Trigger warning: This article contains discussion of child sexual abuse.

Hollyoaks spoilers follow for Wednesday’s (September 25) episode that is now available to view on Channel 4 streaming. The episode in question will air on E4 on at 7pm.

Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith) resolved to drop the charges against abusive twin brother JJ (Ryan Mulvey) following his diagnosis.

JJ, as viewers know, sexually abused Frankie for years, gaslighting her into keeping quiet, claiming no-one would believe her. Frankie, however, bravely opened up to dad Darren (Ashley Taylor Dawson) and, to her shock, he never doubted her for a second.

With Hollyoaks having jumped one year into the future, JJ was on the cusp of facing the consequences of his actions on his day in court.

Jack (Jimmy McKenna) was meeting secretly with the abuser, urging him to accept responsible for what he did and tell the truth in court.

JJ claimed that he was going to do just that but he collapsed at the court house and was rushed to hospital, where he was told that he has leukaemia.

The revelation left Frankie in complete and utter shock. Darren was similarly left reeling and soon found his loyalties divided, unsure of how he could support JJ without feeling like he’s betraying Frankie.

Frankie sought solace in alcohol, spending time with Vicky Grant (Anya Lawrence) at The Loft.

Darren was horrified to find her hungover the following morning, reiterating that her drinking needs to stop – but things became heated when he asked if she wanted to go to the hospital to see JJ.

Frankie, devastated that her dad was visiting the abuser, told him that he could go if he wants – but she is staying put.

Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) later offered advice to her, urging her to go easy on Darren, reminding her that he’s still here – and to not take that for granted.

Left with food for thought, Frankie video called Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis), who is in young offenders for previously attacking JJ, telling him that she’s going to tell the police to drop the charges against JJ.

Lucas, no doubt like the fans at home, was devastated for Frankie and desperately tried to convince her otherwise.

But will his words – or those of her loved ones – change her mind?

Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 7am on Channel 4’s streaming platform, or catch episodes on TV at 7pm on E4.