‘The paramedics are like superheroes!'

Casualty stars Michael Stevenson, Di Botcher, Uriel Emil, Olivia D’Lima, and Bobby Lockwood on the power of their paramedics…

- ELAINE REILLY

‘Their department is special’

Michael Stevenson played Iain Dean from 2012 to 2019, rejoining the cast this month

‘I’ve loved being part of Casualty since my very first day on set. I knew then I wanted to be part of the show’s long history and I’m proud I’m still here.

‘The paramedic department is particularly special. I feel a responsibility to make sure it continues as a crucial cog in the wheel. The paramedic team is vital for reminding us of the world beyond the ED walls. They’re the first contact with the guest characters and introduce them to the hospital and the audience.

‘My dream storyline is one where they send the team on an R&R holiday to Ibiza! Right now, though, Iain’s set on standing by Jan and getting her out of the awful situation she’s in. He needs to be close to her and get back on the paramedic team [Iain now works with the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services]. But that might not be quite as straightforward as he’d like…

‘I love that Iain isn’t perfect, and for all his fun traits, there’s a darker, moodier side. But he can always put a smile on someone’s face. With the smallest comment or gesture, Iain can change a person’s day.’

‘We all take our hats off to real paramedics’

Di Botcher has played paramedic boss Jan Jenning since 2018

‘Jan is brave, loyal and funny. I would have added “honest” to that list, but she has compromised all of her principles lately [with the drug smuggling storyline involving her son, Ross].