After 20 Years, James Sutton Says Farewell to Hollyoaks’ John Paul
After 20 Years, James Sutton Says Farewell to Hollyoaks’ John Paul
Johnathon KornbleeTue, February 10, 2026 at 12:04 AM UTC
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(Lime Press)
For more than 20 years, James Sutton has captivated audiences as John Paul McQueen on the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks. As the actor’s final episodes as the beloved character air next week, Sutton is reflecting on his journey, the deep connection audiences have formed with John Paul and what being part of the iconic McQueen family has meant to him.
As a part of his exit storyline, Hollyoaks will air a special “What If” episode next week, exploring John Paul’s life and imagining how things might have unfolded if key members of the McQueen family were still alive.
Previewing what viewers can expect from the “What If” episode, Sutton shared that much of the story sees John Paul reminiscing with Nancy, portrayed by Jessica Fox.
Reflecting on how he hopes audiences will remember John Paul, Sutton said, “I hope people will remember the big, issue-based storylines.”
Throughout his time on Hollyoaks, John Paul McQueen has been at the center of numerous issue-led storylines, from his groundbreaking teenage coming-out story and romance with Craig Dean (Guy Burnett) during a time when being openly gay was far less accepted, to later storylines addressing sexual assault and other serious themes.
Sutton also hopes viewers will remember some of the lighter moments from John Paul’s journey, joking about “the sexy moments he’s had in the past.”
Ultimately, Sutton hopes the character made a meaningful difference, sharing, “I’d like people to remember John Paul as being someone who hopefully made an impact in people’s lives.”
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The “What If” episode will also see the return of several familiar faces from Hollyoaks’ past, including David Tag, Gemma Merna, Hollie-Jay Bowes, Leah Hackett and Annie Wallace.
Reflecting on reuniting with the returning cast members, Sutton added, “It was so full of joy and love. I hadn’t realised how much I cherished the days when we all worked together.”
Sutton also reflected on why he believes the McQueens have become such an important part of pop culture, noting “People grew up watching them and they became part of people’s lives.”
Sharing his favorite memories of being part of the McQueen family, Sutton said, “I’ve got lots of favourite memories. I loved the big family scenes, the chaos, the noise, the passion, the creativity, the emotion.”
Being part of the McQueen family is not something Sutton has taken lightly. “It’s been a huge part of not just my career, but my life,” he added. “I’ve been so lucky to work here with these amazing people every day.”
Hollyoaks airs Monday through Wednesday’s in the U.K. on E4, with episodes being available on YouTube for global
This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the TV section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
