A familiar face from the popular TV show Hollyoaks in the early 2000s has undergone a significant transformation almost 20 years after bidding farewell to the Channel 4 series.
Actress Jodi Albert made her debut in the fictional village of Chester as Debbie Dean back in 2002, where she quickly became a central figure among the iconic Dean family. Alongside her parents, Frankie and Johnno, and brothers, Jake and Craig, Debbie joined forces with her sister Steph Dean, portrayed by Carley Stenson.
Upon her arrival in Hollyoaks, Debbie captured the attention of the local young men, notably Dan Hunter, whom she later dated before a scandalous affair with his best friend. Besides her job at Tony Hutchinson’s restaurant, Debbie harbored dreams of stardom and even ventured into a reality show and music career.
Tragedy struck on Christmas Day 2024 when Debbie’s on-and-off boyfriend Dan perished in a car explosion, prompting her eventual departure from Hollyoaks in 2005. Despite exiting the soap after a three-year stint, Jodi revisited the show with guest appearances until late 2006 before venturing into other TV projects like Casualty and The Inspector Lynley Mysteries.
Before her rise to fame on Hollyoaks, Jodi, now 42, gained recognition as a member of the British group Girl Thing during her youth. The group achieved success with the hit single Last One Standing in 2000 and later reunited for The Big Reunion in 2014.
In 2008, she ventured into the Irish girl group Wonderland under the mentorship of Louis Walsh, with their album climbing to number eight on the UK charts before disbanding in 2011. Besides her entertainment career, Jodi is also a certified yoga instructor, showcasing her dedication to wellness and fitness.
In 2009, Jodi tied the knot with Westlife singer Kian Egan in a romantic ceremony in Barbados, where they currently reside with their three sons – Koa, Zekey, and Cobi. The couple’s decision to settle in Sligo, Kian’s hometown, reflects their desire to raise a family in a serene environment.
Throughout the year, the family splits their time between their cozy home in Sligo and their luxurious holiday residence in Barbados, where they indulge in surfing during the winter months. Kian expressed their deep connection to Strandhill, emphasizing its appeal as the ideal place to raise their children and enjoy a quality lifestyle.
For fans of Hollyoaks, the show airs from Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7 pm, with early access to episodes on Channel 4 streaming from 7 am.