Hollyoaks’ Jennifer Metcalfe reveals personal link to Mercedes’ devastating cancer storyline

Hollyoaks’ Jennifer Metcalfe reveals personal link to Mercedes’ devastating cancer storyline

As a supporter and admirer of Jennifer Metcalfe‘s acting skills, I must say that her portrayal of Mercedes McQueen’s cancer journey is nothing short of remarkable. Her personal connection to this storyline makes it even more impactful, as she lost her father to bowel cancer at a young age.


Among the numerous surprising plot twists unveiled by Hollyoaks’ daring leap forward 12 months, the revelation that Mercedes McQueen was battling cancer stood out as one of the most impactful.

The village’s sassiest resident is living with bowel cancer and been fitted with a stoma. Chemotherapy means she has lost her hair and is physically stripped of her usual glamorous front to reveal a more vulnerable side to the indestructible McQueen matriarch.

How did you react when you were told about the storyline?

Jennifer Metcalfe: “I instantly thought, ‘What a fantastic test, let’s go for it.’ Losing my father to bowel cancer at 15 was a significant part of my life, from his diagnosis to being with him when he passed away. For me, this is deeply personal and almost like a form of healing.

Did that personal connection feel too close to home?

“Yes, indeed I required it. Some of the moments were so emotionally intense that they transported me back to being a 15-year-old girl, perhaps I should have cried then since I handled my grief in an entirely distinct manner as a teenager.

Initially, I wasn’t sure how I would respond, but as I began, I realized that each person dealing with cancer responds uniquely. Sometimes they become detached or are overwhelmed by emotions; there are no set guidelines. However, the narrative we aim to share about Mercedes is this one.

How did you prepare?

“I’ve personally dealt with the situation because my father needed a stoma, and there were times when it would leak while my mom was at work, leaving me to clean it up. This was a difficult experience for both of us, but it was something we had to face. I also know friends who have had stomas due to different reasons, not just cancer, such as childbirth.

“I have a good understanding of its functioning, and I even consulted bowel cancer research charities who provided answers to my queries and shared case studies featuring women similar in age to Mercedes. I spent some time examining these cases thoroughly.

Was the extra research useful?

Person: “I’ve personally experienced this, but I’m acutely conscious of colon cancer due to my father having it. Since it’s said to be hereditary, I get tested every six months. I’ve noticed many alterations in my bowel habits, so I prefer to stay vigilant. I don’t want to find myself in an unexpected or unfortunate situation like the case studies showed, where one moment you’re on top of the world and performing well, and the next, you’re struggling to take care of your children because you can’t even get out of bed.

“I aimed to follow the scenes as written, but also express how I felt on that particular day. If there were emotions from my personal life, I could use them. The way I feel about living with this disease changes constantly.

Are you prepared for the reaction from the viewers?

As a dedicated film enthusiast: “Whenever someone approaches me in public to discuss the plot, I’m always more than happy to engage. Even if we’re standing in the middle of a restaurant, I won’t hesitate to delve into the intricacies of ‘pooing and bowel movements.’ If they have concerns, I’ll guide them through possible solutions – after all, it’s just one of those essential human activities that we all share consistently!

How will this affect Mercedes as a character?

“She believes herself to be unbeatable and carries an air of ownership over the entire world, not just the village. Despite her attempts to maintain an attractive appearance, she’s been brought down a few notches; we’ve reduced her appearance significantly.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I found myself deeply involved in a unique project where the costume and makeup team truly honored my trust. In one particularly poignant scene, I felt it essential to portray vulnerability authentically. The scene depicts Mercedes, bare-faced and clad only in black undergarments, gazing at herself in the mirror, revealing her stoma. When they asked if I was comfortable with this, I enthusiastically responded, “This is your opportunity to help stir emotions within me.

Will it change her outlook on life?

“Mercedes appears detached from herself. Typically, she’s quite engaged, ready for a debate or laughter, but now she seems lost in thought, somewhat disoriented.

She’s undergoing a significant shift, as she seems to be deeply introspective now. Mercedes is becoming more open, frequently smiling at her companions and allowing for more affectionate gestures like hugs. She also appears to appreciate life more. Here’s hoping she recovers fully, and we’ll likely witness a blend of her usual charm, elegance, and a newfound composure that makes her even more extraordinary. Yet, her quirky, scatterbrained side will always be part of her!

Hollyoaks’ Jennifer Metcalfe reveals personal link to Mercedes’ devastating cancer storyline

What impact has doing the storyline had on you personally?

User: “I’ve learned from her example to accept assistance when it’s available, something that doesn’t come easily to me. Managing a seven-year-old child alone can be tough, and I often find it hard to seek help.

Mercedes has taken on the leadership role since Jacqui and Myra departed, but she relies heavily on her tight-knit group of relatives and acquaintances, such as Grace and Leela. She empowers those around her by giving them significant roles in her life. This lesson about the power of vulnerability I’ve picked up from her has also resonated with me.

Are there any love interests on the horizon?

“I hope this phase of Mercedes’ life is focused on dealing with her illness and spending time with her family, but should she find someone new, it will be sincere since she’ll have shed all her playful banter. With her stunning long hair and short skirt, she certainly has a captivating presence. It seems like there aren’t many characters she hasn’t been romantically involved with!

“I love it when Mercedes has a scene with Darren, Ashley Taylor Dawson is amazing and we have a great friendship. He’ll always add a bit of sugar on top to make scenes spark off the page, he’s great to work with. But I wouldn’t want anyone to come between Darren and Nancy! I reckon Freddie still fancies Mercedes, they still have a sexy chemistry.”

How would you describe the next few months for Mercedes?

“She’s facing a very tough situation. The chemotherapy is causing her so much discomfort that she can hardly live her life with her children as she would like. We are planning to visit her, hoping against hope that we can find a way to save her life according to her wishes. She won’t just be idly waiting on the couch – Mercy will be actively seeking solutions!

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2024-09-16 22:05