Nearly four decades after its original broadcast, the iconic three-part spin-off series 'Damon and Debbie' from the classic soap Brookside is now available to stream on STV Player. The mini-series, which aired in 1987, follows teenage sweethearts Damon Grant (Simon O'Brien) and Debbie McGrath (Gillian Kearney) as they flee to York to escape their disapproving parents in Liverpool.
The couple's love story captivated millions, but ended in tragedy when Damon was brutally stabbed by an unknown attacker on a dark riverbank, dying in Debbie's arms. The heartbreaking scene left viewers 'in bits' and Damon's funeral drew an audience of 7 million viewers. His death also led to the fragmentation of the Grant family, one of Brookside's most beloved families.
The revival of interest comes as soap fans gear up for the Hollyoaks/Brookside crossover episode to celebrate Hollyoaks' 30th anniversary. Brookside's Facebook page has been flooded with reactions from fans recalling the emotional impact of Damon's death. One fan wrote: 'Absolutely loving watching Brookside all over again and remembered there being no spoilers back in the day. Nothing could have prepared us for Damon's death.'
Another commented: 'Omg .... soaps have been amazing. But this storyline outnumbers any corrie, emmerdale or eastenders. Amazing but real. This was an amazing soap.' The mini-series, which includes a 'mock' marriage in a hotel room before the fatal stabbing, remains a standout moment in British soap history.
