Shocked EastEnders star Kellie Bright reveals legend’s surprise return after 37 years was kept a secret from the cast
EastEnders is celebrating its 40th anniversary, which has seen famous faces past and present return to the BBC soap
THE RETURN of an EastEnders icon was kept a secret from the cast, with some of the stars ‘blown away’ by their surprise return.
EastEnders is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and has seen the return of Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts (played by Anita Dobson).
The iconic star made her return to the BBC soap after 37 years away from screen, as she appeared to trapped daughter Sharon.
In the scene Sharon – who is played by actress Letitia Dean in the BBC soap – saw a vision of her mum Angie who begged her to start screaming for help.
“Use that voice and you start screaming for help,” she said. “That’s it baby, you start screaming for help. That’s my girl.”
Now one of the soap’s stars has revealed they were kept in the dark about Anita’s return as Angie.
Kellie Bright, who plays Linda Carter, revealed she was completely unaware that Anita was returning.
In an Instagram video, she told fans: “So just like many other people, I watched the EastEnders 40th anniversary episode tonight.
“And there she was, in all her glory. I had no idea when I posted that picture today of me and Anita Dobson that Angie Watts was going to make an appearance.
“I am blown away.”
She added: “I hope you enjoyed tonight’s episode, I bloody did!”
Fans have commented on the video, sharing their surprise and delight to see Anita’s return.
One fan commented: “Anita making an appearance was very special.”
Another shared: “Absolutely SMASHED it!!!! Loved it so much.”
“Such a brilliant episode,” said a third.
Discussing the return, EastEnders boss Chris Clenshaw said: “Angie Watts is undoubtedly one of EastEnders most formidable and iconic landlady’s.
“Since the very first episode, Anita instantly created a character that the audience adored and she not only shaped EastEnders into the show it is today, but also had a huge impact on British television.
“Anita was of course top of our ultimate wish list when we were discussing what we would love to include in our special anniversary week, so it was the best birthday present we could ever receive when she said yes.
“Watching Angie Watts grace the halls of The Queen Victoria, 40 years to the day she made her first appearance in Walford, is a day we will never forget as we all celebrate this show that has played such an important part in British television. Happy birthday EastEnders.”
