Brookside vs. Hollyoaks

Attribute	Brookside	Hollyoaks
Genre	Soap opera	Soap opera
Setting	Suburban Liverpool	Chester
Original network	Channel 4	Channel 4
First episode date	2 November 1982	23 October 1995
Number of episodes	2,922	Over 6,000

Introduction

Brookside and Hollyoaks are two popular British soap operas that have captured the hearts of viewers for many years. Both shows have their own unique attributes that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will compare the key characteristics of Brookside and Hollyoaks to see how they differ and what makes each show special.

Setting

Brookside was set in the fictional Liverpool suburb of Brookside Close, which gave the show a sense of community and familiarity. The close-knit neighborhood setting allowed for storylines to intertwine and characters to interact in a more intimate way. On the other hand, Hollyoaks is set in the fictional village of Hollyoaks, which is known for its youthful and vibrant atmosphere. The setting of Hollyoaks allows for a focus on younger characters and more contemporary storylines.

Characters

Brookside was known for its diverse and complex characters, who often faced moral dilemmas and controversial issues. Characters like the Grant family and the Corkhill family became iconic figures in British television. In contrast, Hollyoaks is known for its ever-changing cast of young and attractive characters, who often find themselves in dramatic and high-stakes situations. The show has launched the careers of many young actors and actresses.

Storylines

Brookside was known for its groundbreaking storylines that tackled social issues such as domestic violence, drug addiction, and homosexuality. The show was praised for its realistic and gritty portrayal of these topics. On the other hand, Hollyoaks is known for its fast-paced and dramatic storylines that often involve love triangles, betrayals, and shocking twists. The show is known for keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable plot twists.

Tone

Brookside was known for its dark and gritty tone, which set it apart from other soap operas at the time. The show was not afraid to tackle controversial topics and push the boundaries of what was acceptable on television. In contrast, Hollyoaks has a more light-hearted and comedic tone, with a focus on relationships and friendships. The show often incorporates humor into its storylines, making it a more lighthearted watch.

Legacy

Brookside was a trailblazer in British television, paving the way for more realistic and socially conscious storytelling in soap operas. The show was known for its bold and daring approach to storytelling, which influenced many other shows that came after it. On the other hand, Hollyoaks has become a staple of British television, known for its youthful energy and fresh approach to storytelling. The show has a dedicated fan base and continues to attract viewers of all ages.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brookside and Hollyoaks are two distinct soap operas that have made their mark on British television. While Brookside was known for its gritty realism and socially conscious storytelling, Hollyoaks has carved out its own niche with its youthful energy and dramatic storylines. Both shows have their own unique attributes that have endeared them to viewers over the years, and they continue to be beloved by fans of British television.