Charlie Brooks has made her long-awaited return to EastEnders.
The actress, who first appeared as Janine Butcher in 1999, returned to the BBC soap on Thursday (November 5) after a four-year absence.
Her character was shown in an office meeting with an unidentified man, hinting at another dramatic storyline.
EastEnders star Charlie Brooks returns to BBC soap after 4 years
Ms Brooks said: "I always love coming back to Janine.
"She's an exciting character to play, and it's always fun to discover what she's been doing and what she's been up to as an actress.
"Seeing everyone back at the studio, and working with Kellie again, has been amazing. It always feels like home when I go back."
She last appeared in Walford in 2022, when Janine was arrested for perverting the course of justice.
Looking ahead, Ms Brooks assured viewers that Janine’s return will stay true to form.
She said: "I don’t know if anyone wants to see a reformed Janine ever, so we can rest assured that we are leaning into the true nature of who Janine is.
"As always, it’s about survival for her."
She described Janine as a "super fun character to play" and said she enjoys exploring "a little bit more about her each time I play her."
Ms Brooks has also appeared in The Bill, Wired, and Bleak House.
She won the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special in 2011 and was crowned queen of the jungle in the 12th series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2012.
Her on-and-off appearances as Janine have spanned more than two decades.
EastEnders star Bobby Brazier's new role after BBC soap exit
In other EastEnders news, former star Bobby Brazier has landed a role in a festive Gucci campaign alongside an iconic singer.
The 23-year-old actor and model, known for playing Freddie Slater on the BBC soap, left the show in December 2025.
Mr Brazier, the eldest son of Jade Goody and Jeff Brazier, joins Grammy-winning singer Mariah Carey in the luxury brand’s latest Christmas ad.
The advert shows hotel staff transforming a venue for Ms Carey’s arrival.
It features her iconic 1994 hit, All I Want for Christmas Is You.
Mr Brazier is seen among guests enjoying the celebration as Ms Carey joins the party.
The star left EastEnders to pursue new career opportunities outside the soap and to focus on his personal life.
Who is your favourite character on EastEnders? Let us know in the comments.
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