SOAP legend Ross Kemp is returning to EastEnders as Grant Mitchell for EastEnders’ 40th anniversary.
The actor will make a bombshell comeback to the Square in the new year, nine years after his last appearance.
Confirming his return, Ross Kemp 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, Executive Producer added: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell.
“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 make up many moments of truly unmissable TV.”
Grant was last seen in 2016 when he returned from mum Peggy Mitchell’s funeral.
His return comes as his brother Phil has been secretly struggling with his mental health in dark scenes.
Viewers have watched as Phil has been living in squalor alone after pushing his family and friends away – and in one worrying scene he was tempted by booze after years of sobriety.
However a chance meeting with old pal Nigel Bates who has fallen on hard times has seen Phil find a friend to help and confide in.
But with ex Sharon moving on with his cousin Teddy Mitchell, Grant’s return is set to be explosive.
The Sun’s Soaps Editor Carl Greenwood reveals why Ross Kemp’s comeback is the one everyone was waiting for
EASTENDERS has been spoiling us with returns in the run up to its 40th anniversary in February – but this is the one everyone was waiting for.
No disrespect to some of the other stars who have made comebacks but Ross Kemp is the one everyone wanted back.
Grant’s been at the centre of some of EastEnders most iconic moments including the explosive Sharongate reveal.
The brotherly betrayal ended in a punch-up between Phil and Grant and years of fights.
And Grant even got his own back on Sharon by bedding her best friend Michelle and fathering son Mark Fowler Jr.
His next relationship with Tiffany was filled with affairs, rows and violence – and her death while trying to flee from him with daughter Courtney.
No-one was safe from Grant and he even bedded Ian Beale’s wife Jane during his 2006 comeback.
Grant’s return is going to be explosive and boost the show like no other return could do.
There are new Mitchells in the Square and Phil is struggling more than ever before.
So if anyone can save him, it’s going to be Grant.
Now all they need to do is tempt Kim Medcalf back as Sam Mitchell and the siblings can be properly reunited…
And then we can talk properly about Ronnie and Roxy and that silly mistake in killing them off…
A source said: “Grant is one of EastEnders most iconic characters so it’s great to have him back as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary milestone.
“Grant will be back in Walford for a short stint, but it’s definitely going to be explosive.”
