Casualty’s nursing team is getting a big shake-up with the return of Faith Cadogan played by (Kirsty Mitchell) and the arrival of new Clinical Nurse Manager Siobhan Mackenzie, played by former Coronation Street star Melanie Hill. Her casting was first announced in October and pictures of her in character were released by the BBC.
However, co-star Kirsty has taken to her Instagram to share the first images of her on set with her castmate. Alongside the two pictures, she wrote the caption: “Can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with @melaniehillbilly #Casualty.”
Fans couldn’t contain their excitement at seeing the two women on set together and took to the comments to share their delight. @clarew431980 gushed: “Aww Fab Addition to the cast.” She later added another comment saying: “Loved Melanie In Bread & Coronation Street. I’m sure we will all love her…as long as Mel is not replacing Faith!”
@hannahwwilliams commented: “Brilliant addition to the team. I used to watch Casualty growing up and now I’m a nurse although not in A&E.” (sic) @jacjac58 said: “Been in so many great things. looking forward to seeing her Love Casualty.” (sic)
@arc24 wrote: “I used to adore her in Waterloo Road. Really looking forward to seeing her on-screen with the Casualty gang.” Meanwhile, @neilryley made reference to her famous role in the Carla Lane sitcom Bread, saying: “Brilliant another good actor our Avaline!!! X” (sic)
The 61-year-old star, who spent seven years as Cathy Matthews on Coronation Street, will be playing the role of Clinical Nurse Manager Siobhan Mackenzie, who is described as a “no-nonsense team leader who looks set to ruffle a few feathers.”
Speaking abut the role after the casting announcement was made she said: “I am delighted to be joining the cast of Casualty and I can’t wait for fans to meet Siobhan.
“She’s a supremely competent manager, who is firm but fair and expects nothing but the best from her nursing team.
“However, get on the wrong side of her and she’ll make mincemeat out of you! I’m sure she’s going to ruffle a few feathers in the Emergency Department.”