Ross Kemp is set to return to Albert Square as part of the 40th-anniversary celebrations for EastEnders, marking a thrilling moment for the iconic soap opera.
The 60-year-old actor first graced the show as Grant Mitchell in 1990, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Over the last 35 years, Kemp has reprised the role multiple times, cementing Grant’s status as a cornerstone of EastEnders. His last appearance was in 2016, and now, his return promises an “explosive” storyline, as teased by the BBC. Fans are eagerly anticipating Kemp’s comeback, which coincides with the milestone anniversary of the long-running series.
Expressing his excitement, Kemp shared: “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.”
The actor hinted at high drama upon his character’s reappearance, adding, “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.” His words suggest that viewers are in for a captivating storyline involving the fiery Mitchell brother.
Grant’s return comes as his brother Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, grapples with loneliness, setting the stage for a deeply emotional reunion. Adding to the drama, the brothers’ childhood friend Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) has also recently returned to Walford after nearly 30 years.
Their intertwined histories are sure to provide rich material for compelling episodes. The reintroduction of these beloved characters highlights the show’s knack for blending nostalgia with fresh drama, a formula that has kept EastEnders relevant for decades.
Complicating matters further is the involvement of Grant’s ex-wife Sharon (Letitia Dean), whose romantic history with the Mitchell brothers has long been a source of explosive drama. Sharon, who famously had an affair with Phil during her marriage to Grant in the early 1990s, is now dating Grant’s long-lost cousin, Teddy Mitchell.
The storyline, nicknamed “Sharongate,” remains one of the soap’s most iconic moments and adds a tantalizing layer of tension to Grant’s return. Viewers can expect sparks to fly as old wounds are reopened and new conflicts emerge.
Throughout his time on EastEnders, Grant Mitchell has been at the heart of some of the soap’s most memorable storylines. His turbulent marriage to Tiffany Mitchell (Martine McCutcheon) and his involvement in gripping plots like Peggy Mitchell’s farewell in 2016 have left an indelible mark on fans.
Grant’s original departure in 1999, following a dramatic altercation with Phil, saw him leave for a new life in Brazil with his daughter Courtney. His returns in the 2000s were equally impactful, featuring high-stakes storylines involving gangland feuds and forbidden affairs.
Outside of EastEnders, Ross Kemp has made a name for himself as a documentary presenter, winning a Bafta for his groundbreaking series Ross Kemp On Gangs. From 2004 to 2009, Kemp explored hard-hitting topics, later expanding into series like Ross Kemp In Afghanistan and Ross Kemp In Search of Pirates.
These projects showcased Kemp’s versatility as an actor and presenter, broadening his appeal beyond the soap opera world. His return to EastEnders brings his career full circle, rekindling the role that made him a household name.
Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer of EastEnders, expressed his enthusiasm for Kemp’s comeback, saying, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell. While I’m not 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 deliver truly unmissable television.” With Kemp’s return, the stage is set for unforgettable drama, ensuring that the 40th anniversary of EastEnders will be a celebration to remember.
