Charlie Brooks has reprised her role as Janine Butcher in EastEnders, assuring fans that the villain hasn't mellowed in the four years since she was last seen. The actress confirmed she is back to work with Kellie Bright, who plays Linda, as well as Jake Wood, Linda's apparent husband-to-be.
Janine's Mysterious Return
The reason for Janine's return is currently unclear, but there are several clues. Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer, is suddenly having his name dropped a lot, and Lee (Danny Hatchard) has de-registered his dad's death. Mick had been declared dead after being missing at sea following a car crash involving Janine that plunged him into the icy depths.
The reason for never seeing Mick's corpse is a clear one – while Linda remained in the show, the option of bringing Mick back had to stay on the table. With Linda set to leave and Mick being discussed at length again, that option could potentially be revisited.
Janine's True Nature
Charlie is clear that she is back to work with Kellie, as well as Jake Wood. But what is the document being handed to her that is making her so maliciously happy? And is it connected to Mick's death certificate?
'I don't know if anyone wants to see a reformed Janine ever,' Charlie said with a laugh. 'So we can rest assured that we are leaning into the true nature of who Janine is. As always, it's about survival for her.'
Returning to Walford
'It was so amazing to see the whole crew and cast. One of the reasons I was coming back was to be part of Kellie's storyline as we had such a great time working together last time,' she said. 'I've known a lot of the cast for many years, and that brings a nice sense of familiarity and peace when I go back. It also allows playfulness because it's familiar and it feels safe.'
Charlie insists she loves revisiting Janine every time, and this stint is no different. 'I always like trying to understand a little bit more about her each time I play her, and I think the "why" is so important. She's a lot of things, but she's also a super fun character to play,' she reasoned. 'She's very camp, and I have a lot of fun with her. Janine is also deep, and she's got a lot going on, so it's always interesting to explore that.'
She added: 'Seeing everyone back at the studio, and working with Kellie again, has been amazing. It always feels like home when I go back.'
It may be a treat for Charlie and for viewers, but less so for Linda, who faces having her life ripped apart by Janine once again. Both characters have a limited time in Walford – so the question is, who will defeat who? Whether any outcome will finally be sealed over Mick's fate remains to be seen, and whether there is even a small chance of a happy ever after for Linda given Janine and Max are in her circle is yet to be determined.
