Jon Lee is making a comeback to EastEnders on May 1, 2026, nearly 30 years after he first appeared on the show. He will reprise his role as Josh Saunders for the funeral of Nigel Bates, a character who has battled dementia.
Lee originally joined the cast as a teenager in 1997, appearing in just 20 episodes before leaving in 1998. His character was part of the vibrant tapestry of Albert Square, and now he’s stepping back into that familiar world—an experience he describes as quite surreal. “It was quite surreal stepping back on to Albert Square after so many years as it’s so familiar to so many of us,” Lee shared.
The funeral marks a significant point in EastEnders’ ongoing dementia storyline, which has resonated deeply with viewers. Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley, has been a character for over 34 years, making this farewell particularly poignant. In addition to Lee’s return, Gemma Bissix will also reprise her role as Clare, Nigel’s estranged stepdaughter.
Key facts:
- Jon Lee last appeared in EastEnders in 1998.
- Nigel Bates has been a part of the show for over 34 years.
- Lee’s character Josh was involved in a total of 20 episodes during his original run.
- S Club 7, which Lee joined shortly after leaving the show, has sold over 10 million records worldwide.
Fans are excited about this reunion—not just because of nostalgia but also due to the emotional weight this storyline carries. “He meant so much to her, and it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story, as everyone came together to say their final goodbyes,” Bissix said about her character’s connection to Nigel.
This return is part of a broader trend where past characters come back for pivotal moments—bringing depth and history into current narratives. Jon Lee’s journey from a young actor on EastEnders to an established figure with various TV appearances (including Celebs Go Dating) adds layers to his return.
The upcoming episodes promise not just closure for Nigel but also an opportunity for long-time viewers to reconnect with their beloved characters and stories that shaped their evenings for decades. Jon Lee’s return is sure to evoke memories while paving the way for new developments within the iconic British soap.
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