Casualty's 40th anniversary special hits screens this weekend
The drama will return with a double-bill
The latest series of BBC hospital drama Casualty only came to an end in July, 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.
The first episodes begins at 8pm, with the second following at 8.50pm.
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.'
Check out the first look images below:
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Casualty 40th anniversary first look
Is there a trailer?
Yes! 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:
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.
Just days before the two-part special, bosses then announced that actors Derek Thompson and George Rainsford will return as Charlie Fairhead and Ethan Hardy.
READ MORE: Two legendary characters confirmed to return for Casualty's 40th anniversary
When did Casualty first start?
The first ever episode of Casualty aired on 6th September way back in 1986.
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.