How to watch Casualty's 40th anniversary special

Casualty, the world's longest-running medical drama, returned to our screens at the beginning of September 2026, as Holby City hospital declared a major incident as the show celebrated its 40th anniversary.

With dramatic storylines, familiar faces making a welcome return, and nail-biting moments for some of the soap’s most beloved characters, the anniversary two-parter ushered in an exciting new era for the medical drama.

Here's everything you need to know about Casualty's 40th anniversary special and what is next for Casualty.

When was it on TV?

The double-bill anniversary special aired on Saturday 5th September 2026.

How can I watch it?

You can watch the two-part anniversary special on BBC iPlayer now.

What happened in the anniversary special?

Ahead of the anniversary, the BBC said 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.'

Who died in the anniversary special?

Although both Flynn and Stevie were fighting for their lives during the special episodes, the team managed to pull them through, with both doctors awake and talking by the end of the episode.

However, it wasn't such good news for Dylan's ex Sophia, who died after suffering horrific burns from the explosion at St James.

Is there a trailer?

The gripping teaser 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:

The extended trailer was then released on Wednesday 12th August, revealing that St James’ Hospital is the site of a major explosion that has thrown the city of Holby into chaos.

Check out the full trailer below:

Who featured in the anniversary special?

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 appeared.

Just days before the two-part special, bosses also announced that actors Derek Thompson and George Rainsford will return as Charlie Fairhead and Ethan Hardy.

When did Casualty first start?

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

When is the next series on TV?

During the nostalgic end credits of the episode, BBC One's continuity announcer told viewers: "For 40 years, Casualty has been the beating heart of our Saturday nights.

"The best is yet to come, with some exciting changes ahead. Don't miss the new era of Casualty, coming next year to BBC One and iPlayer."

Although there's no exact start date, it was previously announced that the drama will move to a fictional Welsh hospital.

Check out the images from the 40th anniversary special below:

Author: Alex Ross

Alex Ross is a Digital Content Editor across Rayo brands, including the Hits Radio Network, Greatest Hits Radio, KISS, Cool FM and Magic Radio. After beginning her career as a Marketing Intern with Bauer Media in 2016, she transitioned into digital editorial and has spent the past decade creating engaging content for millions of readers. Whether it’s reality shows, sitcoms, gritty crime dramas or hard-hitting documentaries, Alex is an expert in all things TV, as well as knowing the ins and outs of celebrities.