Derek Thompson is returning to Casualty as Charlie Fairhead
For the show's 40th anniversary
Last updated 5 hours ago
Fans of BBC drama Casualty were in for a treat last weekend, as the medical drama returned with a brand new series called Lethal Legacy.
But that's not the only thing to celebrate, as reports are rife that Casualty legend Charlie Fairhead, played by actor Derek Thompson, is making a sensational return to the show, following his retirement a number of years ago.
According to The Sun, Derek has already started filming scenes which will air as part of the show's 40th anniversary later in 2026.
A source told the publication: “Fans will be delighted to see Charlie. The character was never killed off and the door was left open for a return."
However, it sounds like Nurse Fairhead's return will only be for a special appearance, not a permanent comeback to Holby Emergency Department.
Belfast born actor Derek, who is now 78, first joined Casualty back in 1986, and was the last remaining original character on the show when he announced his departure.
Following a huge 38 years on the show, Charlie's exit aired during a two-part special in March 2024, where his character was stabbed by a patient. Despite fans worrying he'd be killed off, his colleagues at Holby ED were able to save him, and Charlie left the hospital to cheers, before he drove off into the sunset with a car featuring the words "Just retired" on the back.
As well as Casualty, over the years, Derek also portrayed the role of Charlie Fairhead in spin-off shows Holby City, and Holby City Blue.
In recent years, Derek has also made appearances in huge shows such as Vera and Blue Lights.
The BBC are so far keeping tight-lipped about their plans for Casualty's 40th anniversary, but actor William Beck, who plays the role of Dr Dylan Keogh previously hinted at plans to Digital Spy.
He said: "I mean, obviously I haven't seen very much, but there's a really beautiful example of Casualty coming out of where it normally sits.
"Hopefully, there's an elegance about the appreciation of an anniversary. From my personal point of view, it's rare that one comes to a show that's been on for so long because it's been on for so long.
"It's not necessarily something that's going to bring people in, but what you can do is go 'look how far 40 years takes us – imagine what we can do next, imagine where we can go next'. We have the opportunity and we are taking the opportunity to renew the show going forward."
In the meantime, Casualty continues every Saturday night on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Now read:
Gorka Márquez has QUIT Strictly Come Dancing after 10 years
Ant and Dec are attempting to set a Guinness World Record this week
Apple TV sets release date for Ted Lasso series 4