Jonny Clarke (Hollyoaks' Bart McQueen) interview

Jonny Clarke joins the cast of Hollyoaks this summer as Bart McQueen, who is set to cause trouble for the McQueens when he misleads them into taking him in.

> Take a look at our Hollyoaks summer 2010 preview.

> Find out more Hollyoaks spoilers.

> Watch the summer 2010 trailer.

Myra and the girls meet Bart at his step-mum’s funeral where he’s suited and booted and appearing as the perfect gent. But when they get him home, Myra knows she’s in for trouble. Bart has a thirst for doing wrong; he’s scruffy and fuelled with attitude, but yet he’s charming and never fails with the ladies. LastBroadcast caught up with Jonny to find out more...


How would you describe the character of Bart?

"I would describe him in three words: "Jack the lad". He's always getting himself into trouble, but manages to charm his way out of punishment."

Bart has a history of ASBOs and misdemeanours - what sort of thing has he done?

"I think this is Bart having fun in the only way he knows how to. I would say that Bart is a cheeky bad boy. He's not evil, but he likes to get into trouble. Bart often gets in trouble for vandalising walls with spray paint as well as many more things."

What are his relationships with the McQueen family like? How quickly does Myra realise what he’s like?

"The McQueens all look out for each other, so they are happy to take Bart in as they don't want to see him as a stray. Myra soon realises what Bart is really like in the first episode he's in. However, I think as long as Bart’s antics don't hurt the family, she's prepared to look past it. Plus Bart knows how to wrap Myra round his little finger!"

Are there any love interests for Bart coming up?

"Yes, well, Bart starts to chase a girl he has his eye on very soon on. But is she interested in him?"

What was it like joining an established soap family?

"To be honest I never really thought about how established the family was until the reaction I got from my friends when I told them I was a McQueen. Their jaws dropped, they were made up! But I would rather step into a family like the McQueens because people love them. My first day was in the McQueens' living room. The girls were so welcoming and really gave me the time of day as this is the first time I have done something for TV."

Is it true Bart was named after Bart Simpson?

"Haha, yes, a lot of influence comes from the character to in the way how Bart Simpson never seems to learn his lesson."

Will you be in the famous Hollyoaks Hunks calendar for 2011?

"Yes, I shot the calendar on my 18th birthday! It was my first ever photo shoot and was an amazing present to have."

Are you excited about your first scenes airing soon? What sort of reaction are you expecting from viewers?

"I'm dreading it. I hate watching myself. I'm really self critical. I think the viewers will find Bart a really fun character to watch and he will bring something fresh to the show."

Apart from acting, what are your other hobbies and interests?

"I'm a big football fan, I support Liverpool F.C. I also sing."

Last film you saw at the cinema:

"Get Him To The Greek . Very funny, I love Russell Brand.

Last TV show boxset you bought:

"Skins."

Last album you bought:

"Kings Of Leon: ‘Only By The Night’."


Catch Bart on screen from the week commencing 2nd August 2010, weekdays at 6.30pm on Channel 4.

Interview by Will Martin on 15th July 2010.