In this Movie Rewind special, I’ll be counting down my top 10 favorite Casualty characters from the years I’ve watched the show. While I’ve only been a viewer since 2007, that’s long enough to appreciate the characters that truly made a mark on the show. So, let’s dive in and get started!

10. Ruby Sparks

Ruby Sparks, played by Maddie Hill, made a massive impact when she joined in 2018. What set her apart was her cautious, by-the-book nature—she wasn’t your typical heroic paramedic, which made her character stand out. Ruby’s bond with Ian Dean was fantastic, and her exit in 2020, when she decided to become a mother to her niece after a family tragedy, was a heart-wrenching yet satisfying conclusion to her arc. Ruby wasn’t on the show long, but she left a lasting impression and showed tremendous character development.  

9. Tess Bateman

Tess Bateman, a senior nurse, was the mother figure of the ED. She may not have had many high-profile storylines, but Tess was a dependable, calming presence. She was always there to offer advice and protect her nurses. Her role in keeping the ED running smoothly, particularly her interactions with Charlie, made her an essential part of Casualty. Tess was one of those characters who made you feel safe, and that’s what made her stand out.

8. Adam Truman

Adam Truman was a consultant who appeared to have it all—charismatic, good-looking, and a natural leader. But behind the scenes, Adam was a deeply troubled character. From having an affair to experiencing the devastating loss of his son, Adam’s life was full of emotional turmoil. His downward spiral, where he questioned his own ability to be a doctor, added depth to his character. His exit, where he left after a heroic act during an airport collapse, was an iconic moment in Casualty history.

7. Alicia Monroe

Alicia Monroe’s character went through significant development during her time on the show. Initially, she was a cheeky and immature junior doctor, but by the end of her arc, she was a seasoned registrar. Alicia’s best storyline was her rape ordeal, where Chelsea Halfpenny’s performance was impeccable. Her decision to leave the ED and start fresh after her traumatic experiences was heartbreaking, but it was a fitting end to her journey.

6. Charlie Fairhead

Charlie Fairhead is the heart and soul of Casualty, having been there since the very first episode in 1986. Though not as central to storylines in recent years, Charlie’s role as the father figure of the ED has been indispensable. His relationship with Duffy, which spanned over 30 years, is iconic, and his moments of leadership during anniversary episodes cement his place in Casualty history. His emotional journey, especially after Duffy’s death, was one of the most poignant in the show’s long history. 

5. Jeff Collier

Jeff Collier, the daring paramedic who was always willing to put his life on the line to save others, was one of Casualty’s best paramedics. His bravery, especially when rescuing patients in extreme situations, made him a standout character. His friendship with Dixie was particularly special, and their bond was one of the best dynamics in Casualty. Jeff’s tragic death in a minibus explosion was one of the most emotional moments in the show’s history, and it’s a testament to the character’s impact.

4. Zoe Hanna

Zoe Hanna’s journey from a good consultant to a strong clinical lead made her one of the most compelling characters on Casualty. Her off-and-on relationship with Nick Jordan added drama, but it was her personal growth that stood out. Zoe’s decision to step down as clinical lead and return to being a doctor showed her prioritizing her passion for patient care over management. Her eventual reunion with Max and departure for a happy-ever-after was a satisfying conclusion to her arc.

3. Ethan Hardy

Ethan Hardy is one of the most well-loved characters in Casualty. His nine-year run was filled with emotional highs and lows. Ethan’s journey, including his relationship with Alicia Monroe and the devastating loss of his brother Cal, brought out his vulnerability in the most heart-wrenching way. His Huntington’s disease diagnosis was a blow to both him and the audience. Ethan’s exit, leaving the ED to focus on being a father to his son, was a well-earned happy ending for a character who had been through so much.

2. Ruth Winters

Ruth Winters, portrayed by Georgia Taylor, was a complex and multi-dimensional character. Initially a rather alienating figure, Ruth became one of the most memorable characters on Casualty thanks to her mental health struggles and her off-and-on romance with Jay Fauldron. Her battle with bipolar disorder, especially the episode focused on her being in a mental hospital, was a standout moment in Casualty history. Ruth’s exit, when she and Jay left together to start a new life, was a bittersweet yet satisfying conclusion.

1. Dylan Keogh

Dylan Keogh is, without a doubt, Casualty’s best character of all time. His dry wit, sarcasm, and ability to steal the show in any scene made him iconic. Dylan’s personal struggles, especially with OCD and alcoholism, were portrayed in a nuanced and realistic way. He was a strong leader as clinical lead, despite not being a traditional management type. William Beck’s performance as Dylan is one of the best in Casualty’s long history, and Dylan’s journey from troubled paramedic to respected consultant was a rewarding one. Whether in his personal struggles or leadership role, Dylan was always at the center of the action, and his departure, if ever it happens, will be a massive loss to the show.

Conclusion

This list represents my personal favorites, and I know there are many other amazing characters from Casualty who could have made the list. From Ian Dean’s emotional journey to the tragic death of Jeff Collier, Casualty has a rich history of memorable characters that have left an impact on fans. Who are your favorite Casualty characters? Let me know in the comments below!