EastEnders legend Grant Mitchell is set to return to Albert Square as part of the BBC soap's 40th-anniversary celebrations, it was confirmed on January 1.
Ross Kemp will once again take on the role of the infamous troublemaker, eight years after his character left Walford for a new life in Portugal. Since his arrival in 1990, Grant has been central to numerous iconic storylines alongside his brother Phil, played by Steve McFadden, as the notorious Mitchell brothers.
The siblings have endured their fair share of heartache, including the loss of their mother, Peggy Mitchell, played by the late Barbara Windsor. In recent episodes, Phil has been at the forefront of a poignant storyline, isolating himself from loved ones and exhibiting signs of depression.
The return of Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley, has also added to the drama, with hints of his own personal struggles yet to be revealed. As the 40th-anniversary episodes approach in February, EastEnders bosses have confirmed Grant's return to Walford, although the exact circumstances of his comeback remain under wraps, with promises of "explosive" scenes to come.
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Grant has been soaking up the sun in Portugal since his departure in September 2016 after Peggy Mitchell's passing. However, he's now slated for a dramatic "short stint" back in the New Year, set to reunite with Phil and Nigel, reports the Manchester Evening News.
He'll also be thrown for a loop when he learns his ex-wife Sharon (Letitia Dean) is romantically involved with his long-lost cousin Teddy Mitchell (Roland Manookian).
Ross, who plays the iconic Grant, hinted at an explosive return, assuring fans that there will be plenty of "action" as he discusses his comeback.
Ross said: "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, EastEnders' executive producer, added: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell."
He teased further: "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."
EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer
