Walford fans are in for a treat as the beloved BBC soap, EastEnders, celebrates its milestone 40th anniversary with the return of a fan-favorite character and special programming dedicated to the occasion.
Linda Carter’s Return to Albert Square
Kellie Bright, who plays Linda Carter, is set to make her highly anticipated return to EastEnders on Thursday, February 13, as confirmed by Radio Times. Linda was last seen in late 2024, struggling with alcohol addiction before finally checking herself into rehab.
The Mirror reports that Linda’s last episode featured a dramatic “What If?” scenario, where she imagined the worst-case outcome if she failed to seek help. The emotional moment convinced her to enter rehab, leading to her temporary departure from the soap.
Now, Linda is back, set to receive a warm welcome from her family and friends. However, her homecoming won’t be without its challenges, as the Knights continue to deal with the fallout of Cindy Beale’s Christmas Day attack.
Ross Kemp Also Returning for Anniversary Celebrations
As part of the 40th anniversary festivities, EastEnders legend Ross Kemp will reprise his role as Grant Mitchell in a special BBC documentary, EastEnders: 40 Years On The Square.
Kemp’s return will bring nostalgia for long-time fans, as his character was a key figure in some of the soap’s most dramatic storylines. The special will reflect on four decades of EastEnders history and its iconic characters.
Exciting Anniversary Programming
In addition to Linda Carter’s return, the BBC has planned an exciting slate of programming to mark the 40th anniversary:
- A 45-minute interview special, EastEnders Revealed: The Lock In, hosted by Joe Swash, will give fans behind-the-scenes insights into the biggest recent storylines, including Cindy Beale’s attacker and Denise Fox’s love triangle with Jack Branning and Ravi Gulati.
- Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning) and Patsy Palmer (Bianca Jackson) will tease details about the upcoming live anniversary episode.
- Natalie Cassidy (Sonia Fowler), who recently announced her departure from the soap, will also appear in the special.
Joe Swash on the Anniversary Special
Swash, who played Mickey Miller, expressed his excitement about returning to EastEnders to host the special:
“It was a privilege to take another trip back to Walford to reunite with my EastEnders family ahead of the 40th anniversary.”
“I won’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil it for the viewers, but the week is full of explosive drama, and it was great to hear from the cast themselves about what we can expect.”
What’s Next for EastEnders?
With a live episode, dramatic storyline revelations, and the return of Linda Carter and Grant Mitchell, EastEnders fans have plenty to look forward to as the show celebrates four decades of drama, heartache, and unforgettable moments in Albert Square.
