Ross Kemp is set to reprise his role as Grant Mitchell in EastEnders for a dramatic return to Walford this spring.
Grant was last seen on screen on Thursday 27 February 2025 as part of the show’s 40th anniversary celebrations, when he briefly returned to Albert Square amid concerns about Phil’s deteriorating mental health.
This time, Grant – who has been living in Portugal – is called back to Walford by his estranged son Mark Fowler (Stephen Aaron-Sipple), marking the first time the pair will come face-to-face since Mark learned the truth about his parentage.
His return also coincides with the worsening health of long-time family friend Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), with Grant set to be drawn into the character’s ongoing dementia storyline. While bosses are keeping further details under wraps, viewers have been promised “explosive” drama.
Speaking about stepping back into the role, Kemp said: “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.”
Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) with Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley)
Executive producer Ben Wadey added, “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…”
Grant Mitchell first appeared on EastEnders on Thursday 22 February 1990, and quickly became one of the soap’s most iconic hardmen, forming one half of the formidable Mitchell brothers alongside Phil (Steve McFadden).
The character was a regular until his exit from the soap in 1999, but he returned for stints in 2005, 2006, 2016, and then for last year’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Grant isn’t the only Mitchell sibling who Phil has reunited with recently, with Kim Medcalf reprising the role of Sam Mitchell since December.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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