Hollyoaks is set for a dramatic and dark week as Lucas Hay's exit storyline reaches a terrifying climax, with the troubled teen seeking a horrific revenge against his father, Ste Hay.
A Family Betrayal Fuels a Dangerous Plot
The shocking chain of events began when Ste, played by Kieron Richardson, embarked on a secret affair with his son Lucas's boyfriend, Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass). Ste had initially offered to be Dillon's sponsor following a traumatic exploitation ordeal, but their relationship spiralled into a romantic fling.
Lucas, portrayed by Oscar Curtis, was left heartbroken when Dillon ended their relationship, unaware of the real reason behind the split. When the devastating truth finally exploded earlier this month, Lucas's reaction was extreme. He laced Ste's food with drugs and lashed out violently at Dillon, landing him in hospital.
In a desperate move, Ste reported his son to the police, revealing months of abuse, which led to Lucas's arrest and a short prison sentence. Since his release, Lucas has been an outcast, even kicked out by Leela Dexter (Kirsty-Leigh Porter), leaving him with nowhere to turn.
A Missing Teen and a Secret Hideout
In upcoming episodes airing from January 12, 2026, Lucas resolves to leave Chester for a fresh start in London. Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey) intervenes, offering him a bed in the garage and urging him to make amends with Ste.
The rest of the village believes Lucas is missing, completely unaware that Rex is secretly harbouring him. Ste, however, is not ready for reconciliation and insists Rex keep Lucas hidden so he faces trial. But a far more immediate danger is brewing.
Unknown to Ste or Rex, Lucas is not lying low. He manages to sneak into the local hospital, where a terrified Ste soon comes face-to-face with his vengeful son.
Village on Edge as Search Intensifies
As Ste desperately tries to keep Lucas calm and dodges calls from a worried Rex, Lucas demands answers about the affair with Dillon. The situation grows increasingly perilous.
Rex's concern escalates after he discovers disturbing content in Lucas's notepad. He confides in Leela, and together with Dillon, they launch a frantic search for Ste. The burning question remains: what is Lucas capable of, and will they find Ste before it's too late?
More Drama in Hollyoaks Village
The tension surrounding Lucas and Ste is not the only storyline heating up next week. Sienna Blake becomes convinced someone is targeting her family after overhearing a concerning conversation. Her suspicions lead her to a confrontation with Tinhead.
Meanwhile, Cleo remains distant from Sienna, prompting Liberty to encourage a talk. Leela steps in to support a struggling Cleo, inviting her to a baby group, where things become overwhelming.
At Hollyoaks High, an incident with Ant during detention leads John Paul to call the police—an action that triggers him due to his past abusive relationship with an officer. He later shares this at an addiction support group.
Elsewhere, Gemma and Vicky continue to support a traumatised Donny, encouraging him to speak to Superintendent Singh. Dodger also offers his understanding. In a lighter moment, Donny reconnects with old friends Tinhead and Sinbad at Casa and even recreates a famous Mick Johnston pizza.
Theresa's attempts at intimacy with Dodger are rebuffed as he makes a quick exit, leaving his intentions unclear.
Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 6am on Channel 4's streaming platform. Episodes air on E4 at 7pm.