Hollyoaks star Iz Hesketh has shared a heartfelt message following her departure from the Channel 4 soap. Hesketh, who played the role of Kitty Draper, made her exit earlier this week after arriving in January.
Hesketh took to social media to express her gratitude for her time on the show, thanking both the cast and crew for their warm welcome. "Kitty has left the village," she wrote, alongside a collection of photos from her time on Hollyoaks. "Thank you @hollyoaksofficial for the best 8 months."
The actor went on to elaborate on her hopes for the character, stating that she aimed to portray "a flawed, lovable, real and unapologetically trans" individual. "I can only hope that certain people have seen glimpses of their lived experience reflected in everything I worked so hard on," she added.
Hesketh also expressed her appreciation for the support of Hollyoaks fans, acknowledging the privilege of being part of the show's storylines. "It's a privilege to have been part of the stories I have told and it isn't taken for granted for one second," she shared.
While some might speculate that her exit was linked to the recent series of cuts made to the soap, Hesketh clarified that her decision to leave was a personal one. "I need to spend the next year getting surgery, healing and focusing on the future and sadly that has meant leaving the show and moving on," she explained.
However, Hesketh left a glimmer of hope for a possible return in the future. "Kitty did only get in a taxi though so who knows if she's really gone for good," she teased. "But for now at least, Goodbye. All my love Iz."
Hesketh's co-stars were quick to offer their support and praise for her performance in the comments section. Ross Adams (Scott Drinkwell) lauded her portrayal of Kitty, calling it "one of the most memorable LGBTQ+ characters ever." He continued, highlighting the importance of such representation, adding, "You were a JOY to work with and I canât wait to watch you fly high. Sending big love x."
Lily Best (Lizzie Chen-Williams) shared a similar sentiment, stating: "And that was how I met my wife. Forever proud. Love you endlessly." Alex Fletcher (Diane Hutchinson) praised Hesketh's talent and scrappiness, expressing her excitement for her future endeavors.
Hollyoaks airs weekdays at 7.30pm on Channel 4, with episodes then broadcast on E4 the following day. Episodes are also available on YouTube a week later, and selected omnibus episodes are available on Prime Video.
