Another iconic face is returning to Walford later this year as Michael French reprises his role as David Wicks in EastEnders.
David, the son of Pat Butcher and Pete Beale, first arrived in Walford back in 1993 and is the father of Bianca Jackson, a daughter he shares with childhood sweetheart, Carol Jackson. David is also father to Joe and Karen Wicks who he shares with Lorraine Foster.
David was last seen in Albert Square ten years ago but left after his failed wedding attempt with Carol - but with both Carol and Bianca no longer in Walford what could bring him back to his old home?
One link he does have to the Square is, of course, his half-brother, Ian Beale and his then-wife Cindy Beale. Sounds like a recipe for disaster considering David's affair with Cindy almost got Ian killed!
David isn't the first character returning for EastEnders' 40th anniversary, last month it was announced that Tracy Ann Oberman would be reprising her role as Chrissie Watts for a short stint. Laurie Brett has also returned for a brief time as Jane Beale, thrilling long-time fans of the show.
Viewers will remember David as a smooth-talking womaniser and 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.
Not only did David's endless dodgy deals at step-father Frank Butcher’s (Mike Reid) car lot get him in trouble but there were also fireworks when he discovered that Bianca Jackson, the woman he had started developing feelings for, was in fact his secret daughter.
Whilst the circumstances relating to his return are yet to be revealed, actor Michael French has revealed there will be plenty of drama on the cards: “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 Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm.
