EAGLE-EYED EastEnders viewers are certain that bosses had hinted at an iconic character’s return to the show.
The long-running BBC soap has brought back several past characters in the build-up to the 40th anniversary next year.
It comes as David Wicks’ (Michael French) imminent return to Walford has just been announced.
Originally debuting in 1993 at his father Pete’s (Peter Dean) funeral, David became a key character for the following three years.
Prior to hearing the news, fans were convinced it had been unintentionally spoiled weeks ago.
In an image shared by the show’s Instagram account, a group of show regulars can be seen posing in the Queen Vic.
Observant followers noticed the strong resemblance that one of the extras standing nearby bore to Michael French.
Among the responses online, one fan wrote: “Is that David Wicks in the background? Hope he’s coming back to steal Cindy from lan again.”
Another echoed: “Blue shirt guy behind Anna looks like David French but older. Wicksy return?”
Fans on Reddit also got in on the speculation, with one penning: “Thought they’d leaked David Wicks’ return for a second”, sharing alongside the photo.
A fellow commenter added: “He does look like him a bit haha.”
Throughout his stints in Albert Square, David – the son of soap icon Pat Butcher – became known as a notorious womaniser.
Some of his past flames include Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson) and Sam Mitchell (Daniella Westbrook).
David also embarked on an affair with Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) – his sister-in-law, married to his half-brother Ian (Adam Woodyatt).
In an infamous storyline, David also almost romanced his own daughter, Bianca (Patsy Palmer), before either of them were aware they were related.
The character returned in early 2012 for the death and funeral of his mother Pat.
THE beloved British soap has been captivating audiences for decades.
EastEnders follows the lives of the residents of Walford as they navigate love, loss, family drama, and community struggles.
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Michael French reprised the role again a year later, staying eight months before departing.
Meanwhile, David’s return comes just after Bianca made a comeback for Whitney’s (Shona McGarty) exit and aftermath.
What sort of trouble will David be getting into this time?
EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer.
