Casualty is the world’s longest-running primetime medical drama and as it returns for a new series, the Express reporter Fran Winston headed to the set to view filming.
Fran reports: “It genuinely feels like stepping into a real-life NHS hospital, with the small touches – many barely noticeable on screen – adding an authentic feel.
“As an avid viewer of the show, I was thrilled to be invited to spend a day within the revered walls of Holby ED, but I didn’t anticipate the emotional impact.
“The set is peppered with tributes to former cast members, lending authenticity and a touch of poignancy.
“Unlike many TV sets, which typically consist of three faux walls and cameras replacing the fourth, the first thing you notice about the Casualty set is its functionality.
“The iconic reception area is exactly as it appears on screen, and the resus rooms, staff room, and all other familiar areas to viewers are real, not just props brought in as needed.
“But it’s the personal touches that truly elevate the set. Upon entering the ‘staff room’, a site of many a drama over the years, your gaze is immediately drawn to a notice board at the back of the room.
“It’s adorned with photos of previous cast members, their laughter and smiles captured in snapshots reminiscent of those found in staff common areas across the UK.
“The board features snapshots of much-loved characters who have left Casualty, including Robin Miller (portrayed by Amanda Henderson), Jeff Collier (played by Matt Bardock), Kathleen “Dixie” Dixon (acted by Jane Hazlegrove), Lisa “Duffy” Duffin (Catherine Shipton), and Noel Garcia (Tony Marshall). The legendary Charlie Fairhead (Derek Thompson), who exited the show last year after an impressive 38-year stint, is also present in the memorial display.
“During my set visit, producer Sarah Beardsall pointed out that this particular corner is rarely captured on camera. She mentioned that keen-eyed viewers might spot it tucked away in the far left-hand side of the room if they look closely.
“Interestingly, it seems the fictional Holby ED staff are fans of a good read, with the Daily Express included as part of the set decor, nestled in a wall-mounted magazine rack for the characters to peruse during their well-earned rest periods.
“But it’s not only the staff room that offers a heartfelt nod to past series favourites. Over in the ambulance bay, the fridge freezer is adorned with a poignant montage of past characters.
“Additionally, another photo-laden notice board graces the route leading to the call centre, representing a relatively new feature added to the show’s backdrop.
“Visitors found these small memorials particularly touching, with the tributes to characters who faced tragic fates, like Robin, adding a sense of real workplace atmosphere to the set.
“As a dedicated follower of the series, I was thrilled by this meticulous attention to detail. With the show’s 40th anniversary looming, it’s these heartfelt touches that keep it relevant and cherished by its audience.”
