Characters of Casualty

Casualty is an emergency medical drama, broadcast on BBC One in the United Kingdom. The show's characters are all staff within the fictional Holby City Hospital, composed of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and hospital management. The only current character remaining from the show's conception is senior nurse Charlie Fairhead, played by Derek Thompson. The following characters appear regularly in the programme as of 2015.

Charlie Fairhead

Charlie Fairhead
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Derek Thompson
Duration	1986–
First appearance	1x01, "Gas" 6 September 1986
Classification	Present; regular
Spin-off appearances	Holby City (1999-2012) HolbyBlue (2007)
In-universe information Occupation Emergency Nurse Practitioner (2005–) Former Senior Charge Nurse Former Charge Nurse Wife Baz Wilder (1998–2001) Sons Louis Fairhead Granddaughters Megan Wark

Charlie Fairhead, played by Derek Thompson, is a senior charge nurse and the longest serving cast member of Casualty. He first appeared on 6 September 1986, which was the first episode of the show, before making his first departure from the show in series 18, he later returned for thirty episodes in series 19 before making a permanent return in the following series. Thompson departed the programme in series 22, episode 17 before returning eleven episodes later. He has since remained in the show. Charlie has also appeared in occasional Holby City episodes from its debut in 1999 until 2012. He also appeared in an episode of HolbyBlue in 2007.

Storylines

He has dated numerous women during the show. The most notable is Barbara Wilder - another original character - who was eventually his wife. Baz left Casualty after series one but returned nearly a decade later. Unhappily married, she reconciles with Charlie and gets pregnant with their son, Louis. Baz divorces her husband and marries Charlie in 1998 but they separate when Baz gets a job in Canada two years later. She briefly returns in late 2003 to visit her father but dies after a road accident so Charlie gets full custody of Louis. Charlie has come close to death on several occasions since 1990 as a result of a shooting and later a hit and run involving a stolen ambulance, a pulmonary embolism, attempted drowning and a heart attack. Charlie's son, Louis, sets him up with Maggie Coldwell (Susan Cookson). They date for a while and he proposes but she refuses, agreeing inside to stay in touch. In series 22, Charlie celebrates thirty-five years in nursing. However, he struggles with childcare issues and the news that he or Tess Bateman (Suzanne Packer) will be made redundant. Although Tess volunteers, Charlie is asked to leave after a fight with a patient.

He returns several months later, working in the private sector and becomes a grandfather after Louis's brief relationship with Shona Wark results in a daughter. Shona, unable to cope, leaves her with Charlie and he named her Megan, after his long term friend and one time colleague, Megan Roach (Brenda Fricker), who he and Tess recently helped commit suicide. While searching for his missing granddaughter, who had been taken by a mentally ill patient, Charlie sees Ruth Winters (Georgia Taylor)'s husband kissing his lover, James. Charlie debates whether to tell Ruth and confesses when comforting her. Hurt and humiliated by his deception, Ruth has Charlie transferred, but he moves back when Ruth is admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Ruth later returns to the ED and makes amends with Charlie. When Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) begins looking for a new consultant, following her promotion to clinical lead, and Charlie recommends a former nurse of Holby, Martin Ashford (Patrick Robinson), and he later wins the job and begins working in the ED. He also begins mentoring new student nurse, Ally Hunter (Rebecca Newman), but after realising that she doesn't want to be a nurse and that she doesn't need to follow her mother and grandmother's footsteps she leaves the ED and decides to travel the world. Charlie later visits Louis in New Zealand.

Charlie returns from New Zealand, in August 2014, and clinical lead, Connie Beauchamp (Amanda Mealing) raises her concerns that Charlie doesn't seem interested in his job anymore, but little does she know of the nurse's health problems. Charlie arranges an appointment with Elliot Hope (Paul Bradley) where he believes Charlie has a high possibility of angina. Charlie later becomes irritable towards Tess when she recommends a retirement care plan. When Connie, Tess, Ash, Ethan and Lily are involved in a crash, Charlie takes charge of the ED and ensures that Connie does not attempt a risky procedure on Ethan due to her own injuries. When Connie goes to him later, he tells her that he refuses to retire because he loves his job. Connie agrees with him saying that the rest of the team need him. In February 2015, Charlie gives Connie a few harsh words after she makes the rash decision to ask Caleb Knight (Richard Winsor) for his letter of resignation.

Development

He is described by the BBC as "the lynchpin of Holby's ED. [...] an indispensable, trustworthy and a diplomatic member of the team." Series producer Oliver Kent has described Charlie as "by far our most important character" and "absolutely core to the show's success". In 2012, Inside Soap described Charlie and Tess as 'the mum and dad of Casualty'. Current producer Nikki Wilson talked about the importance of Charlie and Tess saying, "I think it's really crucial that we keep them around. Charlie has been in the show for 25 years, and he's such an iconic character. It's fantastic he's still here. His relationship with Tess is quite important - as you say, they're like the parents of the whole department - so long may it continue." In 2014, series producer, Erika Hossington spoke to Digital Spy about the show's plans for Charlie, saying that they have big plans for Charlie, "We've got a small story that will show in the first third of series 29. However, we've also got bigger plans for him, which will begin in the final third of series 29 and continue towards the thirtieth anniversary." She continued to say how Charlie will be "centre of the thirtieth anniversary" and "in order for that to be impactful, they have to really build up to that". "Charlie's older fans will have complete satisfaction. I think Charlie is the heart of the show and always should be central, hence why he is going there."

Tess Bateman

Tess Bateman
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Suzanne Packer
Duration	2003−
First appearance	18x01, "End of the Line (Part 1)" 13 September 2003
Classification	Present ; regular
In-universe information Occupation Emergency Nurse Practitioner (2003−05) Clinical Nurse Manager (2005−15) Band 7 Ward Sister (2011, 2015−) Husband Mike Bateman (1986-2006; divorced) Sons Sam Bateman Daughters Saskia Bateman

Tess Bateman, played by Suzanne Packer, is currently a senior ward sister who first appeared on 13 September 2003. Following Martina Laird (Comfort Jones)'s departure in 2006, Tess is the longest serving female character. From her arrival until 2005, Tess was an emergency nurse practitioner and following that, she was promoted to clinical nurse manager for six years, until 2011. In May 2011, Tess resigned from her position and resumed the role of Band 7 Ward Sister, with Linda Andrews (Christine Tremarco) taking over her previous position. Nine weeks later, Linda resigns and Tess is reinstated as clinical nurse manager. Tess then continues this post for nearly a further four years when, in January 2015, Tess resigns to help set up a new health centre as a secondment. She returns two weeks later as a Band 7 Ward Sister, with Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) taking over her previous position.

Storylines

Following her husband's paralysis and their subsequent separation, she struggles to come to terms with her son Sam's bi-polar condition, and is reluctant to see him gain his independence. She has a strong friendship with fellow nurse Abs Denham. After budget cuts, Tess considers taking redundancy, leaving Charlie Fairhead to run the department, but these plans are stymied when Charlie temporarily leaves the department after attacking a patient. Over the course of the show, Tess has several near-fatal encounters. In series 20, she is drugged and left for dead by Sam's unstable girlfriend, Fleur. In series 22, she is injected with a paralysis drug by Bank nurse Lewis, and in series 23, she trips in a building site, impaling herself through the abdomen on a metal pole. In series 25, Henry tried to persuade Tess to take the blame for the death of a young boy. Angry and upset by the unfairness, she resigned from Clinical Nurse Manager and has since worked in the ED as a Staff Nurse and Ward Sister however in series 26 she regained her place as Clinical Nurse Manager from Linda Andrews and Linda then became a staff nurse. She has a very close relationship with Fletch and seemed a bit jealous when he grew close to Aoife although he was not romantically interested in her.

In series 27, Tess also develops a close relationship with nurse, Adrian Fletcher (Alex Walkinshaw), which later develops into an affair. Fletch goes on holiday with his family for two weeks and while he is away, Tess discovers she is pregnant with his baby. She doesn't inform anyone of this but confides in Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) after deciding to have the baby aborted. When he returns from his trip away, Fletch's wife, Natalie (Claire Cage) starts to worry that Fletch is having an affair and he denies her worries. Tess then ends the affair with Fletch after finding out that Natalie is beginning to worry but they stay friends. Fletch later comes clean to Natalie that he has had an affair but he does not reveal who with. Tess becomes worried when Fletch is involved in an accident and feels guilty when Natalie confides in Tess about Fletch's affair. She feels a further guilt when Natalie wants Tess' help when delivering their baby boy. Tess is injured in a train crash and nearly dies, but Fletch saves her. Natalie then realises that Fletch had an affair with Tess, not an agency nurse and ends her marriage with him. Fletch leaves Holby ED after an emotional farewell with Tess.

In October 2014, Tess is involved in a serious road traffic accident travelling with Connie Beauchamp, Martin Ashford, Ethan Hardy and Lily Chao (Amanda Mealing, Patrick Robinson, George Rainsford and Crystal Yu). Her attitude towards her colleagues changes following the death of Jeff and her break-up with Fletch, especially with Zoe and young nurses, Robyn Miller and Lofty Chiltern (Amanda Henderson and Lee Mead). In January 2015, Tess steps down as Clinical Nurse Manager, to help set up a new health centre as a secondment. She returns two weeks later as a Band 7 Ward Sister, with Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) having took over her previous position.

Development

The BBC described her as "a traditionalist [...] dedicated [and] well-balanced". They expand: "She may be viewed as a kill-joy and inflexible but her immaculate, business-like front masks a wicked, dry, sense of humour. She's a control freak, not to be messed with". In 2012, Inside Soap described Charlie and Tess as 'the mum and dad of Casualty'. Current producer Nikki Wilson talked about the importance of Charlie and Tess saying, "I think it's really crucial that we keep them around. Charlie has been in the show for 25 years, and he's such an iconic character. It's fantastic he's still here. His relationship with Tess is quite important - as you say, they're like the parents of the whole department - so long may it continue." In 2014, series producer Erika Hossington spoke to Digital Spy about the upcoming series and plans for the thirtieth anniversary, and also mentioned that in the first half of series 29, Tess will be driven by the team discovering her relationship with Fletch. "She's got to deal with that discovery and for a while, Tess becomes very starchy and very focused on work. This will impact on Robyn Miller (Amanda Henderson)] and Lofty Chiltren (Lee Mead)]. She soon realises that isn't fair on anyone, though!"

Maggie Coldwell

Maggie Coldwell
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Susan Cookson
Duration	2005−08, 2009, 2015
First appearance	18x22, "The Cost of Honesty" 29 January 2005
Classification	Former; regular (returning)
Introduced by	Mervyn Watson (2005) Belinda Campbell (2009) Oliver Kent (2015)
In-universe information Occupation Specialist registrar, emergency medicine Husband Steve Coldwell Sons Jamie Coldwell Daughters Joanna Coldwell Granddaughters Lana Coldwell

Maggie Coldwell played by Susan Cookson, is a Specialist registrar in emergency medicine who first appeared on 29 January 2005. In 2008, Cookson decided to leave the series and after a serious court case, Maggie left on 9 August 2008 (which was the series 22 series finale). Cookson reprised her role as Maggie for the series finale of the following series when her co-star, Janine Mellor (Kelsey Phillips) left the show. Cookson's agency credits showed she reprised her role as Maggie for an episode that will air in 2015.

Maggie started off her career in medicine as a nurse, before retraining to become a doctor. She is highly competent, although has been held back from progressing further up the career ladder as a result of a tendency to be too outspoken with hospital management, most notably clashing frequently with Nathan Spencer. She successfully applied for the role of consultant, before Nathan claimed there was no funding to pay her post. It was revealed that when her husband, Steve, had been sentenced to jail, she had told her children that he had died. When they discovered the truth and he was subsequently released, she allowed them to travel abroad with him to Malaysia. Paramedic Josh Griffiths was her lodger before his departure, however she has a long running romantic interest in Josh's best friend Charlie Fairhead.

Maggie's daughter Joanne returned in January 2008, and Maggie was shocked to see that she was heavily pregnant. Maggie became a grandparent in February 2008, when Joanne gave birth to a baby girl called Lana. She now shares her house with Joanne, Lana, Toby and Ruth. At the end of the 2008 series Maggie decided to leave Holby after the shock and stress of the coroners court, where she was framed by Marilyn. Maggie then returned on 28 March 2009, in series 23 episode 31, for Kelsey Phillips' leaving party.

Dixie Dixon

Dixie Dixon
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Jane Hazlegrove
Duration	2006−
First appearance	21x03, "Waste of Space" 30 September 2006
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Mervyn Watson
Spin-off appearances	Holby City (2006, 2015)
In-universe information Occupation Paramedic Operational Duty Manager Father Arthur Dixon Husband Jeff Collier (2010–14)

Kathleen "Dixie" Dixon played by Jane Hazlegrove, is an Operational Duty Officer and Paramedic who first appeared on 30 September 2006. Dixie temporarily left the show on 3 May 2014, when she was given three month suspension for taking a patient out of hospital without permission. She returned on 30 August 2014, at the beginning of series 29. In spring 2015, Dixie will make a cameo appearance in Holby City on the AAU ward, where she reunites with Adrian Fletcher (Alex Walkinshaw), who she hasn't seen since she made her temporary departure in May 2014.

She first appeared as a paramedic having transferred from another hospital alongside close friend, Cyd Pyke. When senior paramedic Josh Griffiths takes a six month sabbatical to travel the world, Dixie becomes Operational Duty Officer. She forges a friendship with new recruit, Jeff Collier, to whom she admits she is a lesbian. Believing Cyd's life is in danger, following a venomous snake bite, Dixie confesses her love for her friend. When Cyd recovers, their friendship is strained by this and she transfers to another hospital.

In series 23, Dixie accidentally runs a girl over whilst driving the ambulance. Hazlegrove assess that this incident "dictates what happens to Dixie over the course of [series 23] - the wheels fall off." Dixie requires counselling after the accident. The victim's family burn her house down in revenge, and she moves in with Jeff. Dixie asks Jeff to marry her, to make her father proud as he is unaware she is a lesbian. Her father, who is on his deathbed, catches Dixie kissing another woman and suffers a heart attack.

In between part 1 and part 2 of the Holby Riots, Dixie & Jeff were in a red button special which sees Dixie encourage Jeff to speak to his children again.

In 2013, following the prison riots, Dixie becomes romantically involved with Carol Walcott, the prison officer. They begin a relationship but Dixie later finishes it. Weeks later, they reunite but Dixie doesn't want to tell Jeff. Dixie drops Carol off at a meeting and promises her that she will tell Jeff. While Carol is at the meeting, she falls and hurts her arm and head. She does not tell anyone she has hurt her head though. She gets treated and Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) and Tess Bateman (Suzanne Packer) pick up on their romance. While being taken up to x-ray, Carol collapses, begins to slur words and vomit. She is revealed to have had a serious brain injury. Dixie tells Jeff about Carol and he tells her that he will always be there for her. Dixie then comes into the ED to find Carol and Zoe informs Dixie that Carol died on the way up to theatre. Dixie is full of grief and in shock. She locks herself in her office but confides in Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) and later Jeff.

In April 2014, a patient is admitted to the ED after becoming involved in a motorbike crash. Dixie bonds with the patient, who is later revealed to be called Leo Wren (Charley Palmer Werkell), and helps him when he discovers that he could have his leg amputated. He later begins to recover slowly. Upon discovering his mother is dying, Dixie sets out on a mission to reunite them before her death, despite knowing the consequences for this. Max Walker (Jamie Davis) helps Leo escape the hospital to the camper van Dixie has borrowed from a patient. Lofty (Lee Mead) goes with Dixie & Leo to collect his mum, Scarlet (Amanda Ryan) from the place she is staying. Her carer initially insists she would like to stay in her room and she confirms this when she appears. Despite what she originally decided, Scarlet later decides to go to the beach with Leo, Dixie & Lofty. Her carer also comes with them and is constantly worrying about her but Dixie tells him to relax and enjoy the beach. Scarlet goes waterskiing and then enjoys herself on the beach with Leo. They share memories and he is left devastated when they have to return to the hospital. On their journey back to the hospital, Leo starts to suffer pain and upon their arrival in the hospital, he is straight away sent to resus. Meanwhile, Lofty is told off by Charlie Fairhead (Derek Thompson) & Tess but, is let off because he is swapped his shifts with Robyn Miller. Dixie, however, is told by Zoe that she will be sanctioned for her actions. The following week, Dixie is seen discussing her upcoming meeting which decides her future as a paramedic with Jeff, Max, Louise Tyler (Azuka Oforka), Noel Garcia (Tony Marshall) & Big Mac (Charles Dale). Big Mac later suggests they role play the meeting to which Jeff thinks is stupid but Dixie likes the idea and they go through with it. While on her way to the meeting, she spots someone in need of help after they fell onto a metal spike. She leaves for her meeting as soon as Jeff & Big Mac arrive and is very late. The ambulance trust suspend Dixie for three months and everyone says goodbye to her in the pub later on.

Dixie returned on 30 August 2014 in the middle of Jeff's struggles with his girlfriend, Samantha Keelman (Michelle Collins) after her husband discovered that they were seeing each other. Jeff asks Dixie for a divorce so that he can propose to Tamzin, which he intends to do after they return to the ED, following a car crash involving Connie, Ash, Tess, Ethan and Lily. After saving Ash's life, the car explodes, killing Jeff as a horrified Dixie watches helplessly. She returns to the ED alone and tells everyone of Jeff's fate. Tamzin begs Dixie to go and get Jeff but failed, before breaking down in her arms.

Inside Soap described Dixie and Jeff as the 'dynamic duo'. In an interview with Inside Soap, producer Nikki Harris teased what was next for the two saying, "Dixie and Jeff were central to our opening episodes in Cardiff, as they really came under pressure with the car crash and the explosion that happened on the estate. And as we look at how the police interact with ED later on, the paramedics are going to be on the front line in terms of that, because they're sort of in between each side. So Jeff and Dixie are set to have key roles in those storylines when they play out on screen."

Big Mac

Big Mac
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Charles Dale
Duration	2007–
First appearance	22x13, "How Soon is Now?" 24 November 2007
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Belinda Campbell
In-universe information Occupation Porter (2007-2013) Emergency Care Assistant (2013–14) Healthcare assistant (2014–) Mother Vera Chalker

Mackenzie "Big Mac" Chalker played by Charles Dale first appeared on 24 November 2007. He was a porter until October 2013, when he applied to become an emergency care assistant. However, he quit this role in November 2014 and applied to be a healthcare assistant instead.

The BBC describe him as "lonely" and "vulnerable" stating that he "hates himself" and "spends his days loathing the world and his nights gorging on comfort food, escaping into James Bond films. An episode of series 23 devoted to the character sees him assume a vigilante role on the city's Farmead Estate. Dale states that the episode causes Mac to realise: "it's time he stood up for himself and that he can't run from things that happened in the past all his life. Describing Mac's personality, Dale appraised that Mac is "deeply introverted" and struggles to accept that his colleagues actually like him. He explained that although Mac occasionally acts pompously, this approach is "a mask that he puts on to keep people at distance when he gets afraid or embarrassed". He expanded that Mac has: "been scared to go out and he's terrified of life. But because of people in the hospital he's slowly discovering it." Mac is a British Sign Language interpreter, which according to the BBC website is because his mother Vera was profoundly deaf.

Mac has a budding friendship with Noel Garcia and Louise Tyler. When the Lead Paramedic, Dixie Dixon mentioned to Louise and Mac that they are looking for a new Emergency Care Assistant, Mac showed interest and Louise completed an application on Mac's behalf. Mac was given the job and spent a day training nurse, Robyn Miller's step-brother, Max Walker what it is to be a porter on ED. He supported Iain Dean (Michael Stevenson), a student paramedic. Mac was attacked by Kenny, one of Iain's army colleagues. Mac made a full recovery and returned to work.

The front-line is all too much for Big Mac as he is having trouble dealing with the death of his former colleague, Jeff Collier (Matt Bardock), and asks for a transfer back to the ED, where he becomes a healthcare assistant.

Zoe Hanna

Main article: Zoe Hanna

Zoe Hanna is played by Sunetra Sarker and first appeared on 29 December 2007. Zoe was initially a consultant in emergency medicine, but was promoted to a senior consultant in 2011. Zoe was made acting clinical lead in 2008, following the departure of Harry Harper (Simon MacCorkindale), but the role is later given to Adam Trueman (Tristan Gemmill). Zoe was promoted to trauma lead in 2010 and when Nick Jordan (Michael French) went on leave in July 2012, she was made acting clinical lead. This was made a permanent role when Nick left in February 2013. Zoe began a relationship with the new porter Max (Jamie Davis) soon after Max started as the hospital porter. Zoe stood down from clinical lead in June 2014, and at the end of series 28 Zoe handed in her resignation. She returned on 25 October 2014 along with Dylan Keogh (William Beck).

Noel Garcia

Noel Garcia
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Tony Marshall
Duration	2008–
First appearance	22x20, "Broken Homes" 5 January 2008
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Belinda Campbell
In-universe information Occupation Receptionist (2008-11) Reception Manager (2012–) Father David Garcia Mother Unknown Daughters Honey Wright

Noel Garcia played by Tony Marshall is a receptionist who first appeared on 5 January 2008. His storylines have included discovering his father had serious dementia and a friendship with Big Mac (Charles Dale) and Louise Tyler (Azuka Oforka).

The BBC described him as "the practical joker of the bunch", who believes he is only working on the reception as a stop-gap before his big break. Noel is "very much a people person", and "the Laurel to Big Mac's Hardy". Marshall was cast in the role having been out of work for six months, and admitted to being nervous about joining, but commented: "it is such a well run show that on my first day, I felt like I'd always been here."

In series 27, Louise Tyler (Azuka Oforka) joined reception as manager. Noel tried to become friends with her but she wanted to stay professional. After Louise and Robyn Miller (Amanda Henderson) helped Noel following his being made homeless, Louise and Noel became friends. Noel also became friends with the new porter, Max Walker (Jamie Davis). Noel and Louise were support to Big Mac after he was held hostage by Iain's unstable army colleague, Kenny.

In series 29, (Solomon's song) Honey Wright tells Noel that she is his daughter. Noel later tells Big Mac that he isn't ready to be a dad.

Dylan Keogh

Dylan Keogh
Casualty character
Portrayed by	William Beck
Duration	2011–12, 2014–
First appearance	25x28, "Only Human" 12 March 2011
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Jonathan Young (2011) Oliver Kent (2014)
In-universe information Occupation General practitioner (until 2011) Consultant in emergency medicine (2011–12, 2014–) Wife Sam Nicholls (until 2012)

Dylan Keogh played by William Beck, is a consultant in emergency medicine that made his first appearance on 12 March 2011. It was revealed in December 2011 that Dylan was secretly married to Sam Nicholls (Charlotte Salt). Beck filmed his final scenes as Dylan in November 2012 and Dylan departed on 15 December 2012, after realising he can never truly move on from Sam while they work together.

It was announced on 16 August 2014, that Casualty were reintroducing a character from the past, but they wanted to remain quiet about who it may be. It was later revealed that this character would return alongside Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker), who had temporarily departed in August, on 25 October 2014. Dylan was revealed to be the returning character in the episode.

Storylines

He and Nick Jordan (Michael French) were both trained by Miriam Turner. She brought Dylan to work at Holby City A&E. Dylan lives on his own with his dog Dervla in a house-boat. Dylan blames himself for the death of Polly Emmerson (Sophia di Martino) who was stabbed by a mentally unstable woman who blamed Dylan for the scarring on her face when he had to pull her out of a near-igniting bus, with a rail stuck in her face. In series 26 Sam, who is Dylan's wife, arrives as a new doctor, but this fact is not revealed until several episodes later.

Dylan appears in October 2014, and is seen with Zoe in the kitchen of his boat house. He returns to the ED the following week for what is meant to be a one-off help out and tries to save a young boy before he dies. Connie Beauchamp (Amanda Mealing) tries to introduce him to members of staff, but he instead begins discharging several patients - to the annoyance of Lily Chao (Crystal Yu). Connie tells him to help Ethan Hardy (George Rainsford) who is struggling to deal with a teenager who thinks she may have ovarian cancer.

Development

In 2012, after Dylan and Sam were revealed to be married, Casualty producer Nikki Wilson teased Dylan's relationship with Zoe to Inside Soap saying, "The relationship between Dylan and Zoe is very interesting, because when we first mentioned the obvious chemistry between the pair to the actors who play them [William Beck and Sunetra Sarker], they genuinely had no idea! So in one way it's great that they're not playing it in that way. But we really enjoy their banter, and there's definitely a lot more stuff to happen between them. Whether they'll get together remains to be seen...." Later on in series 26 after hoping to get back together with his estranged wife Sam, he eventually signs the divorce papers she gave him.

Louise Tyler

Louise Tyler
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Azuka Oforka
Duration	2011, 2012–
First appearance	26x07, "Wild Horses" 1 October 2011
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Johnathan Young
In-universe information Occupation Ambulance dispatcher (until 2012) Receptionist (2012–)

Louise Tyler (originally Tilney) played by Azuka Oforka, is a receptionist. She first appeared on 1 October 2011, and appeared for four episodes as an ambulance dispatcher before returning as the new receptionist, drafted in to give Noel Garcia (Tony Marshall) more support following the Holby riots on 18 August 2012.

Louise is extremely organised, very efficient and loves to be in control. She has no problem meting out a dressing down to anyone she considers lazy, a timewaster, or those who mess up her carefully calibrated system.

In her first episode, Louise fell out with the paramedic duty manager, Dixie Dixon (Jane Hazlegrove) and when she returned as a receptionist, it was shown that they had still fallen out but episodes later, Louise had to get details of a patient who was in resus however, she was scared of going in because of the blood. Dixie noticed this and helped her overcome this fear. Louise and Dixie then became friends.

Louise became 'frenemies' with Big Mac and Noel and was often to be found in argument with them. She also helped Noel when he was left homeless and was support for Big Mac when he was held hostage by Iain's unstable army colleague, Kenny.

Iain Dean

Iain Dean
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Michael Stevenson
Duration	2012–
First appearance	26x33, "Appropriate Force" 28 April 2012
Classification	Present; regular
In-universe information Occupation Corporal (until 2012) Student Paramedic (2013-14) Paramedic (2014–)

Iain Dean played by Michael Stevenson was an army colleague of Sam Nicholls (Charlotte Salt). His debut was on 14 April 2012. Iain returned on 31 August 2013 for 26 episodes, departing on 22 March 2014, when he became a student paramedic. As Iain begins working with Jeff Collier (Matt Bardock) and Dixie Dixon (Jane Hazlegrove), it is clear that he is extremely confident and may need to be kept in line. He gets a chance to prove his worth when the team are alerted to a terrifying bus crash. He manages to rescue Anna just moments before an explosion on the wrecked vehicle.

He returned to Casualty in the sixth episode of series 29 for the funeral of former colleague, Jeff Collier. When Dixie asked if he would take up his job as paramedic, following Jeff's death and Tamzin's departure, he was delighted to accept.

Robyn Miller

Robyn Miller
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Amanda Henderson
Duration	2013–
First appearance	27x17, "Rabbits in Headlights" 5 January 2013
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Jonathan Young Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Student Nurse (2013) Band 5 Staff Nurse (2013–) Brothers Max Walker (step)

Robyn Miller played by Amanda Henderson, is a staff nurse, who first appeared on 5 January 2013. She was introduced as one of four new student nurses; the others being Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony), Aiofe O'Reilly (Gemma-Leah Devereux) & Ally Hunter (Rebecca Newman). Of the four, Robyn is the only character still present.

Robyn grew up knowing that she wanted to be a nurse. She's the oldest of four siblings and also volunteered to care for her beloved Nan as a teenager. People have always told Robyn that she's a 'born nurse'. As far as the "care" part of the job goes she's one of the best but she does worry about the academic side of the job – maths, chemistry and biology have never been her best subjects! Robyn is determinedly positive and extremely chatty. She makes friends easily and is able to charm patients and get them on side with her down to earth talkative charm. However, this can sometimes be her downfall as she loves a good gossip but isn't the best at keeping secrets!

When Robyn met her fellow student nurses, she instantly struck a bond with Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony) and was devastated when he left. Robyn's stepbrother, Max Walker (Jamie Davies), was later introduced and he moved in with Robyn when his music career flopped. She managed to get him a job in the ED as a porter, replacing Big Mac (Charles Dale).

Robyn was admitted in the ED as a patient when she went back home and found a man (Lee Mead) ironing a shirt he stole from Max's wardrobe. She began to chase him to the garden and over the fence where she jumped on to a rake, which implanted itself into her foot. The man, who told Robyn his name was Nigel, helped Robyn and called 999. He stayed with her as she was admitted in the ED but missed his interview at St James' Hospital. He had left his wallet behind when he left to try and save his potential job and Robyn saw that his name was actually Ben Chiltern. He returned, after feeling too guilty, and when questioned remained adamant that his name was Nigel. Robyn told Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) about him and her worries and she said that she would be happy to ring the police for her and advised that Robyn should let her do so. Robyn was about to until Ben came clean and told him about everything, including his name and the interview. She accepts his apology and offers him a room at her house, to which he gladly accepts. Robyn also manages to get him a job at the ED, replacing Jamie. This pleases him and Robyn gives him the nickname, Lofty, due to him living in the loft of her house. Robyn "mentors" him and shows him the ropes and they both work on the same cases often, until he settles in properly.

Robyn strikes a friendship with new ED consultant, Connie Beauchamp (Amanda Mealing) when she arrives and Connie later gives Robyn a good report back for her trauma course.

Lily Chao

Lily Chao
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Crystal Yu
Duration	2013–
First appearance	28x01, "Bedside Manners" 3 August 2013
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Foundation Training, Year 2

Lily Chao played by Crystal Yu, is a F2 doctor who first appeared on 3 August 2013.

The BBC have described Lily as an intelligent, logical, high-achiever who comes from a hard-working family that like to boast about their doctor daughter, but have never really told her they are proud of her.

Upon her arrival, Lily is mentored by Martin Ashford (Patrick Robinson) and makes an impression on Ash; clinical lead, Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) & senior nurse, Charlie Fairhead (Derek Thompson). Ash becomes annoyed with Lily when she performs a life-threatening operation in the cubicles on a patient (George Sampson). She is warned and told she can't do that.

Lily has teamed with various members of staff and each one has failed in teaching her some bedside manner. Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) was teamed with Lily and Ash betted her that she could not teach her bedside manner, Rita failed. New registrar, Ethan Hardy (George Rainsford) makes a good impression on Lily and she is tasked with showing him around the department. When Ethan discovers his mum has died, he struggles to give his full attention to work but, he lets Zoe know so that she doesn't think he is regularly like this. Lily, who is unaware, shouts at him for not giving 100% attention on his work so he storms off. Zoe then shouts at Lily and tells her what has happened before finding an upset Ethan. Lily later apologises to Ethan and he forgives her.

Lily performs another risky operation and Ash then tells Lily that because of her stupidity that Sally, the patient, has died. However Ash has lied to Lily and Sally has actually just gone to the maternity ward. She later tells Zoe that she would like to report a formal complaint against him, because of his actions about Sally. Zoe tells Lily to rethink her decision and Lily informs her that she will be making a complaint. Ash and Lily then sit in a meeting with senior consultant, Guy Self (John Michie) where he tells Ash he was in the wrong but Lily should not have performed that operation without Ash or Charlie's permission. Ash was given a written warning and made amends with Lily. On an assignment to another hospital with Connie, Ash, Tess and Ethan, the car is hit and tips onto its side, severely injuring Lily's arm. Lily erupts into a panic and Tess attempts to calm her down. She shows great concern over Ethan's wellbeing and is later safely removed from the vehicle and taken to the ED.

Rita Freeman

Rita Freeman
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Chloe Howman
Duration	2013–
First appearance	28x02, "Once There Was a Way Home - Part One" 10 August 2013
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Staff Nurse (2013–14) Senior Staff Nurse (2014–2015) Clinical Nurse Manager (2015-) Husband Mark Richie (divorced)

Rita Freeman (previously Richie) played by Chloe Howman, is the Clinical Nurse Manager who first appeared on 10 August 2013. Rita originally joined the ED as a staff nurse as a Staff Nurse; later promoted to senior staff nurse in November 2014; and promoted to Clinical Nurse Manger in January 2015 after Tess Bateman left (only to return as a Senior Ward Sister)

The BBC have described Rita as an excellent nurse who doesn't put up with any nonsense – junior doctors have been known to shake in her wake and patients do exactly what they're told. Not only is Rita straight-talking and direct, but she is an empathetic, kind nurse who will go to any lengths to help a patient. From her first appearance onscreen, Rita made a huge impact and she has since become a valued and important part of the Casualty team.

Rita was late for her first shift as Holby's new nurse due to contending with an injured neighbour whose hoarding has got out of control. She makes a strong first impressions on paramedics, Dixie Dixon (Jane Hazlegrove) and Jeff Collier (Matt Bardock) as well as senior nurse, Fletch (Alex Walkinshaw). Rita was given the task to teach Lily Chao (Crystal Yu) a better bedside manner.

Rita also becomes a shoulder for Dixie to cry on following her girlfriend's death and confides in her. While on a night out, Dixie and Rita kiss but are interrupted when they find a girl who has just been raped. She later uncovers the identity of the girl's rapist and has him arrested. Robyn told Rita about a man (Lee Mead), who she found ironing his shirt in her house, and her worries about him. Rita said that she would be happy to ring the police for her and advised that Robyn should let her do so. The man was later revealed as Ben Chiltern and he began working at the ED as a nurse, where he was given the nickname, Lofty.

Rita and clinical lead, Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) treat prisoner, Frankie, who has taken several iron tablets and caused himself a kidney failure. He has only done this to receive attention from his mum who hasn't seen him since his imprisonment. Frankie flirted with Rita and when she says no to his advances, she reveals it is because her husband is dead. In July 2014, it was revealed that Rita's husband was in fact alive and was refusing to divorce her. Following Fletch's departure, the senior nurse position became vacant, leading to Rita applying for it and being sccessful. It was shown recently that Rita has been battling an alcohol addiction.

Max Walker

Max Walker
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Jamie Davis
Duration	2013–
First appearance	28x09, "Love Hurts" 5 October 2013
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Porter Family Robyn Miller (half-sister) Zoe Hanna (girlfriend)

Max Walker played by Jamie Davis, first appeared on 5 October 2013 as the stepbrother of Robyn Miller (Amanda Henderson) before joining the Holby team on 16 November 2013 as a porter.

The character and casting was announced on 19 September 2013 alongside the announcement that Lee Mead would be joining that show as new nurse, Lofty. It was announced that Davis would be playing a "very chilled and laid back" porter.

The BBC have described Max as a sponge for information, that just doesn't know how to harness it all yet. They also said how he is too busy dreaming of having an extraordinary life to engage with his real one. The character was also given a Twitter account, like Robyn, Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony) & Louise Tyler (Azuka Oforka).

Max first arrives when himself and his friend are admitted into the ED. He is told by Robyn that he won't be able to play his guitar for at least 6 weeks. He asks her whether he can stay at her house to which she agrees. Robyn continues to tell Max that he needs to find a job and when he remains jobless after three weeks of staying with her, she finds him a job at the ED as a porter, replacing Big Mac (Charles Dale).

Max also takes a shine to clinical lead, Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) and they later sleep together. He also becomes friends with Jamie and when Jamie leaves for Australia, he becomes friends with his new housemate, Lofty (Lee Mead).

Max has also pretend to be locum doctor, Cal Knight (Richard Winsor) to win a girl round. When he arrived at work, he discovered that his one-night stand works at the ED, she told him that she was the new consultant when really she had begun working at shop located there. She arrived at reception, asking for Cal but, fortunately, Max had filled Noel Garica (Tony Marshall) in on what had happened and he covered for Max. When she discovered he was actually a porter called Max, she slapped him and told him she worked at the food shop and wasn't the new consultant before going off on a date with Noel.

Ethan Hardy

Ethan Hardy
Casualty character
Portrayed by	George Rainsford
Duration	2014–
First appearance	28x20, "Bad Timing" 11 January 2014
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Specialist registrar, Emergency Medicine Brothers Caleb Knight

Ethan Hardy played by George Rainsford, first appeared on 11 January 2014 as the new registrar of Holby City Hospital.

Ethan and his brother, Caleb, were introduced alongside each other. The brothers and their castings were announced on 4 September 2013. It was announced that former Call the Midwife star, George Rainsford and that Richard Winsor would be playing Caleb. The BBC said of Ethan and Caleb, "He is studious witty whizz kid, who is the total opposite to his, pure adrenaline junkie, brother and both characters will have a big impact on the emergency department." Casualty's executive producer, Oliver Kent, said: "The arrival of Ethan and Caleb will instantly change the dynamic of the ED. Whilst very different characters, one thing they will have in common is an ability to charm, so expect sparks to fly. We can't wait to start filming and are thrilled to have George and Richard join the team."

Ethan was late for his first shift at the ED as he was having some time with dying mother and making her carer, Jenny, promise that if anything happened he would be told first not Caleb. She promised and told him to go otherwise he'd be late. He makes a good impression on Lily Chao (Crystal Yu), Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker) and the rest of his colleagues. When Ethan discovers his mum has died, he struggles to give his full attention to work but, he lets Zoe know so that she doesn't think he is regularly like this. Lily, who is unaware, shouts at him for not giving 100% attention on his work so he storms off. Zoe then shouts at Lily and tells her what has happened before finding an upset Ethan. Lily later apologises to Ethan and he forgives her.

Ethan's brother, Cal, who Ethan strongly dislikes, arrives for their mother's funeral and joins the Holby team. Cal drives them both to the ED, despite both brothers being unaware that either of them work at HCH, and they are both shocked when they arrive. Ethan is furious that his brother has joined the hospital he works at and becomes further annoyed when Cal is sent out with the paramedics before himself. Cal shares a bond with one of the 17 year old girls involved in a crash and Ethan is horrified that they spent the night together. He reveals this to the girl's parents and Zoe warns Caleb.

When they are both tasked with helping a broken family, nurse Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony) helps the brothers but their differences aside and work together but, when they are told that their mother has given them an equal share in everything but Ethan is to hold Cal's share until he has matured, Cal falls out with Ethan.

Weeks later, Ethan becomes frustrated when Cal flirts with Jenny, the nurse who took care of their dying mother. Nurse, Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) is also unimpressed with Cal's behaviour and encourages Ethan to escape from under his brother's shadow, leading him to take drastic action as he tells Cal he can have his money if he leaves Holby forever. Cal agrees to this but then returns to Holby the following week saying he will be applying for the permanent position.

In episode 5 of series 29, the minibus, which Ethan had been driving, is involved in an accident. Ethan is taken away from the scene unconscious to the ED. On his arrival, he goes into a critical condition, forcing his brother, Cal, to perform a life-saving exercise under the supervision of Connie. After the operation, Cal is seen talking to his brother about how much Ethan means to him. Ethan survives, and attends the funeral of Jeff Collier, who died in the minibus after it exploded.

Caleb Knight

Caleb Knight
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Richard Winsor
Duration	2014–
First appearance	28x21, "Brothers at Arms" 18 January 2014
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Specialist registrar, Emergency Medicine Brothers Ethan Hardy

Caleb "Cal" Knight played by Richard Winsor, first appeared on 18 January 2014 as the new locum doctor of Holby City Hospital and brother of Ethan Hardy (George Rainsford).

Caleb and his brother, Ethan, were introduced alongside each other. The brothers and their castings were announced on 4 September 2013. It was announced that former Call the Midwife star, George Rainsford and that Richard Winsor would be playing Caleb. The BBC said of Caleb and Ethan, "He is a pure adrenaline junkie, who is the total opposite to his,studious witty whizz kid brother and both characters will have a big impact on the emergency department." Casualty's executive producer, Oliver Kent, said: "The arrival of Ethan and Caleb will instantly change the dynamic of the ED. Whilst very different characters, one thing they will have in common is an ability to charm, so expect sparks to fly. We can't wait to start filming and are thrilled to have George and Richard join the team."

Cal arrives in Holby for his mother's funeral and applies at HCH for a locum job. He is first seen when nurse, Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony) takes a homeless man, in need of a wash, to bathroom to get washed and he finds Cal, with his shirt off, getting ready. It is revealed he was getting washed there because he had run away from the girl he had a one-night stand with. This girl turned out to be one of his first patients.

Cal goes out with paramedics, Dixie Dixon (Jane Hazlegrove), Jeff Collier (Matt Bardock), Big Mac (Charles Dale) and Iain Dean (Michael Stevenson) to a bridge where a limousine is hanging off the edge, with two girls inside, one of which is due to have an operation for her kidney. Cal manages to save both girls with the paramedic's help. When he returns to the ED, Ethan discovers that Cal has slept with this young girl and in hope to get him fired, tells Zoe Hanna (Sunetra Sarker). Zoe gives a Cal a warning as he was unaware that the girl was under 21. Annoyed that this hasn't worked, Ethan tells the girl's parents and, to Ethan's amusement, say they will be writing a complaint until Zoe tells them it will get the daughter in trouble too so they don't go through with it.

When they are both tasked with helping a broken family, Jamie helps the brothers but their differences aside and work together but, when they are told that their mother has given them an equal share in everything but Ethan is to hold Cal's share until he has matured, Cal falls out with Ethan.

Weeks later, Ethan becomes frustrated when Cal flirts with Jenny, the nurse who took care of their dying mother. Nurse, Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) is also unimpressed with Cal's behaviour and encourages Ethan to escape from under his brother's shadow. After Rita, Ethan & Jenny's ex-boyfrind spot them kissing, Ethan takes drastic action and he tells Cal he can have his money if he leaves Holby forever. Cal agrees to this but then returns to Holby the following week saying he will be applying for the permanent position.

In episode 5 of series 29, a minibus, which brother Ethan had been driving, is involved in an accident. Ethan is taken away from the scene unconscious to the ED. On his arrival, he goes into a critical condition, forcing him, to perform a life-saving exercise under the supervision of Connie. After the operation, Cal is seen talking to his brother about how much he means to him. Ethan survives, and attends the funeral of Jeff Collier, who died in the minibus after it exploded.

Lofty Chiltern

Lofty Chiltern
Casualty character
Portrayed by	Lee Mead
Duration	2014–
First appearance	28x27, "The Last Chance Saloon" 1 March 2014
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Oliver Kent
In-universe information Occupation Band 5 Staff Nurse

Ben "Lofty" Chiltern played by Lee Mead, is a staff nurse who first appeared on 1 March 2014. He was introduced as the nurse replacing Jamie Collier (Daniel Anthony).

The character of 'Lofty' and his casting of Lee Mead was announced on 19 September 2013, alongside Jamie Davis' casting in Max Walker. It was revealed that he was to play a 'likeable and popular nurse with a less-than-ordinary background'. Commenting on his role, Mead says: "I'm thrilled to be joining Casualty. I really enjoyed my guest appearance in 2011, but this will be a completely different challenge. When I first read about the character Lofty I didn't imagine I would be in the frame to play him. I am hoping he will charm audiences and they will get behind him. I can't wait to get started and to learn all of the medical jargon!" Oliver Kent, Casualty's Executive Producer, said: "As the character Lofty was being developed, we couldn't think of anyone else to better to play him. We can't wait to start filming and are thrilled to have Lee join the team. With a very different background to most of the other nurses, his clumsy charm is sure to win everyone over."

It was later revealed that Mead's casting as Lofty was inspired by Daniel Anthony's decision to leave the show as Jamie Collier. Describing Lofty as "the most adorable character", Oliver Kent believes that he will prove as popular as Abs. He continued to say that Mead is probably "the nicest guy in showbusiness; he has this completely ego-free quality that comes across in his performance." He also mentioned how the part of Lofty was written especially for Mead.

Mead described Lofty as "a cheeky chap! He's a nice bloke with good intentions, but he's also very lazy. Lofty has been living at home and he's kept telling his parents that he's going to get a job at some point and get his own place, but he just hasn't got round to it yet! He's a trained nurse, but he's just been enjoying taking money from his parents and going out drinking!" Mead also said how he loved the way his character had been introduced; "I thought it was quite fun and I knew from the start that this would be a very interesting character. Lofty brings a great energy to work with him. He's got quite a fun element to him and a positive outlook. Lofty is also quite clumsy, though - he often says the wrong thing and there's the odd occasion where he's falling over things!" Mead also revealed he was signed at Casualty for a year and hopes to stay for longer.

Lofty was first seen when climbing out of the loft of Robyn Miller (Amanda Henderson)'s house, stealing one of Max Walker (Jamie Davis)' shirts and £20 before going and ironing the shirt. Robyn returned home to find this man ironing the shirt. After he insisted he wasn't a burglar, she began to chase him to the garden and over the fence where she jumped on to a rake, which implanted itself into her foot. Lofty, who told Robyn his name was Nigel, helped Robyn and called 999. He stayed with her as she was admitted in the ED but missed his interview at St James' Hospital. He had left his wallet behind when he left to try and save his potential job and Robyn saw that his name was actually Ben Chiltern.

He returned, after feeling too guilty, and when questioned remained adamant that his name was Nigel. Robyn told Rita Freeman (Chloe Howman) about him and her worries and she said that she would be happy to ring the police for her and advised that Robyn should let her do so. Robyn was about to until Lofty came clean and told him about everything, including his name and the interview. She accepts his apology and offers him a room at her house, to which he gladly accepts. Robyn also manages to get him a job at the ED, replacing Jamie. This pleases him and Robyn gives him the nickname, Lofty, due to him living in the loft of her house and when he tries to tell people his name is actually Ben, she gives up after failing to tell them. Robyn "mentors" him and shows him the ropes and they both work on the same cases often, until he settles in properly.

Lofty is suspended after Dixie Dixon (Jane Hazlegrove) ropes him into helping patient, Leo Wren (Charley Palmer-Marshall), see his dying mother. He is only suspended for a few weeks by Tess Bateman (Suzanne Packer) because he swapped round his shifts with Robyn so there was no shortage of staff. He sees the rush the ED were having from the news and goes into help the team voluntarily, leaving Tess relieved. After checking with charge nurse, Charlie Fairhead (Derek Thompson), Tess allows Lofty to return to work the following week.

In a Remembrance Day episode, Lofty is reluctant to buy a plastic poppy, and as a result falls out with former soldier Iain Dean. However, Lofty later wins the respect of the whole ED, including Iain, when a football hooligan sets off a flare in the hospital; Lofty nearly suffocates trying to save a young boy who can't escape the resulting smoke. The boy later dies of an unrecognised head injury, but Lofty is lauded as a hero.

Connie Beauchamp

Main article: Connie Beauchamp

Constance "Connie" Beauchamp played by Amanda Mealing, originally appeared in Casualty's spin off show, Holby City, in the role of Cardiothoracic Consultant and Clinical Lead, Darwin (Holby's Cardiothoracic Ward). Connie later went on to become Director of Surgery and Medical Director of Holby City Hospital. She departed from the show in its thirteenth series, resigning from her post. Her return was announced on 23 July 2013 and she arrived in Casualty on 29 March 2014.

Past characters

Main article: List of past Casualty characters

See also

• List of Casualty cast members

External links

• Profiles at BBC's Casualty homepage