Christmas episodes of Casualty are never quiet. Over the years, festive instalments have brought heartbreak, tragedy, and sometimes a surprise return that sends fans into meltdown. With the drama set to return on 30 December, viewers are already speculating which familiar faces might reappear for the Christmas comeback. Here are five characters who could make a shock return this festive season.

---

1. Ruby Spark

It’s been years since Ruby Spark left Holby, but her name has never stopped being mentioned — especially in connection to Iain Dean. Their bond remains one of the most emotional relationships in recent Casualty history, and with Iain now at another crossroads, Christmas could be the perfect time for Ruby to return. Even a brief cameo would bring closure to fans who never got the reunion they hoped for.

---

2. Zoe Hanna

Dr Zoe Hanna was one of the ED’s most fiery and beloved consultants. Her mix of brilliance, humour, and chaos made her a fan favourite, and her return would inject both nostalgia and energy into the Christmas special. With Holby’s days numbered before the move to Wales, now would be the perfect moment for Zoe to pop back in for one last shift or a festive cameo that reminds viewers what made her so unforgettable.

---

3. Ethan Hardy

After a turbulent run that saw him step away from Holby to focus on his family, Ethan Hardy remains a character fans would love to see again. His intelligence, warmth, and leadership qualities left a lasting impression. A Christmas return could see Ethan rejoin the ED for one night only — perhaps to offer advice, support, or even a life-saving intervention when the festive chaos inevitably hits.

---

4. Connie Beauchamp

Few characters in Casualty history have left as big a mark as Connie Beauchamp. Fierce, uncompromising, and often controversial, Connie’s leadership shaped the ED for years. With Flynn Byron’s position as Clinical Lead on the rocks, a dramatic return from Connie at Christmas would make perfect sense. Even if it’s just to shake things up for one episode, Connie’s presence would be explosive.

---

5. Sam Nicholls

Finally, Sam Nicholls, another fan favourite and one-time love interest for Iain Dean. With Iain’s personal life once again in turmoil, a festive reappearance from Sam could reignite old sparks or simply provide him with the clarity he desperately needs. Christmas specials thrive on emotional twists, and Sam’s return would certainly deliver.

---

Why a Christmas return matters

With Casualty moving into its landmark 40th year — and preparing to leave Holby behind — this year’s Christmas comeback feels especially significant. Bringing back a familiar face would honour the show’s legacy while giving fans one more chance to celebrate their favourites before the next big chapter begins.

Whether it’s Ruby’s heartfelt reunion with Iain, Zoe’s chaos in the ED, or Connie storming back to reclaim control, a Christmas return could make this year’s festive special truly unforgettable.

---

The verdict

Christmas in Casualty is never just about the tinsel and turkey. It’s about life, death, and the moments that stay with us long after the credits roll. A returning character could be the gift fans didn’t know they needed — and the perfect way to close out 2025.

---

💬 Which character do you most want to see walk back into Holby ED this Christmas — Ruby, Zoe, Connie, Ethan, or Sam?