EastEnders has announced that Michael French will reprise his role as the iconic Albert Square character David Wicks for "a short stint later this year".
Sharing the news, the BBC soap said: "Whilst Albert Square has changed immensely since David last stepped foot in it, his character remains cemented in its rich history as the smooth-talking womaniser, and son of Walford's infamous matriarch, Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement), and Pete Beale (Peter Dean).
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"Over his four collective years in Albert Square, David was never far away from drama having been involved in some of the show's most iconic storylines, often proving that even his own family were not safe from his deception.
"From becoming sworn enemies with step-brother Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), after he embarked on an affair with his then-wife, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), that almost saw Ian killed, conducting endless dodgy deals at step-father Frank Butcher's (Mike Reid) car lot, and discovering that Bianca Jackson, the woman he had started developing feelings for, was in fact his secret daughter...
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"David last returned to Walford after the death of nemesis Derek Branning (Jamie Foreman) in 2013, and sought to rekindle his relationship with teen sweetheart Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson), but things weren't meant to be and David left Walford alone once again after she called time on their relationship when he was a no-show at their wedding due to suffering a sudden heart attack.
"Whilst the circumstances relating to his return are yet to be revealed, one thing is for certain, when David is around, trouble almost always inevitably follows..."
Commenting on his return, actor Michael French said: "I feel honoured to be asked to reprise the role of David Wicks once again. It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David never fails to create a lot of drama in a very short time."
Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: "David Wicks is undoubtedly one of EastEnders' most beloved rogues, and we are thrilled to welcome the talented Michael French back to the legendary role as we lead up to the show's 40th anniversary.
"David's character was never shy of drama during his previous stints, and I can assure you this return will be no different."
EastEnders airs on RTÉ One and BBC One Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm.
