Hollyoaks actress Alex Fletcher ends 16-year run with ovarian cancer storyline

Alex Fletcher, who has played Diane Hutchinson on Hollyoaks since 2010, is leaving the show this year. Her final storyline sees her character diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. The production team worked with Ovarian Cancer Action to ensure accuracy. Marie-Claire Platt, director of research and policy at the charity, called the storyline 'as devastating as it is important.' A short documentary titled 'Know The Signs. Trust The Signs' features Fletcher, co-star Jessica Fox, and two women with lived experience: Natasha Reynolds (diagnosed at 22 with a rare form) and Jess Brown (diagnosed in 2018). The documentary airs on Hollyoaks' social media channels on 30 April at 19:30. Over 75% of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and 40% of women end up in A&E due to severe symptoms.