Leah in serious danger in Hollyoaks as sinister stalker closes in on her

| Deputy Soaps Editor Published September 17, 2026 11:59pm Updated September 18, 2026 12:00am Serious danger for Leah (Picture: Lime Pictures) Leah Barnes (Charlotte Alex Riley) finds herself in danger in Hollyoaks next week when a so-called fan approaches – with detailed knowledge of her family that leaves her seriously uncomfortable. The popular character, as viewers know, is a social media influencer and has amassed quite a large online following. In recent weeks, social media has been the last thing on her mind following the breakdown of her relationship with Imran Maalik (Ijaz Rana) and finding missing dad Ste (Kieron Richardson), who vanished without a trace in the shopping centre earlier this month. A particularly traumatic week for Leah approaches, with upcoming scenes seeing an intruder on the houseboat – and Leah is horrified when she becomes prime suspect, assuring Imran that she had nothing to do with it. Later, a familiar man from the shopping centre where Ste vanished, Zack, lurks in the bushes nearby. Leah is approached by Jenson Cole (Ryan Clayton), who asks her out. Leela Dexter (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) reckons she should go on a date with him. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video But before Leah can even think about Jenson, she is approached by the mysterious Zack, who claims to be a big fan. Leah is taken aback and, as Zack discusses her family, she’s left unnerved by his knowledge on her loved ones. Jenson witnesses the scenes unfold and steps in. The situation leaves Leah distressed and subsequent scenes see her convinced that someone broke in to her home – as her top from the previous night is missing. Leah is unnerved by Zack (Picture: Lime Pictures) Leela, meanwhile, is worried sick about missing Ste and, while seeking support from Leah, the pair remain unaware that Zack – with a framed image of Leah and Ste in his possession – drives off in a van. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. Deals of the Day Primark's new £14 co-ord has autumn styling on a budget covered An Instagram mattress left me with back pain – this one completely changed my mind Book Val d'Isère, Val Thorens and Tignes for less in Club Med's ski sale From £700 MacBooks to discounted iPhones, the best Apple tech for studentsb Save 25% on red light therapy masks, sauna blankets and sleep gadgets in Bon Charge sale The question is: is Ste in the back of said van? Or is there another reason why he’s keeping tabs? If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Arrow MORE: James spirals in Hollyoaks as he makes confession about missing Ste Arrow MORE: Hollyoaks star Jennifer Metcalfe addresses Mercedes revenge on Gemma and Ste’s disappearance Arrow MORE: Missing Ste feared dead in Hollyoaks – as James and Sienna get the blame The Soaps Newsletter – Weekly Sign up for exclusive spoilers and interviews, handpicked by our Soaps Editor.