Brookside legend will reprise iconic role for Hollyoaks crossover after 35 years

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This article includes discussions of rape and sexual assault which some readers may find upsetting.

Ever since the news broke out last week about Brookside and Hollyoaks reuniting on our TVs, I’ve found myself lost in thoughts about who might reappear from the old soap opera days – and now, one of my speculations has come true!

It has been announced that acclaimed actress Sue Johnston, renowned for her performances in shows like The Royle Family and Downton Abbey, will reprise her role as Sheila Grant/Corkhill.

I can hardly wait to step back into the shoes of Sheila again, as it was an incredible, joyful aspect of my past that I cherish deeply.

For eight years, starting with the initial broadcast in 1982 and ending in 1990, Sheila was deeply immersed in numerous significant story arcs on the soap opera Brookside. During this time, she shared the screen with Ricky Tomlinson, who would later become her co-star on The Royle Family, portraying their onscreen marriage as husband and wife.

In a powerful narrative arc for the soap, Sheila faced a traumatic event in 1986: a taxi driver raped her, leading to a pregnancy that was emotionally challenging and eventually contributed to the deterioration of her marriage as she grappled with the lasting effects of this trauma.

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In another captivating sequence of events, exactly a year later, her youngest child Damon (Simon O’Brien) met an unfortunate end. He was fatally stabbed in London. This tragic incident unfolded over a three-part series called “Damon and Debbie,” where he eloped with his school sweetheart Debbie McGrath (Gillian Kearney).

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share the story of how my beloved character Johnston parted ways with Brookside in 1990. You see, Sheila found her heart anew, tying the knot with Billy Corkhill, played by John McCardle. This romantic twist sent them packing from our cherished Brookside to a new life together in Basingstoke. What a bittersweet farewell that was!

The forthcoming special crossover episode will be a part of the 30-year celebration for the soap opera Hollyoaks, airing 22 years following the cancellation of Brookside in 2003.

Sharing some exciting news from last week, Hannah Cheers, the head of Hollyoaks production, revealed that this upcoming episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to both Hollyoaks and its predecessor Brookside. Brookside played a significant role in the creation of Hollyoaks, with the latter being born on the same grounds and eventually assuming control over its sets.

At Lime Pictures, formerly known as Mersey TV, the storyline of Hollyoaks is richly connected to that of Brookside. This connection is evident in our team members and, certainly, some of our actors.

This event appears to be an emotional and appropriate homage, not only to the roots of our organization but also a chance for fans to reminisce about beloved Brookside characters, celebrating the lasting impact they’ve had on us.

The memorable characters from the show ‘Brookside’ have become classic soap opera types that significantly shaped British television. These iconic figures continue to be discovered and appreciated by newer generations through the soap opera ‘Hollyoaks’.

Starting next September, I’ll be diving into the filming process for this upcoming episode! Luckily, we’ve secured approval from the property owner and the Liverpool Film Office. It’s fascinating to note that our sets will be situated on an unadopted road in West Derby, which happens to be a thriving residential area now. Can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!

The same residents are likewise extended an invitation to join the actors and production team for a shared lunch once filming commences.

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2025-08-23 14:05