Brookside revival returns

Veteran soap stars John McArdle and Paul Usher will reprise their roles for a one-off Brookside special marking Hollyoaks' 30th anniversary.

Brookside revival brings back Barry Grant and Billy Corkhill

Veteran soap actors John McArdle and Paul Usher are returning to Brookside for a one-off special this year. McArdle will reprise the role of Billy Corkhill while Usher steps back into the skin of Barry Grant, the show’s infamous villain. The episode will film on the Liverpool cul-de-sac that made Brookside famous as part of a celebration tied to Hollyoaks' 30th anniversary. It is described as a nostalgic visit rather than a full reboot.

The project aims to celebrate the soap's legacy while inviting new viewers to the world of Brookside. Writers and producers say the special will balance familiar faces with fresh storytelling and modern production values. The plan signals a cautious approach to reviving a beloved series, using nostalgia as a bridge rather than a guarantee of future episodes.

Nostalgia can draw attention in a crowded TV market, but it also risks feeling like a relic if the storytelling does not land. The success will hinge on a compelling plot that respects past events while offering something new to watch. The choice to focus on well known characters helps with quick recognition, but it raises expectations among longtime fans.

If the special resonates, it may open doors for crossovers or mini specials across British soaps and signal a new pattern in how channels leverage memory to attract audiences. If not, it risks leaving viewers with a hollow sense of memory rather than a meaningful return.

Highlights

Memory is a shared space where viewers decide if a return is worth the effort.