Ross Kemp to return as Grant Mitchell for cleaning soap’s fortieth anniversary
Actor Ross Kemp is to return to Albert Sq. as EastEnders prepares to rejoice its fortieth anniversary.
His character Grant Mitchell first appeared within the TV cleaning soap nearly 35 years in the past, and was final seen on display in 2016.
In a press release, Kemp mentioned he was “delighted to be returning” to the BBC programme.
“EastEnders has all the time meant a lot to me, so to return because the present is about to rejoice such a particular anniversary is an absolute honour,” he added.
The TV cleaning soap first aired on BBC One on 19 February 1985.
Producers mentioned Kemp would return within the New Yr for a “brief stint” and would “play a big half within the present’s fortieth anniversary”.
Particulars of his new storyline and the circumstances of his return haven’t been revealed, however the BBC mentioned “there’s certain to be drama”.
In latest weeks, viewers have watched his brother Phil Mitchell (performed by Steve McFadden) wrestle, whereas Grant’s estranged finest buddy Nigel has returned to the sq.. In the meantime, Grant’s ex-wife Sharon is now courting his lengthy misplaced cousin Teddy Mitchell.
Kemp commented: “Grant has by no means been removed from the motion and let’s simply say, this time is not any totally different as he definitely comes again with a bang.”
Grant Mitchell first appeared in Walford in 1990, however has been dwelling in Portugal since his final episode practically a decade in the past.
EastEnders govt producer Chris Clenshaw mentioned he was “completely thrilled” to welcome Kemp again, describing Grant as a “legendary position”.
“While I am not at the moment revealing precisely what brings Grant again to Walford, I can say that his return will play a big half within the present’s fortieth anniversary, and can make up many moments of actually unmissable TV.”
Kemp’s return follows that of Paul Bradley, who performed Nigel Bates, who returned to the present simply earlier than Christmas, greater than 25 years since his final look.
Actress Tracy-Ann Oberman additionally returned to the collection in 2024, together with her character Chrissie Watts reappearing after practically 20 years away.
In recent times, Kemp has been internet hosting hit daytime sport present Bridge of Lies. He has additionally carved out a profession fronting documentaries, usually about harmful locations and other people, most not too long ago Sky Historical past’s Mafia and Britain.
