The Bill is one of Britain’s most iconic shows, with the long-running ITV drama lasting for 27 years. The show served as a springboard for some of the country’s best-known actors, with the stars often beginning their careers with bit roles on the drama.
Even though the show ended 16 years ago, fans still fondly remember the characters who worked at the fictional Sun Hill police station, and regularly tune into repeats that are screened throughout the year.
But what happened to the stars who made their name on the show? Join HELLO! as look at their time on The Bill, and the transformations they’ve undergone since departing the programme…
© Alamy / GettyGraham appeared in over 1,000 episodes
Graham Cole
Graham Cole might be one of the faces of The Bill, with the star appearing in more episodes than any other cast member, with his total being 1,202! The star played PC Tony Stamp, initially a recurring role, appearing in the serial from 1984 up until 2009. During his time on the show, Graham’s character was key to several storylines, including accidentally killing a pedestrian and being accused of sexually assaulting a minor.
Following the show, Graham has gone on to appear in the likes of Evil Never Dies, 23 Walks and Holby City.
Trudie left the show in 2007
Trudie Goodwin
Trudie broke records when she appeared on The Bill, holding the record for the longest time an actor had portrayed a police officer. Trudie, who played June Ackland, appeared in the show’s pilot episode, broadcast back in 1983, and remained with the show until departing in 2007. During her time on the show, June was promoted from a WPC all the way to the rank of sergeant.
Trudie’s biggest role after appearing in The Bill was as Georgina Sharma in Emmerdale, but she has also appeared in the likes of Heartbeat and Doctors. The actress is also the mother to singer Elly Jackson, better known by her stage name, La Roux.
© Alamy / GettyMark was the original face of the show
Mark Wingett
Mark was the star of The Bill’s pilot episode, with the actor playing Jim Carver between 1983 and 2005, appearing in 780 episodes. During his time on the show, Jim faced storylines like alcoholism, domestic abuse and a gambling addiction. The star briefly returned to the show in 2007 for Trudie Goodwin’s exit scenes.
Mark has since appeared in Missing, Hollyoaks, Vera and Call the Midwife.
© Alamy / Getty ImagesChristopher also appeared in the show’s spin-off
Christopher Ellison
Christopher appeared in The Bill for 16 years, playing DCI Frank Burnside. The character was incredibly popular and following his stint on the ITV show, Christopher led a spin-off, titled Burnside, although the serial ultimately only lasted for one season.
The star has since appeared in the likes of Casualty, New Tricks, Great Expectations and The Ghosts of Borley Rectory.
© Alamy / GettySimon was still on the show when it ended
Simon Rouse
Simon joined The Bill in 1992, playing Superintendent Jack Meadows, and he remained on the show until its final episode in 2010.
While Simon is known for appearing in shows like Coronation Street, Doctors and Broadchurch, he also has an extensive stage career, performing in When We Are Married and The Bomb.
