EastEnders have announced that two major stars are set for a comeback following the emotional departure of Nigel Bates in what will be the conclusion of his dementia storyline
18:12, 30 Apr 2026Updated 19:00, 30 Apr 2026
EastEnders announces huge return for major pop star and fan favourite
EastEnders have announced that two major stars are set for a comeback. Gemma Bissix made a name for herself starring as Clare Bates on the BBC soap and made a brief return earlier this year amid Nigel’s dementia storyline.
Gemma’s on-screen stepfather was killed off in an emotional episode earlier this week, and, on her latest comeback, which will see her attending Nigel’s funeral, Gemma said: “When I returned earlier this year, we always knew Clare had to come back for Nigel’s funeral.
“He meant so much to her, and it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story, as everyone came together to say their final goodbyes.”
READ MORE: EastEnders fans in tears over heartbreaking Nigel death as Paul Bradley leaves after 34 yearsREAD MORE: EastEnders’ Grant Mitchell faces heartbreaking choice as Phil breaks down
Gemma Bissix is Clare Bates and Jon Lee as Josh Saunders
Gemma made her initial comeback in February after 18 years away(Image: BBC)
Meanwhile, Jon Lee, who is best known as a member of S Club, played the role of Josh Saunders in the 1990s before he found fame with the Reach hitmakers and is now making a comeback as part of a joint guest appearance with Gemma, reuniting him with on-screen mum Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn).
He said: “It was quite surreal stepping back on to Albert Square after so many years as it’s so familiar to so many of us. It was lovely to see my onscreen family again.”
The dementia storyline was a long-running one for the soap, and saw the return of Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement), who came back as a figment of Nigel’s imagination on Christmas Day.
As EastEnders legend Nigel Bates passes away after battling dementia, actor Paul Bradley discusses his ‘moving’ final episode(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
When Nigel took his last breath earlier this week, his subconscious looked out to the sea before transforming back into a child version of himself. Skimming his last stone, the boy heard his father tell him it was time to go and turned back towards the camera. He said: “Did you see that stone, Dad? It was perfect. It went on forever and ever…”
After Nigel died, the episode ended and Julia’s Theme, last used in the 40th anniversary special following the death of Martin Fowler (James Bye) was played.
Fans were left emotionally sobbing by the scenes. One said: “Wasn’t expecting to be ugly crying at 7am but here we are.” They added: “Nigel’s journey has been beautifully heartbreaking. Sleep well Nigel you utter king.”
Another said: “I was weeping! sound effects and all. What a brilliant end to such a heartbreaking storyline.” A third said Julia’s theme “did me in”.
A fourth agreed: “That was heartbreaking. I think we might need a Nigel Bates support group. Still crying ten minutes after watching. We’re talking The Green Mile ugly crying territory here. Well done to the cast & crew. One of the best episodes I’ve watched! Rest in peace Nige, love ya!”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
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