**Tameka Empson Reveals Lasting Impact of ‘Celebrity Traitors’ as She Returns to EastEnders**
Tameka Empson, well-known for her long-standing role as Kim Fox on BBC’s *EastEnders*, has opened up about her recent appearance on *Celebrity Traitors* and the enduring effect the reality show has had on her. The actress, who took a leave from the famous Albert Square to join the specially commissioned celebrity edition of the hit BBC show, candidly discussed the emotional stress of the series’ confrontation-heavy round table scenes.
Empson, aged 48, explained how the experience of having to debate and discuss potential traitors around the show’s trademark circular table has left her with a strong aversion. She jokingly remarked, “I can’t look at a round table again. I’m like, ‘Can we have a square or an oval, please? Never a round table again.’” Although she noted the show was “brilliant,” Empson emphasised that the tension was hard to shake off. Her comments shine a light on the psychological intensity faced by participants on reality programmes designed around suspicion and mistrust.
Reflecting on the filming process, which took place in Scotland, Empson admitted she is eager to watch the episodes herself, as she was never able to get the full picture of the unfolding drama during production. The technique of limited information is key to the format, often leaving contestants and viewers equally in the dark about each other’s intentions.
Turning back to her roots in Walford, Empson hinted that her alter ego Kim Fox is set for an emotional return to *EastEnders*. With anticipation building amongst soap fans, she teased that there would be “more joy” as Kim comes back to the often-tumultuous Square. She added that the character would experience some emotional moments, urging viewers to “understand her pain.” This suggests a storyline marked by both uplift and challenge, something viewers have come to expect from the soap’s compelling narrative arcs.
Intriguingly, Empson also fuelled speculation about the possible return of Kim’s husband, Vincent Hubbard, portrayed by Richard Blackwood. Although Vincent was officially pronounced dead on the show in 2021, Empson teased fans with a cryptic remark: “If he turns up, then he’s got to turn up with something in his hands. It’s been a long while now. Watch this space, people.” The actor’s comment has already set social media abuzz, with long-time fans eager to see if one of the soap’s most mysterious storylines may yet take another twist.
Empson spoke fondly about *EastEnders’* landmark 40th anniversary, which aired earlier this year, expressing her appreciation for the special episodes that brought together virtually all the central characters. She said, “I really enjoyed the 40th, if I’m honest, because it had everyone in it, and it was sad to see Martin [Fowler] go. It really was. And I think, well, the nation felt it, and people took time off work.” The death of Martin Fowler, played by James Bye, during a dramatic explosion at the iconic Queen Vic pub, marked one of the most shocking moments of the anniversary week.
The sense of community portrayed during these anniversary episodes, Empson added, was palpable not only on screen but among the cast themselves. Reflecting on her own journey, she commented, “I think it was a real time where you saw all the characters coming together, and 40 years in the game as well. I remember watching it as a child, and now I’m in it, and to be there, it’s a real… that’s a real moment for me, I have to say.” Her career, which began in Walford back in 2009, has certainly come full circle.
As Empson re-acclimatises to the fast-paced drama of *EastEnders* with memories of *Celebrity Traitors* still fresh, fans will be keenly watching what’s next for both her and Kim Fox. Whether it’s navigating the emotional maelstrom of her on-screen life, or navigating a new-found hesitation for round tables, Tameka Empson’s willingness to embrace both comedic and challenging moments continues to endear her to audiences across the UK.