Hollyoaks star Annabelle Davis has discussed the importance of having diversity and representation on-screen.
The actress, who recently made her soap debut as newcomer Lacey Lloyd, opened up about the topic on Loose Women today (February 8), sharing: "I think it’s really important that on TV, you are shown all of this diversity and we can all learn from it really, raising all the awareness."
Describing her auditioning process, Annabelle said she first heard of the role through her work on Tracey Beaker spin-off The Dumping Ground, adding that she enjoyed being able to take on a character that wasn't originally written as a little person.
Related: Hollyoaks' Mercedes to make shock exit decision
"It was lovely actually, Lucy Allan, who I worked with on The Dumping Ground, approached me just saying 'I’ve got a role, it’s not written for a little person but I’d love you to take a look and see if you would like to play her,'" she said.
"It’s lovely to be given a role that isn’t made for a little person because that doesn’t really define who you are but on the other hand, it is nice to explore things, some perspective from a little person and actually give viewers that."
The actress also comes from a strong acting background, being the daughter of legendary Star Wars and Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis.
Describing life growing up with a famous dad, Annabelle recalled how she'd visit him at work.
Related: Hollyoaks' emotional John Paul scenes in 18 pics
"It was surreal. My mum was amazing, she would pick us up from school and take us down to Dad on set, we’d sit in his trailer and wait for him to finish, then go back to the hotel," she shared.
Following Annabelle's Hollyoaks debut, Warwick gave his support for his daughter's latest role, saying that he would be tuning in to watch her.
"Shout out to my daughter, @AnnabelleLDavis who debuts in the British Soap @Hollyoaks tonight. Never seen the show but will be watching tonight!" he tweeted.
Hollyoaks streams first on All 4, with new episodes dropping each weekday morning. The show airs Mondays to Fridays at 6.30pm on Channel 4, and at 7pm on E4.
Selected omnibus episodes are available via Prime Video.
Read more Hollyoaks spoilers on our dedicated homepage
Best Entertainment and Tech Deals
