Doctors star Elisabeth Dermot Walsh reveals cast are "devastated" over axe news
Doctors star Elisabeth Dermot Walsh has spoken out after the soap was axed by the BBC after 23 years on air.
Speaking to Good Morning Britain, Walsh, who has played the role of Dr. Zara Carmichael since 2009, said the cast are "devastated" over the decision to end the show.
"We are reeling, we are devastated. It has come as an extreme blow," she said (via The Mirror). "We are such a close community working on Doctors, we really are family. We were absolutely assured that it's nothing to do with ratings.
Related: Doctors kill off longstanding character after 14 years in shocking twist
"We have such a loyal audience. I see people every day who really love the show. They don't all love Zara, but that's okay, I'll take that as a compliment. We really need to rally because we still have six months of filming."
Walsh's comments echo that of a post on the show's official Facebook account, which denied reports that the soap's axing was anything to do with ratings.
"It is sad news that Doctors will come to an end in December 2024; however, we would like to clarify that the decision to cancel the show is not based on low figures, as we have consistently enjoyed a strong viewership, and we are deeply grateful for the enduring support of our dedicated audience," the post read.
"We are proud of the incredible work by the cast and crew over the 23 years that the audience has come to know and love."
Related: Doctors star Jan Pearson explains Karen Hollins' shock death storyline
Since the news of the soap's axing broke earlier this week, fans have launched a petition urging the BBC to "reconsider this decision", saying that Doctors "holds significant sentimental value for many viewers".
In its official statement, the BBC blamed financing issues for the decision to end the long-running soap.
The decision has since been criticised by both the Writers' Guild of Great Britain (WGGB) and performing arts and entertainment trade union Equity, due to the soap's reputation for giving new writers and actors their first break in the industry.
Doctors airs on BBC One.
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