EastEnders has announced that it will be welcoming back "some of Walford's classic characters" for the funeral of the much-loved Dot Branning, who was played by the late June Brown.
Among those returning to Albert Square are Colin Russell (played by Michael Cashman), Barry Clark (Gary Hailes), George 'Lofty' Holloway (Tom Watt), Mary 'the punk' Smith (Linda Davidson), Disa O'Brien (Jan Graveson) and Dot's step-granddaughter Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa).
The returning stars are filming scenes that "will bring viewers up to date with their lives as they share their cherished memories of Dot".
"For the actors, it's also a chance to honour their beloved co-star June Brown, who passed away aged 95 in April this year," said the BBC.
June Brown, OBE, MBE
— EastEnders Press (@EastEndersPress) April 4, 2022
1927-2022 pic.twitter.com/snWY1ylnAh
The Executive Producer of EastEnders, Chris Clenshaw, said: "It's an honour to invite so many of Walford's beloved characters back to pay tribute to Dot.
"Over the years, Dot profoundly impacted the lives of many young people struggling with life's biggest challenges. Her warmth, heart and compassion changed lives - so we wanted to reunite some of the people she helped the most.
"I'm thrilled these talented and generous actors wanted to share this special experience with us so we can give Dot a fitting send-off."
Here are the thoughts of the returning stars:
Michael Cashman (Colin)
"When I was asked back, I didn't even hesitate because I couldn't have imagined not being there for June, and I know Colin couldn't have imagined not being there for Dot - they had that amazing, deep friendship that lasted during their years, and it was exactly the same with June and me. June was unique, and there are so many incredible stories I could tell, but amongst my favourite moments of Dot was her monologue to Jim - she was a character, and actress, that will last beyond the test of time."
Gary Hailes (Barry)
A legend has left us.
— Gary Hailes (@GaryHailes) April 4, 2022
So sad. Such a wonderful and unique lady
Rest in Peace June x
"Being invited back to the show after almost 30 years away was exciting, scary, strange, but overall it was really nice! EastEnders has always been a big part of my life so to have the opportunity to come back - there were nerves - but that quickly turned into excitement and warmth at the chance to honour Dot. June was an incredibly genuine person both on and off-screen, she really cared and was attentive to people. That's one thing I'll never forget."
Linda Davidson (Mary)
"I felt honoured to be asked to come back. It's going to be an emotionally difficult few days. However, the script is wonderful, and it's a joyful tribute to an East End legend! We were close friends for 37 years so I have quite the memory bank to choose from! But professionally, the highlight of my career was when Dot asked Mary to kneel and pray with her - there wasn't a dry eye amongst all the crew! June really tutored me on the art of being still and taking my time in the scene and was such a generous, caring actor. I loved her very much."
Tom Watt (Lofty)
"June was amazing as Dot. She completely inhabited the character: grew with her, suffered with her and faced life's troubles with her. As soon as Dot appeared on screen, you knew June had all that history lighting up every look and every line in every single scene she was a part of."
Jan Graveson (Disa)
"I am absolutely thrilled to be invited back to EastEnders to play Disa again and to honour the wonderful and unique character of Dot Cotton. I remember only too well of Dot and Disa's long dramatic scenes together and how they gripped the nation. Her notes, her suggestions, taught me so much. I have not, as yet, felt anything close to that energy, conviction and rapport, and probably never will. Dot - and June - was an inspiration to me, a brilliant actress to work with and a beautiful heart who became a lifelong friend."
Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren)
"Coming back to EastEnders for Dot's funeral was a no-brainer, and it was a real honour to be invited back. I had a lot of fun but, of course, it was bittersweet. It was amazing to be back, but hard to be filming this storyline. I can tell the viewers now that Dot gets the beautiful send-off that she deserves. June was the light and joy of EastEnders. I had so much fun working with her, the incredible stories and how infectious and witty she was. June is a legend, and I miss her very much."
The scenes will air this winter.
EastEnders airs on RTÉ One and BBC One Monday to Thursday.
