Soap opera legend Dean Sullivan, forever remembered as Brookside's iconic Jimmy Corkhill, has made a sensational return to television screens – and fans can hardly believe their eyes.
The Liverpool-born actor, now 68, has joined the cast of ITV's beloved Emmerdale, marking a major comeback to the genre that made him a household name. Sullivan's appearance comes decades after his groundbreaking work on Channel 4's pioneering soap, yet he appears to have barely aged a day.
From Brookside Close to the Yorkshire Dales
Sullivan's new role sees him stepping into the shoes of a character named Bobby, who becomes embroiled in a tense confrontation with fan favourite Cain Dingle, played by Jeff Hordley. The dramatic scenes promise to deliver exactly the kind of hard-hitting storytelling that Sullivan mastered during his Brookside tenure.
Viewers watching the episode did a double-take as the familiar face appeared on their screens, with many taking to social media to express their delight at seeing the soap veteran back in action.
A Legacy of Groundbreaking Storylines
During his sixteen years on Brookside, Sullivan's portrayal of Jimmy Corkhill became the stuff of British television legend. He tackled some of the most controversial and socially relevant storylines of the era, including groundbreaking plots about drug addiction and HIV awareness that broke new ground for television drama.
His performance earned him numerous accolades, including a British Soap Award for Best Actor, cementing his status as one of the most respected performers in the genre.
Fan Reaction and Future Appearances
Social media erupted with excitement following Sullivan's Emmerdale debut. Longtime fans expressed their joy at seeing him back on screen, with many noting how remarkably well he has maintained his appearance over the years.
While it remains unclear whether this is a one-off appearance or the beginning of a more substantial role, Sullivan's return to television has undoubtedly generated significant buzz among soap enthusiasts across the nation.
The actor's ability to seamlessly transition into the Emmerdale universe demonstrates both his enduring talent and the continuing appeal of performers who cut their teeth on the iconic Liverpool-based soap that revolutionized British television drama in the 1980s and 1990s.
