Watch EastEnders legend Nigel Bates return after 26 years – and he’s hiding a huge secret

AN EASTENDERS legend has made a shock return to Albert Square – and he’s homeless.

The BBC soap’s Christmas Eve episode – which is available to watch on BBC iPlayer now – shows the return of the fan favourite character after 26 years.

Nigel Bates could be seen back in Walford having fallen on hard times.

Actor Paul Bradley has returned to play the iconic character – but from today’s episode it appears his life has changed significantly.

Nigel was last seen in 1998 when he left Walford for a new life in Scotland with wife Julie, daughter Clare and stepson Josh.

But, now back in Walford, Nigel was seen looking homeless as he came into contact with Yolande Trueman at the community centre’s soup kitchen.

Asked about why he was in Walford, Nigel told Yolande: “Memories.”

He wished her a merry Christmas and they toasted before he enjoyed his meal.

The Sun on Sunday exclusively revealed how Paul was making a shock comeback in time for the 40th anniversary.

However, his return for Christmas was totally unexpected.

Soap boss Chris Clenshaw told The Sun earlier this week: “Nigel is back! He is back for a long stint, and it’s incredible having Paul back.”

After EastEnders, Paul built an impressive career in both television and theatre.

He is best known for his long-running role as Elliot Hope in BBC medical drama Holby City, which he played from 2005 to 2019.

Beyond TV he explored theatre, including a standout performance in the West End production of The Mousetrap in 2021, where he portrayed Major Metcalfe.

The actor also took part in the dark comedy series I Hate Suzie and appeared in Casualty, Doctors, and the sitcom My Family.