The latest installment of Casualty’s gripping boxset “Internal Affairs” — episode titled Dutch Courage — delivers everything fans love: explosive emotions, moral dilemmas, secret confessions, and the kind of high-stakes chaos that only Holby ED can deliver. From a shocking confrontation in the resus room to unexpected emotional breakthroughs, this week’s episode keeps viewers glued to their screens and gasping for breath.

Here’s our spoiler round-up of all the biggest moments, twists, and heartbreaks from the episode that everyone is talking about! 

Ethan’s Return Sparks Tension and Truth Bombs

The episode opens with Ethan Hardy making an unannounced return to the ED — and it’s safe to say, not everyone is thrilled to see him. His calm but distant demeanor hints at unfinished business, and before long, tensions rise between Ethan and Stevie Nash, who’s been holding the fort during his absence.

Their reunion, filled with unspoken resentment and professional rivalry, quickly escalates when a major trauma patient arrives. Forced to work side by side, the pair clash over treatment decisions — and in the heat of the moment, Stevie calls Ethan out for “running away when things got hard.”

Ethan, visibly shaken, fires back with a cutting line that leaves the whole team in stunned silence. It’s clear: the wounds between them are far from healed.

 Rida’s Confidence Is Tested

Meanwhile, Rida Amaan continues to find her footing as part of the Holby surgical team — but this week’s episode throws her straight into a nightmare. A patient arrives after a violent bar fight, suffering internal bleeding that only surgery can fix.

Under pressure, Rida steps up to assist, but her decision to challenge a senior surgeon’s call lands her in serious trouble. The situation spirals when her boldness almost costs the patient their life — and afterward, Rida’s confidence is shattered.

Later, in a heartbreaking quiet scene, she confides in Teddy Gowan, admitting:

“Maybe I don’t belong here. Maybe I’m not cut out for this.”

It’s one of the episode’s most human moments — a reminder of the emotional toll that comes with saving lives every day.

 The “Dutch Courage” Theme — and Its Price

True to its title, Dutch Courage explores how far people will go to mask their fear or guilt — and the consequences that follow.

One of the most striking subplots follows Jodie Whyte, who turns to alcohol to cope with a devastating mistake she made on shift last week. A few drinks quickly spiral into dangerous self-sabotage, and when a patient recognizes her from the hospital and questions her fitness to work, Jodie’s double life begins to unravel.

Her emotional breakdown in the staff locker room — where she admits she’s “tired of pretending to be okay” — is raw and unforgettable. Actress Anna Chell delivers a powerhouse performance that’s left fans reeling online.

 Charlie’s Absence Still Felt

Even though Charlie Fairhead has now officially left the show after 38 years, his presence still lingers heavily over the ED. The staff continue to struggle with his absence, and this episode makes several touching nods to his legacy.

When a new trainee nurse freezes under pressure, Stevie quietly tells her, “Charlie always said — it’s not about being fearless, it’s about doing your best even when you’re scared.”

It’s a bittersweet reminder that while the team moves forward, the heart of Holby still beats with the lessons Charlie left behind. Fans online are calling this subtle tribute “beautiful” and “perfectly done.”

 Faith’s Struggle Comes to Light

Elsewhere, Faith Cadogan faces her own emotional crossroads. After weeks of trying to convince everyone she’s fine, her façade begins to crumble when a patient’s situation mirrors her own family trauma.

She lashes out at a colleague and storms off mid-shift — only to later confess to Iain that she’s been struggling with guilt, loneliness, and a dangerous relapse into old habits. Iain’s quiet support and understanding hint at a possible rekindling of their connection — though whether that’s healthy for either of them remains uncertain.

Their late-night conversation in the ambulance bay is one of the most emotional scenes of the series so far.

 Internal Politics & Hospital Chaos

The “Internal Affairs” theme of the boxset shines through as we see growing friction between departments. Management cuts, staffing shortages, and bureaucratic red tape are making life unbearable for the ED team — and tempers are flaring.

A heated meeting between Stevie, Max, and the new surgical chief nearly turns explosive when accusations of favoritism and negligence start flying. The dialogue is sharp, realistic, and painfully reflective of real NHS struggles.

Fans praised the writers for tackling systemic issues head-on while still grounding the story in deeply human emotion.