10 April 2024 , 09:41
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Stephanie Waring has been spotted filming some of her final scenes for Hollyoaks after revealing she'd been given the chop by bosses after 28 years on the soap.
The actress, 46, was left distraught at the news her character Cindy Cunningham was among those being culled as part of huge reductions on the E4 soap. Earlier this year it was announced that the number of episodes would be reduced from five to just three a week with many big name stars leaving.
A heartbroken Stephanie told fans in an emotional statement that she was 'still processing' the sad news. Days after making the announcement, Stephanie put on a brave face despite being heartbroken about the decision. She was spotted taking a break from filming as she stepped out for some fresh air alongside co-star Tamara Wall. They enjoyed a quick smoke break while filming at Liverpool's town hall.
Stephanie was seen arriving to set in Liverpool (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)
She stepped out for a break with co-star Tamara Wall (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)Tamara was also axed from the soap back in July 2023, and admitted she cried for three days when she was given the news. However, it appears she will be returning at gangster Grace Black. Stephanie kept warm during their time off set in a Dry Robe over her costume. She wore a pink top under a blue blazer, paired with knee-high black leather heels.
The actresses appeared in deep conversation, as Tamara kept comfy in a pair of grey slippers and a green puffer coat. Stephanie arrived to the filming location in her black coat, wearing a pair of blue jeans and white trainers while carrying her designer bag. She has taken part in many dramatic storylines during her time as Cindy.
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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). 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.
The pair appeared in deep conversation (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)
Stephanie announced her shock axe earlier this week (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)Four years later, it was announced she would return to the soap on a regular basis. Stephanie is also known for her roles in Doctors, Holby City, Coronation Street, The Royal Today and for her stint on Dancing on Ice in 2018. Earlier in the week, Stephanie took to her Instagram to share an emotional message to fans.
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."
Stephanie added: "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.
She said she doesn't know when her last scene will be (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)
Tamara was also axed from the soap (Aaron Parfitt / SplashNews.com)"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."