EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration

Letitia Dean as Sharon Watts Mitchell and Ross Kemp who plays Grant Mitchell in the BBC television programme Eastenders (Image: BBC)

EastEnders enthusiasts are speculating that Grant Mitchell might make a sensational return to Walford for the soap's 40th anniversary next year.

As the popular BBC One drama prepares to celebrate its 40-year milestone, executive producer Chris Clenshaw has dropped hints of a reunion with some old favourites, revealing: "We've got quite a few treats coming up."

"The 40th anniversary has been in the works for quite some time. It is about celebrating the history of the show. I think the nostalgic element of EastEnders means a lot", he divulged to The Daily Star.

The reintroduction of any legendary character is expected to be at the heart of a significant plot twist. Chris elaborated: "We don't bring characters back just because it gets a lovely reaction."

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"It all depends on the story where the characters are. It has to be right for the character and come from a good story.", reports the Daily Star.

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EastEnders is turning 40 (Image: BBC)

Ross Kemp, who is adored by viewers for his portrayal of Phil's younger sibling Grant Mitchell, is top of the list for a potential return. The 59 year old actor and investigative journalist first took on the role of Grant from 1990 to 1999, and then again in 2005.

The tough guy and former spouse of Sharon Watts was last spotted in Albert Square in 2016 when he came back for the poignant plotline involving Peggy Mitchell's heartbreaking departure.

Grant Mitchell has always been a fan favourite (Image: BBC/Nicky Johnston)

Social media is rife with fan theories about Kemp reprising his role as the formidable Mitchell brother Grant, with one fan posting on X: "I what back on EastEnders to 40th anniversary is Max / Shirley / Carly / Grant on @bbceastenders #EastEnders."

One fan excitedly revealed: "Ross Kemp among 4 legends set for RETURN for #EastEnders 40th Anniversary in FEBRUARY 2024."

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Another speculated: "Mentioning Grant and Michelle having a kid foreshadowing Mark Fowler jr return or Grant and Michelle back for the 40th ! #EastEnders", while another simply exclaimed: "Grant", accompanied by a fingers crossed emoji.

Ross Kemp has been making a name as a TV presenter and documentary maker (Image: Daily Mirror)

A viewer questioned: "For the love of all that is holy they are putting Sharon back into a Mitchell love triangle? Just bring back Grant FFS - is he done with quiz shows? #EastEnders".

EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration

EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration

EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration

EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration

EastEnders' Grant Mitchell rumoured to return for BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebration