Pearl Anderson is a fictional character from the British soap opera Hollyoaks, played by Dawn Hope. The character and casting was announced in August 2021 and Hope made her first appearance as Pearl in Episode 5675, which was broadcast on 10 September of that year. Pearl was introduced as a family friend and potential love interest for Walter Deveraux (Trevor A. Toussaint). Pearl's initial storylines saw her reminiscing with Walter and clashing with his daughter, Martine Deveraux (Kéllé Bryan), when she attempts to mother her. Hope characterised Pearl as being lonely and wanting to feel needed, though she also believed that she also called her fun-loving with a stylish and vibrant energy. Pearl's family was later expanded with the introduction of her granddaughter, Zoe Anderson (Garcia Brown) and the reintroduction of Sharon. Pearl was featured in a storyline where she supports DeMarcus Westwood (Tomi Ade) when he is accused of murder and she is briefly arrested. Pearl was later given a new love interest when she was paired with long-running character Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna). Hope enjoyed working with McKenna and believed that the pairings of their characters had been very special. Pearl was also made the new owner of the soap's local convenience shop, Price Slice. Pearl later supports Frankie Osborne (Isabelle Smith) when she reveals that she has been sexually abused by her brother and Pearl takes her under her wing. The plot was used to explore Pearl's backstory as she reveals that her sister was abused by their brother. Pearl and Jack's relationship was well-received by critics, with Inside Soap calling it the hottest new romance in the soap.
