Four characters made a surprise return to EastEnders on Christmas Day.
During the latest instalment of the soap, Christmas fever was in full swing as the residents of Walford settled down for a day of festivities. After waking up alone with no electricity or heating, Bernie (Clair Norris) received a facetime from mum Karen (Lorraine Stanley) and Mitch (Roger Griffiths).
Fans will remember Karen and Mitch were forced out of Walford earlier this month after Phil (Steve McFadden) discovered Karen was behind Albie’s kidnap. Taking the rest of their family with them, the Taylor-Bakers have now started a new life with Phil’s £50,000.
READ MORE: BBC EastEnders rumble major revenge twist as Eve makes shocking return
READ MORE: Want more TV? Daily Star has just the thing for you!
But the duo made a surprise return on Christmas Day, telling Bernie about their festive plans in Spain. Bernie sat shivering with a coat over her as she begged them to come home.
But Karen pointed out that this wasn’t possible unless Phil was “six feet under”. Unaware of Bernie’s struggles, Karen and Mitch left the call to enjoy some festive karaoke.
Karen opted against telling Sharon that Keanu (Danny Walters) was also involved in Albie’s kidnap. But in classic soap fashion, the truth came out while Sharon and Keanu were about to say their vows.
Later in the episode, Dean (Matt Di Angelo) took a call from Shabnam (Rakhee Thakrar). Shabnam was last seen in 2016, leaving Walford with daughter Jade, now played by Elizabeth Green, after her relationship with Kush (Davood Ghadami) ended.
While Shabnam didn’t return in the flesh, Dean spoke to her about the present Jade left him. But Shabnam insisted Jade wanted nothing to do with him before Dean realised the gift was for Gina (Francesca Henry).
Join the Daily Star Soaps WhatsApp for all the latest spoilers and exclusives
Later, Lola (Danielle Harold) made a surprise return via video link. Earlier this year, Lola passed away after being diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. Lola’s video message revealed that Jay (Jamie Borthwick) and Honey (Emma Barton). The Mitchell’s receive a surprise video message from Lola who reveals that Jay and Honey will both be running the London Marathon in 2024.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm
For more of the latest showbiz news from Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk