedes McQueen is one of the?most recognised characters in the show and her bowel cancer journey will raise vital awareness about early diagnosis and the realities of living with the disease in a powerful and accessible way.?

"Research shows that more than 9 in 10 people survive bowel cancer when it is diagnosed at its earliest stage.?By shining a lens on the disease,?Hollyoaks will help us share the importance of early diagnosis and help save lives as Mercedes’ story unfolds.”?

Bowel Cancer UK’s Clinical Lead, Claire Coughlan advised the Hollyoaks team on Mercedes’ treatment and what it is like to live with bowel cancer. She said:

"While we have to remember this is first and foremost a drama, the producers of Hollyoaks are still keen to reflect the reality of living with bowel cancer. We have been delighted to work with them on this and hope the storyline raises awareness of the disease.”?

Hannah Cheers, executive producer of Hollyoaks said:

"The advice and guidance of Bowel Cancer UK has been invaluable. In coming months we will be with Mercedes as she receives treatment for her illness and see how that impacts her physically and emotionally and the impact on her friends and family and how they support her.?

"We will also learn how her diagnosis came about and through that how we can all be vigilant with spotting symptoms. We know that portrayals on television increase awareness and numbers of people seeking advice and hope that this storyline does just that.”?

Jennifer Metcalfe, who plays Mercedes McQueen, said:

“This story is incredibly important to me. When I was aged 15 I lost my dad to bowel cancer and it has impacted my life hugely. I have never taken my own health for granted, so when we discussed the storyline I jumped at the chance to do anything that might encourage conversation.

“Mercedes deals with it in her own way, she’s never felt so vulnerable. We’ve never seen that side of her and if people are talking about that then hopefully it becomes talking about their own health. I have been grateful to be guided by Bowel Cancer UK and glad? they can offer help and support to anyone interested in the storyline or who wants to know more about how to spot the symptoms and what best to do if you are worried.”

Hollyoaks streams first on C4.com at 7am and broadcasts live on E4 Mon-Weds at 7pm. You can also watch full episodes on the Hollyoaks YouTube channel.?

• Read more about our work with Hollyoaks
• Find out how we can support you
• Learn the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer