Walford will soon see the return of a familiar face as Vicki Fowler returns to EastEnders after more than two decades away to attend the funeral of her uncle, Martin Fowler.
In an emotional twist following Martin’s tragic death, Vicki, now played by Andor and Rain Dogs actress Alice Haig, will step back onto Albert Square. She won’t be returning alone—she’ll be joined by her new boyfriend, Ross (played by Alex Walkinshaw), and his son, Joel (played by Max Murray).
Martin Fowler’s Heartbreaking Exit
The return of Vicki comes amid heartbreak for the Fowler family. Martin Fowler, portrayed by James Bye since 2014, tragically died in Thursday’s special EastEnders 40th-anniversary live episode. Martin succumbed to a cardiac arrest after suffering crush syndrome when a metal beam was removed from his midriff following an explosion at the Queen Vic.
The devastating live broadcast saw Martin and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) trapped in the rubble before declaring their love for one another—only for tragedy to strike moments later.
Vicki Fowler’s Return: A Family Reunion Full of Drama
Alice Haig expressed her excitement about joining the long-running soap, saying: “I am so excited. I have always watched the show, and I was born in February 1985, so I’m the same age as EastEnders. It’s so cool to be playing a character like Vicki – we think we know her, but a lot has changed. I can’t wait for all the Albert Square drama ahead.”
Vicki’s return will be a shock to her sister Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) and Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), as they had no idea she had split from Spencer Moon (Christopher Parker), her former love interest. Vicki had left Walford in 2004 and had been living in Australia with Spencer ever since.
Ross, played by The Bill and Holby City actor Alex Walkinshaw, is described as a devoted family man. Walkinshaw teased upcoming drama, saying: “I am really excited as I’ve had so many friends on EastEnders throughout the years, and I always hear lovely things about it. The show is top-draw drama, and I can’t wait to get stuck in. Ross is a decent, hardworking family man who puts family first, and he is very in love with Vicki, but it’s not always plain sailing.”
Joel, Ross’s son, will also make his debut on the Square. Max Murray, who plays Joel, shared his excitement: “It’s an absolute privilege and honour to be joining such a wonderful production full of a lovely cast and crew. I’m really looking forward to introducing Joel to EastEnders viewers and telling his story.”
Vicki Fowler’s Tumultuous History on EastEnders
Vicki Fowler is one of EastEnders’ most iconic characters. Born in 1986 during a controversial teenage pregnancy storyline, Vicki is the daughter of Michelle Fowler (Susan Tully) and “Dirty” Den Watts (Leslie Grantham). Her birth sparked one of the soap’s most memorable early plotlines, cementing her place in Walford’s history.
After leaving the Square in 1995 with Michelle for a new life in the United States, Vicki returned to Walford in 2003, played by Scarlett Alice Johnson. During her time back on the Square, she had a tumultuous relationship with Spencer Moon, became pregnant, and eventually chose to have an abortion. Vicki left the Square once again in 2004, this time heading to Australia with Spencer.
What’s Next for the Fowlers?
EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw expressed his excitement over Vicki’s return and the arrival of new characters: “We’re delighted to have the very talented Alice, Alex, and Max with us. Vicki is back under the most tragic of circumstances, representing her distraught mum, Michelle, and she’s changed a lot since we last saw her. We’re excited to let viewers get reacquainted with Vicki and to introduce Ross and Joel to the Square. It won’t be long before Vicki and this new branch of the Fowler family are making waves in Walford.”
With Martin’s death sending shockwaves through the Square, Vicki’s return will undoubtedly stir up old memories and new drama. Will Sharon and Alfie be able to come to terms with Vicki’s return and her new life? And how will Ross and Joel adapt to the intense world of Albert Square?
Fans can expect emotional reunions, shocking twists, and plenty of drama as EastEnders continues its milestone 40th-anniversary celebrations.
Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes details as EastEnders continues to bring big surprises to Walford!
