EastEnders has arranged a final farewell after Nigel Bates’s death from dementia. The BBC soap confirmed that former Walford residents Josh Saunders and Clare Bates will return for the beloved character Nigel Bates’ funeral. But will their presence create more problems for the already grieving residents? Keep scrolling to learn more.
Two Familiar Faces Return
The BBC soap is bringing back two familiar faces for Nigel Bates’ funeral episodes. Jon Lee, who played Julie’s son Josh, is making a comeback to the Square after nearly thirty years. Also, the loved Clare Bates, played by Gemma Bissix also returns as Nigel’s adoptive daughter. We have already seen her earlier this year during the dementia narrative.
Jon, who is well-known for his time in S Club. and the actor shared, “It was quite surreal stepping back onto Albert Square after so many years. It’s so familiar to so many of us.” Josh had appeared in 20 episodes during Nigel’s original tenure. Hence, his presence will be a deep connection to the character’s history. The actor added, “It was lovely to see my on-screen family again”.
The soap is preparing for a poignant farewell after Nigel Bates’ tragic death. Hence, it has already confirmed the return of these two significant figures for the character’s funeral. Nigel had lost his battle with young-onset dementia. And Walford residents will gather to honour his memory.
EastEnders Is Honouring A Legend
Every one of us is aware that Nigel had raised Clare as his own. Also, Gemme Bissex recently opened up about the character’s return for the funeral.
The actress said, “He meant so much to her. And it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story. It’s because everyone came together to say their final goodbyes. When Clare returned earlier, she had sorted things out with Nigel and Julie. Later, Clare and Leci took Nigel out of the care home for one last drink at the Queen Vic.
However, soon she became overwhelmed by Nigel’s inability to remember her. Hence, she had a violent outburst and left Walford soon. In fact, with this storyline several iconic faces have returned to celebrate Nigel’s legacy. Earlier we saw Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson on the soap.
Now, even Ross Kemp has returned as Grant Mitchell. He was motivated to pay tribute to both his late father and Dame Barbara Windsor. Meanwhile, are you excited to see Josh and Clare Bates on your screen again? Let us know in the comments section. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.