In a stunning twist that left fans buzzing with excitement, Anita Dobson stepped back into the spotlight by reprising her iconic role as Angie Watts on EastEnders. The beloved actress, now 75 years old, graced the screen once again to celebrate the show’s remarkable 40th anniversary. Dobson’s portrayal of Angie, the fiery landlady of the Queen Vic pub from 1985 to 1988, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers for decades.
Angie’s unexpected return to Albert Square unfolded in a poignant moment as she visited her daughter, Sharon Watts, during a harrowing ordeal. Sharon found herself in a perilous situation, trapped under rubble after a devastating explosion rocked Walford. Dobson’s character brought a wave of nostalgia and emotion to the storyline, reminding audiences of the rich history and enduring legacy of EastEnders.
The actress, who had kept her reprisal a closely guarded secret, confided in her husband, the legendary Queen guitarist Sir Brian May, about her return to the beloved soap. Dobson shared the challenges of keeping the surprise under wraps, admitting, “It’s been really hard because so many people that I’m really close to have said, ‘oh are you going back?’ because I’ve gone back to do the documentary, so it’s been so hard not to say anything.”
Returning to the role of Angie after more than three decades felt like a homecoming for Dobson. She expressed, “She’s always there at the blink of an eyelash. She’s inside me, and she always will be.” The actress recounted her emotional experience of slipping back into Angie’s shoes, describing it as both wonderful and surreal.
Reuniting with Letitia Dean, who portrays Sharon, on set was a seamless and heartwarming experience for Dobson. She reflected on the reunion, saying it was “incredibly emotional in a lovely, happy way.” The chemistry between the two actresses shone through, adding depth and authenticity to their on-screen relationship.
Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer of EastEnders, praised Anita Dobson’s portrayal of Angie Watts, hailing the character as “formidable” and “iconic.” He emphasized Angie’s significant contribution to shaping the identity of the show and acknowledged her enduring impact on British television. Dobson’s return was a fitting tribute to EastEnders’ storied past and a nod to the enduring relevance of the soap opera.
As the countdown to the show’s 40th anniversary celebrations continues, Thursday’s episode promises an electrifying twist with a live edition that will engage viewers in shaping the romantic destiny of Denise, portrayed by Diane Parish. The interactive format encourages audience participation, adding an exciting element to the milestone event.
In anticipation of the special live episode on Thursday, February 20, BBC News will provide comprehensive coverage
