HOLBY City fans were left in tears this evening as Adrian Fletcher received a devastating cancer diagnosis.
The character, played by Alex Walkinshaw, had various tests after suffering a number of concerning health issues – and was stunned when he was told that he is seriously ill.
Fletch had viewers sobbing as he broke down in an emotional chat with colleague Essie, who also has cancer, telling her: “I was kind of hoping it was diabetes to be honest, but it is ruled out.
“Got the results today, and it’s not great,” as he started sobbing.”
It was also explained that his cancer was high-grade, and likely to have spread throughout his body.
Holby City fans flocked to social media to share their reaction to the moving scenes, with several sharing their fear that Fletch will be killed off.
One wrote: “Can’t handle Essie and Fletch scenes tonight. Just awful and so sad.”
Another added: “Better not kill off fletch . That’s too painful”.
A third shared: “Oh Fletch you have to fight this you have kids. I hate f**king cancer so much. Nobody should have to go through this.”
Actor Alex joined the BBC One medical drama in 2014, having previously made his debut as Fletch in sister programme Casualty.
He said of his character’s latest storyline: “The way most people would react to it, he’s shocked, devastated and scared.
“You immediately think about the worst-case scenario, especially if you have kids and Fletch has four children under 16.
“Fletch loves them dearly – and knowing they’ve already lost one parent brings things into perspective.”
