Shipton was one of the show’s original cast members when it launched in 1986, appearing alongside series stalwart Derek Thompson, who plays long-serving nurse Charlie Fairhead.
Although she left the show in 2003, the actress returned for a two-part special in 2006 and made a second brief return last year for a storyline which saw Charlie’s life hanging in the balance following a heart attack.
In her latest appearance it’ll be revealed that Duffy left her husband and children in New Zealand and has been working as an agency nurse in the the obstetrics and gynaecology department. She’ll then return to the show permanently in August.
Commenting on her homecoming, Shipton said: “After returning last year for episodes one and two of series 30, many asked if Duffy was sticking around long-term and I replied ‘the door is wonderfully wide open!’.
“Well the response was so positive that I’ve stepped right through and am thrilled to be back on the show.
“The future looks very exciting for Duffy both professionally and personally, and I am equally excited to be working with such a talented and creative team of actors, writers, directors and producers.”
Executive Producer, Oliver Kent, added: “All of us at Casualty are incredibly excited that the fabulous Cathy Shipton has agreed to bring Duffy back to the Emergency Department.
“We know that our viewers loved her brief return last year and now it’s completely thrilling to have her with us full-time. The dream team of Charlie and Duffy are back together again.”
