Casualty is pulling out all the stops for its 40th anniversary, and the BBC has finally given fans a first glimpse at the explosive double-bill. Judging by the dramatic trailer, viewers are in for one of the show’s biggest and most emotional stories yet.
Back in 1986, the much-loved medical drama first arrived on our screens, introducing unforgettable characters including Charlie Fairhead, Lisa ‘Duffy’ Duffin, Barbara ‘Baz’ Wilder and Megan Roach (RIP Brenda Fricker).
Now, four decades on, the BBC is marking the milestone in style with a special event episode that promises to deliver everything loyal fans have come to expect.
The two-part anniversary special airs on Saturday, September 05, 2026 on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Here’s everything we know so far.
The Casualty 40th anniversary double bill will pack a punch (Credit: BBC One)
Casualty celebrates its 40th anniversary with a double bill
Casualty is the world’s longest-running medical drama and has been a fixture on our screens for 40 years. Over that time, the series has become known for its powerful stories, memorable characters and ambitious episodes — and its milestone celebration looks set to continue that tradition.
To celebrate four decades on the Beeb, the broadcaster is delivering a major anniversary double-bill. Long-time viewers will know the drama has always marked its landmark birthdays with special episodes. For the 30th anniversary in 2016, the feature-length 100-minute episode – entitled Too Old For This Shift – followed Charlie Fairhead’s 30 years in the NHS as a devastating drone crash struck an air ambulance.
Meanwhile, the 35th anniversary in 2021 opened with a feature-length special exploring the harrowing realities of the COVID-19 pandemic for emergency staff, while also welcoming back several familiar faces.
Olly Rix’s Flynn is front and centre of the 40th anniversary of Casualty (Credit: BBC One)
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