Actress Sue Johnston is slated to reprise her role in *Brookside* for the television soap opera’s highly anticipated return.
Film crews are preparing to revisit the iconic cul-de-sac as part of a special, one-off episode commemorating *Hollyoaks*’ 30th anniversary.
Johnston, who was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2009, will return as Liverpudlian matriarch Sheila Grant, later known as Corkhill.
“It’ll be so lovely to go back and be Sheila for a day, as it was such a big, enjoyable part of my life,” said Johnston, also celebrated for her portrayal of Barbara Royle in the award-winning BBC comedy, *The Royle Family*.
Following a brief appearance on *Coronation Street*, this marked Johnston’s first significant role on the soap opera, which initially aired on Channel 4 in 1982.
The acclaimed actress is the first cast member confirmed to return for the episode, which will be filmed on location at Brookside Close.
Created by Sir Philip Redmond, also known for *Grange Hill* and *Hollyoaks*, the show once attracted audiences of nine million viewers at its peak before concluding on November 4, 2003.
The series, set in Liverpool, was recognized for its impactful storylines, addressing subjects such as rape, bullying, and incest.
Viewers connected with Sheila as she navigated family finances and her relationship with her husband Bobby, played by Ricky Tomlinson.
In 1986, Sheila was attacked by a taxi driver, subsequently becoming pregnant, which led to her marriage deteriorating under the strain.
The following year, Sheila’s youngest son, Damon, was tragically stabbed to death in London.
Sheila later found love again with Billy Corkhill, portrayed by John McCardle, and the pair departed Brookside for Basingstoke in 1990.
The crossover episode is expected to feature the return of other popular *Brookside* characters, though these have yet to be announced.
This will mark the first time Brookside Close has been seen on air since the series finale, which concluded with Jimmy Corkhill, played by the late Dean Sullivan, defacing the street sign to read “Brookside Closed” before departing the cul-de-sac.
Filming is scheduled to take place in September on the close, located in the West Derby area of Liverpool.
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