EastEnders' Grant Mitchell 'set to return' for 40th anniversary as boss teases huge plans

EastEnders fans are buzzing with speculation that Grant Mitchell might make a dramatic return to Walford for the soap's 40th anniversary next year.

As the iconic BBC One drama prepares to celebrate a whopping four decades of gripping the nation, executive producer Chris Clenshaw has dropped some tantalising hints about old favourites making a comeback. Speaking to The Daily Star, he said: "We've got quite a few treats coming up.

"The 40th anniversary has been in the works for quite some time. It is about celebrating the history of the show. I think the nostalgic element of EastEnders means a lot."

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The reintroduction of legendary characters is expected to be at the heart of a major plot twist. Chris elaborated: "We don't bring characters back just because it gets a lovely reaction. It all depends on the story where the characters are. It has to be right for the character and come from a good story," reports the Daily Star.

Ross Kemp, who plays fan-favourite Grant Mitchell, Phil's rough-around-the-edges younger brother, is top of the list for viewers hoping for a comeback. The actor, now 59 and known for his hard-hitting documentaries, first took on the role of Grant from 1990 to 1999 and made a brief return in 2005.

Sharon Watts' former flame, was last spotted in Albert Square in 2016 during the emotional episodes surrounding Peggy Mitchell's death.

Social media is abuzz with fans predicting Kemp's return as the notorious Mitchell sibling, with one fan eagerly posting on X: "I what back on EastEnders to 40th anniversary is Max / Shirley / Carly / Grant on @bbceastenders #EastEnders."

A second chimed in: "Ross Kemp among 4 legends set for RETURN for #EastEnders 40th Anniversary in FEBRUARY 2024."

A third commented: "Mentioning Grant and Michelle having a kid foreshadowing Mark Fowler jr return or Grant and Michelle back for the 40th ! #EastEnders", while another simply shouted: "Grant", accompanied by a fingers crossed emoji.

One fan queried: "For the love of all that is holy they are putting Sharon back into a Mitchell love triangle? Just bring back Grant FFS - is he done with quiz shows? #EastEnders".