Hollyoaks viewers were all left saying the same thing as pub landlord Tony Hutchinson’s new mystery woman was revealed – and it’s not his neighbour Maxine Minniver

Hollyoaks fans were left talking as Tony Hutchinson’s (played by Nick Pickard) latest romantic interest was unveiled in Tuesdays episode (October 1), with the Channel 4 drama available for online now.

The previous episode, streamed on Monday (September 30), already set the stage by confirming Tony and Diane Hutchinson (portrayed by Alex Fletcher) are moving towards divorce following prolonged marriage difficulties that stretch back before the shows year leap.

The storyline teasingly suggested Tony could be involved with Maxine Minniver (Nikki Sanderson), but that was swiftly proven to be a diversion. Instead, Tony and Maxine were coordinating a meeting with Diane to discuss their divorce, accompanied by legal assistance.

In a pivotal scene, wherein they were handed their divorce paperwork, Maxine directed them, “If you both can just sign here, we can begin the divorce proceedings immediately.”

After the session, Diane shared her sorrow with Marie Fielding (played by Rita Simons), revealing her mixed feelings: “Now that it’s done, I’m not sure that I’m happy,” signaling her emotional turmoil to viewers.

Tony and Diane had endeavored to shield their children from the truth of their parting, but Ro Hutchinson (Ava Webster) stumbled upon a draft copy of the divorce documents. With revelations coming thick and fast, the recent episode saw Tony preparing a cosy dinner for Marie, culminating in both confessing that they have “fallen” for one another and agreeing it’s time to break the news to Diane, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Following the revelation that Tony has left Diane for Mari, social media has been abuzz with fan reactions. One viewer commented: “She’s palling up to Diane it’s gonna kick off.”

Another chimed in: “That is beyond a joke.” A third fan expressed their enjoyment of the plot twist: “Loving this storyline.” While a fourth succinctly stated: “Knew it.”

A fifth viewer was less impressed, remarking: “What a complete joke… I like the new Hollyoaks, now this pairing? I’m no sure I like it now..”

The tension escalated after Tony and Marie were caught sharing a clandestine kiss by Ro following a romantic cooking session. The question on everyone’s lips now is whether Ro will reveal Tony’s affair with Marie to Diane, or if Tony’s father will concoct a scheme to keep the secret under wraps.

Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am