Brookside is one of the most legendary productions to come out of Liverpool, with never-seen-before-storylines and huge viewing figures in the 1980s and 1990s.
The idea of Grange Hill and Hollyoaks creator Sir Philip Redmond, the series followed the lives of families in a suburban neighbourhood in Liverpool and definitely wasn’t lacking shocking twists and dramatic exits. Though Brookside ended in 2003 - after 21 years on Channel 4 - it paved the way for soap operas to cover controversial topics.
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Featuring local actors, the soap kickstarted the careers of many now well-known faces whose success still continues today. While some of show’s the well-loved actors are sadly no longer with us, others continue to feature on our TV screens.
In honour of International Soap Week, we have taken a look back at the stars of Brookside, who truly helped the series shine.
Below are 17 famous faces who starred in Brookside back in the day. Some are famed for their roles in the hit soap area, while others may surprise you. How many did you know?
13. Alexandra Fletcher
One of Hollyoaks' most well-known actors, Alexandra Fletcher started her acting career in Brookside when she was just 14. She played the role of Jacqui Dixon from 1990 right up until the end of the show in 2003 and has starred in Hollyoaks as Diane Hutchinson for 14 years. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
14. Sunetra Sarker
Sunetra Sarker's first acting success came when she played Nisha Batra in Brookside. She has since appeared in a host of shows, including Ackley Bridge, Doctor Who and Casualty. Sarker won the Best TV Character award (Asian Media Awards) for her role in Ackley Bridge in 2019. | Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images Photo: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images
15. Suzanne Collins
At the age of 19, Suzanne landed the role of Nikki Shadwick in Brookside, spending 15 years as part of the cast. She has had various television and film roles since, including starring in Leon Lopez’s Soft Lad and 5Star’s Clink, alongside Tina Malone. | Steve Finn/Getty Photo: Steve Finn/Getty
16. Letitia Dean
You probably know her as Sharon Watts from Eastenders but Letitia Dean actually featured in Brookside. In 1983 - before she became a household name - Dean played Dawn in one episode. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images