Get involved: send your pictures, video, news and views by texting CWNEWS to 80360 or email us »
12:43pm Monday 8th February 2010
Shane Richie is returning to EastEnders to reprise the role of loveable rogue Alfie Moon, soap bosses have confirmed.
The actor, who was last seen in Walford on Christmas Day 2005 when he drove off into the sunset with wife Kat (Jessie Wallace), will return to filming in the autumn.
He said: "It's an honour and a privilege to be asked back to the iconic series of EastEnders which is at the top of its game!"
He went on: "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."
Controller of BBC drama production John Yorke added: "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 that it's going to make for fantastic viewing when one of the show's most familiar faces rides back into the East End."
After leaving EastEnders, Shane went on to star in Five's remake of Minder.
It has not been confirmed whether Jessie will also go back to the soap.
Enter your postcode, town or place name
Search for hundreds of jobs in Essex and beyond
Search Now »
Bring love into your life! Find a date in Essex
Search Now »
Homes for sale, and to let, in Essex
Search Now »
New and used cars in Essex and across the UK
Search Now »