An EASTENDERS legend has made a shocking return to Albert Square – and he’s homeless.
The Christmas Eve episode of the BBC soap – now available to watch on BBC iPlayer – sees the return of the fan-favourite character after 26 years.
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Yolande welcomed the mystery man to Walford, not realizing she was in the presence of the Albert Square legendCredit: BBC
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Nigel Bates makes a shock return to Walford after 26 yearsCredit: BBC
It could be seen that Nigel Bates had fallen on hard times again at Walford.
Actor Paul Bradley is back to play the iconic character – but from today’s episode it seems his life has taken a major turn.
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.
Asked why he was in Walford, Nigel told Yolande, “Memories.”
He wished her a Merry Christmas and they toasted before he enjoyed his meal.
The Sun exclusively revealed on Sunday how Paul made a shocking comeback in time for the 40th anniversary.
However, his return at Christmas was completely unexpected.
Soap boss Chris Clenshaw told The Sun earlier this week: “Nigel is back! He’s been back for many years and it’s amazing to have Paul back.”
After EastEnders, Paul built an impressive career in both television and theatre.
Actor Paul Bradley plays ‘lovable loser’ Nigel Bates in EastEnders
He is best known for his long-running role as Elliot Hope in the BBC medical drama Holby City, which he played from 2005 to 2019.
Outside of television, he has explored theatre, including a standout performance in the West End production of The Mousetrap in 2021, playing Major Metcalfe.
The actor also starred in the darkly humorous series I Hate Suzie and appeared in Casualty, Doctors and the sitcom My Family.
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