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'EastEnders' to return with new Albert Square mural as filming resumes

EastEnders' Albert Square has a new mural of a black woman, drawn by artist Dreph. (BBC)
EastEnders' Albert Square has a new mural of a black woman, drawn by artist Dreph. (BBC)

When EastEnders returns to screens later in the year viewers will notice an extra addition to the landscape of Albert Square as a new mural has been added.

The artwork on the side wall of the Beales' house, opposite the Queen Vic, is a portrait of a black woman intended to reflect "modern Britain".

It comes as the show has now resumed filming on the long-running BBC programme. It is currently off air due to a halt in filming new episodes because of the coronavirus.

Read more: June Brown can’t watch EastEnders due to poor vision

The mural was created by British artist Dreph who is known for his large-scale works. His You Are Enough project in 2017 saw portraits of black women painted across London as he paid tribute to his friends for their work in communities and society.

The mural has been painted by artist Dreph. (BBC/Jack Barnes)
The mural has been painted by artist Dreph. (BBC/Jack Barnes)

Dreph, real name Neequaye Dsane, commented: “The opportunity to have my art work on the set as a permanent feature, having the same impact as my work has on the streets of London, was a really exciting opportunity. I remember watching the very first EastEnders episode 3 decades ago, so I was really surprised to hear from the team!

"I’m so pleased that EastEnders has found a way to reflect modern day UK in a time when so many of us are finding ways to voice anti-racism and I’m so happy that my work will become the backdrop to future storylines in the show.”

The soap's Executive Producer Jon Sen added that the mural "reflects events taking place in the real world".

He said: "Anti-racism is something that the cast, crew and producers care passionately about at EastEnders and the show is well known for tackling social issues and celebrating diversity and inclusivity through its characters and storylines.”