It’s hard to believe, but it was on this day back in 2006 that Casualty introduced fans to one of its most iconic paramedics: Kathleen “Dixie” Dixon. Played by Jane Hazlegrove, Dixie became an unforgettable part of the Holby ambulance service, winning over viewers with her humour, courage, and heart.

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The arrival of Dixie

Dixie first appeared as a no-nonsense ambulance technician, paired with fellow paramedic Cyd Pyke. From her very first scenes, she stood out. Sharp-witted, funny, and often blunt, Dixie was instantly memorable. But behind her sarcasm was a deep compassion that made her one of the most beloved paramedics in Casualty history.

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A character with heart

Dixie was never afraid to speak her mind, and she brought a balance of levity and grit to the ED. Whether she was sharing light-hearted banter with Jeff Collier or facing the darkest emergencies, Dixie carried herself with authenticity.

Her humour helped her cope with the traumas of the job, but her empathy for patients and colleagues made her truly shine. Dixie wasn’t just a paramedic — she was a rock for those around her.

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Her most powerful storylines

Over her ten years on the show, Dixie faced countless emergencies, but some storylines still stand out:

• The death of Jeff Collier — One of the most heartbreaking moments in Casualty history was losing Jeff, Dixie’s long-term crewmate and closest friend. Their chemistry and camaraderie had been the backbone of the ambulance service for years, and his death devastated both Dixie and fans.

• Her struggles with identity and acceptance — Dixie’s journey as an openly gay woman gave viewers important representation. Storylines exploring her relationships and the challenges she faced resonated deeply, offering visibility and authenticity to LGBTQ+ fans.

• Her departure in 2016 — After a decade of service, Dixie left Holby to start a new chapter. Her exit was emotional but fitting, marking the end of an era for the ambulance crew.

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Jane Hazlegrove’s legacy

Jane Hazlegrove’s portrayal of Dixie was pitch-perfect. She captured both the character’s resilience and vulnerability, making Dixie feel real and relatable. Hazlegrove has spoken in interviews about how proud she was to play a character who resonated so strongly with audiences, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.

Even after her departure, Dixie remains a fan favourite. Mentions of her name or callbacks to her storylines still generate excitement among long-time viewers.

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Why we still miss Dixie

Dixie brought something unique to Casualty. She wasn’t just a medic rushing into emergencies — she was a fully realised character with humour, flaws, and heart. Her bond with Jeff remains one of the most iconic partnerships in the show’s history, and her absence is still felt whenever the ambulance crew face big challenges.

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The verdict

On this day in 2006, Dixie joined Holby’s ambulance service — and Casualty was never quite the same again. Her decade on the show gave us laughter, tears, and unforgettable drama. Though she left nearly ten years ago, her legacy continues to shape the way fans remember the golden years of the ambulance team.