Brookside Returns for One-Off Episode Celebrating 30 Years of Hollyoaks

Brookside, the iconic British television soap, is making a much-anticipated return with a special one-off episode airing tomorrow, October 22, 2023, on Channel 4. This episode marks a significant milestone as it serves as a crossover with its successor, Hollyoaks, celebrating the latter’s 30th anniversary. The revival is a tribute to the show’s creator, Sir Phil Redmond, and is being described by executive producer Hannah Cheers as “a love letter” to both series.

Originally broadcast from 1982 to 2003, Brookside was the first soap opera on Channel 4, gaining immense popularity during its run. At its peak in the mid-1980s, it attracted over seven million viewers, becoming a cultural touchstone. Despite its success, declining ratings and profitability led to the show’s conclusion in November 2003.

Red Carpet Event Celebrates the Legacy

Last night, former cast members of Brookside and Hollyoaks gathered at St George’s Hall in Liverpool for a red carpet event, marking this significant return. The atmosphere was electric as stars from both shows celebrated the enduring legacy of Brookside. Notable attendees included Paul Usher, Philip Olivier, Suzanne Collins, Michael Starke, Ricky Tomlinson, Sue Johnston, and John McArdle, all of whom reprise their roles for the special episode.

The upcoming episode will air at 19:00 on E4 and will be the first time audiences see Brookside Close since the series finale aired on November 4, 2003. Fans are eager to revisit beloved characters such as Barry Grant, Ron Dixon, and Beth Jordache, as the storyline unfolds in this nostalgic return.

A Look Back at Brookside’s Impact

When Brookside first premiered, it was groundbreaking in its portrayal of contemporary life in Liverpool. The show tackled social issues and personal drama with unprecedented realism, setting the stage for future soap operas, including Hollyoaks. Cheers remarked, “Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks; it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets.”

As excitement builds for this momentous occasion, fans are encouraged to test their knowledge of the show’s dramatic past with a quiz designed to evoke memories of its most unforgettable moments. This special episode not only reconnects viewers with the cherished series but also highlights its lasting influence on British television.

With the stage set for a memorable reunion, the return of Brookside promises to evoke nostalgia and celebrate the legacy of a show that played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of British soap operas.