EastEnders fans, hold on tight. A familiar face is making his way back to Walford, and he’s not coming quietly. Ricky Champ is reportedly returning as Stuart Highway. Keep scrolling to know more.
EastEnders Shocker As Stuart Highway Walks Back Into Walford
It’s been more than three years since Stuart Highway left the Square. But now, according to an insider, he’s coming back. The actor has signed on for a short stint, but it promises plenty of drama. His last episode aired in 2022, where Stuart left with Rainie Cross after a rocky few years. Rainie had returned just in time to help him face his depression. Together, they chose to leave Walford and save their marriage. Now, fans are buzzing. Why is Stuart back?
Stuart first arrived in 2018 as a full-blown villain. He attacked Ben Mitchell, leaving him for dead. But over time, he changed. Fans watched him become more human, more complex. His cancer diagnosis showed a new side of him.
Then came fatherhood, followed by postnatal depression. Things weren’t easy. He pulled away from Rainie, and she left with their baby. But she came back and convinced him to get help. It was a heavy story, and one of Ricky Champ’s best performances on the show. He had once told a source that Stuart could return one day. “You never know,” he said. “He didn’t die. He rode off into the sunset.” And now, it seems that sunset didn’t last long.
Old Faces Return As Past Stories Stir Up New Drama
Stuart isn’t the only one making a comeback. Karen Henthorn is also returning as Julie Bates. It’s been more than twenty years since she was last seen. Now, she’s back for an emotional new chapter in Nigel’s dementia journey. Julie and Nigel were a beloved pair back in the day.
Some fans are hoping her return brings peace. Others fear it’ll reopen old scars. Whatever happens, people are paying attention. With so many familiar faces popping back up, it’s clear the show is reaching into its past. And longtime viewers are here for it. As for Stuart, one question lingers. Is this visit for closure, or is trouble coming with him? For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, follow Soap Opera Daily.