Karen Henthorn Returns to EastEnders After 27 Years as Julie Bates
Karen Henthorn is set to return to EastEnders nearly three decades after she last appeared as Julie Bates, in a storyline that promises emotional revelations and “awful surprises.”
The actress, who originally left the BBC soap in 1998, will reprise her role alongside Paul Bradley as Nigel Bates. The couple left Walford with their children, Clare and Josh, to start a new life in Scotland, but Julie’s return marks the first time she has been seen on-screen since.
Earlier this year, fans were given a hint of her reappearance when Julie’s voicemail was heard as Nigel listened to a message from his estranged wife.
“Very surreal” return to Albert Square
Speaking about her comeback, Henthorn said:
“It’s very surreal to be back in Albert Square after 27 years and working with the delightful Paul Bradley again – it’s scary how fast the time has gone.”
She added that Julie’s storyline will be emotionally charged:
“Julie has got some awful surprises ahead of her after the initial relief she feels to discover Nigel is still alive. It’s been great to film with Paul and Steve [McFadden], who are such lovely actors, as Julie discovers Nigel’s dementia diagnosis and why he chose to hide it from her.”
Executive producer teases drama
Executive producer Ben Wadey confirmed that Julie’s return will open up major questions for the pair:
“We are delighted to have Karen Henthorn returning to reprise her role as Julie, who arrives looking for Nigel. Julie hasn’t seen Nigel in almost two years and is unaware of his diagnosis and reasons for leaving, so her arrival will pose questions for the pair of them.”
Julie’s return continues the emotionally layered dementia storyline surrounding Nigel, offering viewers both nostalgia and a powerful reflection on aging, illness, and love.
