Former Hollyoaks star Ricky Whittle makes surprise appearance at Monte-Carlo Television Festival after claiming he was ‘done’ chasing Hollywood roles
Actor Ricky Whittle, who previously starred in Hollyoaks, unexpectedly attended the 64th Monte-Carlo Television Festival on Tuesday.
A 45-year-old British man rose to prominence in 2006 when he played Calvin Valentine on the soap opera Hollyoaks. He spent four years on the show, but tragically, his character met a violent end.
After his stint at Channel 4 concluded, Ricky transitioned to larger opportunities. Notably, the actor crossed the Atlantic and landed roles on popular U.S. series like The 100 and American Gods.
In 2023, he decided to distance himself from Hollywood, expressing to TopMob that he was finished with the United States, finding its political climate too chaotic, and intending to relocate beyond Los Angeles.
However, only a few years after his departure, it appears that Ricky might be contemplating a comeback to the spotlight, as the handsome actor unexpectedly showed up at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on Tuesday.
He gracefully stepped onto the red carpet in the south of France, exuding his usual elegance in a sleek black tuxedo. Prior to the event where he was set to present the Golden Nymph Awards along with Shy’m, who is 39 years old.
He made an appearance on the red carpet in southern France, looking sharp and stylish in a black tuxedo, as he prepared for his role presenting the Golden Nymph Awards Ceremony alongside Shy’m (age 39).
Together, the pair struck a pose for photographs, with Ricky deliberately drawing attention to the charming French actress who showcased her long legs in a striking black-and-white gown.
During their dance performance later in the evening, Shy’m temporarily lost part of her costume. This unlucky incident happened as they were dancing on stage.
Yesterday as well, Ricky was present, and the famous person displayed his impressive physique in a semi-transparent black tank top paired with loose pants.
He stood next to the radiant Adriana Karembeu, aged 54, who dazzled in a sleek black top, a matching skirt, and a stylish pair of high-heeled shoes for the photos.
Previously, Mickey Barnes, played by Whittle, appeared on TV in an episode of The Rookie – a series that focuses on the life of a police officer based in Los Angeles.
Before that, the 45-year-old had spent a peaceful work period since the conclusion of American Gods in 2021.
Although he had achieved much success overseas, Ricky left open the possibility of returning to the British soap opera someday when he spoke with TopMob in 2023.
He mentioned that it’s unlikely he would act in another soap opera, but since it could be enjoyable, he might consider it. Regardless of his feelings, he’s comfortable enough financially not to require employment.
Even though I haven’t been connected with Hollyoaks for two decades, it doesn’t change the fact that one can’t escape their roots; you always carry them with you wherever you go.
Additionally, he shared insights into how his stint on Hollyoaks shaped his acting abilities, expressing: “Had it not been for Hollyoaks, I wouldn’t be at my current level.
‘Working on Hollyoaks is essentially an ongoing learning experience. You’re expected to learn 12 to 15 scripts daily, and midway through the day, fresh pages are handed out for immediate study. It’s like being told to absorb new information right away, and you just manage to do it without much thought.’
The evolution of my character is quite dramatic, shifting from a virtuous figure to a club owner, a policeman, a troubled sister’s drug addict, a murderer, and then resurrected – it’s a rollercoaster ride that takes you through a wide range of feelings.
‘If that’s not great education for an actor- I don’t know what is.’
He commented, “I don’t belittle soap actors. After all, they work tirelessly for five days every week, and I have only admiration for them and the impact their show had on me.
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2025-06-18 12:34