Brookside icon Ricky Tomlinson has made a comeback to the Channel 4 drama series, portraying Bobby Grant after a 37-year hiatus, reuniting with Sue Johnston as Sheila Grant. The 85-year-old actor, accompanied by filming crews, has revisited the renowned cul-de-sac for a special episode commemorating Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary.
The Grant family, who initiated Brookside’s debut on Channel 4 in 1982, quickly captured the audience’s hearts as they settled into their new home with their three children. Ricky and Sue, who later collaborated on the BBC sitcom The Royle Family, are set to reprise their roles as Liverpool matriarch Sheila Grant, later Corkhill, and trade unionist Bobby Grant following his departure in 1988.
This marks the first time Brookside Close will be back on screen since its conclusion in 2003. Ricky took to Instagram to share behind-the-scenes moments from the filming of the exclusive episode, showcasing him and Sue in character as the Grant couple in various scenes.
Fans eagerly commented on the post, expressing their anticipation for the reunion, with one stating, “Can’t wait,” and another calling them “Two legends.” The atmosphere was filled with admiration, as one fan simply added, “Icons,” along with a love heart emoji.
In an earlier statement, Ricky shared his excitement about the return, mentioning, “It will be lovely to take part in Brookside again especially to work alongside Sue Johnston.” Sue, 81, also expressed her joy, saying, “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.”
Lime Pictures and All3Media International have digitally restored Brookside episodes, making them available from the beginning on STV player. The highly anticipated Hollyoaks and Brookside crossover episode is scheduled to air in October.
