Meanwhile, another actor is set to return as the Square’s notorious love rat in intense scenes later this year.
AN EASTENDERS villain has spoken out about a potential comeback to Albert Square—even though his character was killed off in one of the soap’s most memorable storylines more than ten years ago.
EastEnders icon Larry Lamb discussed the chance of a surprising return from beyond the grave for Archie Mitchell.
Larry Lamb addressed whether Archie Mitchell can come back from the dead
He was killed off in a massive Christmas whodunnit storyline in 2009
Over ten years ago, Larry Lamb’s sinister character Archie Mitchell was dramatically killed off in one of the soap’s most explosive Christmas mystery storylines.
The 77-year-old beloved actor portrayed the twisted villain and rapist for 18 months before meeting his fate at the hands of Stacey Slater with a fatal strike from the Queen Vic bust.
When asked if a lucrative offer might lure him back to Albert Square, Larry told The Express: “It’s not about the money. People need to accept that stories come to a close.
“Archie Mitchell had his moment. They created such a strong, powerful character—what else is there to do?”
“You can’t just go back and act like he’s alive again.”
He continued, “I really enjoyed my time playing him, just like I loved working on Gavin & Stacey, but that’s where the story ends. It’s finished.”
In other news, The Sun on Sunday has reported that Jake Wood is making a surprise comeback to EastEnders as Max Branning after a four-year absence.
The 52-year-old actor is set to return later this year, stepping back into the role of the notorious love rat in some intense new storylines.
Jake left the BBC One soap in 2021 after 15 years to pursue other acting opportunities.
His return comes as former on-screen love interest Stacey Slater, portrayed by Lacey Turner, is set to exit Walford.
A telly source said: “Jake’s return is huge news for EastEnders fans as his character made a massive mark on the show.
“It’ll raise some eyebrows after he was absent from the 40th anniversary earlier this year.
“Bosses are excited about what his character’s reappearance means for spicing up the plots.
“There is plenty to go at. Max has loads of unfinished business in the Square and is set to ruffle some feathers.”
This comes after EastEnders scooped a TV Bafta for best soap – with executive producer Kate Oates teasing: “If you like a return, I don’t think you’re going to be disappointed because there’s potentially one on the cards. We’ve got some uncharted territory.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
Jake Wood is making a shock return to EastEnders
Jake quit the BBC One soap in 2021 after 15 years