EastEnders villain’s return ‘sealed’ 37 years after debut and fans will be floored
An iconic EastEnders villain could be making a shock return to Albert Square soon
A notorious villain could be returning to Walford(Image: BBC)
One of the most iconic EastEnders villains might be returning to Walford.
Janine Butcher (played by Charlie Brooks) was first introduced to Albert Square in 1989, and has since spent decades cementing her reputation as a ruthless and scheming villain.
The character has been involved in a number of high-profile storylines over the years – most famously the death of her husband, Barry Evans (Shaun Williamson), who she pushed down a cliff during a trip to Scotland in 2004.
That’s not all, as Janine notably stabbed Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd) to death after he plotted to murder her amidst a bitter custody battle over their daughter, Scarlett (Tabitha Byron).
Janine was also involved in scamming men out of money, as well as running over and killing Danielle Jones (Lauren Crace).
Janine Butcher is an iconic EastEnders villain(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Janine was last sent to prison in December 2022 after a dramatic crash left Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) missing at sea, and her crimes were exposed. She later accepted a plea deal and received a five-year sentence.
Just over a year until Janine is due to be released, actress Charlie Brooks appeared on Good Morning Britain, where she addressed the possibility of a return.
“The trouble is, once an EastEnders villain, always an EastEnders villain,” said Susanna Reid, with Charlie replying: “Well, I do know that.”
Richard Arnold then said: “I do know that [Janine’s] out [of prison] in about a year,” before Susanna noted: “Ok, so out in about a year. Sounds like Richard knows about the future script, but you’re still waiting.”
Richard added: “You could get out earlier, you never know!” before Charlie teased a possible return by saying: “We’ll have to see!”
Susanna then asked: “Could you see her return?”
Charlie Brooks appeared live on GMB(Image: ITV)
Charlie said: “I mean, look, 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.
“So, who knows? It’s always a home from home, EastEnders, you know.”
Ed Balls then joked: “You’ve got to get through the parole hearing first,” with Charlie noting: “Yes, yes, but she finds her way out of these situations.”
Richard went on to say: “That’s the staying power for that character, though, and you did that spectacularly. For a character with such form, if not [to] redeem them, but to still keep a presence and be part of the show for so many years, when Janine has done so much.”
Charlie replied: “She should have had a proper comeuppance, shouldn’t she? She’d be dead or you know,” before Richard concluded: “But we love her!”
As soap fans eagerly anticipate Janine’s return, Charlie will be returning to the stage for two new productions, including The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am
