Why Coronation Street star’s new Hollyoaks role will surprise fans

Hollyoaks spoilers follow.

Former Coronation Street star Brooke Vincent has revealed more about her upcoming new role as Abigail Matthews in Hollyoaks – and has clarified that her new alter ego is a far cry from her former character, Sophie Webster.

Brooke appeared in Coronation Street for 15 years as Sally and Kevin Webster’s youngest daughter Sophie. She departed the cobbles in 2019 to go on maternity leave, with her character Sophie waving Weatherfield goodbye to travel Cambodia with her friend Kate Connor.

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Sitting down with Inside Soap, Brooke shares that fans of her previous work might be surprised by her new role as Abigail.

“She’s miles away from Sophie Webster!” laughs Brooke. “The best thing is that she’s completely different to what people have seen me play, and it’s a big thing for me coming in to a more mature role.

“I’ve always played the young girl; Sophie was the baby of the family. Abigail stands her ground with whatever she says, and I’m having lots of fun playing her.”

Abigail initially appears as troubled teenager Dee Dee Hutchinson’s counsellor in rehab, after Dee Dee was admitted by her father Tony Hutchinson for taking drugs. However, when Dee Dee tries to escape rehab, Abigail follows her home and starts to forge relationships of her own in the village and gets a job as a teacher at Hollyoaks High.

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“You see a very sensitive side to her, but she’s still quite stern,” explains Brooke. “Dee Dee’s going through a time where she desperately needs stability and guidance, and Abigail steps in and does that at rehab.

“When Dee Dee escapes, Abigail wants to make sure that she gets home okay, so she follows her to the village. Instantly she forms connections and makes friends, which is a really good way of coming in. I’ve been working with everyone which has been fab for me.”