Former EastEnders characters to return for Dot Branning’s funeral | TV and Soaps

EastEnders has unveiled a raft oft classic characters who will return for the funeral of Dot Branning.

In a special episode later this year, the iconic character will bid a final farewell when news reaches the residents of Albert Square that Dot has sadly passed away.

June Brown, OBE, MBE played Dot on the soap since 1985. She sadly passed away in April 2022.

29-year-old actress Jacqueline Jossa and Tom Watt are returning to ‘EastEnders’ for iconic character Dot Branning’s funeral this winter.

Jacqueline admitted it was a “no brainer” to return to the soap for such a special occasion, but admitted it was “hard” to shoot such an emotional plot.

She said: “Coming back to ‘EastEnders’ for Dot’s funeral was a no-brainer, and it was a real honour to be invited back. I had a lot of fun but, of course, it was bittersweet.

“It was amazing to be back, but hard to be filming this storyline. I can tell the viewers now that Dot gets the beautiful send-off that she deserves. June was the light and joy of ‘EastEnders’.

Returning characters who will feature in the special episode include Colin Russell (Lord Michael Cashman CBE), Barry Clark (Gary Hailes) George ‘Lofty’ Holloway (Tom Watt), Mary ‘the punk’ Smith (Linda Davidson) and Disa O’Brien (Jan Graveson) will join Dot’s step-granddaughter Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) to say goodbye.

The BBC share: “The returning cast are currently filming scenes which will bring viewers up to date with their lives, as they share their cherished memories of Dot.

“For the actors, it’s also a chance to honour their beloved co-star June Brown, who passed away aged 95 in April this year.”

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said it was important to bring back significant people from Dot’s life to join her Walford loved ones for her final farewell.

He explained: “It’s an honour to invite so many of Walford’s beloved characters back to pay tribute to Dot.

“Over the years, Dot profoundly impacted the lives of many young people struggling with life’s biggest challenges. Her warmth, heart and compassion changed lives – so we wanted to reunite some of the people she helped the most. I’m thrilled these talented and generous actors wanted to share this special experience with us so we can give Dot a fitting send-off.”

The returning cast are currently filming scenes which will bring viewers up to date with their lives, as they share their cherished memories of Dot, reps confirmed to MarkMeets.com

An air date for the special episode is to be announced.

EastEnders airs weeknights on BBC One.