In this episode of Soap Scoop, we catch up with Elisabeth Dermot Walsh, best known for her unforgettable 15-year role as Dr. Zara Carmichael in Doctors. Elisabeth opens up about life after the long-running soap, her fondest memories on set, and the powerful connection fans still feel with the show.

She also gives us a fascinating glimpse into her brand-new stage role in The Party Girls, a gripping and dramatic play based on the notorious Mitford sisters. From glamorous aristocratic scandals to political extremism and activism, Elisabeth shares why this return to theatre after 17 years is both exciting and daunting.

💬 Expect laughter, nostalgia, behind-the-scenes secrets, and a deep dive into the enduring importance of soaps in British television.

🎭 Plus — you can still book tickets to see Elisabeth in The Party Girls, head to https://showtours.co.uk/the-party-girls-tour-dates/

⏱️ Chapter List

00:00 – Introduction & Welcome to Elisabeth Dermot Walsh
00:18 – Life after Doctors: adjusting after 15 years as Zara Carmichael
01:30 – Fan reactions and why the show still resonates
02:31 – Favourite storylines & Doctors’ memorable finale
03:22 – What would the Mill Health Centre be up to now?
04:20 – Onscreen medicine vs. real-life skills
04:46 – Behind-the-scenes secrets & memories from set
05:46 – Recent reunions with Doctors co-stars
06:37 – Winning the Inside Soap Outstanding Achievement Award
08:10 – Why Doctors launched so many careers
09:36 – Why soaps matter: storytelling, community & representation
10:36 – Introducing The Party Girls and the Mitford sisters
11:11 – Playing Diana Mitford: glamour, scandal & controversy
12:19 – The darker side: fascism, obsession & family division
12:47 – Jessica Mitford: communism, civil rights & activism
13:49 – Returning to theatre after 17 years
14:26 – Dream future roles and transformations
15:13 – Why The Party Girls is funny, romantic & gripping

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