Maddy Young - Creation

Creation

Maddy was created by Holby City's executive producer Tony McHale as an SHO level doctor who would work on the hospital's Acute Assessment Unit. The character was conceived alongside fellow series 9 newcomer Dan Clifford (Peter Wingfield), who arrived as the new General Surgical Consultant of the hospital's Keller Ward, in episode "It's Been a Long Day" - eight weeks before the introduction of Maddy. BBC Publicity explained at the time: "Maddy is good friends with Clifford (Peter Wingfield) and has saved him from trouble on a few occasions". In the closing credits of the character's first two appearances - episodes "Face Value" and "Feast or Famine" - her name was given as "Maddie Young". In every subsequent episode, the character has been credited by the altered spelling of "Maddy Young".

On 4 October 2006, it was announced that actress Nadine Lewington had been cast in the role of Maddy. Lewington had made a previous appearance in series 20, episode 22 of Holby City's sister show Casualty. Lewington recalls of her role: "I was a young married mum of one with another on the way. I loved my little bump. My reckless hubbie had had a motorbike accident, in which a baby was injured, after promising to give the bikes up. I threatened to leave him, Charlie Fairhead gave him what for and told him how lucky he was to have me and he promised to be model father after all. Happily ever after. It was a really sweet little story actually. Very touching".

On joining the cast of Holby City, Lewington commented: "I've been on cloud nine since receiving that all-important phone call. My parents are surprised to suddenly have a doctor in the family but are thrilled nonetheless! I'm just really looking forward to being part of an incredible cast in such a successful show – I can't wait!" A spokesperson for BBC Publicity added: "We are delighted to have Nadine on board to play the part of Maddy, she's a great addition to the show and her character will be involved in some dramatic storylines." Discussing her casting a year into her time on the show, Lewington assessed: "I enjoy it more as I wade through the years. As with any ensemble work, the more time spent as a team, working together and discovering each others rhythms, dynamics and struggles, the better. And because of that, more fun. I certainly feel more settled and confident. Part of something. It was all a bit daunting for a while."