Grant Mitchell is set to make a triumphant return to EastEnders for the soap’s 40th anniversary. The BBC has formally announced Grant’s much-anticipated return, with actor Ross Kemp stepping back into the role after an eight-year absence from Walford.
Ever since his first appearance in 1990, Grant has been at the heart of some of the show’s most compelling drama and alongside his brother Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, formed the notorious Mitchell brothers duo.
The Mitchell family has faced tough times in recent years, with heartbreaking losses, relatives on the run, and incarcerations shaking their world. Currently, Phil is depicted battling loneliness and depression, manifesting through his self-imposed isolation from family and friends.
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In addition to Phil’s story, Nigel Bates, another old friend, has returned to the square, hinting at upcoming revelations about his own troubled past.
The EastEnders team has kept tight-lipped on what exactly draws Grant back to Walford as they prepare for the milestone episodes airing in February, promising “explosive” developments involving Grant, Phil, and Nigel. Since leaving the show in September 2016 following the death of his on-screen mother Peggy, Grant has been living in Portugal, reports the Mirror.
His homecoming is scheduled as a “short stint” leading up to the anniversary celebrations, although specific details regarding the timing remain under wraps.
Ross Kemp has hinted at a dramatic return to EastEnders, stirring excitement with the promise that Grant “comes back with a bang” and teasing some serious “action” on the horizon in Albert Square. He revealed: “I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary. EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary, is an absolute honour. Grant has never been far from the action and let’s just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang.”
Meanwhile, soap boss Chris Clenshaw has also shared his enthusiasm for Kemp’s comeback, assuring fans that the anniversary and Grant’s return will be “unmissable”.
He commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell. Whilst I’m not currently revealing exactly what brings Grant back to Walford, I can say that his return will play a significant part in the show’s 40th anniversary, and will makeup many moments of truly unmissable TV.”