EastEnders’ Shona McGarty reveals her heartbreaking tribute to June Brown during Dot’s funeral

EASTENDERS star Shona McGarty has revealed her emotional tribute to the late June Brown following Dot Cotton's funeral.

Monday night saw the residents of Walford say their final goodbyes to Albert Square legend Dot, and Shona, 31 - who plays Whitney Dean - made sure to remember June, who passed away in April.

In a behind the scenes clip shared on the official EastEnders Instagram, Shona said: "It’s been quite emotional because as a cast we never really got to say goodbye.

"I used to ask June all the time what perfume she wore, so I bought it and I’m wearing it today in her memory."

The funeral saw the return of Jacqueline Jossa as Lauren Branning, and she added: "It’s bittersweet.

"It’s lovely to be back to see all the friendly faces but it’s hard scenes to film."

Another familiar face back on the Square to say his final goodbye was Ian Beale, played by Adam Woodyatt.

And The Sun revealed today it was a teaser for a full-time return, after Adam left the soap in January 2021.

A source said: “Ian’s comeback storyline is in the works. Fans of the show don’t know who Ian was talking to yet but it won’t be long until all is revealed.

“While the plotline is top secret, it’s a given that viewers will not be disappointed by what they see when Ian does return.”

Adam stepped back last year after 35 years on the soap.

Ian was last seen fleeing after it emerged Sharon Watts, played by Letitia Dean, 55, had tried to poison him.