The BBC has revealed an exclusive first-look at Charlie Fairhead (Derek Thompson) and Ethan Hardy’s (George Rainsford) return to BAFTA-winning drama Casualty for the 40th anniversary special double-bill, airing on Saturday 5th September 2026 on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
Produced by BBC Studios Drama Productions, Casualty is the world’s longest-running medical drama. For four decades, it has delivered powerful storytelling, unforgettable characters and ambitious television moments that have resonated with audiences across generations.
The gripping, anniversary event centres on a high-stakes major incident that throws Holby into chaos. Lives hang in the balance and the ED team are pushed to their limits in a tense and emotionally charged story that brings together some of the show’s most beloved characters. As the fallout continues, a major rescue operation unfolds, forcing impossible life-or-death decisions and testing the courage, resilience and leadership of those at the heart of the hospital.
The anniversary episodes celebrate 40 years of Casualty while signalling an exciting new chapter, demonstrating the ambition, storytelling and emotional impact at the heart of the series.
Olly Rix, Elinor Lawless, William Beck, Melanie Hill, Barney Walsh, Neet Mohan, Charles Venn, Sammy Dobson, Kirsty Mitchell, Di Botcher, Anna Chell, Sarah Seggari, Michael Stevenson, Milo Clarke, Naomi Wakszlak and Aron Julus all star in the 40th anniversary double-bill.
Previous episodes of Casualty are available now on BBC iPlayer.
About BBC Studios
BBC Studios is the main commercial arm of BBC Commercial Ltd and generated revenues of £2.1 billion in the last year and profits of over £200 million for a fifth consecutive year. Able to take an idea seamlessly from thought to screen and beyond, the business is built on two operating areas: the content studio, which produces, invests and distributes TV and audio globally and media & streaming, with BBC branded channels, services including UKTV, BBC.com and BritBox International and joint ventures in the UK and internationally. The business made almost 3,500 hours of award-winning British programmes last year for a wide range of UK and global broadcasters and platforms. Its content is internationally recognised across a broad range of genres and specialisms, and includes world-famous brands like Strictly Come Dancing/Dancing with the Stars, the Planet series, Bluey and Doctor Who.
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