Hollyoaks exodus continues as star reveals he’s filmed final scenes on the soap leaving fans devastated…

William Thompson posing next to a "Welcome to Hollyoaks Village" sign.

William Thompson is stepping away from the soap as AntCredit: Instagram

William Thompson – who plays Tony’s son Anthony Hutchinson – has filmed his final appearance on the small screen.

He wrote on Instagram: “And that’s a wrap. After over two years of bringing the role of Ant Hutchinson to life, my @hollyoaksofficial journey comes to an end.

“What an incredible experience it has been — from my first day to the last.

“I feel I have grown as an actor, but more importantly, I’ve learned so much about myself that I never would have without this life-changing role.

“Over this past couple of years I have met some amazing people and life long friends I never would have come across without this job.

A third fan added: “You’ve been great, good luck for the future!”

Another wrote: “Miss you all.”

“I’ve loved getting to see more of Ant, Dee Dee and Ro recently!! Congratulations,” praised another.

William previously joined the cast in the role Ant in 2023, alongside Ava Webster as Rose, playing Diane and Tony’s children.

He is the latest actor to announce his exit from the show.

It was confirmed recently that his onscreen sister Ava would be leaving the role of Ro Hutchinson as trans actor Leo Cole will be taking over the part.

Actress Lacey Findlow, who plays William’s on screen sister, also announced last month that she had filmed her final scenes.

It’s thought that both Lacey and William’s roles will be recast in the coming months.

Lacey commented: “Oh gosh, this is such a hard post to write, because I can genuinely say I’ve gained some very best friends through this incredible journey.

“William, you became a big brother to me — someone I could talk to, laugh with and moan to every step of the way. We’ve shared so much, and I think we’d all agree that we’ve walked away from this chapter not just with memories, but with a second family.

“You’re going to go on to do amazing things — your passion, focus, and attitude are exactly what this industry needs. And with the support of your brilliant parents behind you, I know you’ll go far.

“It’s incredible that you’re already so clear on your path as you move on from high school. I truly hope your college journey opens doors to phenomenal opportunities — both in front of and behind the camera.”

The actress – who played Dee Dee Hutchinson in the Channel 4 serial – was originally cast in a short six-month role.

She played the adopted daughter of Tony and Diane Hutchinson since 2017, having taken over the role from Lily Harrington.

The pair follow in a long line of stars set to quit the soap.

Scottish actor Rory Douglas-Speed, 33, has confirmed his exit from the soap after nine years.

He has played priest Joel Dexter since 2016 and is in a long-term relationship with partner and former co-star Nadine Mulkerrin.

He marked the end of his time on the soap with an emotional Instagram post, describing his time on the show as “the best years of my life!”

News of Rory’s exit was revealed by The Sun back in June, with the actor said to have chosen to walk away from the show in order to focus on other opportunities.

TV star James Sutton has left fans devastated after quitting Hollyoaks and will film his final scenes next year.