Vicki Fowler is to make a shock return to EastEnders after more than 20 years away, it has been announced.
The character - daughter of Michelle Fowler and 'Dirty' Den Watts - left the Square in 2004 to start a new life in Australia with Spencer Moon (Chris Parker), the younger brother of Alfie (Shane Richie).
Vicki returns to Walford in short order for the funeral of her uncle Martin (James Bye), who was tragically killed off in the soap's live 40th anniversary special on Thursday.
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The part was originally played by Scarlett Alice Johnson but has now been recast with actress Alice Haig, known for her roles in Andor and Rain Dogs.
Vicki will be joined by her new boyfriend Ross, played by The Bill's Alex Walkinshaw, and Ross's son Joel, played by newcomer Max Murray.
Exec producer Chris Clenshaw said: "We're delighted to have the very talented Alice, Alex and Max with us. Vicky is back under the most tragic of circumstances, representing her distraught mum Michelle, and she's changed a lot since we last saw her.
"We're excited to let viewers get reacquainted with Vicky and to introduce Ross and Joel to the Square. It won't be long before Vicky and this new branch of the Fowler family are making waves in Walford."
Haig said: "I am so excited. I have always watched the show, and I was born in February 1985, so I'm the same age as EastEnders! It's so cool to be playing a character like Vicky - we think we know her, but a lot has changed. I can't wait for all the Albert Square drama ahead."
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Walkinshaw said of joining the show: "I am really excited as I've had so many friends on EastEnders throughout the years, and I always hear lovely things about it.
"The show is top draw drama and I can't wait to get stuck in. Ross is a decent, hardworking family man, he always puts family first, and he is very in love with Vicky, but it's not always plain sailing."
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Murray added: "It's an absolute privilege and honour to be joining such a wonderful production full of a lovely cast and crew. I'm really looking forward to introducing Joel to EastEnders viewers and telling his story."
Vicki, Ross and Joel will appear on screen in the coming weeks.
Neil Wilkes
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