The cast of All Creatures Great and Small are set to return to Channel 5 for this year's Christmas special, which will see Skeldale House navigating the festive season amidst war. Ahead of the special episode, Tristan Farnon and James Herriot stars, Callum Woodhouse and Nicholas Ralph, revealed some behind-the-scenes secrets to the Mirror and other press.
The series often features characters enjoying a drink at home or in the Drovers during festive episodes. Callum revealed that the liquid used to represent alcohol has changed over time, much to his delight. He shared: "Usually in past it's been non-alcoholic Doom Bar, which, even alcoholic Doom Bar is absolutely revolting I think. Not my favourite drink, but in recent times they have started using 0% Guinness which tastes exactly like the real thing, and I love a Guiness, so that has been the best change in terms of food and drink.".
Nicholas also revealed that filming for the Christmas specials takes place in the summer, making the festive celebrations feel a bit odd during the warmer months. He said: "It's burnt sugar water [they use] for whiskey so it doesn't taste of anything but it keeps you hydrated when it's 30 degrees and you are absolutely boiling.".
"You're all decked up in hats and scarves and coats and gloves and they are handing out fans and ice lollies. Catering did put on a Christmas lunch for us, it was stunning and we were outside in the sun eating Christmas lunch and then after we had ice lollies.".
The festive special of the beloved series shines a light on Mrs Hall, portrayed by Anna Madely, as she grapples with distressing news about her son Edward. Co-star Callum lauded Anna's "masterful" portrayal in what he described as a "tough" episode, noting the challenge of capturing the Christmas spirit amidst wartime struggles.
