EastEnders legend Ross Kemp has revealed that his return includes tributes to the late Barbara Windsor. Elsewhere, the actor will also join Phil and Sam for Nigel Bates’ departure. In fact, the actor plans on a long trip with his co-stars, Steve McFadden and Paul Bradley. And it’s not too long for the audience to see the three biggest legends of the soap together on-screen. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Ross’s Return Is A Tribute To Barbara Windsor
Ross Kemp revealed that his return is a ‘tribute’ to both the late Dame Barbara Windsor and the Mitchell family’s legacy. The actor also teased that the scripts are prepared with little tributes to Barbara, celebrating the warmth and humour she brought to the soap. Elsewhere, Kemp also mentioned one particular highlight, calling the scene “farce.” This involved the Mitchell siblings trying to cook a meal together.
In fact, it’s a nod to a joke among fans and the cast, as the trio tries to burn the dinner in the way that Peggy burned everything. Also, with this return, it’s a historic moment as Phil, Grant and Sam Mitchell reunite for the first time in a decade. It has also been twenty years since Kemp last worked with Kim Medcalf. Ross says that she slipped into that seamlessly alongside him and Steve McFadden.
The actor also revealed that there is an unspoken understanding between him and Steve. The two instinctively know each other’s timing and rhythm. Even after being years apart, Kemp said that it didnt feel like we’d ever stopped. It’s because the group quickly recaptured the chemistry of a real family.
Ross Had Personal Motivation For EastEnders ‘ Return
Of course there was a chance for the actor to reunite with really good friends. However, Ross shared that the storyline was a deeply personal motivator for his comeback. Paul Bradley’s portrayal of Nigel living with dementia hit home for Kemp. It’s because he lost both his father and Barbara Windsor to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
In fact, he also praised Paul for doing an amazing job with the sensitive subject matter. He gave the awareness-raising aspect as the ‘main motivator’ for his participation. Even off-camera their bond is just as strong.
Also, Kemp has confirmed that the three actors: Ross, Paul and Steve are planning a trip down the river together. Later, they also plan a meal to celebrate their decades of friendship once filming is done. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates keep following Soap Opera Daily.