The much-anticipated 40th anniversary of EastEnders promises to be a thrilling affair, with Walford bracing itself for a wave of explosive events. From a fiery blaze engulfing the Queen Vic to Denise caught in a love triangle between Jack and Ravi, the Square is abuzz with excitement. As familiar faces like Bianca Jackson and Nigel Bates make their return, the spotlight is on Ross Kemp, set to reprise his iconic role as Grant Mitchell.
Ross Kemp, known for his portrayal of the tough-as-nails Grant Mitchell, expressed his excitement about stepping back into the EastEnders universe. “I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary,” he shared. “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.”
Having first graced the EastEnders stage in 1990, Ross Kemp bid adieu to the role in 1999 after a dramatic showdown with Phil Mitchell and a departure to Brazil with his daughter, Courtney. Despite his exit, Ross has made intermittent returns to Walford, notably for the emotional send-off of his on-screen mother, Peggy Mitchell, portrayed by the late Dame Barbara Windsor in 2016.
Since his departure from the soap, Ross Kemp has ventured into hosting documentaries and taking on diverse acting roles in films and TV series. Yet, he has openly admitted to grappling with the decision to leave EastEnders, reflecting on his departure in a candid interview with The Mirror. “There have been a few moments where I’ve thought, ‘Why did I ever leave EastEnders?'” he revealed, hinting at a lingering nostalgia for his time on the show.
Fans can look forward to witnessing Ross Kemp’s return to EastEnders in February, coinciding with the show’s milestone anniversary celebrations. Although his comeback stint is set to be brief, it is expected to pack a powerful punch as Grant Mitchell reenters the tumultuous world of Albert Square. For viewers eager to catch the action, EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm, with episodes available on BBC iPlayer from 6am.
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Emotional Farewells and Intriguing Comebacks
The departure of Ross Kemp’s character, Grant Mitchell, from EastEnders in 1999 left fans reeling from the unresolved conflicts and untold stories that accompanied his exit. As one of the show’s most iconic figures, Grant’s return to Walford is a momentous occasion that promises to reignite old flames and stir up new drama. The anticipation surrounding his brief yet impactful comeback speaks to the enduring legacy of his character within the EastEnders universe.
The Evolution of Ross Kemp
Beyond his on-screen persona as Grant Mitchell, Ross Kemp’s career trajectory post-EastEnders reflects a multifaceted talent with a penchant for exploring diverse roles and projects. From delving into the realm of documentary filmmaking to tackling challenging acting gigs, Kemp’s versatility as an artist has earned him acclaim and recognition beyond the confines of soap opera stardom. His introspective musings on the decision to leave EastEnders hint at a complex tapestry of emotions and reflections that underscore the interconnectedness of his personal and professional journey.
