Ross Kemp as Grant Mitchell in EastEnders in 2025 / BBC
Ross Kemp is to return to EastEnders for an extended stint as Grant Mitchell, it has been confirmed.
The iconic character was last seen in February 2025, having returned to Walford to help brother Phil (Steve McFadden) with his mental health issues, before returning home to Portugal.
Grant’s latest comeback comes after his son Mark (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) calls him to E20 for their first meeting since Mark learned that Grant was his biological dad.
The return also comes amid the deteriorating health of childhood friend Nigel (Paul Bradley), who is battling dementia, and could suggest that Grant will be there for Nigel’s tragic but inevitable death.
“I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year,” said Kemp, who first appeared on screen as Grant in 1990.
“As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life.”
Executive producer Ben Wadey added: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross back once more to the legendary role of Grant. The Mitchells remain one of EastEnders’ defining dynasties, and we can’t wait to see them reunited again.
“As always when Grant is around, drama inevitably follows him…”
Kemp is believed to have already started filming for his return, which is expected to last for a few months, suggesting that Grant will be back on screen in April.
