In a stunning television resurrection, EastEnders legend Barry Evans is set to return to Albert Square after more than two decades away from our screens. The beloved character, who met his dramatic end on 2 January 2004, will make a surprise comeback in a special episode airing next month.
The Dramatic Exit and Unexpected Return
Barry Evans originally left EastEnders in one of the soap's most memorable death scenes. His wife Janine Butcher confessed to an affair with Paul Trueman before pushing Barry off a cliff during a heated confrontation. The character struck his head on rocks below, leading to his apparent death.
Despite his tragic departure, Barry remains one of Walford's most memorable residents due to his perpetual misfortune in life and love. His complex relationships, particularly his intense feud with step-mother Pat Evans, cemented his status as a fan favourite throughout his ten-year tenure on the show.
Special Episode Focuses on Dementia Storyline
The upcoming special episode will see Barry return alongside Pat Evans, played by Pam St Clement, as they appear in the Queen Vic pub. Their comeback ties directly to Nigel Bates' worsening dementia symptoms, with the storyline being developed in partnership with Dementia UK.
Executive producer Ben Wadey expressed his delight at welcoming Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders, noting that Barry Evans was "renowned for being one of Walford's unluckiest residents." The episode will feature Nigel's altered memory transporting him back to the 1990s, creating the perfect scenario for these classic characters to reappear.
Cast Reactions to the Surprise Return
Shaun Williamson, who portrays Barry Evans, revealed his shock at receiving the call to return. "It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!" he confessed. "I have to admit to a few nerves when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends."
Pam St Clement similarly expressed her excitement about returning as Pat Evans, who herself died from cancer in a 2012 storyline. "I was both surprised and excited to be asked back to tread the streets of Walford once again," she said. "It was lovely to be welcomed back by those with whom I had worked for so long. It was just like coming home."
The emotional sequences were filmed in September and will show Pat guiding Nigel through his confusion in the Queen Vic amid festive decorations. A programme insider described the scenes as "beautifully done," with Pat appearing as Nigel's friend to help him navigate his memory challenges.
