Ross Kemp has officially bid farewell to his iconic role as Grant Mitchell in BBC's long-running soap opera, EastEnders, after filming his final scenes. The actor made a brief but highly anticipated return to Albert Square this year, with show bosses promising an "explosive" storyline that has captivated fans.
Explosive Return and Final Farewell
Kemp, renowned for portraying the hardman Grant Mitchell, initially returned to EastEnders last year as part of the show's 40th anniversary celebrations. This return was tied to Nigel's growing concerns about Phil Mitchell's mental health, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. After a short stint, Grant jetted back to Portugal, only for the Mitchell family to be rocked by the arrival of Mark Fowler Jr., who had recently discovered that Grant is his biological father.
Behind the Scenes of the Comeback
While specific details of Kemp's return were kept tightly under wraps, he was spotted filming at a seaside resort alongside his on-screen brother Phil and close friend Nigel. It was Mark's shocking parentage revelation that ultimately drew Grant back into the turbulent world of Walford, forcing him to confront his past and reconnect with his estranged son.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the plot, Ross has already completed filming his final scenes for the soap. The actor was seen leaving the BBC's Elstree studios, where he warmly greeted a group of dedicated fans waiting outside. In a departure from Grant's signature smart look and leather jacket, Kemp opted for a casual outfit of blue jeans, a black jacket, and a cap as he made his way home.
Kemp's Personal Connection to the Storyline
Speaking about his return in February, Kemp expressed his enthusiasm for stepping back into Grant Mitchell's shoes. He stated, "I'm truly delighted to be returning to EastEnders later this year. As well as exploring Grant's attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it's especially an honour to be part of Nigel's powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life."
Show Bosses Tease Dramatic Developments
EastEnders producers took to social media to announce Grant Mitchell's dramatic return to Walford this spring, with Ross Kemp reprising the iconic role for a short stint. They revealed, "Grant was last seen in February 2025, returning briefly to Albert Square for the show's 40th anniversary due to Nigel's concerns about Phil's deteriorating mental health. This year, Grant is called upon by his estranged son Mark to return to Walford, marking the first time the pair will be reunited since Mark learned the truth about his true parentage."
The producers added that Grant's arrival coincides with the declining health of long-time family friend Nigel, promising viewers "explosive drama" despite many details remaining under wraps. The return is expected to be filled with chaos and high-stakes moments, typical of Grant's tumultuous history in the soap.
Grant Mitchell's Legacy of Drama
As one of Walford's most colourful protagonists, Grant Mitchell has been at the centre of numerous duff-duff moments over the years. One of his most notable scandals involved a love triangle with Sharon Watts and his brother Phil, which culminated in the infamous "Sharongate" episodes in 1994. These episodes drew over 25.3 million viewers as Grant discovered the affair, showcasing the character's ability to drive massive audience engagement.
Past Turmoil and Returns
Grant's marriage to Tiffany Raymond between 1996 and 1998 was another source of intense drama, marked by physical and emotional abuse, as well as multiple affairs—including one with Tiffany's mother. The relationship ended tragically when Tiffany was killed in a car accident on New Year's Eve 1998, after Grant had been accused of her attempted murder earlier that Christmas.
Grant returned to EastEnders in 2005 after nearly six years away, reuniting with his family and on-screen mother Peggy, the Mitchell matriarch. He departed again in June 2006, only to make a comeback ten years later for Barbara Windsor's final scenes as Peggy. This latest return continues his legacy of explosive storylines and emotional reunions, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the soap's history.
