BBC Casualty 'set for huge change to attract younger viewers' 38 years after debut

As the world's longest-running primetime medical drama, Casualty is a staple of the BBC but as it approaches its 40th anniversary in 2026, the show might see some changes According to a brand and culture expert, the veteran series could undergo to "secure longevity and attract younger viewers", following the harsh cut of fellow medical dramas Doctors and Holby City. In shocking news to fans, it was announced back in 2021 that the beloved spin-off Holby City would end after a 23-year run, with its final episode airing in March 2022. Adding to the list of departures, Doctors broadcast its last episode after a 27-year-long run, yet Casualty has consistently held its spot in the BBC's coveted Saturday primetime slot since its 1986 debut.

It even broke tradition with a riveting Christmas Day special aired on Saturday (December 21). Usually, the show takes a break during the festive season. Rochelle White from Rochelle White Agency has shared her thoughts on the future of Casualty as it approaches its 40th anniversary in 2026.



She said: "In regards to Casualty coming back for a Christmas Special, I feel that this could be a way for the BBC to see if it is a show worth keeping and investing in. I'm aware that they have taken breaks in the past due to increasing costs. However, this could be a test to see how popular it is.

"It currently airs every Saturday, but it could be turned into more like Midsummer Murders on ITV , be hour and a half long specials. Where it airs once or twice a month and focuses on a theme and story. "As they currently break it up into a mini series, they could get really creative with the storytelling and create episodes for what is now known as the 'Binge watcher'.

It could help with the costs of production, secure longevity and attract younger viewers." It's been confirmed that Casualty will return next Saturday (December 28) with the first instalment of an 11-part series titled 'Off Duty'. This series will follow the catastrophic consequences of Jodie Whyte's (Anna Lucy Chell) actions, leading to Stevie Nash (Elinor Lawless) facing hostility.

Stream episodes of Casualty on BBC iPlayer.