Hollyoaks James Nightingale star confirms 'few more surprises' after huge return
James Nightgale returned from the dead in a huge twist during the latest instalment of Hollyoaks and actor Gregory Finnegan has confirmed there's more surprises in store
James Nightingale has returned from the dead in a jaw-dropping twist Hollyoaks fans didn't see coming.
Gregory Finnegan has reprised his role as the fan favourite as part of the Channel 4 soap's 30th anniversary celebrations.
During Wednesday's (October 15) episode, at a poker night in town, Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) and returning villager Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) discussed their reasons for wanting village stalwart Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard) gone for good.
Warren had the better hand and Darren was sent home with nothing. However, there was a twist of fate for Darren as a ghost from the past, James Nightingale appeared in front of him.
Darren promised James not to tell anyone he’s still alive, but it comes at a cost as the two men struck up a deal.
As James dropped Darren back to the village, Peri Lomax (Ruby O'Donnell) spotted the familiar face but Darren insisted it someone who looked like James.
Talking about his return, Greg said "Turns out rumours of James' demise were… greatly exaggerated. He's always been one for a dramatic exit — and an even better entrance.
"Coming back for Hollyoaks’ 30th has been an absolute joy and I’m blown away (pun intended) by the fans' amazing reaction.
"Here’s to unfinished business, old habits and a few more surprises yet to come... #FlightOfTheNightingale"
A source told The Sun: "Why James is back, where he’s been and what happened to him after the explosion are all questions waiting to be answered.
“Fans won’t have long to wait to see some dramatic scenes with James and some faces from his past."
Solicitor James is thought to have died after a car explosion in 2024 before the soap jumped forward a year, leaving his husband Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) heartbroken.
Ste has since moved on with Rex Gallagher (Jonny Labey) so how will he react if he learns James is still alive?
The long-running soap is celebrate its milestone birthday in a big way, with a stunt week, a wedding and the long-awaited return of Brookside just a few of the things on offer.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am