EastEnders viewers, a tear-jerking flash from the past is coming to Albert Square. She has returned after almost 30 years, and her comeback could completely shake up Nigel’s world. Scroll down to find out.
EastEnders Brings Back Julie Bates
The BBC has confirmed Karen Henthorn will return to play Julie Bates after 27 years out of Walford. Her return is part of Nigel’s current dementia storyline, which has already delivered emotional scenes for fans.
Julie made a brief voice cameo earlier this year. Back then, it turned out that Nigel had lied to everyone about their breakup to cover up his diagnosis. Now, Julie is ready to return to the screen this summer and face the heartbreaking truth.
Julie has not heard from Nigel for nearly two years and has no clue of his state or the actual reason he vanished. But all this changes when she returns to Walford.
Julie Discovers the Truth
Karen shared that returning after so many years felt surreal, recalling time spent on leave and the intense scenes she has had with Paul Bradley and Steve McFadden. Julie’s welcome back to Nigel, she says, heralds a wave of relief until she discovers the reason he abandoned her.
Executive producer Ben Wadey teased that Julie’s return will provoke difficult questions. Will Julie forgive Nigel for deceiving her? Can she cope with the truth of his illness?
It is possible that Phil’s recent inability to provide Nigel and Kat clues to call Julie led to this emotional turning point. Viewers can expect plenty of emotion as the on-and-off couple share tearful and intense moments in the episodes ahead. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.
