Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) will get a big blast from the past in EastEnders next year when she encounters old acquaintance Bea, who she knew when she was at high school.
Multi-award winning TV star Ronni Ancona, who has starred in Last Tango In Halifax and Skins, will play the role of Bea, who comes face-to-face with Linda while at a high school reunion in the New Year.
And it swiftly becomes apparent that Linda and Bea have very different recollections of the time they were in each other’s lives.
Bea subsequently settles in to Walford and it’s not long before she finds herself at the heart of the drama.
While little is currently known about her backstory, let’s just say that Bea is a force to be reckoned with – and she leaves a lasting impression on all those who cross her path.
This stint marks star Ronni’s first in Albert Square, though she is no stranger to the world of Walford and the icons who dwell there, having impersonated EastEnders legends Peggy Mitchell, Kat Slater and Sharon Watts in BAFTA-winning show The Big Impression.
‘I am honoured to have been invited to join the iconic institution that is EastEnders, and to go on this whirlwind of a journey with such an unpredictable, nuanced and complex character as Bea,’ said Ronni.
‘I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life.’
EastEnders’ Executive Producer Ben Wadey added: ‘I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Ronni Ancona to EastEnders playing the character of Bea.
‘Bea’s character is mysterious, and we’re thrilled to have an esteemed actress and comedian like Ronni playing her.’
Consider us very intrigued.
Bea’s arrival will come after what is no doubt set to be an eventful festive season for Linda, who returns to the Square the week after next.
Linda, as viewers know, has been on a cruise with Ollie and Annie after a very stressful number of years.
The Walford legend lost husband and longtime soulmate Mick (Danny Dyer) in tragic circumstances, subsequently killed Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters) to protect her best mate before relapsing in the aftermath of trying to cover up the crime.
Earlier this year, she sold The Vic after years as the boozer’s landlady, determined to start afresh when she returned to the Square.
However, things take quite a turn when she sets foot back in Walford, with ex-lover Max Branning (Jake Wood) back after a four year absence.
Linda had a brief and controversial affair with Max in 2021, which led to the birth of Annie. Max remains unaware of the fact he has a daughter so Linda will no doubt be on edge over the possibility that the truth might explode.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
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