Lord Michael Cashman Rejoins EastEnders After 37 Years

Wow, things are about to get seriously old school for long-time EastEnders’ fans, with Colin Russell returning to Albert Square after a whopping 37 years away.

Lord Michael Cashman starred as Colin for three years back in 1986, and now the 65-year-old politician is all set to make a shocking return.

Talk about a blast from the past, eh?

Speaking about his guest stint back in Walford, Cashman shared: “It was a real joy, indeed a privilege, to return to my old home of Albert Square.”

It is thought that Colin’s return will have big implications for long-timer Dot Branning, played by June Brown, who is one of the few familiar faces left on the Square from the 80s.

Despite originally appearing on the hit BBC One soap almost four decades ago, Michael - who is now a rep for the Labour party in parliament - became a household name after his onscreen character became the first to share a gay kiss in a British soap opera.

Speaking about his progressive role in UK television, the actor explained: “To be amongst so many friends again, and to be back in the place where 30 years ago I started an amazing journey, an amazing journey which incredibly helped to change the country, and certainly its attitude to lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

"Arguably without ‘EastEnders’ I would never have gone into politics and I would never have ended up where I am now.

"As Shakespeare would have said by returning to where it all started 'the wheel has turned full circle’, and the exquisite joy of having my scenes with the incredible June Brown was a bonus beyond anything else.”

We can’t wait to have Colin back on our screens later this year!