1st February 2012

Hollyoaks set to cast a Deaf teen actor

Channel 4 TV soap, Hollyoaks, have begun a search for an actor to play a new Deaf 16-year-old character.

Producers are looking for someone who "must be able to communicate in sign language, and must be either 16 or older, and able to realistically play 16."

The character will initially appear as a guest on the soap, and will also be at the centre of an online spin-off which will tie into the TV role.  Producers hope they will become a permanent character on the Channel 4 soap.

Speaking to Remark! News, a Hollyoaks spokesperson said: "Producers want the character to realistically represent the deaf community. The storyline doesn't necessarily centre around the character being deaf.”

The spokesperson added: "We certainly hope the character's presence will raise Deaf awareness."

He could be joined by his fellow Hollyoaks co-star Rachel Shenton who plays Mitzee Minniver. Shenton is a keen BSL user and has been involved in the Deaf community, volunteering for charities the National Deaf Children's Society and Deaflinks.

If you are interested in being considered for this, please contact Casting Director Rick Laxton at rlaxton@limepictures.com , or on 0151 202 2441.

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(Image: Lime Pictures)