Hollyoaks spoilers follow.
Hollyoaks star Isabelle Smith has hinted at a surprise over who’ll be central to Frankie Osborne’s happier future.
The show recently concluded Frankie’s second big issue-based storyline, which focused on the criminal and sexual exploitation of young people.
Frankie and her friend Dillon Ray were both targeted by Grace Black and Rex Gallagher, while the involvement of corrupt police detective DI Banks and returning character Clare Devine was also later revealed.
Speaking exclusively to us at a photoshoot for the Inside Soap Awards 2025, Isabelle shared some details on what’s next for Frankie now that her ordeal is over.
“I’ve been smiling a lot more – doing some smiley, laugh-y scenes! I think we are going to see Frankie get a happy ending,” Isabelle confirmed.
“It’s not going to be straightforward – but it also might not be with the person you think it’s going to be…
“I’m not quite there yet. I think it’s going to be a bumpy road for the time being, but definitely happy at the end of it.”
She continued: “From a selfish, actor-y point of view, I love being able to get my teeth stuck into a really impactful storyline. I like being able to work with charities, do my research and raise awareness for people who don’t see themselves on screen.
“But for Frankie’s sake, I’m very pleased to be doing something a little bit more chilled-out and fun.”
Isabelle is nominated for the Best Actress prize at the Inside Soap Awards this year. Frankie and Dillon’s exploitation plot is in the running for Best Storyline, while the Osbornes are up for Best Family.
Isabelle told us: “It feels very surreal! It’s still only my second year here, so to be up for Newcomer last year was amazing. Now to be up for Best Actress with people that I’ve grown up watching on the TV is very nice!
“[A win would] be the dream but I don’t think it’s going to happen! I’m just pleased to be there and to be nominated with all those very well-deserving women.”
Asked why Hollyoaks deserves fans’ support in the Best Soap category this year, Isabelle replied: “I think because we really do champion new talent coming through. We’re doing storylines that have never been done on soap before.
“And I really do think that we are educating our audience on these taboo subjects that people don’t really talk about, that’s not taught in schools. I think that’s really important and that’s why I love being part of this show.”
