Brookside, the much-loved soap opera, is gearing up for a grand comeback on our TV screens, featuring Paul Usher in his iconic role as Barry Grant.
The renowned Channel 4 drama, affectionately nicknamed Brookie, aired from 1982 to 2003 and is making its return in a special episode crossing over with Hollyoaks to celebrate the latter’s 30th anniversary.
Located in Liverpool, Brookside was famous for its impactful narratives, addressing sensitive topics like assault, harassment, and family issues. The commemorative episode is slated to premiere on October 22 at 7 pm, honoring Brookside’s creator, Sir Phil Redmond.
Paul Usher made his debut as Barry Grant in the inaugural episode of Brookside in 1982, evolving from a mischievous youngster to the show’s tough character over time.
Barry notably became entangled in criminal activities, including a storyline where he tragically took the lives of his best friend’s wife and child in the soap’s 1000th episode in 1991, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.
Throughout Brookside’s entire run from 1982 to 2003, Paul portrayed Barry, with intermittent breaks during the years. He also participated in the spin-off Brookside: The Lost Weekend, holding the distinction of being the only character to appear in both the premiere and finale episodes.
In March 2019, fans were thrilled to see Paul, now 64 years old, in EastEnders, assuming the role of Danny Hardcastle.
This unsavory character clashed with Phil in Walford, portrayed by Steve McFadden, after getting caught up in a money-laundering scheme in Spain. Danny sought revenge on the Mitchells in 2020 but got caught up in a heist and arrested by the authorities.
Apart from Brookside and EastEnders, Paul has graced various TV shows including Liverpool 1, London’s Burning, and had a significant part in The Bill as Des Taviner until 2004.
Expressing his views on the Brookside crossover, Paul eagerly agreed to join once he learned that his on-screen parents had also signed up for the project, as per The Echo.
He mentioned, “When they told me Ricky Tomlinson (Bobby Grant) and Sue Johnston (Sheila Grant) were involved, that sealed the deal for me because we don’t get to see each other as often as we’d like.”
Paul added, “I’ve made some really great friends from my Brookside days, so returning to work with them feels like the perfect ending. I’m glad I accepted the offer.”
Don’t miss the Hollyoaks and Brookside crossover airing on October 22 at 7 pm.