Interview with Beth Kingston on Hollyoaks murder plot
Hollyoaks star Beth Kingtson who plays India Longford talks to ATV Today on her upcoming Christmas storyline.
Hollyoaks star Beth Kingston who plays India Longford talks to ATV Today on her upcoming Christmas storyline.
This Christmas sees Hollyoaks take on harrowing storyline showcasing the dangers of online dating. Beth Kingston explains what is in store for her character India.
Could you tell us how India leaves Hollyoaks?
India gets drawn into an online dating game that goes terribly wrong. The other students start a competition to see who can get the most dates online, and initially India is very sceptical, realising the dangers and even writing a set of rules that must be obeyed. However, she is charmed by “Cameron”, who is both gorgeous and intelligent, she even describes him as “the one”. However, he turns out to be something completely different…
Are you pleased that India is leaving in such a high profile way?
Yes, I was really excited about the storyline. It’s a great story anyway, but to be the big Christmas story is a bonus. It’s also such an honour to be able to convey such a topical subject, that will hopefully help young people watching the show.
Does the storyline do itself justice in highlighting the dangers of online dating?
I hope so, I was very impressed when I read the script, and think they have done a great job. India’s final scenes are especially chilling and will hopefully shock the audience into really paying attention to the issues of dangers online. If it helps at least one person watching then it will have been successful.
What advice would you give to teenagers joining online dating websites?
We don’t want to scare people off online dating, as the majority of users are trustworthy. However, they must be aware of how real these dangers are; you can’t take anyone or anything at face value on the internet – even if photos are sent, there’s no way of knowing if they are authentic. Just be careful, try and involve an adult, or at least inform someone of your online activities, and pay attention to the basic safety advice on the internet.
Looking back, what has been your favourite storyline?
I’ve actually really enjoyed India’s final story – it was so much fun to film and was great to be able to portray such an important issue. It was also amazing working with Jeff Rawle.
And finally, where next for you?
Well in the immediate future I’m looking forward to a big family Christmas at home, but as soon as Christmas is over I am looking forward to a few future projects. I am very excited about taking on new characters and doing something completely different. I’d love to do a period drama or ultimately get into films.
Hollyoaks airs weeknights at 6.30pm on Channel 4. The murder episode airs on Thursday 23rd December. Check out ATV Today on Wednesday for an interview with Jeff Rawle – the man behind the murderer.