Charles Venn, best known to Casualty fans as paramedic Jacob Masters, has revealed that working on the long-running BBC medical drama has profoundly increased his admiration for the NHS and frontline workers.

Since joining the cast in 2015, Venn has portrayed numerous emotionally charged and high-pressure emergency scenarios, many of which are inspired by real-life medical cases. Speaking in a recent interview, the actor admitted that the show has opened his eyes to the relentless challenges healthcare professionals face daily.

“The respect I had for the NHS before joining Casualty was already high,” Venn shared. “But after being immersed in the scripts, talking with medical consultants, and seeing how complex and emotionally demanding these roles are, that respect has skyrocketed.”

Venn emphasized that portraying a paramedic—even in a fictional setting—requires an understanding of not only the medical procedures but also the emotional toll of making life-and-death decisions. He praised the show’s medical advisors and real NHS staff who contribute their knowledge and experience to ensure authenticity.

“They don’t just tell us where to place a defibrillator or how to simulate CPR. They tell us the stories behind the scrubs—the emotional fatigue, the dedication, and the sacrifices. It’s humbling,” he said.

Off-screen, Venn has become a vocal supporter of the NHS, using his platform to raise awareness about the importance of properly funding and supporting healthcare services in the UK. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he publicly praised NHS workers for their bravery and resilience, calling them “the real-life superheroes.”

The Casualty actor also highlighted how playing Jacob—who’s experienced personal losses, mental health challenges, and moral dilemmas—has made him appreciate the emotional resilience required in real medical roles.

“You start to understand how human and vulnerable they are, even when they appear unshakeable. That’s something Casualty does so well—it shows both the strength and the cracks.”

As Casualty continues its mission to reflect the reality of frontline medicine, stars like Charles Venn remain dedicated to honouring the real people behind the uniforms—both through their performances and the stories they help bring to life each week.

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