Actor admits gay Hollyoaks role was uncomfortable
Teen soap Hollyoaks’ gay storyline has been a hit with viewers, but one of the actors involved has spoken about his concerns at the plotline.
Craig Dean, played by Guy Burnet, has been coming to terms with his homosexuality after falling for friend John Paul McQueen, played by James Hutton.
The Craig Dean character is leaving the show later this month.
In an interview with Digital Spy, Burnet said that he argued against his seemingly-heterosexual character coming out.
“The truth is that it was difficult to play,” he said.
“It was talked about for a long while. I felt uncomfortable with the idea because I didn’t think it was justifiable.
“It’s a story where we have to justify the guy’s sexual confusion.
“Realistically, I wasn’t comfortable but I did it and I’ve learned an incredible amount from it.”
Hollyoaks, which has been on air since 1995, had been criticised for its lack of gay characters. Choosing to portray a coming out featuring one of its most popular male leads was seen as a positive change of direction.
