EastEnders has dropped a Christmas twist that no one expected. A face long gone from Walford is suddenly stepping back into the story. Nigel’s fragile state and one heartbreaking memory seem to pull everything together. But why is this return happening now? Keep scrolling to learn more.
Barry And Pat Step Back Into Nigel’s Story In EastEnders
The BBC has confirmed that another familiar face is returning. However, he would be arriving unexpectedly. Nigel’s dementia storyline is being explored on the soap, and his condition has turned worse with each passing day. However, now the plot will take another turn. We will see Nigel see people he lost long ago.
It was recently announced that Pam St Clement, who played Pat Butcher, will return to the soap. She is coming for a special December episode. Moreover, fans understood her return was tied to Nigel’s declining memory. It’s something that shaped his life years ago. Elsewhere, now one more character will join this heartbreaking journey. Shaun Williamson is returning as Barry Evans.
His comeback will exist through Nigel’s mind as his condition worsens. And it is not a real resurrection. Even the soap has confirmed that Nigel will “see” Barry as part of an important moment in the storyline. Barry was away from Albert Square for years. And now he is retiring during one of Nigel’s vulnerable periods.
Barry’s wife, Janine Butcher, had killed him by pushing him off a cliff. She only married him for money. However, after killing him, she tried to gain sympathy as a widow. Not just this, she even blamed his shows, saying, “If only he’d worn slip-on shoes!” Elsewhere, even Barry and Pat didn’t have a warm bond either. Barry blamed her for the loss of his father, Roy. However, they are both coming together for imagined versions of Nigel.
What Their Returns Mean For Nigel’s Christmas Story
Shaun Williamson also opened up about returning. He admitted he was surprised and excited when he was invited back. The soap’s executive producer also called Barry “one of Walford’s unluckiest residents”. It’s especially because of the way he died.
Elsewhere, this Christmas will be more intense than fans have seen so far. Till now, his dementia was written with care. And now, after Pat and Barry’s return through Nigel’s mind, it would be nostalgic. However, they are not here to haunt the Square. People he fought with or has loved are returning during a time he needs them the most. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.