'Hollyoaks' is being cut to three episodes a week.
Hollyoaks legend Nick Pickard
The soap - which moved to a digital first approach last September after moving from Channel 4 to E4 and streaming only - will lose two episodes from September this year, with network bosses hoping the change will "enable the show to cut through more powerfully with fewer, higher impact episodes".
The news comes as Hannah Cheers was confirmed as the soap's new Executive PRoducer, having been interim showrunner for the last six months.
She said: “'Hollyoaks' offers a unique proposition: bold, escapist, relatable, youth-skewing and multi-generational stories, told in its innovative and technicolour signature style. The show continues to bring people together by making them feel something, and everything. Approaching its 30th anniversary in 2025, 'Hollyoaks' matters just as much now as it did at its trailblazing launch.
“There may be speculation about the future of Continuing Drama, but as someone who was brought up on the nation’s soaps - and remains a true fan - I believe their value must not be underestimated.
“Soap audiences grow up alongside their favourite characters over a period of many years; the investment in their stories is huge. The genre’s ability to initiate important conversations is unparalleled, especially when it all comes served up with joy, humour and jaw-dropping twists. I want future generations to experience that.
“I am honoured to lead 'Hollyoaks' into its fourth decade on Channel 4 and drive the vision of this transition.”
It is believed the change could lead to around 135 jobs, a third of the staff working on the programme, being lost.
Kate Little and Claire Poyser, managing directors of production company Lime Pictures, said: “Evidently there are implications that will mean we have to reshape 'Hollyoaks’ production model and amidst the buoying news for the future of the show and its audience, we must also acknowledge that a reduction in cast and crew, will be very difficult and we will support everyone in that process.”