Hollyoaks’ Dee Dee lured in by predator Abigail who suffers intense breakdown
Dee Dee Hutchinson (Chloe Atkinson) supports Abigail Matthews (Brooke Vincent) in the wake of a breakdown in Hollyoaks next week, unaware of the school counsellor’s true nature.
Metro confirmed last month that Hollyoaks will be exploring the grooming of a child from a place of institutional authority as Abigail, played by Coronation Street star Brooke, targets Dee Dee.
Dee Dee has struggled in the wake of mum Diane’s (Alex Fletcher) tragic death.
After using drugs, she was sent to rehab by dad Tony (Nick Pickard), which is where she first crossed paths with Abigail.
Abigail later moved to the village and landed a job as a counsellor at Hollyoaks High – and has remained in Dee Dee’s orbit ever since.
Upcoming scenes will see Abigail reignite the spark between her and Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin), with the pair hooking up once more.
The following day, they plan to meet up.
Abigail is properly smitten but, not wanting to lead her on while still harbouring feelings for Dodger Savage (Danny Mac), Cleo puts an end to their romance.
Abigail seemingly handles the news well – that is, until she heads to The Dog bathroom, where she has a breakdown.
Dee Dee overhears and later in the week she finds Abigail having a breakdown in her car.
In the coming weeks, Abigail will pursue a ‘friendship’ with Dee Dee and will push to strengthen their bond when the school term starts in September.
Hollyoaks is working with charities TDI (The Derwent Initiative) as well as the NSPCC to ensure this subject is handled with the utmost care and accuracy.
TDI aims to prevent sexual offending by raising awareness and consulting with venues that could facilitate it through their Leisurewatch scheme which trains public spaces, like hotels and leisure centres to spot when abuse could be happening within their precincts.
The intention is to raise awareness and questions about safeguarding, grooming, the importance of understanding abuse of power, and encourage transparency with established friends and family members about new friendships.
