Mike Dixon (Brookside)


Michael "Mike" Dixon is a fictional character played by Paul Byatt from 1990 until the end of the series in 2003. He was the eldest son of Ron and "DD" Dixon, and the brother of Tony and Jacqui.
Mike was involved in two major storylines in 1993, the most significant of which was his relationship with stepmother Bev McLoughlin that resulted in the birth of their son Josh, who was originally believed to have been his brother. This resulted in the break-up of his father and stepmother's relationship.
1993 was also the year that Mike's younger brother Tony was left in a coma after a car crash which claimed the life of neighbour Frank Rogers in November. Tony died three months later having never regained full consciousness, and at the funeral Jimmy Corkhill confessed that he was the driver of the other car which had caused Frank's car to crash.
Mike later married Rachel Jordache and their daughter Beth was born in early 2000. But another tragedy struck in December that year when Mike was badly injured in a car crash involving a stolen car being driven by Tim O'Leary. Clint Moffat suffered a broken arm in the collision, while Robbie Moffat and Tim fled the scene uninjured. Mike had suffered a major spinal injury and used a wheelchair for six months after the crash, and even after leaving his wheelchair he spent several more months on crutches.
Mike's father Ron received a nine-month prison sentence for firearms offences in December 2001, and by the time Mike left the Close in 2003 he was rarely featured in significant storylines.
Mike later landed a job at Brookside Comprehensive as a teacher. After splitting up with Rachel, he witnessed the birth of his son, Michael Jr.
When Ron and Bev became engaged, Josh asked Ron if he would adopt him. Ron was flattered by the offer and agreed. Ron and Bev then got a solicitor to finalise the arrangements. Mike however refused to give his permission, preventing the adoption from taking place.