Ross Kemp is to return to EastEnders for a "short stint", with Grant Mitchell set to make a dramatic return, the soap have confirmed.
The actor will return to Walford, having previously featured in the soap's 40th anniversary celebrations last year, after almost 10 years away from Albert Square. Following this, Grant left Walford for his home in Portugal, but he is to return following a call from his estranged son Mark.
"Grant Mitchell is set to make a dramatic return to Walford this spring with Ross Kemp reprising the iconic role for a short stint", EastEnders said in a statement. "Grant was last seen in February 2025, returning briefly to Albert Square for the show's 40th anniversary due to Nigel's concerns about Phil's deteriorating mental health".
"This year, Grant is called upon by his estranged son Mark to return to Walford, marking the first time the pair will be reunited since Mark learned the truth about his true parentage" the soap added. "Grant's arrival on Albert Square also comes amidst the deteriorating health of long-time family friend Nigel. While full details of Grant's comeback remain under wraps, viewers can expect explosive drama".
Ross Kemp made his debut on EastEnders in 1990, and along with 2025, his previous return marked his on screen mother Barbara Windsor's final episode. The late actress played Peggy Mitchell.
"I'm truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell's shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year", Kemp said. "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".
Following his first departure from EastEnders in 1999, Ross Kemp also produced a number of documentaries, including Ross Kemp on Gangs, Ross Kemp in Afghanistan, and Ross Kemp: Extreme World.
News of this comes after it was also confirmed that a new storyline for EastEnders would see character Davinder 'Nugget' Gulati face an epilepsy diagnosis. More on this story here.
