Sue Johnston is set to reprise her iconic role as Sheila Grant in a special crossover episode between Brookside and Hollyoaks, marking Hollyoaks' 30th anniversary. The episode, scheduled to air in October, will see Johnston return to the character she played from Brookside's launch in 1982 until her departure as a regular in 1990.
The crossover will be filmed on location at Brookside Close in Liverpool next month, with special permission granted to use the cul-de-sac that served as the soap's setting for 21 years. Johnston expressed her excitement: '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.'
Sheila Grant was central to Brookside's groundbreaking storylines, including a 1986 rape storyline that explored the long-term impact on survivors. She later returned in Brookside video specials in 1997 and 1998. Further returns of other 'iconic, heritage Brookside characters' are expected to be announced.
Hollyoaks executive producer Hannah Cheers said: 'Brookside gave birth to Hollyoaks – it grew up on the same site and eventually took over its sets. This special feels like both a moving and fitting tribute to our origin story.' The episode was written by Steve Hughes, who began his career on Brookside.
