Hollyoaks star Rita Simons has discussed the aftermath of the high-octane Abe Fielding (Tyler Conti) story ending, confirming that her alter-ego Marie is only able to move on with the help of a loved one. Abe, as viewers know, controlled and abused Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin), keeping her locked up her in his flat for over a year. He then turned his attention to Peri Lomax (Ruby O’Donnell), whom he raped days after they tied the knot.

The abuser is set to get his comeuppance in a dramatic week, with Cleo and Peri having joined forces with Leela (Kirsty-Leigh Porter), who was also raped by him during the Channel 4 soap’s ‘missing’ year. Marie, meanwhile, came to see Abe for who he truly is in truly powerful scenes, helmed by powerhouse performances from Rita and co-star Tyler. Discussing the scenes in question, former EastEnders star Rita said: ‘Marie has PTSD from her past relationships where she was abused by Abe’s dad, Mick.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video. Up Next. ‘I think she wanted to think that he was nothing like him and the conversation she has at The Hutch is where she says: “You know what? You are like your dad. “You’re exactly the same”, and I think for her its just utter heartbreak that everything she did to try and stop Abe from being exposed to Mick’s behaviour, he’s turned into him so it’s like everything she did was in vain anyway.’.

Abe responded to Marie’s strong words by taking her at knifepoint, bundling her into the back of a car, which was later involved in a collision as Joel Dexter (Rory Douglas-Speed) did his utmost to stop Abe from hurting their mum. An intense showdown unfolded in Tuesday’s (February 4) edition of the serial drama, with Joel punching Abe in dramatic scenes. ‘I just had to basically be in two minds because part of Marie absolutely despises Abe for what he’s done and also Marie’s an abuse survivor herself, but part of her loves him because he’s her son,’ said Rita of filming her character’s reaction.

‘She loves both Joel and Abe and they’re both going at each other and its horrendous for her because she’s completely torn in two.’. Realising what Abe is capable of will inevitably have a longterm effect on Marie but Rita hinted that her on-screen counterpart will get through the ordeal – with help from Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard). ‘Marie is only able to move forward with the help of Tony, who has been so supportive of her,’ said the soap star.

‘There’s a nice scene with them outside the hospital and she says: “I defended Abe even though I knew it was wrong but you still stood by me” and I think that’s how she managed to pull through. ‘It’s brilliant working with Nick Pickard he’s just a complete pro he likes to work in the same way I do we just get on with it. It’s just really professional when you’re on set with Nick and I love that, and he’s obviously hilarious so that helps.’.

Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 7am on Channel 4’s streaming platform, or catch episodes on TV at 7pm on E4. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Arrow MORE: Cleo McQueen set to kill Abe Fielding in Hollyoaks – with shock accomplice.

Arrow MORE: Hollyoaks confirms unexpected arrest which sparks outrage in aftermath of Abe story. Arrow MORE: One of Hollyoaks’ biggest characters left to die in stabbing horror. Sign up for exclusive spoilers and interviews, handpicked by our Soaps Editor. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy.