Ross Kemp is making his much-anticipated return as Grant Mitchell to the iconic British soap opera EastEnders, set to air as part of the show's 40th anniversary celebrations. The beloved character, who first graced Albert Square nearly 35 years ago, has been part of the show’s rich history, and fans are thrilled to see him back on screen.
Originally introduced to audiences on February 19, 1985, EastEnders has captivated viewers with its dramatic storylines and complex characters. Kemp last portrayed Grant Mitchell during 2016 episodes, after which the character has been living abroad. His return is seen as part of the build-up to the significant anniversary, slated for early 2025, and the storyline is described by producers as likely to be explosive.
Kemp expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the ensemble, stating, “I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads toward its 40th anniversary. EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary is an absolute honour.” He hinted at his character's entrance being particularly dramatic, saying, “Grant has never been far from the action and, let’s just say, this time is no different as he certainly come back with a bang.”
The iconic Grant Mitchell character has been central to some of the most gripping narratives within the soap. Known for his tumultuous relationship with his brother Phil, portrayed by Steve McFadden, and his fraught union with ex-wife Sharon Watts, played by Letitia Dean, Grant's re-entry raises expectations for upheaval and drama. It's noteworthy how the storyline has set the stage for familial tensions, particularly since Sharon is currently dating Grant’s long-lost cousin, Teddy Mitchell.
Fans of the show will recall the infamous storyline known as “Sharongate,” where Grant discovered Sharon’s affair with Phil, leading to riveting confrontations. With the resurgence of this complicated web of relationships, observers are left pondering how Grant's comeback will impact not only Phil but also Sharon and the new dynamics introduced by Teddy. The stakes have risen dramatically with the recent reintroduction of Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), who has been absent from the show for nearly three decades.
EastEnders executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, acknowledged the excitement surrounding Kemp's return. He remarked, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell. Whilst I’m not currentlyrevealing exactly what brings Grant back to Walford, I can say his return will play asignificant part in the show’s 40th anniversary, making for truly unmissable TV.”
Throughout his time away from the show, Ross Kemp has succeeded not just as an actor but also as a respected documentary host, becoming known for his series Ross Kemp on Gangs, which highlighted various gang-related issues across the globe. His ability to portray rugged, authentic characters has endeared him to audiences, and his return to EastEnders has sparked nostalgia for long-time viewers.
Viewers will also be eager to see how Kemp’s portrayal of Grant has evolved since his last appearance, offering fresh perspectives on the character. Grant's tumultuous relationship with his family, particularly Phil, now set against the backdrop of renewed conflicts, promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Will the emotional weight of their bond, previously strained due to fights over love and loyalty, compel compassion or lead to more chaos?
Upcoming transitional events for Phil, from dealing with the fallout of his brotherly disputes to reconciling his mental health struggles, are sure to be explored as the brothers meet again. The complex layers of their relationship, punctuated by historical grievances, set the stage for high stakes as Grant returns to navigate both familial ties and the broader community dynamics within Albert Square.
With the return of such storied characters as Grant Mitchell, the ramifications of longstanding narratives are expected to be reignited, drawing viewers back to the heart of the show. Whether through shared laughter or confrontational dialogues, Kemp’s presence alone will serve to sustain fans' attention as EastEnders embarks on this anniversary milestone.
Overall, the return of Ross Kemp as Grant Mitchell hints at themes of redemption, loyalty, and family bonds—elements at the core of EastEnders' charm. The storytelling intricacies promise to deliver moments filled with tension, laughter, and deep emotional resonance, creating unmissable television once again.
Fans who have followed Grant's serialized life will find themselves revisiting multiple layers of history entwined with the very fabric of EastEnders as they witness one of the iconic characters take center stage once more. With the anniversary approaching, the excitement continues to build, with Kemp's engagement ensuring viewers will not want to miss the upcoming gripping episodes.