Long-serving Jane Hazlegrove left CASUALTY last week, to much disappointment of fans. Kindly she talks to holby.tv about her exit…
After 10 years on the show, why have you decided to leave Casualty?
All good things come to an end and green really isn’t my colour!
Did Matt Bardock’s exit last year have any influence on your decision to go?
Of course I missed working with Matt but Dixie’s journey was still on-going, and so was mine.
Are you pleased about how your character has progressed over the years?
There have been ups and downs over the years but I have enjoyed every challenge.
What have been some of your most memorable storylines to play?
I have enjoyed the stories involving different paramedics over the years and especially enjoyed those when Dixie’s character took her up to, and sometimes over, her professional boundaries.
Over the years, you’ve been involved in a lot of big stunts, do you have one that particularly stands out to you?
When Jess fell down the hole in the woods I got to spend four days tethered to a post like a goat with Anna Acton and Gracie Doherty, laughing like drains!
Did you have any influence over Dixie’s exit storyline? Do you think it was important for her to have a happy ending after the recent tragedy she suffered with Jeff?
I had a little influence over Dixie’s exit. Erika Hossington and I chatted about their plans for her departure and we both came up with a few beneficial tweaks. She was adamant that Dixie was finally going to be happy and I’m grateful for that.
Jeff and Dixie’s were such an iconic pairing and had such a special bond which really captured fan’s hearts, how would you describe their relationship and why do you think their relationship was so endearing to viewers?
They were the Jack and Vera of Holby, both brilliant at their jobs, both aware of the ridiculousness of life. I think people relate to that.
What will you miss most about working on Casualty?
The catering. And the witty repartee in the actors’ corridor….
What was your last day on Set like? Did you have a leaving party/ get any nice leaving gifts?
Emotional of course. There were a few tears but loads of laughter. I got to see Michael Stevenson’s arse and they gave me some special pressies.
Who do you hope to keep in touch with from the cast now that you have left?
Everybody, but especially the crew.
You did a lot of theatre work prior to working on Casualty, is this something you would like to return to?
I’d love to go back on the stage.
You also recently turned your hand at directing and producing for a short film Snap, would you like to do more behind the camera in future?
Possibly. There’s a whole world of opportunity out there.
Finally, do you have a message for fans of holby.tv who have supported you through your time on the show?
Thank you all. It’s been a blast. And I hope you all continue to enjoy Casualty for another thirty years!
