SHOCK: BBC EastEnders’ Julie Bates return ‘confirmed’ as Nigel’s wife heard for the first time in nearly 30 years
EastEnders viewers were left convinced that Julie Bates is going to make a surprise return to Walford after she was heard on-screen for the first time in 27 years
EastEnders fans were treated to an unexpected cameo from Julie Bates, portrayed by Karen Henthorn, on Monday (January 6), marking the character’s first audible appearance in 27 years.
Walford legend Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) made a comeback on Christmas Eve and disclosed to his mate Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) that he and Julie had gone their separate ways.
However, it was later revealed that Nigel wasn’t being entirely truthful when he got a text from his wife imploring him to come back home.
In the latest visit to Albert Square, the mystery of Nigel’s history intensified as he once again dodged a call from Julie.
After Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) accused Nigel of ‘using Phil for money’, he swiftly landed a job at the café, thanks to his long-time friend Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth), reports the Manchester Evening News.
Billy’s doubts about Nigel’s intentions were put to rest after Nigel nonchalantly mentioned his past living with Dot Cotton (June Brown), leading to a newfound camaraderie between them.
Their chat was cut short when Nigel’s phone buzzed, and upon Billy’s departure, Nigel listened to his voicemail.
The audience heard Julie’s voice, once again provided by actress Karen, as Nigel was visibly moved by her words.
She pleaded: “Nigel, it’s Julie again. I don’t know if you got my last message or…
“Listen, Nigel, I promise I’m not cross, whatever reason you walked out and disappeared, I just really need to know if you’re alright mate.”
Julie’s previous stint in the Square ended in 1998 when she departed for Scotland with Nigel and their children for a fresh start.
EastEnders fans are buzzing with speculation that Julie might be dropping into Walford just in time for the show’s 40th-anniversary celebrations.
On X, a fan speculated: “Julie Bates. I wonder if she’ll return to Albert Square before the 40th Anniversary week? #EastEnders.”
Another was quick to comment: “Think that was Julie’s voice. She must be coming back too #EastEnders”, and a third questioned: “Why is Nigel lying?”
One more viewer pointed out: “When Nigel’s wife Julie appears on screen and a whole generation of viewers realise it’s Teresa Bryant aka the long lost Morton mum off Corrie #EastEnders.”
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer
