EastEnders Vicki Fowler returns after 21 years as role recast – but she’s not alone
EastEnders has confirmed the return of Sharon Watts' sister Vicki Fowler after her uncle Martin Fowler's sad demise on the BBC soap, but she's not the only one heading to Walford
There’s a familiar face returning to EastEnders very soon, as Vicki Fowler is heading back to Walford following the d.e.a.t.h of her uncle Martin Fowler.
Sharon Watts’ sister Vicki was last seen in Albert Square in 2004, before moving to Australia with partner and former character Spencer Moon, the brother of Alfie Moon. But Vicki isn’t alone with her arrival in Walford.
It’s been revealed that the character arrives after more than 20 years away to attend the funeral of her uncle, who was k.i.l.l.e.d off during the live episode this week. Martin d.i.e.d after being crushed by a metal beam, following The Queen Vic collapsing during an explosion.
He d.i.e.d with his ex and soulmate Stacey Slater by his side in heartbreaking scenes, leaving Walford residents in turmoil. In future scenes the community will say an emotional farewell at his funeral, with his niece Vicki attending.
She’s joined by her new flame Ross as well as his son Joel, no doubt sparking questions about her split from Spencer. The role of Vicki has been recast, with actress Alice Haig replacing former soap star Scarlett Alice Johnson.
There’s a familiar face returning to EastEnders very soon, as Vicki Fowler is heading back to Walford (
BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Michelle Fowler and Den Watts’ daughter will shock her sister Sharon when she arrives with Ross and Joel, and it seems the family plan to move to Walford full time. Andor and Rain Dogs actor Alice has spoken about her debut on the soap, revealing: “I am so excited.
“I have always watched the show, and I was born in February 1985, so I’m the same age as EastEnders! It’s so cool to be playing a character like Vicki – we think we know her, but a lot has changed. I can’t wait for all the Albert Square drama ahead.”
Fans will see a familiar face arriving as Ross, as he’s played by The Bill, Holby City and Waterloo Road star Alex Walkinshaw, while newcomer Max Murray plays Joel. Alex revealed of the role: “I am really excited as I’ve had so many friends on EastEnders throughout the years, and I always hear lovely things about it.
Alice Haig replacing former soap star Scarlett Alice Johnson (
BBC)
“The show is top draw drama and I can’t wait to get stuck in. Ross is a decent, hardworking family man, he always puts family first, and he is very in love with Vicki, but it’s not always plain sailing.”
Soap boss Chris Clenshaw teased the trio would “make waves” on the Square from the moment they arrive, as he hinted that Michelle will not be back for her brother Martin’s funeral. He suggested Vicki would be “representing” Michelle at the funeral, so it might mean a return is off the cards.
Chris spilled: “We’re delighted to have the very talented Alice, Alex and Max with us. Vicki is back under the most tragic of circumstances, representing her distraught mum Michelle, and she’s changed a lot since we last saw her.
“We’re excited to let viewers get reacquainted with Vicki and to introduce Ross and Joel to the Square. It won’t be long before Vicki and this new branch of the Fowler family are making waves in Walford.”
Newcomer Max also teased what was ahead, saying: “It’s an absolute privilege and honour to be joining such a wonderful production full of a lovely cast and crew. I’m really looking forward to introducing Joel to EastEnders viewers and telling his story.”
