The Casualty box set miniseries, a bold concept introduced under executive producer John S., has had a massive impact on the show. Moving away from the traditional 45-episode format, these 12-episode mini-series allowed for a tighter, more focused narrative and gave Casualty the opportunity to refresh itself. But which box sets worked best? Here’s a ranking of all the box sets, from the one that left us wanting more to the one that truly soared. 

6. In Plain Sight (2023)

Ranked as the lowest, but still impactful.

The very first box set, In Plain Sight, marked the beginning of the transition to shorter, more concise storylines. While it was a necessary stepping stone for the new format, it suffered from the awkwardness of being the first attempt at something new. The departure of George Reinford’s Ethan Hardy was the major emotional arc, along with the introduction of Max Christie, played by Nigel Harman, a casting choice that certainly drew attention due to his fame from EastEnders. Though this box set handled Hardy’s exit well, including some powerful moments like the death of nurse Robin Miller, it felt like it was still finding its feet.

5. Welcome to the War Zone (2023)

A turning point, introducing fresh faces.

The second box set of 2023, Welcome to the War Zone, was the first to truly feel like a cohesive, well-executed mini-series. The addition of new characters like Cam, Jodie, Ryan, and Rita was initially met with skepticism, but over time, they became fan favorites. The reintroduction of Donna Jackson was a highlight, bridging Hollyoaks and Casualty for a crossover that added depth to the story. Welcome to the War Zone was a fun, action-packed ride with solid drama, including the reveal that Jodie is Max Christie’s estranged daughter. It marked the start of Casualty settling into its new format and proved that mini-series could work. 

4. Public Property (2025)

A solid, but controversial mini-series.

Though Public Property is still ongoing, it has been a divisive addition. On the one hand, it’s Dylan-centric, which is a win for fans of William Beck’s powerful performances. But the shift in Jodie’s character, particularly her unprofessional actions like having an affair on the day of a patient’s wife’s funeral, has left a bad taste. This plot choice made Jodie a less sympathetic character, which many viewers struggled with. However, the series still boasts intense drama and some emotional highs, and it could still redeem itself by the time the final episodes air.

3. Driving Force (2023)

The moment Casualty found its groove.

Driving Force was where Casualty truly started to shine in the mini-series format. Focusing on Donna Jackson, it explored the consequences of her falling asleep at the wheel after back-to-back shifts, leading to a car crash. The series dived into Donna’s guilt and how it consumed her, leading to a heartbreaking confession. Driving Force also introduced powerful storylines involving Max Christie’s kidney failure and Faith’s descent into drug addiction, with Kirsty Mitchell delivering some of her best work as Faith. The inclusion of sensitive topics, like organ donation and addiction, made this box set one of the most compelling.

2. Storm Surge (2024)

A standout for character growth and suspense.

Storm Surge was an impressive entry into the series, with standout performances from Barney Walsh as Cam and Siobhan’s story about betrayal and heartbreak. The show’s pacing and focus on the aftermath of a storm and its effects on the hospital created a tense atmosphere. Walsh’s portrayal of Cam, who had been a background character before, was a highlight, with his backstory about abuse adding emotional depth to his character. The storm’s ripple effect on the department, especially the betrayal involving Siobhan’s affair, gave the show the kind of drama Casualty fans crave. The mixture of action, drama, and emotional stakes made Storm Surge a strong contender for best of the best. 

1. A History of Violence (2024)

The pinnacle of Casualty box sets.

Without a doubt, A History of Violence is the best of the box sets. The finale of Charlie Fairhead’s character arc was handled with immense respect and emotional weight, giving long-time fans a heartfelt and fitting sendoff for the character who had been with the show since 1986. The box set also gave room for other characters to shine, particularly Stevie and Max Christie, who proved to be fan favorites. A History of Violence tackled sensitive topics with grace, including themes of guilt, redemption, and personal sacrifice. With its brilliant writing, memorable performances, and the perfect blend of drama and character moments, it stands as the ultimate Casualty mini-series.

As Casualty continues to evolve, the box sets have proven to be a successful new direction, breathing new life into the show and offering fresh, engaging content for both new and returning viewers. Each of these mini-series has its highs and lows, but they have all contributed to a reinvention of one of the UK’s longest-running medical dramas.

Which box set is your favorite? Do you think the box set format is the future of Casualty?