Two EastEnders legends return to Albert Square for Ross Kemp’s 40th anniversary documentary
EASTENDERS legends Anita Dobson and Pam St Clement are making a shock comeback to Albert Square.
The Walford icons will return to feature in Ross Kemp’s documentary about the soap for its 40th anniversary next month.
As part of celebrations for next month’s anniversary, an hour-long, BBC One documentary special will dive into the show’s most poignant storylines from the last 40 years.
Grant Mitchell star Ross Kemp – who is also reprising his role in the soap – will delve into the show’s rich history with some of its most famous stars.
EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square will revisit some of the show’s most poignant and ground-breaking storylines, including the first kiss between two gay men on British television, Kat’s historical abuse storyline, Mark Fowler and Zack’s HIV diagnoses.
Special appearances from EastEnders legends Anita Dobson and Pam St Clement will also feature, with the original landlady taking a trip back down memory lane alongside her on-screen daughter.
Whilst looking at the impact of the show’s continued success, Ross will chat to original cast members and show stalwarts Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Cotton) and Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts).
They will reminisce on their early days in E20 and offer their thoughts on some of their favourite storylines across the past 40 years.
Ross’ trip to Albert Square is just the first of many as he has now reprised the iconic role of Grant Mitchell and will arrive back in Walford as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary in February.
Ross said: “It was a privilege to be asked to present this documentary, celebrating 40 years of EastEnders.
“During the making of it I was constantly reminded of the impact EastEnders has, not only on the cast and everyone that works on the show, but also on the audience, as well as the effect it has had culturally in the United Kingdom.
“It also gave me a wonderful opportunity to take a trip down memory lane with some of my dear friends – old and new – and celebrate this special anniversary, it was an absolute honour.”
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Coming up this year…
Ross Kemp – Kemp will reprise his role as Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.