Ross Kemp: EastEnders Role More Terrifying Than War Zone Reporting
As Ross Kemp makes a dramatic return to EastEnders after 27 years away, the actor and documentary presenter has confessed that stepping back into the shoes of Grant Mitchell is far more intimidating than any of his real-life adventures in war-torn regions. Kemp, who first left the BBC soap in 1999, says the emotional demands of the role eclipse the dangers he faced while dodging sniper fire in Afghanistan and Syria or confronting armed guerrillas in Papua New Guinea.
Albert Square Hard Man Versus Global Dangers
Nothing I have ever done fills me with more fear than EastEnders, Kemp admitted in a recent interview. It remains the one challenge that pushes me to my absolute limits. Since his departure from Walford nearly three decades ago, Kemp has built a formidable career as an investigative journalist, taking on drug traffickers in Colombia and navigating perilous conflict zones. Yet, he insists that portraying the tearful, complex Grant Mitchell on screen is his toughest assignment.
One memorable incident highlights the surreal overlap between his fictional and real worlds. While fleeing gunshots in Karachi, Kemp was recognised by a woman in a tuk-tuk with a Brummie accent, who shouted out to Grant Mitchell. This bizarre moment underscores the enduring impact of his soap character, even in the most unexpected circumstances.
Emotional Depth and Real-Life Inspiration
Kemp's latest storyline sees Grant grappling with intense emotional turmoil, including a heartbreaking visit to his old friend Nigel Bates, who is in the final stages of dementia. The script required Grant to be heaving with tears, a scene Kemp found surprisingly easy to perform due to a personal upset involving his own mother during filming. I will not go into detail, but something happened to my mum on the third day on set, he explained. So heaving tears was not difficult at all.
Additionally, Grant is trying to reconnect with his biological son, Mark, played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple, after only meeting him once before. Kemp revealed that Grant is desperate to see his son and views this as a potential first step toward building a relationship. The presence of his brother Phil, portrayed by Steve McFadden, also played a key role in Kemp's decision to return. If Phil is there, Grant will always return, he said, praising McFadden's ability to balance toughness with vulnerability.
A Legacy of Returns and Future Ventures
Grant Mitchell first appeared in Walford in February 1990 and has made several notable comebacks over the years. These include a 2006 return tied to gangster Johnny Allen's storyline, a 2016 appearance for Peggy Mitchell's funeral, and a brief role in the show's 40th anniversary episode last year, where he saved his ex-wife Sharon's life.
Kemp's current stint is short, as he is set to film his BBC gameshow Bridge of Lies next. However, he hinted at future leisure plans with co-stars Paul Bradley and Steve McFadden, involving a three-men-in-a-boat adventure on McFadden's 72-foot fishing vessel. We will go off down the Thames and end up having a nice dinner together, Kemp said. Which is what gentlemen of our age should be doing.
This blend of high-stakes drama and personal reflection showcases why EastEnders continues to be a formidable challenge for Kemp, proving that sometimes, the most terrifying battles are fought not on foreign soil, but in the emotional landscapes of Albert Square.
