Sue Johnston confirmed her return to Brookside as Sheila Grant earlier this month and how her on-screen husband Ricky Tomlinson is also heading back to the Close as Bobby Grant
Ricky Tomlinson is making a comeback to Brookside as Bobby Grant after a staggering 37 years away.
Hot on the heels of the recent revelation that Sue Johnston is set to reprise her role as Sheila Grant in the Channel 4 soap this autumn, alongside a stellar lineup of returning favourites.
It has now been confirmed that Ricky will be stepping back into the shoes of the legendary heritage character, Bobby.
The Grant family were the cornerstone of Brookside when it launched on Channel 4’s inaugural night in 1982, with viewers instantly connecting to the married duo Sheila and Bobby as they made themselves at home in their first property with their trio of children.
Ricky’s authentic depiction of Scouse trade unionist Bobby in Channel 4’s flagship drama broke new ground with its unflinching portrayal of working-class men of that era, reports the Mirror.
Hollyoaks marks its 30th anniversary this October and will commemorate the milestone with a special episode that also pays tribute to its forerunner Brookside and their creator Sir Phil Redmond.
Ricky’s most memorable and pioneering storylines centred around his family dynamics, his bond with wife Sheila and their marital breakdown, plus his constant ups and downs regarding his career, finances, and standing in the community.
Speaking about his comeback, Ricky commented: “It will be lovely to take part in Brookside again especially to work alongside Sue Johnston. I’m looking forward to being on the Close again after all these years” .
After his stint on Brookside, Liverpool-born actor Ricky landed the role of Jim Royle in 1998, a leading part in the critically acclaimed British sitcom, The Royle Family, alongside his on-screen wife, Barbara Royle, portrayed by his former Brookside co-star, Sue.
The sitcom ran for four series over a span of 14 years, after which Ricky starred in Grimsby, In The Flesh, and The Witchfinder.
Prior to and during his time on Brookside, Ricky had key roles in popular TV shows such as Cracker, Playing the Field, and Roughnecks, among others.
Phillip Oliver, Suzanne Collins, John McArdie, Paul Usher, and Sue Johnston are also set to return to Brookside for a special crossover event.
Episodes of Brookside are now available from the beginning on STV player, following their digital restoration in a collaborative project between Lime Pictures and All3Media International.
The Hollyoaks and Brookside episode is due to air in October
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