Brookside returns in special crossover to celebrate Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary

Channel 4’s first-ever soap, Brookside, is making a comeback in a landmark crossover with Hollyoaks this October, as the long-running drama celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The special episode will pay tribute to Brookside and its creator, Sir Phil Redmond, whose groundbreaking dramas also include Grange Hill. Known for tackling hard-hitting social issues ahead of their time, Sir Phil’s shows changed the landscape of British television drama.

When Brookside ended on November 4, 2003, Hollyoaks stepped in as Channel 4’s flagship soap, filmed on part of the original Brookside set where it continues to be produced today. Carrying forward its predecessor’s ethos, Hollyoaks has explored bold, contemporary issues with a youthful, fast-paced storytelling style.

The crossover will see the return of some of Brookside’s most iconic characters, giving fans a nostalgic nod to the heritage of the show while celebrating the milestone anniversary.

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.

“These iconic Brookside characters are soap archetypes that helped define British TV; soap archetypes that new generations are still discovering now through Hollyoaks.

As a lifelong soap fan who grew up watching with my mum, I was passionate about revisiting Brookside for the anniversary. 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 twenty years on. We hope audiences will enjoy welcoming these old friends back into their homes once again.”

Sir Phil said:

“It is always bitter sweet thinking back to Brookie, the reminders of its success and impact, but the thoughts of many, like Dean Sullivan and Bill Dean, who are no longer with us.

“But it is great that Lime Pictures are paying homage in their Hollyoaks anniversary cross over episodes.

“I can’t wait to see how all the gardens are coping in the heatwave and, who knows, what might pop up if someone decides to re-lay their patio. I know we left something else down there.”

Filming will take place in September at the original Brookside Close in West Derby, Liverpool, with special permission from the current residents, who will also be treated to lunch with the cast and crew from Lime Pictures.

This marks the first time the famous Close has been back on screen since the soap’s finale, when Jimmy Corkhill (played by the late Dean Sullivan) graffitied the sign to read “Brookside Closed” before driving away.

Fans can also revisit Brookside from the beginning on STV Player, where episodes are available following a digital restoration project by Lime Pictures and All3Media International.