A legendary EastEnders character is returning for the 40th anniversary specials.
The Sun first revealed plans for the episodes which include a huge comeback for one beloved star.
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The scenes will also feature a huge explosion engulfing the Queen Vic as part of EastEnders’ 40th anniversary.
Several characters will potentially be caught in the blast.
Meanwhile, legendary character Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley, is returning for the 40th anniversary episodes, with top-secret scenes to be filmed over the coming weeks.
Bumbling softie Nigel, stepdad to Clare, first appeared in 1992 and became a popular figure in Walford.
He was close friends with several residents including Dot Cotton and Grant Mitchell.
Fans of EastEnders will remember Nigel for his obsession with flamboyant shirts and his dark curly hair.
He was left devastated following the death of his wife, Debbie, and was last seen in Albert Square in 1998, leaving for Scotland.
An insider said: “Bosses are keeping tight-lipped on their plans for the anniversary, so as to not spoil anything for viewers.
“But in scenes just filmed they have shot a huge explosion that tears The Vic apart.
“The pub is always central to the drama but this time they are taking it even further with lives expected to be left hanging in the balance.
“The 40th is such an iconic moment in the show’s history, and bosses want to make sure it’s one that viewers are going to remember.”
After EastEnders, Paul built an impressive career in both television and theater.
He is best known for his long-running role as Elliot Hope in BBC medical drama Holby City, which he played from 2005 to 2019.
Beyond TV he explored theater, including a standout performance in the West End production of The Mousetrap in 2021, where he portrayed Major Metcalfe.
He took part in the dark comedy series I Hate Suzie and appeared in Casualty, Doctors, and the sitcom My Family.
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