Iconic Hollyoaks matriarch returning for special Christmas storyline – but she’s coming for a major exit
HOLLYOAKS is bringing back a soap legend for a Christmas extravaganza with Myra McQueen making her long-awaited comeback.
Actress Nicole Barber-Lane will be reprising her role this festive season for star Jorgie Porter’s upcoming exit alongside Diane Langton.
The two fan favourites will sweep into the village in a festive fluttering before taking Jorgie’s character Theresa with them so Jorgie can go on maternity leave.
A source said: “It’s everything fans could wish for having the two matriarchs of the McQueens back for a short stint.
“They’ll arrive like a Christmas miracle just in time for Theresa’s exit and to provide a much-needed boost to Mercedes as she battles bowel cancer.”
Our exclusive picture shows the two women back where they belong decked out in Christmas finery.
It comes as Jorgie, 36, is preparing to welcome her second child with fiancé Ollie Piotrowski.
She welcomed her first child – son Forrest – in November 2022.
As for Nicole, she originally bowed out of Hollyoaks in early 2019.
Having played Myra for 13 years, she said at the time: “I loved working at Hollyoaks, I miss everybody.
“It just feels like home, but I feel like I need to do something different for me. I’m so proud of the show and I love it to bits.”
Five years on, she made a dramatic – although secretive – return to the role in dramatic scenes.
The explosive comeback saw Myra involved in a multiple vehicle car crash while travelling with her family.
Speaking exclusively to The Sun Online, Nicole shared: “I’ve had to keep quiet about it for all these weeks!
“We wanted the viewers to get that shock and surprise when they realise who is in the other car.
“It’s nice to feel so much love from everyone and there’s such a buzz around the place.”
Meanwhile, Diane has played Marlena “Nana” McQueen on and off since 2007.
The character is Myra’s mother – and grandmother to Theresa and Mercedes (Jennifer Metcalfe).
She most recently appeared on the show in January.
Hollyoaks airs on E4, Channel 4‘s streaming service and YouTube.