"BBC dismisses claims that Grange Hill set is returning after 17 years, but promises a new look"

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The beloved school drama, which drew in millions of viewers, is reportedly slated for a reboot. However, it may have a fresh look and approach, focusing on themes that resonate with today’s Gen Alpha audience.

The BBC has dismissed reports that Grange Hill will return after a 17-year hiatus.

The broadcaster spoke out following claims from TV insiders that the show was set for a revival, albeit one that would “feel different.” The iconic series, set in a secondary school, entertained millions from 1978 to 2008, with generations of viewers growing up alongside characters like ‘Tucker’ Jenkins and Zammo.

Fans hoping for a nostalgic trip back to school were warned they might be disappointed. During its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, Grange Hill gained widespread acclaim for tackling tough storylines, including heroin addiction and knife crime.

The characters resonated with audiences who could relate to the challenges of school life. One of the most memorable was Peter ‘Tucker’ Jenkins, who even got his own spin-off, Tucker’s Luck, before actor Todd Carty went on to play Mark Fowler in EastEnders.

The BBC has now denied claims that Grange Hill will return with updated storylines aimed at today’s Gen Alpha audience. A spokesperson stated: “This story is not true. Grange Hill is not returning to the BBC.”

“Grange Hill is widely seen as a show that reflected the era it was made in, given the subjects it explored,” a TV insider told The Sun.

“However, there is still a belief that it could be reimagined to tackle issues relevant to today’s youth—such as trans rights and online trolling. Many of these topics weren’t concerns when Grange Hill originally aired, so any reboot would likely have a very different look and feel.”

Grange Hill creator Phil Redmond went on to create the Channel 4 soaps Brookside and Hollyoaks.

Former Grange Hill cast members have experienced a mix of highs and lows since their time on the show.

Some have sadly passed away, others have faced homelessness, and one ended up in jail. On the brighter side, some have found success in film, while another now runs a casino.

Your Daily Star has previously revisited the former cast, exploring where they are now and what they’ve been up to since the final school bell rang.

Meanwhile, Grange Hill’s Lee MacDonald has dedicated himself to awareness campaigns after surviving two serious cancer scares within 18 months.

Lee urged both men and women to get their skin checked, saying: “If you notice something, please get it examined.”