EastEnders legend Grant Mitchell is set for a dramatic return to Albert Square, the BBC soap has announced on Wednesday (January 1).
Ross Kemp is gearing up to step back into the shoes of the iconic Grant, as EastEnders celebrates its landmark 40th anniversary. The character, a former mechanic and notorious troublemaker, was last spotted in Walford eight years ago before moving to Portugal.
Since his arrival in the Square back in 1990, Grant has been central to some of the show’s most memorable storylines, often alongside his brother Phil (played by Steve McFadden), with the duo becoming the renowned Mitchell brothers.
The Mitchell siblings have experienced their fair share of turmoil, including the loss of their much-loved mother Peggy Mitchell (portrayed by Barbara Windsor). However, it’s Phil who’s currently at the heart of a poignant plot in recent episodes, which shows him withdrawing from those close to him and exhibiting signs of depression.
EastEnders icon Ross Kemp is reprising his role as Grant Mitchell
(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
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In another surprising twist, Phil and Grant’s old mate Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) has also made an unexpected comeback, with details of his personal battles yet to unfold, reports the Manchester Evening News.
As the countdown to the February 40th anniversary episodes begins, EastEnders chiefs have confirmed that Grant will be making his way back to Walford, though they’re keeping mum about the reasons for his return. What’s promised, however, are “explosive” scenes.
Grant has been residing in Portugal since his departure in September 2016 after the demise of Peggy Mitchell. However, he’s set to make a “short stint” comeback in the New Year, reuniting with Phil and Nigel, and discovering that his ex-wife Sharon (Letitia Dean) is now seeing his long-lost cousin Teddy Mitchell (Roland Manookian).
Ross hinted at an explosive return as Grant, assuring fans of some “action” as he discussed his comeback to the soap.
Phil will be reunited with estranged brother Grant in forthcoming EastEnders scenes
(Image: BBC)
Ross expressed: “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.”
Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer of the show, also shared his excitement: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell.”
“While 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.”
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer