In a heart-stopping new storyline for Channel 4's Hollyoaks, Ste Hay's life is left hanging by a thread as his vengeful son, Lucas, orchestrates a terrifying act of retribution. The dramatic plot, set to air in January 2026, sees a desperate race against time to save Ste from a danger of his own flesh and blood's making.
A Son's Betrayal Turns Deadly
The roots of this chilling conflict stretch back months, with Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis) secretly subjecting his father, Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson), to a sustained campaign of abuse. The situation reached a critical boiling point when Lucas discovered the shocking truth that Ste had been having an affair with Dillon Ray (Nathaniel Dass). Consumed by rage, Lucas's actions escalated horrifically.
Earlier this month, the troubled teen poisoned his dad and launched a vicious physical attack on Dillon, which left the latter hospitalised. Fearing for his life and finally recognising the extreme danger, Ste bravely went to the police, resulting in Lucas's arrest. However, his release from prison has not brought peace.
A Fragile Truce Shattered
Upon his release, Lucas found temporary refuge with Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey), who offered him a place to stay at the garage. While initially grateful, it soon became clear that Lucas's fury was far from extinguished. As Rex urged him to reconcile with Ste, the father made it painfully clear he was not ready to face his son.
Lucas's subsequent visit to Dillon in hospital only fuelled his anger, leading to a tense and frightening confrontation with a terrified Ste. While Ste attempted to placate his son and answer questions about the affair, the encounter hinted at the storm to come.
The Desperate Rescue Mission
The terrifying turn of events is triggered when Rex uncovers the deeply disturbing contents of Lucas's notepad. Realising Ste is in imminent and grave danger, he immediately shares his discovery with Leela Dexter (Kirsty-Leigh Porter). Together, they join forces with Dillon in a frantic mission to locate Ste before Lucas can execute his revenge.
Newly released pictures preview the intensity of the upcoming scenes, showing Rex kicking in the door of the Lomax residence. The burning questions for viewers are: will the rescue party reach Ste in time? And what exactly does Lucas have planned for the father he feels betrayed him?
Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 6am on Channel 4's streaming platform, with TV episodes airing at 7pm on E4.
