EastEnders star officially returns after 28 years as they make epic comeback
EastEnders has confirmed the return of a former character as they move back to Walford after 28 years away - and they're not alone
EastEnders has confirmed Julie Bates will officially move back onto Albert Square after packing her bags 28-years ago, alongside her husband Nigel who is battling dementia.
Nigel, portrayed by Paul Bradley, returned to the BBC One soap last year, more than three decades since his debut. In a poignant plot twist, it was revealed that Nigel was struggling with dementia and had abruptly left his wife Julie Haye, played by Karen Henthorn.
Nigel admitted he didn’t want to become a burden to Julie due to his condition, prompting him to vanish and find his way back to Walford to reconnect with Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden.
Phil agreed to stand by his childhood best mate, and in return, Nigel would provide solace to Phil during his own mental health struggles.
EastEnders’ Nigel and Julie has moved back to Walford(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
After initially agreeing, leaving Phil devastated, Nigel soon expressed his desire to reside in Walford with both his best friend and his wife – and they consented.
In forthcoming EastEnders episodes, Nigel and Julie will move back onto the Square together for the first time since their departure in 1998.
Nigel and Julie Bates recently reunited in EastEnders
But they bring along some unexpected chaos when they arrive with their trio of pet chickens.
Julie was thrilled by Phil’s offer and stated she would head back to Scotland to gather their belongings before officially relocating down south.
Now they’ve returned with three surprise additions – and as the entire clan descends on Phil’s gaff, it doesn’t take long for Phil to challenge Julie over upsetting Nigel’s routine.
EastEnders gave fans a sneak peek of Nigel and Julie’s return, sharing a snippet from Monday’s episode (August 17) on Instagram.
In the clip, Julie can be heard greeting “hello, Walford” before passing the chickens to a less-than-thrilled Phil.
How will the tough nut Phil handle his new housemate, Julie, and the chickens running amok in his home?
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer
