Paul Bradley reveals why he returned to EastEnders as Nigel Bates after 26 years away from soap

PAUL Bradley has revealed exactly why he agreed to return to EastEnders – after a 26-year absence with Nigel Bates.

The actor has stunned fans of the BBC soap as he reprises his iconic character for Christmas.

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Paul Bradley returns to EastEnders after 26 yearsCredit: BBCThe Sun first told on Sunday how Nigel would return to Walford for the show's 40th anniversary

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The Sun first reported on Sunday that Nigel would return to Walford for the show’s 40th anniversaryCredit: BBCNigel has not been seen in Walford since 1998

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Nigel has not been seen in Walford since 1998. Credit: BBC

Nigel Bates could be seen in Walford falling on hard times during the EastEnders episode on Christmas Eve.

However, his life seems to have changed considerably from today’s episode.

Nigel was last seen in 1998 when he left Walford with his wife Julie, daughter Clare and stepson Josh for a new life in Scotland.

But now in Walford, Nigel is seen as homeless when he comes into contact with Yolande Trueman in a community center soup kitchen.

Paul, now 69, said soap fans still recognize him on the street and said the cast were friendly and welcoming.

He said: “I am delighted and honored to be back as Nigel. Despite it being so long ago, I am still recognized on the street as Nigel.

“It’s been great coming back because I’m very familiar with a lot of the people from EastEnders and they’re very friendly.

“It’s fantastic to be working with Steve McFadden again – I’m a huge fan of his work and he sets the bar really high. I’m having a really good time.”

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Despite his new life in Scotland, Nigel has mysteriously returned to Walford alone as Phil is about to be visited by the ghost of Christmas past.

Coronation Street, Emmerdale and EastEnders treat fans to a big return on Christmas Eve

The Sun exclusively revealed on Sunday that Paul is making a shock comeback in time for the 40th anniversary.

However, his return at Christmas was completely unexpected.

EastEnders Christmas and New Year schedule

Monday 23 December – 6am iPlayer & 7.30pm BBC One

Tuesday 24 December – 6am iPlayer & 7.45pm BBC One

Christmas – 19:30 & 22:35 BBC One & iPlayer

Boxing Day – 20:30 BBC One & iPlayer

Monday 30 December – 6am iPlayer & 7.30pm BBC One

Tuesday 31 December – 6am iPlayer & 7.30pm BBC One

New Year – 10pm BBC One & iPlayer

Thursday 2nd January – 6am iPlayer & 7.30pm BBC One

Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: HIS Education

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