Brookside set to return after 22 years in huge soap crossover twist

Channel 4's Brookside is returning to our screens after 22 years in a massive soap twist. It has been confirmed that a special crossover episode will air to mark the 30th anniversary of Hollyoaks, and Brookside will participate in the huge milestone. Brookside was a Liverpool-based soap that was axed in 2003 after it first premiered in 1982. It was the first soap created by Sir Phil Redmond, who went on to run Hollyoaks as the main soap opera on Channel 4. According to Digital Spy, the special episode will be filmed on location at what used to be Brookside Close in Liverpool, which is currently now a residential area.

It has also been reported that some beloved characters will be returning, but we don't know who yet. With filming set for September next month, it won't be too long before we find out which classic characters are making an appearance.

Executive producer Hannah Cheers said: "This episode is a love letter to both Hollyoaks and Brookside.

"Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks - it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets. For everyone at Lime Pictures (originally Mersey TV), Hollyoaks' history is deeply rooted in Brookside, and its legacy lives on through our crew and, of course, some of our cast.

"This special feels like both a moving and fitting tribute to our origin story and a chance for fans to revisit much-loved Brookside characters in honour of that legacy."

She added: "With Sir Phil's blessing - after I had the privilege of pitching the idea to him - and the support of Channel 4, we're able to make it happen.

"Writer Steve Hughes, who began his career on Brookside, has reimagined where these characters are more than 20 years on. We hope audiences will enjoy welcoming these old friends back into their homes once again."

Brookside was recently added to STV Player in 2023, and every episode is available to stream. Famous faces who appeared on the show include Anna Friel, Claire Sweeney, and the late Dean Sullivan.