After more than 13 years away, Russ Owen's sister, Nicole will return to Hollyoaks next month
After almost 13 years away, actor Ciara Janson is returning to Hollyoaks next month, as Russ Owen's sister Nicole Owen.
Ciara, who left the soap in 2006, will roll up in Chester when Nicole swoops into the village to comfort her nephew Max Owen, in his hour of need.
During her previous time in Hollyoaks, Nicole was involved in some big storylines when she was kidnapped by rapist, Andy Holt and her own brother, Sam Owen. She also had feelings for Justin Burton and gave evidence at Becca Dean’s trial in defence of Justin, which ended in Becca being sent to prison and ultimately killed.
It was her brother Sam's actions that prompted her departure in 2006, after he set fire to The Dog in the Pond, killing himself as well as four others, including Justin’s sisters, Mel and Sophie Burton.
Now Nicole, who briefly returned for three episodes in 2007, will re-appear when Max, currently living with Mercedes McQueen, calls his Aunty saying he feels unwanted.
Speaking about her imminent return, Ciara said: “It’s such a pleasure to be reunited with some wonderful familiar faces, and to be introduced to those who I haven’t met before. It’s like coming back home.”
Since leaving Hollyoaks Ciara has appeared in Doctors and Holby City and made her West End debut in New Boy. She is also a mum to two sons and engaged to Eurovision winner and presenter, Måns Zelmerlöw.
Nicole's return follows in the wake of the murder of her on-screen brother Russ (Stuart Manning) who was brutally bludgeoned to death on his wedding day to Mercedes by vengeful serial killer Breda McQueen (Moya Brady).
Nicole’s return can be seen on Wednesday 8 May on E4 at 7pm, and Thursday 9 May on C4 at 6:30pm.
