Ross Kemp has said he is "delighted" to be reprising his role as Grant Mitchell on EastEnders as the soap celebrates its 40th anniversary next year.
Having first appeared on the BBC show in 1990, Grant Mitchell is one of the show's most iconic characters.
He is one half of the Mitchell brother duo and son to one of Walford's most infamous matriarchs, Peggy Mitchell.
Grant Mitchell was last seen in Walford in September 2016 and has been living in Portugal ever since.
While the circumstances relating to his return are currently under wraps, there's sure to be plenty of drama - his brother Phil is struggling with loneliness, estranged best friend Nigel is back on the Square and ex-wife Sharon is now dating his long lost cousin Teddy Mitchell.
Speaking about his return, Kemp said: "I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary.
"EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary, is an absolute honour. Grant has never been far from the action and let’s just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang."
Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw added: "Whilst I’m not currently revealing exactly what brings Grant back to Walford, I can say that his return will play a significant part in the show’s 40th anniversary, and will make up many moments of truly unmissable TV."
In 2016, Grant returned to the soap for a family reunion to say goodbye to his mother Peggy Mitchell, played by Barbara Windsor, as part of the late star's exit storyline.
Kemp initially appeared in the soap for nine years from 1990 to 1999, also returning between 2005 and 2006.
EastEnders airs on RTÉ One and BBC One Monday to Thursday.
