Jonny Labey, the actor behind Hollyoaks’ Rex Gallagher, envisioned a deeply personal journey for his character – one that explored identity and grief through an unexpected lens.
Rex Gallagher, haunted by the loss of his mother and a past steeped in gang life, is attempting a fragile redemption. Labey felt a crucial piece of Rex’s story was missing, a hidden vulnerability beneath the tough exterior.
The storyline began subtly, with Rex drawn to his mother’s clothing and tentatively experimenting with her lipstick. This wasn’t a sudden shift, but a carefully considered exploration of a side of himself long suppressed.
Labey proactively pitched the idea, driven by a desire for authenticity and sensitivity. He wanted to ensure the narrative felt organically connected to Rex’s history, not a contrived plot device.
The core of the idea stemmed from a belief that Rex, as a young boy, possessed a freer, more expressive spirit. Layers of hardship and societal expectations had subsequently concealed that part of himself.
He saw this exploration as a way for Rex to reclaim a “lost identity,” a chance to express a freedom denied to him for years. It was about peeling back the layers to reveal the person he once was, and perhaps, could be again.
This journey won’t be a solitary one. Rex will find an unexpected ally in Ro Hutchinson, a trans character, forging a powerful bond built on shared questions of identity and mutual support.
The production team collaborated closely with the LGBT Foundation, seeking guidance and ensuring a respectful and nuanced portrayal. They were determined to avoid harmful tropes and prioritize authentic representation.
Matthew James Banfield of the LGBT Foundation praised the show’s openness to feedback and commitment to inclusivity, actively seeking input from LGBTQ+ individuals and gender-diverse voices.
This storyline unfolds against a backdrop of change for Hollyoaks, as another significant character, John Paul McQueen, prepares for a dramatic exit. McQueen’s departure promises to be a pivotal moment for the show.
Labey’s vision for Rex is a testament to the power of thoughtful storytelling, offering a compelling exploration of grief, identity, and the courage to embrace one’s true self.
