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Steph Cunningham
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Steph Cunningham
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Steph Cunningham
Hollyoaks character
Portrayed byCarley Stenson
Duration2000–2011
First appearance29 March 2000
Last appearance26 December 2011
ClassificationFormer; regular
Introduced byJo Hallows
Spin-off
appearances		Hollyoaks: In Too Deep (2004)
Hollyoaks Later (2008–2009)
In-universe information
Other namesStephanie De La Dean
OccupationWaitress (2007–2010)
Businesswoman (2008–2010)
Dance teacher (2009–2010)
FatherJohnno Dean
MotherFrankie Osborne
BrothersJake Dean
Craig Dean
SistersDebbie Dean
Half-brothersPresley Dean
Brian Bloom
HusbandMax Cunningham (2008)
Gilly Roach (2010)
NiecesEsther Bloom

Steph Roach (also Dean and Cunningham) is a fictional character from the British Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks, played by Carley Stenson. She debuted on-screen during the episode airing on 29 March 2000. Steph was introduced into the serial by executive producer Jo Hallows. In 2009 Stenson decided to quit, but the then producer Lucy Allan convinced her to stay to play out a dramatic storyline. The announcement of her departure was made public in June 2010. Stenson's fellow cast members have described her as a "Hollyoaks legend" because of her lengthy duration.

Steph has been described as having a highly confident persona, a trait Stenson enjoyed portraying throughout. Steph is also played as "fame hungry". She is noted for a number of high-profile storylines such as the portrayal of bullying in a school environment, the portrayal of epilepsy, which Stenson felt had been a 'taboo subject' for too long. Other stories include becoming a widow and her involvement in Niall Rafferty's revenge plot and her constant desire for fame. One of Steph's final storylines was the portrayal of cervical cancer, which Stenson conducted extensive research into. Steph was subsequently killed off in a special block of episodes branded by the media as "fire week". Some critics described her final storylines as "upsetting" and "surprising". Steph's relationship with Gilly Roach (Anthony Quinlan) was viewed unfavourable by most. Stenson has been nominated for several different awards for her portrayal of Steph.

Development

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Casting and characterisation

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Carley Stenson (pictured) said that Steph is a "lovable rogue who just likes making mischief for attention."

Stenson originally auditioned to play a friend of the established character Zara Morgan (Kelly Greenwood).[1] Although unsuccessful, the Hollyoaks casting team later asked her to apply for the new role of Steph Cunningham, and placed her straight into the final stage of auditions. She was delighted to subsequently be given the part, which was her first major television role.[2][3] Stenson joined the cast straight after leaving high school, aged seventeen.[1][4] She made her first appearance in March 2000,[5] and by 2010 had become the longest-serving female cast member remaining.[6] Steph originally featured in the series as a recurring character for two stints.[7] Producers were impressed with Stenson's performance and by September 2000, they had invited her to join the show fulltime. Stenson revealed that Steph would return with "greater prominence".[7]

Steph was introduced as a friend of Zara's, who was initially "quite naïve" and easily led. Within two years, her personality had altered greatly. Steph became a bully,[1] and "a bit of a bitch".[2] Stenson enjoyed this transformation into a villain, as she believed it made Steph a more memorable character.[1] She also felt she could "really go somewhere" with Steph's bitchiness in her acting, but in contrast struggled to portray her more genuine moments. She commented that Steph is the type of character only to cry over things she "really cares about". Stenson found this difficult to relate to, and struggled to "find a balance between pushing it too far and far enough".[2] She ultimately preferred to play her as a bitch,[2] though one "more comical rather than just out-and-out nasty."[1]

Stenson assessed that Steph "really isn't all bad, more of a lovable rogue who just likes making mischief for attention."[1] She deemed her character "very unpredictable", with a great deal of confidence.[8] The LINC Online called her a "beautiful blonde wild child with a penchant for arrogance and displays of egotism".[2] Sarah Moolla of The People branded her "superficial",[9] the Daily Record's Merle Brown referred to her as "a true red-blooded female,[10] and Emma Johnson of the Liverpool Echo assessed that she had a "couldn't-care-less" attitude.[11] BBC America described Steph as a two-sided character. They observed that as well as a bitch, she could be "dishonest, vain, jealous and small-minded", and wrote "She causes trouble when she wants to and will happily lie and gossip to get her own way." Conversely, they noted that for those on her good side, "She can be your best friend, a confidante and sweet natured girl".[12]

As Steph developed, she was revealed to have a "softer side". Beneath her tough façade was a "deeply insecure little girl who crave[d] love and affection."[12] An "artistic and creative" streak lead her to attend performing arts college.[13] This inspired a rivalry with fellow actor Summer Shaw (Summer Strallen), which saw Steph "determined to keep the limelight on her."[14] Stenson downplayed her vocal ability, and opined that Steph is "hardly the world's best singer".[15]

Family and relationships

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In late 2002, more than two years after Steph's arrival, her family were introduced to the series.[1] The dynamics of the Dean family evolved with time. They were initially a dysfunctional unit, but in a different way to other Hollyoaks families, as they tended to disrupt the lives of others whilst being happy amongst themselves.[2] Upon their arrival, actress Helen Pearson, who plays mother Frankie Dean, assessed that they were "really supportive of each other", and "quite solid, like an old-fashioned family unit", despite their lack of finances which required them to undertake "various scams to keep body and soul together."[16] As time went on, the Deans were affected by affairs and parental separation, more typical of the soap's other families.[2]

Writers introduced Steph into a friendship group with the show's other teenagers who included Zara Morgan (Kelly Greenwood), Abby Davies (Helen Noble), Lisa Hunter (Gemma Atkinson), Lee Hunter (Alex Carter) and Brian Drake (Jonathan Le Billon).[17] Steph was portrayed differently to the rest of the group, with the example of a story involving a rumour club. The students are set a task of creating a rumour club to assess how quickly gossip can spread around a community. The assignment is supposed to be fun but the possibility of people getting emotionally hurt excites Steph. Stenson told an Inside Soap reporter that Steph's motivation is "purely evil".[17] She enjoys "setting the cat amongst the pigeons" and watching her handiwork play out. Writers showcased Steph's "bitchy" side perfectly in the story, as she creates a rumour about Mandy Richardson (Sarah Jayne Dunn) and Laura Burns (Lesley Johnston) being lesbians and in a relationship.[17] Lee dislikes Steph's plans but writers showed the Steph's nasty influence over her friends when Lee is too afraid to oppose her. Stenson concluded it showed Steph disliked other "pretty girls" and "likes nothing better than being a cow" towards them.[17]

Steph had several romances throughout her time in the series. In her early years, Stenson played her as a flirt, who acted out for the attention of boys.[1] Her first lovers included Christian virgin Brian Drake and football playing "lothario" Scott Anderson (Daniel Hyde).[16] Her later relationship with Cameron Clark (Ben Gerrard) had "ups and downs" due to his obsessive-compulsive disorder. To boost his confidence she forced him to join a rock band. Her actions were successful, and Stenson said Steph was "proud" of this.[15] She sacrificed their relationship so Cameron could leave and tour Europe. Sarah Ellis of Inside Soap praised Steph for being so supportive, despite Cameron's "erratic behaviour".[15]

Steph appeared to "finally [find] happiness" when she fell in love with Max Cunningham (Matt Littler).[18] Although attracted to her, Max initially resisted Steph as he believed her to be a "ditzy, air-headed blonde", only interested in "bad boys."[19] When his younger brother Tom (Ellis Hollins) developed a crush on her, the "kind, sensitive way" Steph handled it altered his impression. Littler explained, "Max begins to realise there's more to her than her looks. He begins to think she's actually really nice and they become friends."."[19] Littler quit the series in 2008, and producers planned his exit around Max's wedding to Steph.[20] He was killed off on their wedding day, as he pulled Tom out of the path of a car.[21] Before she filmed the aftermath of Max's death, Stenson listened to depressing music to reach her character's bereaved mindset.[22] Stenson believed it was a mistake to kill Max off, and "such an awful thing to happen to Steph", until she received "amazing feedback" about the storyline.[22] In the aftermath, Tom asked Steph to be his mother, in a scene that then-executive producer Bryan Kirkwood deemed his favourite of the year. The interaction between the two was intended to represent "what Hollyoaks is all about - lots of heart, relationships, friendships, love and loss." Kirkwood praised Stenson's performance throughout the storyline, particularly during that scene.[23]

Steph has a brief fling with Niall Rafferty (Barry Sloane). The actors were required to film "steamy scenes". Stenson felt it a "hard challenge" to portray, she had to convince the audience that Steph would genuinely get together with her husband's killer.[22] Some viewers, including all the staff of Inside Soap believed their chemistry to be greater. Stenson ultimately decided Steph was "better suited" to Max.[22] She hoped that Steph would have even "more drama around the corner" along with "a bit of comic relief".[22]

Illnesses

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Epilepsy

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"It was the first thing I worried about, that people who have it would watch it and think, 'That's so not what it's about and that's so not how I feel.' Especially having the fit because I didn't want it to look laughable. It was very difficult."[2]

—Stenson talking to LINC Online about her initial fears of portraying epilepsy. (2006)

In a storyline which Stenson found challenging to portray, Steph was diagnosed with epilepsy. Feeling a responsibility to members of the viewing public who have the disorder, the actress researched it extensively, assisted by Mersey Television. As well as reading about it, she visited several organisations,[8] and spent a day on set with a teenage girl—close in age to Steph—who has the condition, and who shared insights on the experiences she had been through.[11] The actress felt trepidation about acting out seizures, but for her first one was assisted by the episode's director, who had witnessed seizures first-hand, having once worked in a hospital.[11] Stenson felt privileged to be chosen for the storyline, particularly as epilepsy is typically a taboo subject which had not featured prominently in a soap opera before.[2]

Barbara Pinder of Epilepsy Action praised the serial for taking on the subject matter. Hollyoaks researchers contacted the charity when developing the storyline, and Pinder felt that the show succeeded in communicating the impact of Steph's diagnosis. She stated, "It is great to see a soap opera, specially one that is watched mainly by young people, look at the issue of epilepsy as it often gets ignored."[11] Stenson was pleased the storyline was "reaching out to people", and stated that she had received many letters from fans thanking her for highlighting an under-exposed subject,[2] as well as positive feedback on the Hollyoaks website.[11]

Steph initially reacted angrily towards her diagnosis, which Pinder confirmed was not uncommon, explaining: "The character is going through stages that someone with epilepsy is likely to go through. Teenagers can have terrible trouble coming to terms with epilepsy at a time when they have a lot of other difficult things to deal with. It can also be quite a blow to their independence."[11] Writing for the Sunday Mail, Steve Hendry assessed that the plot would serve to "bring the arrogant and often spiteful Steph down a peg or two", humbling her.[3] Stenson agreed that Steph's epilepsy would make her "more understanding", inspiring thoughtfulness towards others, as opposed to her former rejection of those different to her. However, she observed that the condition may also serve to worsen her behaviour towards "a chosen few."[3] The character's epilepsy was further explored in the Hollyoaks spin-off In Too Deep, in which Steph has a seizure and believes she is possessed by a spirit, almost causing her to drown.[24]

Cervical cancer

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In 2010, Steph was diagnosed with cervical cancer and underwent a hysterectomy.[25] It was devised prior to the appointment of Paul Marquess as executive producer. He chose to continue with it, deciding that it would be interesting to give Steph another serious storyline, and have a character that viewers "know and love going through a really hard time."[26] In preparation for the storyline, Stenson studied the illness to give her a time-line of the experiences Steph would undergo. She chose not to speak with any cancer patients about coping with cancer, believing that everyone handles it in their own personal way. Additionally, she aimed to make Steph's realisation of her cancer as believable as possible, explaining that: "Steph wouldn't have any prior knowledge about what to expect, and I wanted to see it fresh through her eyes".[27] She was flattered to be trusted with the storyline, and found it particularly important to get her portrayal right as, during the previous year, she had fronted the Arm Against Cervical Cancer campaign.[28]

The producers aimed to send a message of early detection to the series' young audience, and had Steph initially ignore her symptoms.[25] Stenson hoped to raise awareness of cervical cancer, and educate women about the importance of regular smear tests.[29] She stated that Steph was confident about beating her illness, as "the alternative [wa]sn't worth thinking about."[28] The character was originally reluctant to tell her family about the cancer for fear of hurting them, and was embarrassed to tell her love interest Gilly Roach (Anthony Quinlan), not wanting him to have to look after her.[28] As the storyline developed, Steph cancelled her wedding to Gilly due to his refusal to accept that her condition was terminal. Quinlan explained that his character impeded her ability to deal with the situation, with his disbelief contrasting Steph's attempt to "take this in her stride and [...] spend quality time with the people she loves before she goes."[30]

Marquess deemed the storyline as a whole one which could only be depicted the way it was in Hollyoaks,[26] aiming to tell a "tragic story" with a "sweet and humorous tone"."[25] A comedy element of the storyline had Steph use her cancer as a sob story to enter a talent show, recruiting orphan Tom to take to the stage with her, giving her story further emotional impact. Stenson commented, "Deep down she knows she's not a fantastic singer, but she thought the judges would feel sorry for her and put her through."[31] According to Quinlan, viewer feedback on the storyline was "brilliant". He stated that viewers were upset by Steph's illness, and that it had even brought his own mother to tears.[32]

Departure and death

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In 2010, it was announced that Stenson had decided to quit the serial to pursue a career in musical theatre. She deemed it "one of the most difficult decisions [she had] ever made", stating that Hollyoaks had been her "dream job" and that she would miss her friends in the cast and crew.[5] She made the decision to resign around June 2009, but was convinced by then-producer Lucy Allan to play out a long exit storyline,[33] which concluded filming in September 2010.[34] Before filming her final scenes, Stenson secured her first West End role.[35] Though she had previously felt ready to leave the series, when the time came, she was upset because she felt the reality of it.[27] She called her final scenes "really sad and emotional".[34]

Hollyoaks devised an arson plot to begin on Guy Fawkes Night 2010, as a result of which some characters would die. The production team intended to keep details of who would die secret until transmission.[36] Prior to broadcast, Stenson revealed that Steph would risk her own life to save Amy Barnes (Ashley Slanina-Davies), Leah Barnes (Jessica Croft-Lane) and Lucas Hay. The actress explained that "She stares death in the face every day because of her cancer, so thinks she really has nothing to lose now."[37] Stenson performed one of her own stunts during filming, with the rest undertaken by a stunt double.[38] A promotional trailer for the episodes aired across the Channel 4 network, featuring Steph on fire.[39] In the event, Steph rescued Amy and her children from a burning building but refused to leave herself, saying she was ready to die.[40] Her exit received a positive reaction from fans on the social networking website Twitter, with Stenson stating that she was "honoured" by the response.[41] Steph's legacy continued following her death, with her husband, family and friends left to come to terms with their grief.[42] On 29 November 2011 it was confirmed Stenson was to reprise the role for a one off guest appearance as Steph in which she appears as an angel to Doug Carter who had attempted suicide and she convinces him that his life matters. Steph tells Doug something and he shows Frankie a special song that Steph had recorded for her. Frankie, overjoyed that her daughter had not forgotten her, wept whilst Angel Steph looked on happily and placed a hand on her shoulder before winking to Tom and returning to heaven, stating she was "ready for her solo."[43]

Storylines

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Steph is introduced as a new student at Hollyoaks High, with early storylines focusing on her school life and best friend Zara. She frequently bullies fellow pupil Lisa, driving her to attempt suicide. When Steph's friends react disapprovingly, she apologises and promises to change. She cultivates a promiscuous reputation, having brief relationships with Brian and footballer Scott Anderson (Daniel Hyde). Steph eventually becomes friends with Lisa, but accidentally ruins her hair while attempting to dye it. Believing that she did so on purpose, her other friends shun her. Distracted by the quarrel, Steph does not notice that she is being stalked by serial killer Toby Mills (Henry Luxemburg). He attacks her, hitting her in the head with a spanner and leaving her to die. Steph is comatose for a week, and is diagnosed with epilepsy when she regains consciousness. Upon learning that Toby is Lisa's brother-in-law, Steph resumes her bullying. Johnno eventually catches her physically attacking Lisa, and orders her to leave her alone. The two go on to attend university together, where Steph apologises for her cruelty and they are able to reconcile.

In the aftermath of her epilepsy diagnosis, Steph is initially unable to deal with her condition. Her father, Johnno Dean (Colin Wells) supports her, but ends up abandoning his family following the revelation that he has a secret son. Steph's mother Frankie remarries, and she comes to see her new stepfather, Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna), as a father figure, despite remaining close to her father and becomes the only family member to visit him. Steph largely reforms following her epilepsy diagnosis, becoming more sensitive to the needs of others. She comes to terms with how dangerous her condition could be if uncontrolled, and in time her epileptic episodes become less frequent. Steph fails her college exams and is forced to retake them. Fuelled by jealousy of her sister's West End success, she attempts to embark on a celebrity career. She appears in the fictional television show Bid Crazy TV, and auditions for a girl band, X-Pose, which transpires to be a money-making scam. She then sells a kiss and tell story on celebrity Joe Jones, who she meets after a failed audition to become one of his backing singers. When Steph's notoriety peters out, her stepbrother and agent Darren arranges for her to have sex with a footballer. After their liaison, Steph discovers that he is actually just the team's mascot. Humiliated, she abandons her pursuit of fame. In a comedy storyline, Steph's great-aunt Reenie leaves her an inheritance, said to be a "small fortune", on the condition that Steph performs a charitable act. She fulfils the requirement by saving Leo Valentine (Brian Bovell) from choking, however discovers that Small Fortune is, in fact, a donkey. Steph sends it to live at a donkey sanctuary.

Steph becomes a babysitter to Tom Cunningham (Ellis Hollins), and later begins a relationship with his older brother, Max Cunningham (Matt Littler). They get engaged, but have an on-off relationship fraught with frequent arguments. Steph's friend, Niall Rafferty (Barry Sloane) falls madly in love with her and attempts to come between them. She and Max eventually marry, but on their wedding day, Niall accidentally runs Max over, killing him. After a period of intense grief, Steph has sex with Niall. He is revealed to be a villain, holding his family hostage and killing his sister, Tina Reilly (Leah Hackett). A frightened Steph goes to stay with her brother Craig (Guy Burnet) in Scotland. Niall follows her, and takes Steph, Tom and Craig hostage. After a stand-off in which Craig makes Niall acknowledge the hurt he has caused, Niall throws himself off a cliff to his death. After a long holiday with Tom, Steph begins to put her life back together. She falls for dance teacher Fernando Fernandez (Jeronimo Best), inspiring jealousy in Gilly Roach (Anthony Quinlan), who has feelings for Steph. She and Fernando become engaged, as do Gilly and Cheryl Brady (Bronagh Waugh), Steph's employee. Realising that she loves Gilly, Steph breaks up with Fernando, but due to loyalty to Cheryl, refuses to date Gilly when he breaks up with her. Gilly briefly becomes engaged to Jem Costello (Helen Russell-Clark), but ultimately leaves her to be with Steph.

Steph discovers she has cervical cancer, and has a hysterectomy. In the aftermath, she decides to pursue a singing career and applies for The X Factor. Despite using her cancer as a sob story, she is rejected at her audition. Her cancer spreads, and though Steph has chemotherapy, she is later told that her condition is terminal. Gilly struggles to cope with her diagnosis, almost causing Steph to cancel their wedding. It goes ahead, however, and after their honeymoon, Steph begins to make plans for her impending death. When Il Gnosh, a local Italian restaurant catches fire, Steph saves Amy Barnes and her children, but chooses to remain inside and die. After Steph's funeral, her family and friends watch video messages she recorded for them prior to her death. On 11 March 2011, Cindy returns and Darren tells her about Steph and plays her the goodbye message. On 26 December, Steph made a one-off appearance as a ghost to Doug Carter (PJ Brennan).

Reception

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Stenson received several award nominations for her portrayal of Steph. She was nominated in the "Best Comedy Performance" category at the 2005 and 2006 British Soap Awards,[44][45] and for "Best Dramatic Performance" in 2009.[46] She received a long-list nomination for the "Best Actress" accolade at the 2005 National Television Awards.[citation needed] In 2008, Stenson was nominated for the "Sexiest Female" Inside Soap Award,[47] which she found flattering.[48] A further nomination in the same category followed in 2010, accompanied by nominations for "Best Actress", and "Best Dramatic Performance" for Steph learning she had cancer.[49] The character was selected as one of the "top 100 British soap characters" by industry experts for a poll to be run by What's on TV, with readers able to vote for their favourite character to discover "Who is Soap's greatest Legend?"[50] Steph and Max were voted as the show's "Favourite Couple" at the 2007 Hollyoaks Awards.[51]

Following her departure, her co-stars commented favourably on the actress and character, with Jorgie Porter deeming her an "ultimate original", Gemma Merna stating that she "was Hollyoaks",[52] and Ricky Whittle admitting that he cried during the airing of her final scenes.[53] Television and entertainment website Holy Soap did not see Steph's fire death coming, calling her actions brave and her ten-year duration "mammoth".[40] They described her most memorable moment as telling Niall she did not love him and then watching him commit suicide.[54] Inside Soap said if there was an award for "the unluckiest character in soap", Steph would certainly win.[22] In his column for The Guardian, television critic Jim Shelley stated that it was time for Steph to go, having "suffered enough" during her tenure. Humorously recapping her ten years in Hollyoaks, Shelley wrote:

Steph lived a rich, not to say happy, life. She was a bully and wannabe Wag, before miraculously transforming herself into the show's tragic heroine, suffering cervical cancer, epilepsy and a hysterectomy. Her husband was run over on their wedding day. Steph later slept with his killer (long story). She also watched him in horror as he threw himself off a cliff. So, unlucky in love... She reported her brother for rape, was stalked by a serial killer and inherited a donkey. It's all on Wikipedia, and I don't think it's been tampered with. I mean, who the hell could make that up?

Sarah Welsh of the South Wales Echo gave the stalking storyline a negative review. She called both plot and acting "ridiculous" and commented that while she often felt sorry for the serial being snubbed at the National Soap Awards, "This is not the way to raise the game."[55]

Steph's relationships were a focal point of many reviews. The Daily Mirror's Nicola Methven and Polly Hudson found a 2004 love triangle between Steph, her sister Debbie Dean (Jodi Albert) and love interest Dan Hunter (Andrew McNair) "surprising compelling".[56] Grace Dent of The Guardian observed of her failed engagement to Fernando: "With the best will in the world, I don't feel that marriage was ever going to last".[57] Dent had previously named Steph singing the Sugababes' "About You Now" at Max's funeral one of her four favourite soap moments of 2008.[58] Roz Laws of the Sunday Mercury felt there was "plenty of chemistry" between Steph and Gilly.[59]

Reviewing the Steph-centric spin-off In Too Deep for The Times, Tim Teeman commented that while late-night Hollyoaks episodes had previously been amusing, "sexed-up" versions of the main show, with In Too Deep it became "less shagathon, more What Lies Beneath".[60] The episode was selected as recommended viewing by Laws of the Sunday Mercury.[61] The launch of Hollyoaks Later series one, in which Niall returns to target Steph, was named a "Satellite Pick of the Day" by the Daily Record.[62] Christopher Howse, writing "Tatworld" for The Daily Telegraph—a column chronicling tabloid culture—named Steph and her family joint tenth in a list of Top Ten Deans, which included entrants such as Dean Koontz, Dean Gaffney and Richard Dean Anderson.[63]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Steph Cunningham

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Steph Cunningham (also known as Steph Dean and Steph Roach) is a fictional character from the British Hollyoaks, portrayed by actress from 2000 until the character's death in 2010. Introduced at age 17 as part of the show's original teenage ensemble, Steph arrived in the fictional village of Hollyoaks as a bold schoolgirl, quickly establishing herself as a fan favorite through her outspoken and resilient nature. Her early years featured involvement in a with Max Cunningham and , as well as later personal struggles that highlighted her vulnerabilities beneath the tough exterior. Steph's romantic life was marked by tragedy and intensity; she married Max Cunningham in 2008, only for him to die hours later in a car crash caused by his secret drug addiction, a storyline in which she played a key supportive role. Later adopting her nephew after the boy's parents' deaths, she became his guardian and navigated further challenges, including a relationship and 2010 marriage to amid personal turmoil. In one of her most prominent arcs, Steph was diagnosed with in June 2010, undergoing a that left her infertile and facing terminal prognosis, which deepened her bond with Gilly while testing her strength. Her storyline culminated in a heroic during a November 2010 attack on the Il Gnosh restaurant (later ), where, despite her illness, she entered the burning building to rescue and her children and Lucas, only to be trapped and perish in the flames—contributing to a that claimed two lives on screen. Stenson briefly reprised the role in December 2011, appearing as a ghostly vision to guide Doug Carter away from .

Casting and Production

Casting Process

Carley Stenson, then aged 17, auditioned for a role in in early 2000, initially for the part of , but did not secure it. She was subsequently recalled for an audition as Steph Cunningham, during which she was encouraged to stand out and arrived with chopsticks in her hair to emphasize a bold, distinctive look. The casting team responded positively to her natural energy, and she was offered the role just days later, beginning filming immediately without prior knowledge of the character's full details. The character of Steph was introduced under the oversight of series producer Jo Hallows, who served as Hollyoaks producer from 1996 to 2005 and contributed to expanding key family-oriented storylines during this period. Stenson's early involvement started as a recurring role, reflecting the soap's practice of testing new characters before full integration. By 2001, as the narrative developed around Steph's connections to established families like the Cunninghams, Stenson's position transitioned to a permanent cast member, solidifying her as a core presence on the show. Prior to joining Hollyoaks, Stenson had trained extensively in , tap, and from a young age, which provided a foundation in performance discipline that she adapted to the fast-paced demands of acting. On her first day, she underwent standard production preparations, including makeup and receiving her initial script and call sheet, marking her rapid immersion into the show's workflow without formal prior soap-specific workshops. This hands-on approach allowed her to quickly adjust to the medium's emphasis on quick line learning and emotional versatility. Following her decade-long tenure on Hollyoaks from 2000 to 2010, with a brief in 2011, Stenson transitioned to roles, including in productions like .

Character Conception

Steph Cunningham was conceived as a confident, ambitious teenager, initially introduced as Steph Dean in March 2000 under executive producer , with her Dean family debuting in the series in 2002. She debuted as a newcomer to the fictional community, embodying the soap's emphasis on relatable teen struggles and serving to inject drama and bolster ' youth-oriented appeal targeting a younger demographic. Producers envisioned Steph as fame-hungry yet deeply loyal, which allowed for layered narratives as her connections to other families, including the Cunninghams, developed later in the series. Script development focused on balancing her role as both an —through occasional manipulative or behaviors—and a revealing underlying vulnerabilities, facilitating redemption arcs that highlighted her growth from a somewhat naïve arrival to a multifaceted figure in the series' ongoing storylines. Stenson's casting lent the character a sassier edge, enhancing her bold personality.

Character Profile and Relationships

Family Dynamics

Steph Cunningham, born Dean, was the of Frankie Dean (later Osborne) and Johnno Dean, with three siblings: older brother , younger sister Debbie Dean, and younger brother . The Dean arrived in in 2000 as a unit, but their household quickly revealed underlying tensions stemming from Johnno's and his eventual departure in 2005 after an affair with a much younger woman, Michelle. This absence left Frankie as a single mother raising the children, fostering a dysfunctional environment that influenced Steph's early years. The instability at home contributed to Steph's rebellious behavior during her teenage years, where she established herself as a notorious school bully, targeting vulnerable peers such as Lisa Hunter and engaging in manipulative tactics like spreading rumors. Despite these conflicts, family support systems emerged in key moments; for instance, her siblings rallied around her following a violent attack by Toby Mills in 2003, which resulted in her diagnosis. Sibling dynamics were mixed, featuring rivalries—such as clashes with Debbie over shared romantic interests like Dan Hunter—and protective bonds, particularly with Craig, whom Steph supported through his relationship with in 2007 and his relationship challenges. Following her marriage to Max Cunningham in 2008, Steph integrated into the Cunningham family, adopting a surrogate parental role toward her young brother-in-law after Max's tragic death on their wedding day. This extension of the family provided a new support network amid ongoing strains with her birth family, including intermittent tensions with her overprotective mother Frankie and estranged father Johnno over personal decisions and past grievances. These familial ties underscored Steph's evolution from a troubled youth to a resilient figure navigating blended conflicts and loyalties.

Romantic and Social Connections

Steph Cunningham's romantic journey in Hollyoaks featured several key partnerships that highlighted her emotional depth and vulnerability within the village's social fabric. Steph's early romantic life included a with Max Cunningham and , which highlighted her bold and conflicted nature. Her relationship with Max Cunningham began in October 2007, evolving from mutual support into a committed partnership marked by shared challenges. The couple married in 2008, a union that symbolized stability amid the chaos of village life. However, their marriage was turbulent, plagued by suspicions of Max's infidelity that strained their bond and tested Steph's trust. Tragedy struck shortly after the wedding when Max died in a car crash orchestrated by rival , leaving Steph widowed and reshaping her social standing as she navigated grief with the community's support. Following Max's death, Steph found solace in a post-widowhood romance with in 2009, a relationship built on genuine companionship and emotional resilience. Gilly provided steadfast support, helping Steph confront personal insecurities and fostering a sense of normalcy in her life. The pair married in during an intimate on the village , a moment that underscored their deep connection despite external pressures. Beyond romance, Steph's social connections were defined by close friendships that often entangled her in village drama. She shared a strong bond with Zoe Carpenter, participating in group adventures like a perilous parachute jump that highlighted their adventurous camaraderie and occasional betrayals within the circle. These ties involved lively social scenes such as clubbing outings, where loyalties were tested through misunderstandings and reconciliations, reinforcing Steph's role as a central, relatable figure in society.

Storylines

Early Years and Conflicts (2000–2005)

Steph Cunningham, portrayed by , was introduced to the in March 2000 as a 17-year-old schoolgirl named Steph Dean attending . Initially depicted as a confident and rebellious teen, she quickly became involved in causing trouble among her peers, establishing her as a central figure in the show's youth-oriented narratives. Her early storylines highlighted interpersonal conflicts, including clashes with authority figures like teacher , which underscored her defiant personality and tendency to challenge rules at school. One of Steph's prominent early conflicts centered on her role as a bully at Comprehensive, where she targeted new student Lisa Hunter out of jealousy over Lisa's rising popularity. This antagonism escalated in the early , contributing to Lisa's descent into , a groundbreaking storyline for British soaps that addressed the severe consequences of . Steph's actions in this arc, including spreading rumors and , exemplified the toxic dynamics among the teen characters and drew attention to the pressures of adolescent social hierarchies. In , Steph's shifted to a more vulnerable direction following an attack by Toby Mills, which caused a and led to her diagnosis with . This first major health arc profoundly affected her school life, as seizures disrupted her daily routine and independence, forcing her to confront limitations she had previously ignored. The storyline also strained family dynamics, with her parents becoming overprotective, highlighting the emotional toll on teens dealing with chronic conditions and the need for accurate representation, as researched by Stenson through consultations with epilepsy sufferers. Throughout 2000–2005, Steph was entangled in various teen dramas at school, including rivalries with classmates like and circulating rumors that amplified her notoriety. These conflicts, combined with her participation in parties and social cliques, propelled her , laying the groundwork for her later fame-seeking persona as she navigated the of adolescent life in the village.

Mid-Series Developments (2006–2009)

In 2006, Steph pursued acting ambitions with a West End audition alongside her sister but was unsuccessful and remained in . The year included family challenges, such as the explosion at The Dog in the Pond pub in September, which left them temporarily homeless and forced her to prioritize support for her loved ones over her career aspirations. This period marked a shift from her earlier teen conflicts to more mature responsibilities, as she balanced personal dreams with familial obligations. By 2007, Steph's relationships deepened significantly when she began a romance with Max Cunningham, Tom's older brother, after he helped her during an epileptic seizure. The couple faced numerous challenges, including breakups and reconciliations, but their bond strengthened, leading to an that symbolized Steph's growing stability. They married in June 2008 in a ceremony filled with anticipation, though it was marred by mishaps such as Max's pre-wedding chest pains that required hospitalization. Following the vows, the pair attempted to build a life together, including plans for a and establishing a home, highlighting Steph's resilience in navigating romantic turbulence. Tragedy struck immediately after the when Max was fatally struck by a car driven by while saving Tom from harm, leaving Steph widowed on her wedding day. In the ensuing 2008–2009 period, Steph grappled with profound grief, experiencing emotional breakdowns as she refused to remove her and struggled to process the loss. Following Max's death, Steph adopted her nephew , taking on guardianship responsibilities. She found solace in the support of , who became a key pillar during her mourning, helping her confront the void left by Max. This heartbreak underscored Steph's vulnerability yet also her determination to persevere. Throughout these years, Steph's professional life reflected her resilience, as she took on roles at The Dog in the Pond , including assisting in its management during absences of key staff like her brother . These experiences at the local bar not only provided financial stability but also served as a grounding force amid personal turmoil, allowing her to channel energy into community-oriented work while rebuilding her sense of purpose.

Final Arcs and Departure (2010–2011)

In 2010, Steph Cunningham faced escalating personal tragedies, culminating in her diagnosis with terminal , which intensified her emotional turmoil following years of family bereavements including the death of her husband Max and others close to her. This storyline unfolded amid a broader centered on the Il Gnosh restaurant, where an unidentified perpetrator ignited a blaze on as part of a criminal scheme orchestrated by . The fire rapidly escalated into a catastrophic event dubbed "fire week" by producers, trapping several characters including and her young children, and Lucas Hay, inside the building. Steph, aware of her impending death from cancer, heroically rushed into the inferno to rescue and the children, successfully guiding them to safety before choosing to remain behind rather than prolong her suffering. Her selfless act was later commended for its bravery, with critics noting the emotional depth it added to her arc and highlighting Steph's portrayal as a symbol of resilience amid despair. Steph's death occurred on 10 November 2010 from , marking a dramatic on-screen conclusion to her decade-long tenure on the series. The production team opted for this fiery exit to provide closure to her storyline, influenced by actress Carley Stenson's decision to depart after ten years to pursue opportunities in . Stenson had informed producers of her intentions a year prior, leading to an extension of her contract specifically for the cancer narrative before the fatal blaze. In a posthumous appearance on 26 December 2011, Steph returned as a spectral figure to intervene in Doug Carter's , offering him words of encouragement and underscoring her enduring protective role within the community. This brief vision provided poignant emotional resolution, briefly referencing the ongoing grief among her loved ones without delving into specifics.

Health Narratives

Epilepsy Diagnosis and Impact

In 2003, Steph Dean was diagnosed with following a severe sustained during an attack by Toby Mills, which triggered her first and subsequent medical confirmation of the condition. The storyline portrayed the onset amid her existing stresses from dynamics and family tensions, with an initial public occurring in a setting that heightened the and her distress. Actress prepared for the role by conducting personal research, including online studies and a studio visit from a teenage girl living with , to authentically capture the emotional and physical realities. Production team members consulted with Epilepsy Action, the UK's leading epilepsy support organization, ensuring accurate representations of seizure types—such as tonic-clonic episodes—and the critical role of medication adherence, while highlighting side effects like emotional volatility when treatment was refused, leading to recurrent seizures. The narrative delved into the long-term ramifications of Steph's , emphasizing its profound effects on her daily life and personal development. As a formerly tough and independent teenager, Steph grappled with denial, anger, and a of lost , which manifested in strained interactions—such as conflicts with her brother Jake over her refusal to accept help—and broader relational tensions as she navigated for the first time. The condition imposed practical limitations, including temporary driving bans in line with regulations for epilepsy patients, further isolating her and prompting character growth toward greater and resilience. Episodes illustrated these impacts through support scenes, where relatives like her Frankie provided comfort amid the diagnosis, underscoring the emotional toll on loved ones. Beyond personal narrative, the arc served an educational purpose, aiming to raise awareness among ' young audience by dispelling common myths about the condition and depicting realistic coping mechanisms. Barbara Pinder, chief executive of Epilepsy Action at the time, commended the show's sensitive and informed approach, noting its potential to inform viewers about management and the importance of support networks. Later episodes and spin-offs, such as In Too Deep, revisited the storyline to explore ongoing challenges, including triggers like stress or flashing lights, reinforcing the lifelong nature of while promoting understanding and reducing stigma. Stenson herself highlighted the responsibility of portraying the condition accurately, contributing to positive viewer feedback on the website and broader discussions on neurological health in soap operas.

Cervical Cancer Battle

In 2010, the character Steph Cunningham was diagnosed with after initially ignoring symptoms that had developed over time. The storyline depicted her experiencing common indicators of the disease, such as and abnormal , which she dismissed until a medical consultation confirmed the advanced stage of her condition. This narrative arc, which aired beginning in June, highlighted the consequences of delayed detection and served as a platform for emphasizing the importance of early medical intervention. Actress Carley Stenson, who portrayed Steph, undertook detailed preparation to ensure the depiction was sensitive and realistic, collaborating closely with producers to authentically represent the emotional and physical challenges of the illness. While specific consultations with cancer charities were not publicly detailed, Stenson focused on portraying the storyline's impact on daily life, including the surgical treatment of a required due to the cancer's progression. The plot explored hopes for remission following the procedure, though it ultimately portrayed the as terminal, underscoring the gravity of the disease. The arc strained Steph's personal relationships, particularly her romance with , as she initially chose to withhold the diagnosis from him and her family to avoid burdening them. This secrecy created tension and moments of isolation, but it also inspired displays of bravery, with Steph confronting her fears and ultimately reconciling with Gilly, who provided unwavering support leading to their marriage. Family members, including her brother Tom, offered emotional backing once informed, reinforcing themes of resilience amid adversity. The narrative tied into broader character development, positioning Steph's health battle as a catalyst for her selfless actions in later events. A key element of the storyline was its integration of public health messaging, with episodes stressing the need for regular cervical screenings to detect precancerous changes early. Stenson actively promoted awareness outside the show, advocating for HPV vaccinations—given that the virus causes most cervical cancers—and noting that timely screenings could prevent approximately 75% of cases in the UK, where around 2,800 women are diagnosed annually. This approach aimed to educate viewers, particularly young women, on preventive measures like smear tests recommended every three years for ages 25-49, aligning the plot with real-world efforts to reduce mortality from the disease, which claims about three lives daily in England.

Reception and Legacy

Critical and Award Recognition

Carley Stenson's portrayal of Steph Cunningham garnered significant recognition at major soap awards, highlighting the character's emotional depth across various arcs. She received nominations at for Best Dramatic Performance in 2007 and in 2009, reflecting the acclaim for her early development of the role from a rebellious teen to a more mature figure. In 2010, Stenson was nominated at the Inside Soap Awards for Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actress for Steph's diagnosis and battle, a storyline praised for its sensitive handling of health issues and the character's redemption. Stenson and Ben Thompson were also nominated at the Inside Soap Awards in 2008 for Best Couple for the on-screen relationship between Steph and Max Cunningham, underscoring the impact of their dynamic on audience engagement. Critics lauded Stenson's nuanced performance, particularly in depicting illness and personal growth; of highlighted Steph's poignant moments, such as her emotional delivery at Max's funeral, as standout soap highlights of the year. The character's health narratives, including and , received industry acknowledgment for their real-world relevance and Stenson's compelling acting. Stenson received five total British Soap Award nominations over her tenure.

Cultural Impact and Fan Response

Steph Cunningham's portrayal in Hollyoaks significantly contributed to public awareness of and through her major storylines. The character's diagnosis in 2003 prompted extensive research by actress , who collaborated with medical experts to authentically depict the condition's effects, including seizures and emotional challenges. Stenson later became a patron for the charity Fable in 2007 and spoke at the Young Epilepsy Champions Awards in 2014, emphasizing how the role helped destigmatize the illness and educate viewers on its realities. Similarly, Steph's 2010 cervical cancer arc, developed in consultation with health organizations, aimed to highlight the importance of early detection and . Stenson conducted thorough research into the disease and publicly advocated for regular smear tests, stating that the storyline was intended to encourage women to prioritize screenings and avoid the "really awful" consequences of neglect. Producers and Stenson explicitly sought to raise awareness among young female audiences, with the narrative underscoring symptoms often overlooked in younger patients. Post-airing, Stenson promoted the in regional campaigns, reinforcing the plot's educational intent. Steph has achieved iconic status as a " legend," a title bestowed by her castmates in recognition of her 11-year tenure from to 2011, which made her one of the soap's longest-serving characters. Fans have consistently celebrated her as a fan favorite, with her resilience amid personal tragedies resonating deeply and contributing to her enduring popularity in discussions. Her legacy extends beyond the main series through the 2009 spin-off : In Too Deep, which further explored her and elements, solidifying her as a multifaceted figure in the show's . The character's depiction as a determined survivor battling chronic illnesses influenced portrayals of resilient female leads in UK soaps, paralleling figures like 's Charity Dingle in emphasizing strength amid adversity. Post-departure, Steph's impact persisted in the series, notably when Tom Cunningham named his daughter Steph Cunningham-Lomax in 2015 as a tribute to her memory. Reflecting on the role, Stenson described it as her "dream job" that provided a significant career foundation, enabling her transition to musical theatre successes like and , while expressing bittersweet sadness over leaving the "second family" environment of .

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