Ross Kemp Confirms Explosive Return to EastEnders as Grant Mitchell
EastEnders executives have officially confirmed that veteran actor Ross Kemp is making a dramatic comeback to the BBC soap opera, reprising his legendary role as Grant Mitchell for what is being described as an 'explosive' extended storyline. The 61-year-old actor, who first brought the Walford hardman to life in 1990, has already commenced filming for his highly anticipated return to Albert Square, where he will feature prominently for several months.
A Mitchell Family Reunion and Emotional Storylines
This marks Kemp's second recent reappearance, following his brief involvement in the show's 40th Anniversary celebrations last year, where Grant returned due to concerns about his brother Phil's declining mental health. The new narrative arc will see Grant summoned back to Walford by his estranged son, Mark, setting the stage for their first reunion since Mark discovered the truth about his parentage. This emotional family dynamic promises to deliver intense drama and long-awaited confrontations.
Additionally, Grant's return coincides with the deteriorating health of longtime family friend Nigel, whose powerful ongoing dementia storyline holds particular significance for Kemp. The actor revealed a deep personal connection to this plotline, citing a close family experience with dementia in real life, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotional weight to his performance.
Executive Producers and Cast Express Enthusiasm
Ross Kemp expressed his delight at returning to the iconic character, stating, 'I'm truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell's shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year. As well as exploring Grant's attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it's especially an honour to be part of Nigel's powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life.'
EastEnders Executive Producer Ben Wadey echoed this enthusiasm, remarking, 'We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross back once more to the legendary role of Grant. The Mitchells remain one of EastEnders' defining dynasties, and we can't wait to see them reunited again. As always when Grant is around, drama inevitably follows him…'
Kemp's Enduring Legacy and Recent Soap Returns
Ross Kemp originally starred in EastEnders from 1990 to 1999, with several subsequent returns over the years. Despite building a successful career in documentary filmmaking, Kemp has consistently acknowledged his debt to the series, noting, 'Without it, I wouldn't have had the career that I've had. I've always owed it a great debt – it was very good to me, and hopefully I was good to it,' adding that returning to the soap feels 'like going home.'
This announcement follows a trend of high-profile returns to EastEnders, including Jake Wood as Max Branning, Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater, and Pam St Clement's special Christmas episode reprisal as Pat Butcher. Most recently, Jake Moon made a comeback for a short stint, reuniting with Chrissie Watts, who herself returned in 2025 as part of a manipulative plot involving Jasmine Fisher and Zoe Slater.
While specific details of Grant Mitchell's latest storyline remain closely guarded, viewers can expect the characteristic turbulence and emotional intensity that have long defined the Mitchell family saga, ensuring that Kemp's return will be a must-watch event for soap enthusiasts.
