EASTENDERS’ legend Ross Kemp is to reprise his role in the soap as hardman Grant Mitchell.
The 61-year-old, who made a brief comeback last year for the show’s 40th anniversary, is rejoining for several months and is already filming.
Grant returns to Albert Square to meet his estranged son Mark, played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple.
His arrival in Walford, which will air in spring, also coincides with pal Nigel Bates’ deteriorating health from dementia.
A telly source said: “Ross will always hold the character of Grant dear to his heart and loved his brief return last year. This time his stint will be for a few months so he can really get his teeth into the storyline.
“It’s going to be hugely exciting for fans of the soap.
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“Ross is really excited to get back in the saddle. Details of his storyline are being kept hush-hush but viewers can expect explosive drama.”
Ross told The Sun on Sunday: “I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders.
“As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life.”
EastEnders’ executive producer Ben Wadey added: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross back once more to the legendary role of Grant.
“The Mitchells remain one of EastEnders’ defining dynasties, and we can’t wait to see them reunited again. As always when Grant is around, drama inevitably follows him.”
Ross joined EastEnders in 1990 and left in 1999. Grant has returned several times since.
The actor also makes documentaries.
In 2020, he made a two-part show for ITV called Ross Kemp: Living with Dementia.
In it, he spoke about the impact of the disease on Barbara Windsor, who died the same year.
She played his mum Peggy in the soap.
Ross also presented the documentary EastEnders: 40 Years on the Square last year
