AS EASTENDERS marks its 40th anniversary, Ross Kemp has returned to Albert Square to reprise his iconic role as Grant Mitchell, stirring nostalgia for one of the soap’s most legendary bad boys.
While reflecting on his time in Walford, the actor made a surprising confession about how he used to manipulate his way into scenes he hadn’t even been scripted for.
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show ahead of his highly anticipated return, Ross discussed EastEnders’ ability to tackle hard-hitting social issues.
He shared: “Being back reminded me of the impact the show had on serious subject matters like HIV, child pregnancy and domestic violence.
“I am very proud of what it has achieved over the years.”
But his time on the soap wasn’t all high drama – there was a bit of cheeky scheming going on behind the scenes as well.
When asked about the importance of EastEnders’ famous ‘duff duff’ cliffhanger endings, Ross admitted: “I didn’t really care about getting them but I did care about inserting myself into scripts I hadn’t been written into so I could get paid more, so you’d often see me popping up at the bar in a scene and ordering a pint!”
Grant Mitchell was a central character in EastEnders, who constantly stirred up drama with his fiery temper, criminal tendencies, and explosive relationship with Sharon Watts.
His turbulent marriage to Sharon (Letitia Dean) remains one of the most memorable storylines in British soap history.
It culminated in the infamous Sharongate scandal, where Grant publicly played a tape of Sharon confessing to her affair with his brother, Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden).
The fallout led to one of the biggest confrontations in the show’s history, with Grant leaving Phil beaten and unconscious.
Now, decades later, Grant is back to help Phil in his time of need.
Peggy Mitchell returns in dark and harrowing EastEnders as Phil faces his demons
His return is bound to stir old emotions, particularly when it comes to Sharon.
Ross teased that his character has never truly moved on, admitting: “Grant will always harbour feelings for Sharon.
“He’s secretly in love with her, and I think he believes they are meant to be together, it’s just that Phil keeps getting in the way!”
