Shane Richie's EastEnders return

Shane Richie is set to reprise his role as Alfie Moon in 'EastEnders'.

The 58-year-old actor's alter-ego first joined the soap in 2002 and made his last appearance in Walford in 2019 and Shane can't wait to return to the soap.

He said: "It's an absolute honour and privilege to be asked back to my TV home of Albert Square.

"I'm looking forward to catching up with some old castmates and meeting some new ones.

"The new executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, has been instrumental in wanting to bring Alfie Moon back with some wonderful storylines... and who am I to say no?! I can't wait."

Chris added: "Shane Richie created one of the most iconic, loveable and most memorable characters in soap, and to welcome him back to Walford is an absolute pleasure.

"A lot's happened since Alfie's been away from the Square, but wherever his floral shirts go you can expect fun, frolics and, of course, the odd porky-pie. We're over the moon to have him home."

And Shane's return is set to be good news for co-star Jessie Wallace, as Alfie's on/off relationship with Jessie's Kat Slater is one of 'EastEnders' most iconic partnerships.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "It secures the future of Jessie as Kat, because together they deliver one of EastEnders most captivating love stories.

"Having them on the cast is seen as a dynamite combination that might get more diehard fans tuning in again.

"Losing Jessie would have been a disaster for producers who are pinning a lot on new storylines they’re going to be at the centre of."

Jessie recently received a conditional caution after she was arrested last month on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and drunk and disorderly conduct, and the show's producers told her such behaviour is "unacceptable".

Jessie was released without charge after accepting the caution and her role on the show is safe.