Ross Kemp is set to make a return to Albert Square to mark EastEnders’ 40th anniversary. The 60-year-old actor first appeared as Grant Mitchell in 1990 and has revisited the soap multiple times over the past 35 years.
Although his last appearance was in 2016, Kemp will be reprising his role this year in what the BBC has described as an “explosive” storyline. Kemp expressed his excitement by saying, “I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show prepares for its 40th anniversary. EastEnders has always been close to my heart, so returning for such a special milestone is a true honor.”
Grant’s return comes as his brother Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) struggles with loneliness. Their childhood best friend Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) has also recently returned to the square after nearly thirty years away.
During his time away from the soap, Kemp hosted the Bafta-winning documentary series “Ross Kemp On Gangs” from 2004 to 2009. The EastEnders executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, expressed excitement about Kemp’s return, mentioning that it will be a significant part of the show’s 40th anniversary celebrations and will provide viewers with truly unmissable TV moments.