First look and start date revealed for Casualty 40th anniversary

The latest series of BBC hospital drama Casualty only came to an end last weekend, but already fans are gearing up for the next series, which sees the show celebrate its 40th anniversary with a landmark double-bill.

Casualty, which is the world's longest-running medical drama, will return to our screens at the beginning of September as Holby City hospital declares a major incident.

When does it start?

The new series will kick off with a double-bill anniversary special on Saturday 5th September 2026. New episodes will then air every Saturday night.

What will happen?

The BBC say of the anniversary special: '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. As Dylan (William Beck) battles personal tragedy while leading his team through their darkest hour, Stevie (Elinor Lawless) and Flynn (Olly Rix) find themselves fighting for survival in a race against time.'

Is there a trailer?

Yes! The gripping trailer was first shown on BBC One as the 'Lethal Legacy' series concluded on Saturday 25th July.

The 20-second trailer shows a huge explosion across Holby, as the staff at Holby City Hospital rush out to witness the major incident.

The trailer was later uploaded to BBC Casualty's social media accounts. Check it out below:

How can I watch it?

Casualty airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Who is in the cast?

The BBC has confirmed the cast for the anniversary double-bill, including 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.

When did Casualty first start?

The first ever episode of Casualty aired on 6th September way back in 1986.