After two decades as Emmerdale’s beloved vicar Ashley Thomas, John Middleton has swapped the Dales for Chester, taking on a darker, more sinister role in Hollyoaks. The veteran actor now portrays Fraser “Froggy” Black — a cunning, unpredictable villain and grandfather to soap favourites Grace Black and Clare Devine.

From Vicar to Villain

John Middleton spent 20 years winning hearts as Ashley Thomas in Emmerdale, a compassionate and devoted figure in the Dales. But his new role in Hollyoaks couldn’t be more different. As Froggy Black, Middleton embraces a dangerous, manipulative character whose motives remain mysterious.

“He does want to bring the family together,” Middleton explains. “For what purpose, that’s yet to be revealed. But he wants to restore the relationship between Clare and Grace.”

The actor relishes the opportunity to explore this darker side, describing Froggy as unpredictable, potentially vengeful, and deeply secretive. “He knows a lot of secrets, he knows where all the bodies are buried — quite literally,” Middleton reveals. “His past is possibly murderous, his present is possibly vengeful. You never know what he’s going to do next.”

Behind the Scenes: Fun on Set

Middleton admits that one of the joys of his new role is collaborating with Tamara Wall and Gemma Bissix, who play Froggy’s granddaughters, Grace and Clare. The cast often jokes with him about what Froggy tells his wife at home.

“I say, ‘I don’t tell her anything. I sit in a corner, occasionally hugging my knees and rocking backwards and forwards,’” Middleton quips. “They’re a laugh to work with!”

Froggy made his debut on the Chester-based soap in early August, first seen behind bars alongside Tom Cunningham, whom he mentors as a financial adviser. The introduction of Froggy immediately sets the stage for tension and family conflict, particularly when Grace and Clare face arrest over a trafficking operation.

Froggy’s Manipulation and Mysteries

Middleton teases that Froggy’s secrets are central to the unfolding drama. “Having secrets often means having enemies — though Froggy isn’t bothered,” he explains. “He’s incredibly manipulative, and the fact he has control over his enemies is crucial to him.”

Fans can expect Froggy to shake up the village, wielding information strategically to create chaos and drama. His unpredictable nature promises suspense, leaving viewers unsure which of his next moves will wreak havoc on those around him.

Middleton’s Soap Legacy

While Froggy marks a significant departure from Ashley Thomas, Middleton is no stranger to British soaps. In 1997, he appeared in Hollyoaks as Cindy Cunningham’s doctor — a role he admits he had forgotten. He also had two appearances in Coronation Street during the 1990s, first as John Hargreaves, the driver involved in Lisa Duckworth’s tragic death, and later as a hospital consultant.

This varied soap experience paved the way for his iconic role as Ashley, which cemented his place in Emmerdale history before moving on to a darker, more thrilling character in Hollyoaks.

What Fans Can Expect

Middleton’s shift from vicar to villain highlights his versatility as an actor. Froggy Black is complex, manipulative, and full of hidden motives, promising viewers high-stakes drama and suspense. Whether he’s attempting to unite his family or plotting revenge, Froggy’s presence is set to disrupt the village and leave audiences guessing at every turn.

As John Middleton settles into his sinister new role, fans of British soaps can enjoy seeing a familiar face explore a dramatically different side — proving that even after decades on screen, he still has the power to captivate and surprise.