Hollyoaks’ Linda Gray opens up about her character’s explosive fight scene with co-star David Easter after returning to the soap full time

LINDA Gray has opened up about a forthcoming Hollyoaks storyline that will see her attack co-star David Easter.

The Sun Online revealed on Wednesday how Dallas legend had been signed up to the Channel 4 soap permanently after wowing bosses with her performance during a one off appearance in November.

And 76-year-old Linda is certain her upcoming scenes, as Tabitha Maxwell-Brown, in the show won’t disappoint.

Speaking to Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford on This Morning, she said: “I had to say very bad things to very lovely people!

“I said to David Easter, ‘You rancid dog!’ and I’ve never called anyone a rancid dog in real life.

“I thought it was very good. I was punching him in the chest, it was very dramatic.”

When asked about her spectacular return, Linda said: “When I heard about I loved her name, and I said, ‘Wait a minute! She’s dysfunctional in a very dysfunctional family and I thought, ‘I’ll take it of course!’”

In December, The Sun revealed that producers were keen to sign the soap legend up after she was praised for her short stint on the show.

Linda, 76, made her first appearance as Tabitha Maxwell-Brown on November 15, and starred for a week before departing on November 22.

But her performance as character Marnie Nightingale’s American-based mother quickly impressed show boss Bryan Kirkwood, who is keen to make her a long-term fixture on the show.

The new deal will see her jet back and forth from the US to film scenes.

An insider said: “Linda originally came in on a very short term arrangement, because Bryan was a huge fan, but proved a big hit.

“After a few conversations behind the scenes, show bosses decided to offer her a new deal to keep coming back.

“She lives in America but was happy to accept and will be spending several periods in the UK filming her role in blocks.

“The rest of the cast are very excited to have her back too – she’s a genuine soap legend.”

Linda wasn't just excited about taking on the juicy role of Tabby, admitting the hot men on the show helped draw her in.

Linda explained: “All the men on Hollyoaks are just yummy. They’re delicious. It was like going to an art gallery.

“I could appreciate what was in front of me, but I didn’t take it home. I’ve relaxed into life. This is the best time of my life and I have more fun now.”

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