Hollyoaks star 'doesn't want to lie' as she breaks silence after being axed

Stephanie Waring announced her exit from Hollyoaks in an emotional post shared on social media.

The star, who is known for her role as Cindy Cunningham, had many dramatic storylines on the long-running soap. One moment saw her break down when she was told her niece Ella Richardson tragically died after being hit by a car. Her character also lost Luke Morgan (played by Gary Lucy) and Dirk Savage (played by David Kennedy).

Cindy was also busy planning for a wedding after she got engaged to Dave Chen-Williams (played by Dominic Power). She has been part of the show since 1996 when she replaced Laura Crossley in the role. She initially played the role for four years but returned between 2002 and 2004 - reports the Mirror.

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Four years later, it was announced she would return to the soap on a regular basis. She's also known for her roles in Doctors, Holby City, Coronation Street, The Royal Today and for her stint on Dancing on Ice in 2018.

And now, the star took to her Instagram page to tell fans she's one of the actors being cut from the show. She said: "I can't believe I am writing this and I have taken the last two weeks to process and come to terms with the shock of what I am about to say. I am heartbroken to announce that my character of Cindy has been included in the actors reduction of Hollyoaks.

"As an actress obviously I understand there are no jobs for life but with my 28 years on the show I hoped that Cindy would survive the exciting revamp and continue into its new era, especially as I began playing her in 1996, making me the only original cast member remaining to be included in the cast cull, which I can only describe as gutting.

"I was given the chance to say I had chosen to quit the show to spare me any embarrassment of revealing that I've been axed, which was very kind but I don't want to lie to the fans who have followed Cindy's journey for nearly 3 decades as I believe they know she nor I would ever have left the show by choice, Hollyoaks is in my blood and I have loved every minute of walking in Cindy's heels. I would like to add that I totally understand all shows evolve, so whilst I cannot hide my devastation I can only express my gratitude for my time on the show and respect the producers decision with no anger just sadness.

"I will relish every last scene I have left to play with the gift of a role that is Cindy Cunningham. I don't know how or why she exits yet but I have been assured I'm not being killed off, which I'm thankful for as in soap land anything can happen so I'd like to think we'll see her again but who knows."

Ending the post, Steph said: "On a personal note, whilst I currently can't imagine a life away from my Hollyoaks family or being Cindy, who will always remain a part of me, I know that on my last day I'll walk out with my head held high, even if my mascara is still running! Love Steph."

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