Legendary EastEnders villain addresses possible return to BBC soap – over a decade after iconic storyline
AN EASTENDERS villain has broken his silence on a possible return to Albert Square - despite being killed off in one of the soap's most iconic storylines over a decade ago.
EastEnders legend Larry Lamb addressed the possibility of a shock return from beyond the grave for Archie Mitchell.
4
Larry Lamb addressed whether Archie Mitchell can come back from the dead
Credit: Getty
4
He was killed off in a massive Christmas whodunnit storyline in 2009
Credit: BBC
More than a decade ago, his villainous alter ego
The 77-year-old national treasure played the twisted crook and rapist for 18 months, before he met his maker courtesy of Stacey Slater and a deadly blow from the Queen Vic bust.
When asked if a fat paycheck might tempt him back to
"Archie Mitchell had his day. They wrote a character that was so strong, so powerful, what are you going to do?
read more on eastenders
"You can't go back and pretend he's come back to life."
He added: "You know, I had a wonderful time doing it, the same as I had a wonderful time doing Gavin & Stacey, but that's it, the story is done. That's it."
Meanwhile, The Sun on Sunday revealed that actor
, 52, will reprise his role as love rat later this year in dramatic scenes.
Most read in Soaps
Jake quit the BBC One soap in 2021 after 15 years to focus on other acting projects.
His comeback coincides with former on-screen lover
EastEnders most shocking deaths from Barry's cliff fall to Ronnie and Roxie's drowning
A telly source said: 'Jake's return is huge news for EastEnders fans as his character made a massive mark on the show.
'It'll raise some eyebrows after he was absent from the 40th anniversary earlier this year.
"Bosses are excited about what his character's reappearance means for spicing up the plots.
'There is plenty to go at. Max has loads of unfinished business in the Square and is set to ruffle some feathers.'
Most devastating soap deaths
SOAP viewers are frequently left heartbroken after watching some of their favourite characters bite the dust.
Here is a list of the most devastating deaths that have taken place in soapland over the years.
EASTENDERS
Barry Evans
- Evil Janine (
Her plan to inherit Barry's fortune was thwarted when Barry told her that the doctors had mixed up his medical files.
Furious that she was no longer set for a windfall, she pushed Barry off a cliff after telling him their love was 'fake'.
Bradley Branning
- Bradley was accused of killing Stacey Slater's rapist Archie Mitchell (Larry Lamb) after he punched him twice on the night he died.
He was spotted in the Square by a police woman who chased him up a fire escape.
Bradley lost his balance and tragically plunged to his death.
CORONATION STREET
Tina McIntyre
- Tina was getting it on with Peter Barlow - despite him being married to Carla Connor.
When she threatened to reveal the truth, Carla's brother Rob got into a physical altercation with her.
Tina lost her footing and fell off a balcony - then warned Rob she was going to tell the cops he pushed her.
In a panic, Rob brutally clobbered her over the head with a metal pipe.
Molly Dobbs
- Molly was one of the victims in Corrie's 2010 tram crash, alongside Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold).
Married to Tyrone (Alan Halsall), Molly
This resulted in the birth of their son, Jack (Kyran Bowes), who was named after Jack Duckworth.
As fate would have it, Kevin's wife Sally (Sally Dynevor) was by Molly's side in her final moments.
Sally was stunned as Molly confessed Kevin was Jack's father, before dying of her injuries.
Vera Duckworth
- Having appeared regularly in Corrie since the 1970s, there was no denying Vera Duckworth was an iconic character.
Alongside her husband Jack, the pair formed one of the soap's most beloved couples.
Viewers were heartbroken when Vera was killed off in 2008, being discovered having passed away peacefully in her chair.
Liz Dawn, who played Vera, made a brief return two years later for Bill Tarmey's exit as Jack.
Paul Foreman
- Fans were heartbroken when Paul Foreman
Introduced in 2018 as David Platt's (Jack P. Shepherd) cellmate, he later embarked on a romance - and marriage - with vicar Billy Mayhew.
The MND storyline was announced in 2023 - with the expectation it would
EMMERDALE
Sarah Sugden
- After the family got into financial problems, Sarah's son Andy (Kelvin Fletcher) decided to make some quick cash from an insurance company by setting fire to the Sugden barn.
He didn't realise his mum was inside the building, and she got trapped in the blaze.
Nine villagers
- The shocking 1993 plane crash episode brought in 18 million viewers for Emmerdale.
Mark Hughes was killed by a falling wall, Archie Brooks was burned by jet fuel, Elizabeth Pollard was killed by debris and newcomer Leonard Kempinski died in a car crash caused by the crash.
Five other non-recurring characters from the village also died.
HOLLYOAKS
Carmel McQueen
- The talented singer died in shocking scenes when a train crashed into a her family's car.
Carmel managed to free her cousin Theresa from the rubble - but got stuck in it herself.
Moments later the train exploded and Carmel died in the arms of her family members, promising to be their guardian angel.
Lothario Max had four marriages and ten affairs - luring a total of 15 women into his bed, including his son Bradley's partner Stacey.
He left Albert Square to start to a new life in New Zealand.
This comes after EastEnders scooped a TV Bafta for best soap - with executive producer Kate Oates teasing: 'If you like a return, I don't think you're going to be disappointed because there's potentially one on the cards. We've got some uncharted territory.'
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
4
Jake Wood is making a shock return to EastEnders
Credit: BBC
4
Jake quit the BBC One soap in 2021 after 15 years
Credit: PA
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Irish Sun
an hour ago
- The Irish Sun
Jamie Borthwick looks downcast as he is seen for the first time since being suspended from EastEnders over disabled slur
JAMIE Borthwick looked downcast as he was spotted for the first time today since being suspended from EastEnders. The actor was under fire last night after it emerged he had 7 Jamie Borthwick looked downbeat as he was seen for the first time today since being suspended from the soap Credit: Click News and Media 7 He was seen running errands near his home Credit: Click News and Media 7 Jamie's future on the soap is now hanging in the balance Credit: Click News and Media 7 It was filmed while they were on set for the Blackpool special This afternoon Sporting a green striped t-shirt, grey shorts and blue trainers, Jamie cut a casual figure as he made his way to his parked car. An onlooker said: "He looked like a man with the weight of the world on his shoulders, which isn't surprising given the hot water he is in right now." Jamie sent shockwaves behind the scenes at the BBC soap's Elstree-based set last night when The Sun On Sunday revealed a video has emerged of him on the set of the dance show last year. read more on Jamie Borthwick In it, he was seen using the term 'm********s' to describe the people of Blackpool, the seaside town where the show was being filmed for its annual special. Jamie, who plays The footage — which was sent to a pal — shows him backstage during rehearsals alongside co-star The pair were excited to learn they had been selected for the Strictly tour, which toured the country earlier this year. Most read in Soaps Jamie is then seen laughing, before saying: 'Blackpool by the way. Absolute m********s.' The BBC immediately suspended him from the soap while they investigate the matter. Fresh Strictly scandal as Jamie Borthwick & Wynne Evans blasted by BBC over shocking SEX TOY vid filmed in dressing room Last night, they said in a statement: 'This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. We have robust processes in place for this.' Jamie also issued a statement on his own. He told The Sun on Sunday: 'I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly. 'I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. 7 Jamie has played Jay Brown in EastEnders since 2006. Credit: BBC 7 Jamie and Wynne Evans both appeared in the video Credit: Splash 'It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely. 'Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong. 'When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment. Again, that is no excuse. But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views, or who I am. 'I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself. The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers and cast members. 'I know they will be again for this year's show and those in years to come. I am truly sorry.' This isn't the first time Jamie has got in trouble - back in April, he and Wynne were told off by BBC bosses 7 Strictly films its annual special in the seaside town every November Credit: Alamy
The Irish Sun
2 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
EastEnders actress Alice Haig reveals exactly what the old Vicki Fowler star said to her after she took over her role
EASTENDERS actress Alice Haig revealed exactly what her predecessor as Vicki Fowler said to her after taking on the role. Alice, 40, 4 Alice Haig began playing EastEnders' Vicki Fowler earlier this year Credit: BBC 4 The actress spoke to The Sun at this year's British Soap Awards Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 4 Previous Vicki actress Scarlett Alice Johnson reached out to Alice Credit: BBC She took over from previous star Scarlett Alice Johnson, who played the part over 20 years ago. Speaking to The Sun at the British Soap Awards, Alice confirmed her predecessor had reached out. She told us: "Scarlett sent me a beautiful email wishing me luck and being incredibly kind. "It was a lovely thing to get. She said it's great fun playing Vicki Fowler and I couldn't agree more." Read more on EastEnders The Sun previously told how Scarlett Bosses of EastEnders had hoped to win Scarlett back after her portrayal of Vicki developed a cult following online - two decades after her last appearance. The actress A spokesperson for Scarlett told The Sun: 'Scarlett was approached, and was flattered to be asked to return, but the timing wasn't right for her to step back into the role. Most read in Soaps "She wishes Alice Haig and the show all the very best'. Meanwhile, Alice also told us at the Soap Awards: "In all honesty, I think in soap world we suspend our disbelief. We're changing actors. EastEnders' original Vicki Fowler actress Scarlett Alice Johnson TURNED DOWN epic soap comeback for 40th anniversary - as role is recast "Once you're bedded in for a bit, you are the character and you do what you do. "I think what I'm really interested in is trying to find flavours of Michelle - her mum. "As opposed to trying to copy Scarlett, who was fantastic and her own person. "It's much better to be who you are and to try and play it as truthfully as you can, for you." Soap characters who've been recast Soap operas are staple viewing for many people, but even some of the most famous characters have been played by different actors. Here are some examples from over the years. Coronation Street Tracy Barlow : Kate Ford took on the role of Corrie legend Tracy Barlow in 2002. Before Kate, three other actresses had played Tracy - most notably Dawn Acton from 1988 to 1999. Nick Tilsley: Ben Price has been playing Gail's oldest child in 2009, but the former Footballers' Wives star is the third actor to take on the part. Sarah Platt: Although Tina O'Brien debuted as Sarah Platt in 1999, she is the third actress who has played the iconic role of Sarah Platt. David Platt: Completing the line-up of Gail's children, David was initially played by Thomas Ormson for a decade before Jack P. Shepherd took over. Daniel Osbourne: For almost a decade, the role of Ken Barlow's son Daniel has been portrayed by actor Rob Mallard. Before Rob joined, two other actors had previously played Daniel. Bethany Platt: Fans know Lucy Fallon as Bethany nowadays but before her, three other actresses had stepped into the character's shoes. Kirk Sutherland: Before Andy Whyment took on the role of Kirk, he played by an uncredited actor in his very first appearance. Todd Grimshaw: Gareth Pierce stepped into the role of Todd back in 2020, becoming the second performer to play this part. Summer Spellman: Harriet Bibby became the second actress to play Summer, taking over the role from Matilda Freeman in 2020. Ryan Connor: Ryan Prescott currently plays the long-running character, but Ben Thompson and Sol Heras had earlier portrayed the role. EastEnders Martin Fowler: Although Martin was the first baby born on-screen in EastEnders, he hasn't always been played by the same person. His current portrayer, James Bye, is the third actor to star as the character. Peter Beale: Seven actors have portrayed Ian Beale's elder son, with the current actor, Thomas Law, in his second stint as the character. Ben Mitchell: Ben has been played by a total of six actors - with Max Bowden bowing out of the role in March 2024. Bobby Beale: Before Clay Milner Russell, Ian's younger son had been played by four other actors. Freddie Slater : Bobby's best mate, Freddie Slater, had been previously played by twins Alex and Tom Kilby before Bobby Brazier took over in 2022. Chelsea Fox: Former Coronation Street actress Zaraah Abrahams took over the role of Chelsea in 2020. The character had been first played by Tiana Benjamin from 2006 to 2010. Lauren Branning: Jacqueline Jossa took on the role of Lauren in 2010, succeeding Madeline Duggan who'd played her from 2006 to 2010. Johnny Carter: Johnny has been played by three actors since debuting in 2013 - most recently, Charlie Suff has taken on the role. Acting appears to run in Alice's family, as the new star Upon Vicki's return to Albert Square, she was Viewers discovered she EastEnders airs on BBC One and iPlayer. 4 Vicki has a new partner, Ross Marshall Credit: BBC
The Irish Sun
2 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Prince Harry's latest stunt sends a terrible message – the King should sever him for good, says expert
PRINCE Harry has reportedly considered changing his surname to Spencer, stepping away from his family's name, Mountbatten-Windsor. While reports say the Duke of Sussex was counselled against the decision by Princess Diana's brother, Earl Spencer, royal experts have claimed that it 'sends a message' to the royals. Advertisement 7 Prince Harry should be cut off by King Charles after wanting to 'ditch' his Mountbatten-Windsor surname, claims a royal expert Credit: Getty 7 It was reported that Harry has reportedly considered changing his surname to Spencer, after Princess Diana Credit: AFP 7 Harry is said to have consulted Diana's brother, Earl Spencer about the idea Credit: Getty Speaking on The Sun's Royal Exclusive show, former Sun Royal Correspondent Charles Rae said: 'I think as well that this is another Harry not knowing what he wants to do. 'It was only less than a month ago that he was pleading for a reconciliation with his father and his brother. 'And the next thing we hear, and I think the story was well sourced, he wants to change the name from Mountbatten-Windsor to Spencer. 'Well, that is sending a terrible message to the royal family that he doesn't really want a reconciliation. Advertisement More on Prince Harry 'He wants to be completely severed from the royal family. 'And I think the king should grant his wish. 'I think he should sever him from the royal family.' The 40-year-old asked Princess Diana's brother - Earl Spencer - for advice during a visit to the UK, it is claimed. Advertisement Most read in Royals Exclusive But the Duke of Sussex was reportedly told the legal side of doing so would be too difficult. A friend of Harry's told the There's nothing much left of 'erratic' Harry in terms of a man, he's just watching Meghan crack on Royal correspondent Sarah Hewson added on Royal Exclusive: 'I mean, is it to send a message to the royal family? 'Is it to say, 'ok, fine, you don't want to talk to us, then we're not a part of this anymore'. Advertisement 'Is it because he feels much closer to his Spencer relatives? 'They are the ones who turned up for the 10th anniversary Invictus service at St Paul's, for example. 7 If Prince Harry changed his surname, his daughter would be known as Lilibet Diana Spencer Credit: Instagram 7 On The Sun's Royal Exclusive show Charles Raw and Sarah Hewson spoke to host Bronte Coy Credit: Supplied Advertisement 'There weren't any members of the royal family there. Is it to honour his mother? 'Some more cynical commentators have suggested, well, it would be very good marketing in the United States to have the Spencer name and Lilibet would then be Lilibet Diana Spencer.' SURNAME CONFUSION Harry's children go by Mountbatten-Windsor - which combines the Royal Family's name of Windsor and the Duke of Edinburgh 's surname. However, Meghan Markle claimed in her Netflix show that her surname is now Sussex. Advertisement The couple became the Sussexes when the 7 Meghan said on Netflix that her surname is Sussex Credit: Netflix Harry previously had the title Prince Henry of Wales . But on his wedding day, he became The Duke of Sussex, a title which had been vacant since 1843. Meghan was seen to Advertisement In an episode on "You have kids and you go, 'No, I share my name with my children'. "I didn't know how meaningful it would be to me but it just means so much to go 'This is OUR family name. Our little family name.' " Mountbatten-Windsor is the surname of descendants of the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Advertisement 7 Relations have been tense between Prince Harry and his UK family in recent years Credit: Getty Questions were raised when Harry and Meghan The children were then officially named as prince and princess on the Royal Family's official website. Archie and Lilibet are sixth and seventh in line to the throne. Advertisement Before their titles were listed as prince and princess on the royal website, they were down as Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor and Miss Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor. They gained the titles when King Charles became the King, as they are grandchildren of the monarch. Why did Prince Harry and Meghan Markle step back as senior working royals? PRINCE Harry has always wanted out of the Royal Family and the repercussions will be felt for years, an expert has claimed. The Duke of Sussex has lived in California with his wife Meghan Markle since 2020 after they dramatically quit their jobs as working royals and moved across the pond. Katie Nicholl, who is Vanity Fair's royal correspondent, told The Sun's Speaking to The Sun's Royal Editor Matt Wilkinson, the commentator explained: "Anyone who knows Harry is aware he's always wanted a way out of the Royal Family. "He's said multiple times on the record that he wished he'd never been born a prince. "I think he really is living the life he wants to now. It's very, very sad that it's played out the way it has.' "We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. "It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. "We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages. "This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.'
