EastEnders favourite Charlie Brooks has hinted that she could be returning to Albert Square, teasing that fans may not have seen the last of her iconic alter ego Janine Butcher.
Brooks, who last appeared on the BBC soap in December 2022, addressed the possibility of a comeback during an appearance on Good Morning Britain, where the conversation turned to Janine's prison sentence.
Reporter Richard Arnold remarked that the character is due to be released from prison in "about a year", prompting presenter Susanna Reid to joke: "OK! Out in about a year… sounds like Richard knows about the future script."
Arnold then suggested Janine could be released sooner, saying: "Well you could get out earlier, you never know." Smiling, Brooks replied: "You will have to see."
When asked directly whether a return to EastEnders could be on the cards, the actress admitted she would happily reprise the role.
"I get asked this question all the time. I love Janine, I love playing her, she's a wonderful character, I always get blessed with such great storylines," she said.
"So who knows? It's always a home away from home at EastEnders."
Charlie Brooks. Featureflash Photo Agency, Shutterstock
Brooks also joked that Janine has a habit of escaping difficult situations, adding that although the character "should have a proper comeuppance," she always seems to find a way out.
First introduced in 1999, Janine Butcher has become one of the most notorious villains in EastEnders history. Over the years she has been involved in some of the soap's biggest storylines, including the deaths of multiple husbands, elaborate scams and countless betrayals that have made her one of Walford's most unforgettable residents.
Her most recent exit came after a dramatic car crash involving Linda Carter, which ultimately led to the presumed death of Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer, after he entered the sea in an attempt to rescue both women. Janine was later imprisoned for her role in the events.
Away from EastEnders, Brooks has enjoyed success on reality television, winning I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2012 and taking victory in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special the previous year.
