Brookside Icon Dean Sullivan’s Revealed Wish to Return to the Show Before His Tragic Passing
Dean Sullivan, best known for his portrayal of Jimmy Corkhill on the iconic soap opera Brookside, passed away on November 29, 2023. He was 68 years old and left behind a significant legacy within the UK television landscape.
Celebrating Brookside’s Return
After over two decades, the beloved show will make its long-awaited return on October 22, 2023. This special crossover episode will connect Brookside with Hollyoaks, celebrating the latter’s 30th anniversary. Fans are eager to see the familiar faces of Brookside as many original actors return to reprise their roles.
Tribute to Dean Sullivan
The creator of both series, Sir Phil Redmond, shared a bittersweet sentiment regarding the show’s revival. He acknowledged the absence of late actors like Dean Sullivan and Bill Dean, who significantly contributed to the charm and success of Brookside. Sir Phil expressed gratitude that Lime Pictures is honoring these stars through the anniversary crossover.
Dean Sullivan’s Impact
Sullivan’s portrayal of Jimmy Corkhill left an indelible mark on audiences. In his final interview with the ECHO in August 2023, he reflected on his journey, mentioning the awards he received and the lifestyle the role provided him. Dean believed that Brookside’s unflinching focus on real-life issues made it resonate deeply with viewers.
The Legacy of Jimmy Corkhill
Brookside highlighted complex themes such as mental health, the cost of living crisis, and union power long before many other shows. Sullivan emphasized that the topics presented in the show remain relevant even decades later.
Thoughts on a Brookside Reboot
While discussing the potential for a full Brookside reboot, Sullivan expressed excitement for the idea, suggesting it could explore where the characters are now. However, he insisted that any return would need to be on his own terms, avoiding early mornings and late-night calls.
Raising Cancer Awareness
In addition to his acting career, Sullivan was an advocate for cancer awareness. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018 and used his platform to encourage others to trust their instincts regarding health issues.
A Fond Farewell
The news of Sullivan’s passing was met with sadness across the entertainment community. His agent confirmed his peaceful death after a brief illness, commemorating him as a British soap icon. Many of his co-stars, including Claire Sweeney, honored his memory at his funeral, reflecting on his lasting influence and the love he garnered from fans.
- Date of Brookside’s Return: October 22, 2023
- Sullivan’s Age at Passing: 68
- Year of Dean Sullivan’s Diagnosis: 2018
- Format of Crossover Episode: Special episode with Hollyoaks
- Key Figures in Brookside: Sir Phil Redmond, Sue Johnston, Ricky Tomlinson
Dean Sullivan’s legacy as Jimmy Corkhill will be forever cherished, reminding fans of a time when Brookside broke boundaries in soap opera storytelling. His wish to return to the show highlights the profound connection he had with both the character and the audience.
