Legendary EastEnders actress Anita Dobson is reportedly making her television comeback in the popular Channel 5 crime drama The Good Ship Murder. The 77-year-old star, best known for her iconic role as Angie Watts in the BBC soap, is said to be joining the show as a guest star for its upcoming fourth season.
Dobson played Angie Watts from 1985 to 1988 and briefly reprised the role as a ghost during the soap's 40th anniversary celebrations last year. Now, according to reports, she will be boarding The Good Ship Murder, which follows former detective Jack Grayling, played by Shayne Ward, as he works as a cabaret singer on a cruise ship while solving murders alongside First Officer Kate Woods, portrayed by Catherine Tyldesley.
The series has become a firm hit with viewers, known for featuring notable guest stars. Previous guests have included Linda Robson, Lesley Joseph, John Michie, and Nigel Boyle. A source told The Sun: "The show is known for its guest stars and bosses are very excited to have secured soap royalty in Anita Dobson. The cast and crew are all buzzing."
While details of Dobson's role remain under wraps, the upcoming episodes will be bittersweet as Catherine Tyldesley is set to depart the series. The actress, who also stars in Coronation Street, will make a special appearance in the season four opener to conclude her character Kate Woods' storyline. Shayne Ward will continue as the lead.
Executive Producer Andy Morgan commented: "As we set sail on Series 4, we're welcoming a host of wonderful new faces that audiences are going to love. Together they'll join our hero Jack for more adventures and plenty of show-stopping tunes, across the high seas. It's a bittersweet moment as we bid a fond farewell to a beloved character and friend, but we're very excited about the next voyage for The Good Ship Murder."
Season four was confirmed in March, and filming is underway. The Mirror has contacted representatives for Anita Dobson and Channel 5 for comment.
