Anita Dobson’s unexpected return to EastEnders as Angie Watts was more than just a nostalgic moment—it was closure, both for her and for the iconic character. After nearly 37 years away from the Queen Vic, Dobson made a surprise reappearance in honor of the show's 40th anniversary, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled!
The legendary actress, who played the feisty landlady between 1985 and 1988, shared her thoughts on this emotional return during an interview on BBC Radio Surrey and Sussex. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “I had a little think about it and then I thought, well, it's kind of really good closure for Angie Watts and for me.” That sense of finality was something she never expected, but when the opportunity came knocking, it was too meaningful to ignore.
Her grand return wasn’t just a casual walk onto the set—it was shrouded in secrecy! The actress revealed that she was contacted about reprising her role shortly before Christmas, and from that moment on, it was all top secret. In fact, only one person knew: her husband, legendary Queen guitarist Sir Brian May. “We were sworn to silence. We'd be shot if we divulged any information,” she joked. Keeping the surprise under wraps was no easy feat, but it made the reveal all the more spectacular for fans.
One of the most dramatic moments of the episode featured Angie appearing to her daughter, Sharon Watts, who was drifting in and out of consciousness while trapped under rubble after an explosion. It was an emotionally charged scene that brought back waves of memories for longtime viewers. The reunion—though bittersweet—added a powerful layer to the storyline, and Dobson’s performance did not disappoint.
Returning to the EastEnders set was a surreal experience for the actress. Though she briefly stepped back onto the grounds during her time on Strictly Come Dancing in 2011, she said this time felt completely different. “It was like walking back into a swimming pool of warm water,” she said, reminiscing about the warm welcome she received from the cast and crew. “Everybody was so welcoming and so kind. I really enjoyed every moment of it.”
And if that wasn’t nostalgic enough, Dobson even wore the exact outfit from her very first appearance as Angie Watts! That small but significant detail added an extra sentimental touch to the moment, making it feel as though time had folded in on itself. “It was a real gift to be able to come back,” she shared, appreciating the rare opportunity to revisit such a defining role in her career.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing parts of this return was how the production team went to great lengths to keep it a secret. Dobson wasn’t just invited back—she was “smuggled” into the studio to avoid leaks. The element of surprise played a crucial role in making her comeback even more impactful. In an era where spoilers are everywhere, pulling off a truly shocking moment like this is a rarity, and EastEnders did it flawlessly.
For longtime fans, Angie Watts is more than just a character—she’s a piece of EastEnders history. Her tumultuous relationship with Den Watts, her struggles behind the bar at the Queen Vic, and her fiery personality made her an unforgettable force in British television. Bringing her back, even for just one night, was a brilliant way to honor both the past and the show's enduring legacy.
In the end, Anita Dobson’s return to EastEnders wasn’t just a nostalgic treat—it was a full-circle moment that felt right for both the actress and the character. Whether this marks the definitive end of Angie Watts or leaves the door open for more surprises in the future, one thing is certain: her presence, even after all these years, still has the power to captivate audiences.
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