EastEnders spoilers follow for Monday’s episode (January 6), which is available to watch now on streaming service BBC iPlayer and hasn’t yet aired on TV.
EastEnders has teased the return of another major character with a surprise cameo, in the show’s latest episode.
On Christmas Eve, the show aired the return of Nigel Bates, as he set foot in Walford for the first time in 26 years and reunited with old friend Phil Mitchell.
With Nigel seemingly falling on hard times, Phil gave him a place to stay – but it was revealed that he is lying about his separation with his wife Julie, with his reason for returning to Walford remaining up in the air.
Related: Best streaming services
Meanwhile, Nigel has attempted to help Phil with his loneliness, urging him to come to gatherings with the other Mitchells, including on New Year’s Eve.
What to Read Next
In today’s episode, Phil gave Nigel his card to buy some essentials for the house, and Billy grew suspicious that he was coning his cousin.
Nigel reunited with Kathy in the Minute Mart, and the pair caught up after many years. She explained that she was rushed off her feet in the café, and Nigel insisted lending a hand.
Related: EastEnders shares first look at Sonia Fowler's murder trial
Kathy was grateful for his help and told him that she will pay him to do as many shifts as he wants – and encouraged him to make amends with Billy, who had arrived at the café.
Nigel made it clear to Billy that he realises he isn’t family and doesn’t want to cause trouble, with his only aim to help cheer up Phil.
Billy’s suspicions continued and he questioned how Nigel has a mobile phone when he is homeless. But when he found out that Nigel used to lodge with Dot for years, Billy concluded that he was trustworthy.
Related: EastEnders' Navin Chowdhry explains special leaving gift after Nish exit
But Nigel was avoiding a call, and after Billy left, he listened to a worried voicemail from his wife Julie, with actor Karen Henthorn reprising her role for a voice cameo.
"Whatever reason you walked out, disappeared," she said, "I just really need to know you’re alright, babe. I miss you, I love you Nigel."
Nigel teared up, but why is he really back in Walford – and will we see a proper return for Julie?
EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
