Ross Kemp, the legendary British actor and documentary maker, is back in the news in 2025 for returning to EastEnders as Grant Mitchell, one of that long-running soap opera’s most honorable characters. This return is in the soap’s 40th-anniversary celebrations, which are set to be filled with drama, surprises, and memorable moments. He has sent excitement through the fans as his character will breathe explosiveness back into Albert Square.
Ross Kemp has been playing Grant Mitchell in EastEnders since 1990 and the character soon became a fan favourite. Grant is one-half of soap’s legendary Mitchell brothers, the other being his brother Phil (Steve McFadden). Grant has been at the center of some of the show’s most dramatic storylines over the years, including his tumultuous relationships with his ex-wife Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean), and his deceased mother, Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor).
Kemp last guest-starred on the show in 2016, when Grant was back for Peggy’s funeral. His character has been living in Portugal since then. But in 2025, Grant returns to Walford, and his comeback is linked to his brother Phil’s woes. Phil has been struggling with loneliness and mental health issues, including a recent suicide attempt. Grant’s arrival is set to stir things up, particularly as Sharon is now dating his long-lost cousin, Teddy Mitchell.
Kemp has promised his return will be “nothing short of explosive” and fans can expect more than a few dramatic moments as Grant reunites with old acquaintances — friends and foes alike.
EastEnders 40th Anniversary Celebrations
The 40th anniversary of EastEnders is a big deal, with Ross Kemp’s return just one component of the festivities. That week, the show is going to air a series of specials, including a live episode in which fans can vote on the outcome of a pivotal character arc. There’ll even be flashbacks to the Mitchell family’s past, giving fans of the show a nostalgic glimpse of the cast members’ history.
Other telly high spots include a very much ‘whodunnit’ reveal as to who attacked Cindy Beale on Christmas Day and the explosive drama behind the destruction of The Queen Vic pub. With these storylines and Grant’s return, the anniversary week promises to be unmissable television.
Ross Kemp’s Career After EastEnders
Ross Kemp is perhaps best known for his time as Grant Mitchell in EastEnders but has since forged a successful career outside of the show. Ross Kemp has gone on to host several hit documentary series, including Ross Kemp on Gangs and Ross Kemp in Afghanistan. He has traveled to some of the most dangerous places on earth to film these documentaries, demonstrating both his courage and commitment to telling a story.
Kemp is also making 80th anniversary VE Day 2025 plans (Victory in Europe Day plans) He visited a primary school in London with Olympic gold medalist Dame Kelly Holmes to thank veterans and bring together people who used their time in World War II well. Kemp noted that this anniversary is an opportunity to also show gratitude to the living veterans and to celebrate the principles of freedom and democracy.
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A Busy Year for Ross Kemp
Ross Kemp is set to be a busy man in 2025. Kemp is also presenting an hour-long documentary called EastEnders: 40 Years on the Square, which takes the fans behind the scenes of the show’s history. The documentary which will be broadcast on BBC One included some of the soap’s four-decade-long run’s most memorable moments.
Why It Matters That Ross Kemp Is Back
Ross Kemp’s return to EastEnders is a big deal, for a lot of reasons First, it reintroduces a character who has been central to some of the series’ most iconic storylines. Grant Mitchell’s complicated relationships and fiery nature have always made him a favorite among viewers, and his comeback is guaranteed to revive old feuds and bring fresh drama.
Second, Kemp’s comeback illustrates EastEnders’ staying power. It’s been a mainstay of British television for 40 years and the ability to resurrect beloved characters like Grant Mitchell just shows its staying power. The 40th-anniversary celebrations are proof of the show’s ability to change with the times while remaining true to its origins.
Ross Kemp is back, and a reminder of just how versatile he is as an actor and presenter. Kemp has done it all — he went from hardman in EastEnders, to hosting documentaries and game shows. His 2025 work illustrates that he endeavored to both entertain and tell worthwhile stories.
