Ray Quinn tried out for another part on 'Hollyoaks' before joining the soap as Jonny.

Ray Quinn as Jonny

Ray Quinn as Jonny

The former 'Brookside' actor's alter-ego will rock up in the village as the new owner of Esther's Bean coffee shop next week, and he will set about making friends with Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson), who he tries to recruit as a member of his far-right radicalisation group.

He said: "I actually auditioned for a different role originally, then Jonny came along. 'Hollyoaks' like to keep things close to their chest.

"I was only told that he was a confident guy and the life of the party, someone you could go for a drink with.

"After I got the role though, and was made aware of what it entailed, I was rather excited by the challenge of the role may bring."

The 30-year-old actor admits filming the show in Liverpool has felt like "coming home", after he previously starred as Anthony Murray in former Scouse soap 'Brookside'.

He said: "I've loved every minute at 'Hollyoaks' so far!

"For me, it was almost like coming home. It's been almost 22 years since I started my first ever job there on 'Brookside'.

"A lot has changed, however a lot has remained the same. Seeing so many friendly and familiar faces made me feel instantly welcomed and helped me to settle in rather quickly."

Like Jonny and Ste look set to, Ray and Kieron have developed a strong friendship off-screen, and he is grateful his co-star has helped him settle into 'Hollyoaks' life.

He added: "Having worked closely with Kieron Richardson for the last few months, he's become a good friend.

"We have a great relationship, considering the time we've known one another. He's a talented guy and a true gent who has supported me and helped me feel settled into the village with ease."

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