Former EastEnders star Richard Blackwood has hinted at a possible return to the BBC soap, nearly a decade after his character Vincent Hubbard was killed off. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror at the National Film Awards, the actor said he would consider coming back, but only if the storyline is "right".
Blackwood's condition for return
Blackwood, who played Vincent from 2015 to 2018, stated: "I would never say never, EastEnders was really good to me. I've never had a bad experience on EastEnders or Hollyoaks, any of the shows, they've all been good to me. If the storyline is right and it makes sense, obviously it's also about what the fans want as well."
Vincent was shot by Aidan Maguire's gang in 2018, with his off-screen death confirmed in 2021 when Kim Fox's sister Denise demanded proof and was shown a horrifying video. However, recent returns of characters believed dead, such as Kathy Beale and Cindy Beale, suggest a comeback could be possible.
Favourite role and past exit
When asked about his favourite role, Blackwood reflected: "I think they're all my favourites at the time. Vincent put me on the map if you think about it, in terms of a soap drama, Vincent was like the first to do it, it will always be in my heart. But also Felix from Hollyoaks cemented it."
Blackwood left EastEnders in 2018, calling it the "right time" to go. In a statement, he said: "I have loved every minute of my time at EastEnders and although I will be sad to say goodbye, after three years it feels the right time to leave. I have been truly blessed with some great storylines since the moment I joined but when I was presented with my last story I knew it was time for Vincent to depart Walford."
A show insider added at the time: "Richard has known for quite some time that he would be leaving EastEnders as his leaving storyline was presented to him last year and he was happy to go ahead with the ending planned. Although it's a shame that he will be departing Walford the decision was completely mutual and it came at the right time for Richard as he wanted to pursue other opportunities."
Strictly Come Dancing tease
At the National Film Awards on July 1, Blackwood also teased a potential appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, having previously competed on Dancing on Ice in 2019, where he was partnered with Carlotta Edwards and became the second celebrity eliminated. He said: "I could do it, it's safer, because it's concrete, carpeted… as I say, I would never say never. Dancing on Ice is probably one of the hardest because no matter how much training, it can be dangerous. So it's an achievement but I would do Strictly."
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am.
