EASTENDERS fans have insisted they ‘didn’t even recognise’ a soap legend – as they made a shock return.

Viewers were thrilled to see a fan favourite character revisit Walford after 26 years away.

Loveable loser Nigel Bates appeared in the BBC soap from 1992 to 1998.

He made a shock comeback in Tuesday’s (December 24) episode, with Paul Bradley reprising his classic role.

Some fans did a double take, however, as they ‘didn’t recognise’ Nigel at first.

The character looked dishevelled and had an untidy, overgrown beard.

One viewer wrote on X: “Brilliant Christmas Eve episode. I cried a lot!

“Also wasn’t prepared to see Nigel looking so frail, didn’t even recognise him at first.”

A second added: “Wait…. Nigel????? Now that’s a blast from the past!”

While a third remarked: “I wonder how many people remember Nigel Bates.”

A fourth commented: “Nigel Bates just turned up after 26 years he’s got to be 70 now.”

Yet another chimed in: “I’m more excited for Nigel in eastenders than Cindy’s affair.”

An old friend of Phil (Steve McFadden) and Grant (Ross Kemp) Mitchell, Nigel moved to Walford in the early 90s.

He ultimately left with Julie Haye (Karen Henthorn) and moved with her to Scotland alongside their respective children.

While his return comes amid Phil experiencing depression and loneliness.

Referencing Nigel’s ties to the Mitchells, a fan wrote online: “NIGEL BATES COMING BACK AND SAVING PHIL FROM HIS DEPRESSION.”

Nigel’s adoptive daughter, Clare (Gemma Bissix) had a brief return in 2008 – where it was revealed the pair had grown distant.

He also had a close friendship with late Dot Cotton (June Brown), his landlady.

What does the beloved character’s return mean going forward?

EastEnders continues on BBC One and iPlayer.