Hollyoaks commence filming Channel 4-commissioned special hour-long episode, directed by Patrick Robinson

Hollyoaks commence filming Channel 4-commissioned special hour-long episode, directed by Patrick Robinson to air on Friday 10 September

'Overstanding other people's cultures, I believe, is one giant step towards an inclusive society and drama is one of the best tools to do that.' – Patrick Robinson

'Once cultural differences are understood, this can often dissipate hatred, racism or bigotry simply, by telling truthful stories we can all relate to.' – Kelle Bryan

Filming has commenced on an hour-long special that will play a pivotal part in Channel 4's Black to Front, the ground-breaking diversity project culminating in a special day of content on Friday September 10th. Across the day Channel 4 will broadcast programming fronted by Black talent and featuring Black contributors, to champion Black voices and stories, and the incredible Black talent that make, shape and star in British TV.

Planned over a year, and working with numerous production partners, Black to Front is part of Channel 4's on-going commitment to improve Black representation on and off screen. From breakfast right through to late night, some of Channel 4's most iconic shows will have Black talent at the forefront, offering viewers a new perspective of much-loved programmes.

Hollyoaks will air a special episode - written by Hollyoaks core team writer Thabo Mhlatshwa - anchored around the pivotal Black Deveraux family and joined by characters past, present and future, played by Black and of Black heritage talent.

It will be directed by Patrick Robinson, whom fans of continuing drama will know from his early acting career playing consultant Martin 'Ash' Ashford in Casualty for a number of years. He first began directing in 1998 on the short film, Monument, also playing the lead character. This will be his first major directorial debut for a continuing drama.

Patrick said: "I'm very excited to be directing this hour long special of Hollyoaks, featuring characters who share my background and heritage.

"Overstanding other people's cultures, I believe is one giant step towards an inclusive society and Drama is one of the best tools to do that. Music, Dance and Art also play a vital part in giving greater insight basically because we feel it…Heart, body and soul.

"Love is the theme of the episode, which I hope we can all relate to. And my litmus test for any good work? Did I feel…"