FIRST LOOK PIX! This former X Factor star begins filming on Hollyoaks

Former X Factor singer and Dancing on Ice champ, Jake Quickenden enjoys his first day filming on Hollyoaks and explains why the role is a dream come true

Former X Factor singer, Jake Quickenden spent his first day filming on set at Hollyoaks this week as workman, Woody, and as these sneak pictures of  him in character show, he’s in fine shape as he works the high-viz and tool belt look!

Singer and performer, Jake, who was a runner up in I’m A Celebrity in  2014 and was later crowned winner of Dancing on Ice in 2018, filmed alongside fellow Dancing on Ice alumni, Stephanie Waring who plays fiery Cindy Cunningham in the soap.

Speaking about his first day on set, Jake, whose scenes will air in October, ready for Hollyoaks nail-biting stunt week said: “It’s very exciting and it’s a privilege. Hollyoaks is such an amazing show and it’s been around for so long; to be asked to come and have a role on it, it’s amazing.”

The star continued, “I’m really happy. I’ve had a great day and everyone’s so sound. It’s nice to arrive somewhere new and know someone like Steph [Waring] too, she’s made it really easy to fit in.”

Jake, who has more recently been touring in the UK production of Hair The Musical, was actually linked to a role in Hollyoaks last year and when he addressed the rumours on Lorraine  admitted that he would “jump” at the opportunity to appear on the Channel 4 soap if asked.

Speaking on the morning show he said, “You know what I’m just so happy to get amazing opportunities handed to me.

“I used to work in McDonalds and now I’m doing an interview in my bed. If something like Hollyoaks came up I would jump on it, that’s all I’ll say.”

Jake isn’t the first X Factor contestant to experience life in Hollyoaks. Former contestant, Rachel Adedeji  first appeared on the soap as Lisa Loveday in 2016 and is soon to be involved in some dramatic storylines.

Hollyoaks is shown weekdays on C4 at 6.30pm with the next episode following on E4