BBC/ITV Share By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 Shaun Williamson shares 'incredibly personal' reason he chose to return to EastEnders Shaun described Nigel's episode as 'beautifully written' Barry Evans Shaun Williamson Share By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 Shaun Williamson has revealed the reason he chose to return to EastEnders as Barry Evans. The actor, who was killed off in January 2004, will reprise his most iconic role (prolific quizzer and Celebrity Pointless appearances notwithstanding) for a very special episode this month, as Nigel’s dementia symptoms intensify. Appearing after Nigel shows his festive film to his friends on the Square, Barry appears along with stepmother Pat Evans, when Nigel grows increasingly confused. With the episode quickly approaching, Shaun has revealed the reason he agreed to bring back Barry from beyond the grave. Shaun revealed how he lost his mother in 2022 (Credit: ITV) Shaun Williamson shares details of EastEnders return In an interview with The Sun, Shaun said: “It felt incredibly personal for me. “My mum passed away after getting dementia. We lost her in 2022. “That’s why I thought returning was such a great idea, and why the story hit me so deeply.” Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Describing her passing as ‘heartbreaking,’ the actor went on to describe how his mother had suffered a stroke, before dying at the age of 87. He added: “I wanted to raise awareness because in 30 to 40 years’ time it’s predicted that dementia cases will have doubled. That’s a frightening thought.” Shaun Williamson will reprise his role as Barry Evans (Credit: BBC) Debbie Bates returning to EastEnders with Barry and Pat The actor also appeared to confirm rumours that Nigel’s first wife, Debbie Bates, could appear in the episode. Played by Nicola Duffett, Debbie died in 1995, as the victim of a tragic hit-and-run. Describing the story as ‘beautifully written,’ Shaun explained how Nigel’s special episode will play out. “It is in an empty pub but, in Nigel’s mind, it’s full of his old mates and there’s a karaoke going on,” he said. Of filming these scenes, Shaun said: “It was just Nigel, Pat and his ex-wife, Debbie, who was played by Nicola Duffett. It was just great to be back working with these fabulous actors again.” So there you have it! Nicola Duffett will also be reprising her role as Debbie Bates for the episode. Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 1 2025 Previous Story Next Story
