Shane Richie's EastEnders return

Monday, 8 February 2010

Shane Richie will return to 'EastEnders' later this year.

The actor has confirmed he will make his Albert Square come-back as Alfie Moon later this year and can't wait to find out what the lovable market trader and barman has been doing leaving Walford in 2005.

He said: "It's an honour and a privilege to be asked back to 'EastEnders' which is at the top of its game! I'm looking forward to finding out what Alfie has been up to over the last few years but more importantly what the future has in store for him."

The 45-year-old star was last seen in the BBC One soap in a Christmas Day (25.12.05) special in 2005 - when Alfie left with on-screen wife Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace.

It's not just Shane who is looking forward to his return, however.

Bosses at the programme are also thrilled about the comeback.

John Yorke - the BBC's drama production controller - said: "Alfie is one of 'EastEnders' most loved and iconic characters, so he's bound to get a very warm welcome from viewers when he returns to Walford.

"We've had so many new and interesting characters settle into Albert Square since Alfie departed. It's going to make for fantastic viewing when one of the show's most familiar faces rides back into the East End."

Shane recently admitted he would love to come back to 'EastEnders', as long as Kat and Alfie returned together.

He said: "I'm not averse to going back. Alfie is precious and dear to me but I'd only go back if there was a good reason for Kat and Alfie to return. People got so caught up in their love story."

It is not known whether Jessie will be coming back with him.