Shock as Malachy contracts HIV
Friday, 8th August 2008
Hollyoaks proves once again next month that it isn’t afraid to tackle contemporary taboos head on when Malachy Fisher is diagnosed as being HIV positive.
Malachy - played by Glen Wallace has always played the field and thought he was invincible to STDs.
But his past comes back to haunt him in a big way in the episode to be screened on September 8th 2008 (6.30pm on Channel 4) when he learns of his diagnosis.
Malachy has recently embarked on a relationship with sex siren, Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalf), and seems to be falling in love for the first time.
But his life is turned upside down when he goes to give blood and the results reveal his diagnosis.
As he faces a future with HIV, Malachy refuses to deal with the problem and rather than share the news with Mercedes, he goes missing.
A scorned Mercedes then ends up sleeping with Malachy’s brother, Kris (Gerard McCarthy) in an act of revenge and Malachy’s silence puts their lives in danger too.
Medical breakthroughs
Glen Wallace comments: “When you consider how many people are affected by HIV and AIDS, it makes you realise that whilst there have been huge medical breakthroughs in treatment, we still need to keep education and information in the spotlight.
"We have a fantastic opportunity to do this with Malachy’s storyline as it’s a relevant and very much a real life issue.”
Hollyoaks is renowned for tackling issues such as mental health, eating disorders, drug abuse and teen pregnancy.
The show’s award winning storylines play an important role in raising awareness of the issues that matter to teenagers today.
Photo: Channel 4
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