EastEnders fans have been buzzing with anticipation following reports of yet another beloved character’s comeback to the BBC soap.

It has been hinted that Stuart Highway, portrayed by Ricky Champ, is set to make his return to Walford for a short-term appearance later this year, after departing the Square in August 2022.

Whilst Stuart’s sibling Callum (Tony Clay) remains a Walford resident, the exact circumstances surrounding Stuart’s homecoming to Albert Square remain shrouded in mystery.

Viewers last witnessed him departing to begin afresh with Rainie (Tanya Franks) and their little boy Roland, after enduring several tumultuous years in the capital.

The prospect of Stuart’s return has naturally thrilled EastEnders devotees, given his reputation for stirring up trouble and his complicated past with various Square inhabitants, notably Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) and Jay Brown (Jamie Borthwick).

“Yes, loved Stuart and Rainie! Would love her to come back too #EastEnders,” penned one devoted viewer on X, whilst another gushed: “Best news in ages love @RickyChamp1 as Stuart, my fav character in #Eastenders ever!”, reports OK!.

A third fan declared: “Really glad it’s been confirmed that @RickyChamp1 is returning to #EastEnders as Stuart. can’t wait to see what his storyline will be.”

Meanwhile, another supporter enthused: “VERY excited about this. Ricky Champ is absolutely brilliant and i think the square is desperately needing some Stuart Highway chaos.”

Viewers have been speculating wildly about Stuart’s comeback plot, with many pondering whether it centres around his brother Callum, or if his return is linked to Max Branning’s (Jake Wood) comeback alongside his granddaughter Abi, whom Stuart previously cared for with Rainie.

“My guess is it’s nothing to do with Callum – Stuart is coming for Max, to either drop off or pick up Abbie junior #EastEnders,” one viewer theorised.

“So far I can only think of two things that would bring him back. – a family related emergency involving Callum or Nana Highway – He comes back with Raini or he comes back alone for Abi Junior when she comes back with Max. #Eastenders,” another speculated.

One fan even suggested a more dramatic twist, wondering: “Definitely wonder the storyline.. perhaps he’s found Mick.. that would be interesting lol.”

Ricky stepped into Stuart’s shoes back in 2018. The character initially arrived as an antagonist, clashing with various Albert Square residents, particularly Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden).

He later experienced a transformation storyline, eventually winning over soap enthusiasts.