Holby City favourite Guy Henry - aka former CEO Henrik Hanssen - will be returning to the popular BBC1 medical drama in the New Year.
James Anderson, best known as troubled and sensitive surgeon Oliver Valentine, and Kaye Wragg, who played Estelle 'Essie' Harrison, are also set to return in new storylines set for the spring.
Fans of the show last saw Hanssen choose family over medicine when he returned to Sweden to spend time with his son and grandson. But it seems he's keen to bring his surgical brilliance back to Holby.
Talking about how he missed playing the character, Guy said: "I'm so pleased to be reunited with Mr Hanssen, he's such a weird and wonderful character to play - I've missed him! We don't know what dark acts may have befallen Henrik during his time away in Sweden but I do believe that, when he looms down the corridors of Holby once more, his wit and his scalpel will be as incisive as ever!"
James's character Oliver left Holby after struggling to come to terms with the death of his wife, fellow doctor, Tara Lo (Jing Lusi).
James said: "I'm so thrilled to be given the opportunity to bring Ollie back to Holby. There are lots of surprises in store, but one thing I can say: he's older now - wiser, even - and I can't wait to get stuck into playing this altogether more grown up Valentine to the one I left behind. Step up Oliver 2.0!"
Last seen on screen in September, Essie returns from her trip to Germany, to become a full-time nurse on Keller ward and to resume her turbulent romance with Sacha Levy (Bob Barrett).
Oliver Kent, executive producer of Holby City and Casualty, said: "This news is sure to excite Holby fans old and new and we're delighted to welcome back characters that are so loved by our viewers.
"The arrival of Henrik Hanssen and Oliver Valentine will cause waves from the boardroom to the operating theatres where new friendships will be tested as old alliances are reformed. Also with Essie's return we'll find out if Sacha finally gets his happily ever after!"
Guy, James and Kaye will begin filming in the New Year and fans will see them on-screen from early spring 2015.
Holby City continues on Tuesdays at 8pm on BBC1.
