EastEnders icon Grant Mitchell is back! Fans will be thrilled as the legendary character, played by Ross Kemp, reunites with his siblings Phil and Sam in a dramatic return to Walford. The twist? It all comes after a life-changing phone call from his estranged son, Mark Fowler Jr, who is reconnecting with his biological father after a decade-long separation.
Grant Mitchell first burst onto EastEnders in 1990, captivating viewers until his departure in 1999. Ross Kemp, 61, briefly reprised the role in 2005, 2006, 2016, and 2025, but now he’s set to return for an exciting new stint on Albert Square.
This time, Grant will not only reunite with his infamous siblings, but he’ll also face a major emotional moment as he comes face to face with his son Mark, played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple. The father and son have not spoken in years, making this reunion even more dramatic.
EastEnders legend Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) stands alongside siblings Phil (Steve McFadden) and Sam (Kim Medcalf) in new photos
Grant returns to Albert Square after being contacted by estranged son Mark (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) – who, a decade ago, learned Grant was his biological father
The return was first teased in February, with EastEnders bosses confirming Ross’s return as Grant. His arrival comes in the wake of a concerning situation involving Grant’s close friend, Nigel (Paul Bradley), who is struggling with early onset dementia, a storyline that holds personal meaning for Ross due to his own family connections to the illness.
Ross expressed his excitement about returning to the role: “I’m absolutely delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders this year. As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, I’m particularly honoured to be part of Nigel’s ongoing dementia storyline, which is especially poignant for me given my personal connection to the issue.”
EastEnders Executive Producer, Ben Wadey, couldn’t be more thrilled: “We’re beyond excited to welcome Ross back to the iconic role of Grant Mitchell. The Mitchells remain one of EastEnders’ most defining families, and we can’t wait to see them back together. As always, with Grant around, you can expect drama to follow!”
Discussing his return, actor Ross Kemp said: ‘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’
Fans have been eagerly awaiting Grant’s return, and Ross’s visit to the set has sparked a wave of excitement among viewers. Many were seen snapping photos as Ross filmed his final scenes, with the actor reminiscing about his long history with the show. Ross, who’s now focused on documentary filmmaking, credits EastEnders for shaping his career, calling it a “great debt” he owes the series.
Grant’s return is a big deal not just for the Mitchell family, but for the entire show. With emotions running high and family ties being tested, Grant’s storyline promises to bring even more drama to Walford. Will he be able to heal the rift with his son? And what other explosive moments will unfold as the Mitchells face a new chapter together?
EastEnders fans can catch all the action on BBC One and iPlayer – don’t miss out on the reunion of a lifetime!
