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Casualty fans have been given a welcome boost as a beloved face is reportedly set to make a comeback.

In 2024, BBC viewers were left devastated when Charlie Fairhead, portrayed by Derek Thompson, departed the long-running medical drama after nearly four decades on screen.

Yet two years on from announcing his departure, it appears the fan-favourite is poised to grace our screens once more.

A source told The Sun: "Fans will be delighted to see Charlie. The character was never killed off, and the door was left open for a return.

"Viewers will have to wait to see how Charlie's storyline pans out. But it is an appearance rather than a permanent return to the cast."

Express.co.uk have contacted BBC for comment.

At the time, Derek said it was time to "hang up Charlie's scrubs" as audiences feared the worst when a patient attacked him with a knife.

His colleagues fought desperately to save Charlie's life as he drifted in and out of consciousness, haunted by flashback, reports the Mirror.

Ultimately, he pulled through and was given a rousing send-off by his fellow staff members as he departed the hospital following his recovery. His final scenes showed Charlie driving away with a 'just retired' sign displayed on his car.

Viewers were left utterly bereft by his exit, with many clamouring for his return. One fan shared: "We want Charlie back."

Another commented: "#casualty not the same without Charlie." While a third wrote: "Am I crying at casualty because of Charlie? Yes, yes, I am. What an iconic character!!" One viewer commented: "I want Charlie Fairhead back." while another posted: "#Casualty missing Charlie..."

Upon the announcement of his departure, the actor said: "The time has come for me to hang up Charlie's scrubs after the most wonderful 37 years.

"Charlie Fairhead was inspired by a real nurse - Pete Salt. Together with the writers and producers, I have tried to bring to Charlie the compassion, kindness, heroism and sound judgement that we all see and love in Pete.

"I want to say thanks to Pete and everyone else over that time who has inspired me in bringing this character to life."

Casualty is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.