Tracy-Ann Oberman is to reprise her role as Chrissie Watts on EastEnders after almost 19 years away, it has been revealed.
The character first appeared in Walford in April 2004 as the estranged second wife of Dirty Den Watts (Leslie Grantham), but within less than a year, she had murdered him and buried him under the floorboards at the Queen Vic.
Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) initially took the rap for Den's death but eventually the truth came out and in December 2005 Chrissie was sent to prison, where she has remained ever since.
The reason for Chrissie's comeback has yet to be revealed, although she is bound to have unfinished business with Den's 'princess', Sharon (Letitia Dean).
"I'm delighted to welcome the immensely talented Tracy-Ann back to the iconic role of Chrissie Watts," said exec producer Chris Clenshaw. "Although the character hasn't been seen on screen for almost twenty years, Chrissie is cemented in EastEnders' rich history for her murder of Walford's most infamous villain, and Sharon's beloved father, Dirty Den.
"I'm keeping tight-lipped on the exact circumstances relating to her return for the time being, but what I can promise is that it's never quiet when Chrissie Watts is around."
Oberman added: Chrissie Watts was such a great character to play - a victim or a villain. She is a real fan favourite, so when Chris Clenshaw asked me to come back and re-visit her and see what has happened in the last 19 years, I jumped at the chance.
"The scripts are fantastic and I hope the viewers enjoy her as much as I am enjoying playing her again."
Oberman has already started filming her return, which will be for a short stint only, and will appear on screen in the autumn.
Neil Wilkes
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