Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk Olly said: “I don’t think he’s aware that Stevie was up for that role, and I don’t think he feels anything about it. The audience are aware of that, but Flynn’s not aware of that. Flynn just comes in and is the best guy for the job. He’s absolutely the best guy for the job.
Olly Rix has hinted that all may not be as it seems with another new addition to Casualty (Image: BBC)
“As much as Russell might want to say, ‘I put my neck on the line backing you for this’ it’s not nepotism. He’s the best that I think they could hire.
“His father in law holds it over his head in a very different way. But I think that’s that’s telling about his character more than anything.
“Their relationship is a difficult one. They do not like each other, and you can’t believe everything Russell says,” Olly teased.
Although his appointment to the senior role may have been somewhat controversial Olly is confident that both Holby ED staff and viewers will grow to love Flynn.
Robert Bathurst plays Russell Whitelaw in Casualty (Image: BBC)
I think maybe people come round to being on his side. Flynn really becomes the centre of this world, like it can’t function without him.
“And he really goes to bat for his team. He’s very much on their side. He’s very protective of them against the bureaucracy and the red tape and the funding decisions and everything else. His staff come far ahead of that.
“I think there’s a lovely clash at the beginning, a clash of worlds when he comes crashing into it, but he’s so on their side, and so for them by the end of it, and I think they champion him as much as he champions them.
“So there might be an initial shock. It might feel a bit like cold water has been thrown in your face, but hopefully by the end of the series the audience will be in a very different position,” he said.
Casualty is on BBC One on Saturday nights. Previous episodes are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.