Ross Kemp Reflects on ‘Great Debt’ to EastEnders and Hints at Possible Return
Renowned actor Ross Kemp has spoken candidly about his relationship with the long-running BBC soap, EastEnders, describing the show as the cornerstone of his television career and openly acknowledging that he owes it “a great debt.” In recent media appearances, Kemp, now aged 60, reflected on his journey with the soap and his willingness to step back into the infamous role of Grant Mitchell should the opportunity arise.
Earlier this year, Kemp made a highly anticipated return to Albert Square during EastEnders’ 40th anniversary celebrations, reuniting with viewers after nearly a decade away from the role that made him a household name. His recent storyline saw Grant return to support his on-screen brother, Phil Mitchell, as the character confronted mental health challenges—a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mitchell family dynamic.
Following this cameo, Grant’s storyline concluded with his return to Portugal, leaving the door open for further appearances. Discussing his future with the soap during an interview on ITV’s Loose Women, Kemp maintained an air of intrigue. “You just don’t know, do you?” he commented, referencing both the unpredictable nature of soap operas and the creative choices of the show’s producers. He added, “I’ve always owed EastEnders a great debt and it was very good to me, and hopefully I was good to it. Why not keep it that way? I’ve always believed you should leave doors swinging, rather than shut them.”
Kemp’s comments have sparked renewed speculation among fans about whether Grant Mitchell, one of the show’s most iconic tough men, could make further appearances. His philosophy of leaving “doors swinging” certainly suggests he is open to reprising the role, depending on circumstances and storyline needs.
Since his debut as Grant Mitchell in 1990, Kemp has become one of the soap’s most recognisable faces. While his 2016 appearance was marked poignantly by the storyline surrounding his on-screen mother Peggy Mitchell’s (played by Dame Barbara Windsor) final departure, his return for the major anniversary celebrations was met with excitement by both long-time fans and newer viewers.
Reflecting further on his recent return, Kemp described the experience with affection. “It was wonderful to jump into Grant’s leather jacket again, which I can still get in,” he quipped. Kemp likened his stint on the show to “parachuting in,” as he navigated both the fast-paced workload and warmth of the cast. “They’ve got to be welcoming because it’s like a high-speed train—you’ve got to jump on at the right time or you miss it.”
He also paid tribute to his castmates including Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell), Paul Bradley (Nigel Bates), and Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts), crediting them for helping make his return feel like a homecoming. “It was like going back home, and it was great,” he explained, highlighting the sense of community that has long been a hallmark of EastEnders.
Outside of his work in the soap, Kemp has established himself as a respected documentary maker, tackling diverse subjects with series like Ross Kemp On Gangs, Ross Kemp In Afghanistan, and Ross Kemp: Extreme World. His versatility as a presenter has seen him confront significant issues around the world, further broadening his television profile beyond the walls of Albert Square.
Most recently, Kemp has appeared as the host of the BBC gameshow Bridge Of Lies, which puts contestants’ knowledge and nerve to the test as they navigate their way across a digital bridge through a series of tricky questions.
Despite his broad range of work, it is clear from Kemp’s comments that EastEnders holds a special place in his career and his heart. While the actor remains busy with fresh projects, for loyal followers of the soap, the possibility of another Grant Mitchell sighting remains tantalisingly real. With the door still very much open, fans will be watching closely to see whether Kemp wills his iconic character to stride back onto Albert Square in the future.