John McArdle and Paul Usher for Brookside x Hollyoaks / Lime Pictures
John McArdle and Paul Usher are to reprise their Brookside roles for the upcoming crossover with Hollyoaks.
The trailblazing Channel 4 soap is making a comeback for a one-off special episode to celebrate Hollyoaks‘ 30th anniversary in October, with filming due to take place this month.
Last month Sue Johnston was confirmed to be the first returning cast member as matriarch Sheila Grant – and now McArdle has also been announced to return as Sheila’s second husband Billy Corkhill.
The pair will be joined by Usher, who played Sheila’s son Barry and was the show’s first villain, committing a double murder, including – controversially at the time – that of a child.
“It’s going to be a nostalgic visit back to the famous close,” said McArdle, who will also appear in Hollyoaks village in other episodes. “Also I’ve got to try and find the character of Billy Corkhill again as I haven’t played him for 35 years!”
Usher, who last appeared as Barry in the final episode of Brookside in 2003, added: “I’m looking forward to seeing all of the old faces.”
More returning cast members are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
