Hollyoaks fans are abuzz with speculation as they try to piece together Maxine Minniver’s impending departure following reports that actress Nikki Sanderson is leaving the soap.
After a remarkable 12-year run on the Channel 4 drama, viewers are eager to uncover how Maxine’s storyline will conclude—and many believe they’ve already cracked the mystery.
Maxine’s Journey in Hollyoaks
Since arriving in the village in 2012, Maxine has faced countless hardships, making her one of Hollyoaks’ most compelling characters.
Over the years, she has endured harrowing domestic abuse, fought for custody of her daughter, and navigated a series of turbulent relationships.
Her past romance with Dodger Savage (played by Danny Mac) was among the most memorable, and fans were thrilled when their connection resurfaced.
However, it seems their happily-ever-after may not be on the horizon after all.
Nikki Sanderson’s Decision to Leave
The Sun recently reported that Nikki Sanderson decided to step away from the soap to pursue new career opportunities. A source close to the actress revealed:
“She met with bosses and told them of her plans to leave. She’d just turned 40 and felt the time was right to say goodbye to Maxine. She’s keen to explore other opportunities and is excited to get back out there. She will film her final scenes next month, which will go out on-screen in May.”
With her departure confirmed, fans are now focused on how Hollyoaks will write Maxine out of the show—and many fear that her exit could be tragic.
Will Maxine Become Jez Blake’s Next Victim?
One of the most prominent fan theories suggests that Maxine could meet a grim fate at the hands of serial killer Jez Blake (Jeremy Sheffield).
Jez has already claimed two victims—Abe Fielding and Dilly Harcourt—and his dark presence looms over the village. In upcoming episodes, Maxine becomes suspicious of him after Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson) voices his fears that Jez may have even harmed his pet cat.
Determined to uncover the truth, Maxine starts investigating Jez and stumbles upon chilling evidence—including what appears to be a murder journal. However, just as she prepares to alert the authorities, Jez catches her in the act and snatches her phone away.
With Jez already proving he’s capable of murder, could Maxine be his next victim?
Social Media Frenzy Over Maxine’s Fate
As news of Nikki Sanderson’s exit spread, Hollyoaks fans took to social media to share their theories about how Maxine’s story will end.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) speculated:
“Nikki Sanderson has confirmed she’s leaving. I’m sure it’s one of two things—Maxine gets caught up in the human trafficking plot, or she’ll be one of Jez’s victims. She’s an amazing actress, but what else can they put Maxine through?”
Another viewer weighed in, saying:
“I can’t decide if Maxine will exit as a victim of Jez, a victim of Banks, or if she’ll finally leave the village on her own terms for a fresh start.”
While some believe a tragic demise is inevitable, others hope that Maxine’s departure will allow her to escape the chaos of Hollyoaks and find happiness elsewhere.
What’s Next for Nikki Sanderson?
With her time on Hollyoaks coming to an end, fans are eager to see what’s next for Nikki Sanderson. Having previously starred in Coronation Street as Candice Stowe, some viewers have speculated that she could make a return to the cobbles.
However, Nikki has yet to reveal her next move. Whether she continues acting in soaps, explores other television roles, or embarks on a completely new venture, one thing is certain—her departure marks the end of an era for Hollyoaks.
Final Thoughts
Maxine Minniver’s departure is sure to be an emotional moment for Hollyoaks fans, and if the current theories are correct, it could be one of the most dramatic exits in the show’s history. Whether she falls victim to Jez Blake, gets entangled in another shocking storyline, or manages to escape the chaos of the village, viewers will be watching closely as her story reaches its conclusion.
For now, fans can only wait and speculate—but one thing is certain: Maxine’s final moments on Hollyoaks will be unforgettable.
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