Waterloo Road fan-favorite Jason Merrells (Happy Valley, Emmerdale) is set to return to the beloved drama in a guest role for its upcoming series, premiering on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this February. Merrells will reprise his iconic role as Jack Rimmer, the no-nonsense headteacher from the show’s very first series. This announcement follows the recent news of Lindsey Coulson joining the Greater Manchester-based series as Dame Stella Drake, the new headteacher succeeding Steve Savage, previously played by Jason Manford.
Jack Rimmer, remembered for his strong leadership and charismatic personality, was a steadying influence during some of Waterloo Road’s most challenging early years, though not without his share of personal drama. Last seen in season three when he left to take a headteacher position in Dubai, Jack now returns to the show in a new capacity—as a counsellor. Having moved back to Manchester, he is no longer in education but is poised to offer his insights and experience.
Reflecting on his return, Jason Merrells shared:
“I left the original Waterloo Road in 2006 with incredibly fond memories of building a character within such a strong ensemble and with such meaningful storytelling. Seeing renewed interest in the show from a new generation—who weren’t even born when the original aired—has been both surprising and heartwarming.
“Jack Rimmer is probably my favorite long-running character I’ve portrayed on television. Returning to explore who Jack has become over the years has been an absolute joy. While it’s a different building now, the same ethos, drama, humor, and integrity remain—it felt like coming home.”
Cameron Roach, Founder of Rope Ladder Fiction and Executive Producer for Waterloo Road, added:
“The idea of Jason reprising Jack Rimmer has always thrilled our writing team, and seeing it come to life has been explosive. We know the original fans will be ecstatic about Jack’s return, while new viewers will love the fresh storylines his character brings. Jason’s presence has been a delight for the cast and crew, and we’re confident audiences will feel the same.”
In the new series, viewers will see Dame Stella Drake turn to Jack for help during her tumultuous first weeks as headteacher at Waterloo Road. Whether Jack’s advice can help her navigate the challenges ahead remains to be seen.
Jason Merrells’ return adds to the growing list of original cast members who have made their way back to Waterloo Road since its revival. Other returning stars include Katie Griffiths (Chlo Charles), Chelsee Healey (Janeece Bryant), Jamie Glover (Andrew Treneman), Lauren Drummond (Mika Grainger), Angela Griffin (Kim Campbell), and Adam Thomas (Donte Charles), who continues as a lead character in the rebooted series.
Waterloo Road is produced by Rope Ladder Fiction and Wall to Wall North for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Executive producers include Cameron Roach for Rope Ladder Fiction, Leanne Klein for Wall to Wall, and Gaynor Holmes and Jo McClellan for the BBC.
Catch Waterloo Road on BBC iPlayer and add it to your Watchlist now!
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