When What’s on TV caught up with Richard Winsor to talk about his Casualty red button special, we couldn't resist asking him if there's any possibility of Casualty following in Coronation Street and EastEnders' footsteps and treating us to a live episode to celebrate their 30th anniversary…
Richard said: "I'd be up for it, definitely! I think the majority of the actors on the show would be too. I'm sure [producers] have thought about it, so we'll have to see what happens in the future."
He added: “I'm thrilled to be involved with Casualty, there's a real buzz about the show. The writers are brilliant, the producers really forward thinking and the cast really exciting. And with it being Casualty's thirtieth series as well, they're really pushing the boundaries with characters. It's a beautiful time to be on the show and an exciting time for Casualty."
It's almost two-years since Richard, 33, joined the long-running medical drama as Cal Knight, doctor Ethan Hardy's womanising brother. The love-hate storylines between Cal and Ethan (George Rainsford) have captivated fans and are still going strong.
Speaking about his time to date on the programme, Richard said: "When you first join Casualty you don't know how the audience is going to respond to your character or where the writers and producers are going to take you. I've been very fortunate the audience have liked George and I playing Ethan and Cal, and their relationship within the show. I know George feels the same – we're both very thankful to the audience for sticking with us and being on our side during the great stories written for us. I love it on Casualty. It's a lot of fun and the cast and crew are fantastic to work with."
So has life changed for the former Hollyoaks actor, given the show draws in, on average, over four million viewers a week?
Richard revealed: "George says he only gets spotted when he's with me, because he doesn't wear glasses in real life! We do tend to get spotted more now, but it's a nice thing. People are pleasant and say nice things. It's great to get good feedback."
And is there ever time he doesn't relish it?
Richard laughed: "Maybe when I'm in a bar having a few drinks and people want a picture when I'm not looking my best!"
Catch Richard in next week's explosive red button special, when Cal discovers he could be a daddy!
Casualty airs on Saturdays on BBC1. Read our red button interview with Richard here.
