This groundbreaking soap began life as a gritty look at Northern life, complete with down to earth language and storylines that examined the social issues of the day. It was the first soap to be filmed inside real houses, rather than separate studio and exterior sets.
Over the years, Brookside went through many changes and by the 1990s was known for over the top and melodramatic plots such as religious sects, plagues and, of course, the notorious "body under the patio". It also featured the first lesbian kiss on UK television, which depsite being controversial at the time, paved the way for a greater acceptance of gay characters in other soaps and dramas.
Brookside acted as a springboard to greater fame for many of its residents, including Amanda Burton (Heather Haversham), Ricky Tomlinson (Bobby Grant), Sue Johnston (Sheila Grant), Anna Friel (Beth Jordache), Michael Starke (Sinbad), Jennifer Ellison (Emily Shadwick), Leon Lopez (Jerome Johnson), Claire Sweeney (Lindsay Corkhill) and Ray Quinn (Anthony Murray).
Amazingly, since it was axed in 2003 the show seems to have all but disappeared from memory, but fans of Brookside have still not forgotten the show. Two in particular, Lee Brady and Dan Burton are heading a campaign to get Brookside episodes released on DVD. To date they have over 2000 signatures on their online petition - including some well known Brookside actors. You can sign the petition on their Bring Back Brookside website.
This Brookside section of The Soap Show website will be developed over the coming months, so keep checking back for updates!
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