EastEnders legends Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson are set to reprise their iconic roles as Pat Butcher and Barry Evans in a special standalone episode airing this Christmas. The episode will focus on Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley, who is living with dementia and retreats to The Queen Vic, where he has visions of his old friends.
St Clement expressed surprise at being asked to return, saying she felt 'bewildered and bowled over'. She admitted that getting back into Pat's clothes and make-up was 'strangely difficult', as she thought she had moved on from the character. Williamson agreed that returning after 22 years was 'weird', but noted that slipping back into Barry's shoes was easy.
The actors spoke warmly about reuniting with former colleagues. St Clement remarked on the closeness of the cast, comparing it to theatre work. Williamson also revealed that Nicola Duffett, who played Nigel's first wife Debbie, will be returning as well.
The episode serves as a tribute to the late Tony Caunter, who played Roy Evans, with Williamson reflecting on how quickly time passes. The special Christmas episode promises emotional moments for long-time fans of the soap.
