BBC EastEnders legend Patsy Palmer makes shock return to soap 30 years after debut
EastEnders legend Patsy Palmer - who plays Bianca Jackson - is heading back to the BBC soap for a short stint and has already begun filming with the rest of the cast
EastEnders legend Patsy Palmer is heading back to her EastEnders roots – as she makes a shock return to the BBC soap.
Patsy will be making her return to the BBC soap, where she plays Bianca Jackson later this Spring for a new storyline with Whitney Dean and Zack Hudson. Bianca made her debut back in 1993, but we last saw her on our screens five years ago.
In a new set of episodes, Patsy reprises her role as Bianca when Whitney and Zack decide to visit her in Milton Keynes following a break-up with Terry. It’s not long before trouble ensues, and chaos engulfs the family.
Speaking about her upcoming return – which will air very shortly, Patsy revealed: “I’m so excited to be reprising the role of Bianca. EastEnders holds such a special place in my heart so it’s always a pleasure to be back.”
Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer added: “I’m thrilled to welcome the fabulous Patsy back to the iconic role of Bianca Jackson. Although the character was last seen on-screen in 2019, Bianca still remains a fan favourite. We know our audiences will be thrilled at her return as she is thrust into the heart of the drama alongside step-daughter Whitney.”
Bianca still has many connections to the Square, as she is the step-mother of Whitney Dean and the sister of Sonia Fowler. Could her return be connected to Whitney’s exit from Walford, or what trouble will either of them find themselves in?
Speaking about her exit, Shona – who plays Whitney – said: “I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving EastEnders. I have loved my years in the show. I have been trusted with some incredible storylines and have made amazing friendships — and family — which will endure.” She later admitted it wasn’t an “easy decision” to make.
“It wasn’t an easy decision because I’ve made so many friends. I’ve seen people come and go, and meanwhile, Whitney has been one of the longest-standing characters,” she added of her shock departure.
“I’ve had so much fun and done so many storylines, some of which have been sensitive, and I’ve been honoured to be trusted with such heavy stuff year after year. So I’m going to be sad to say goodbye to my friends and family, but it was the right decision for me as I want to do other things. After 15 years, I’ve had a pretty good run!”