EastEnders' Janine Butcher return could reopen Linda Carter's darkest chapter

Fresh rumours surrounding Janine Butcher's possible return to EastEnders have already sparked one major question. If she does walk back into Albert Square, how will Linda Carter react after everything they have been through together?

According to reports, Charlie Brooks is being lined up for a guest return before heading off on a theatre tour. While the BBC has not confirmed the comeback, the speculation has generated plenty of excitement, particularly because of the unfinished history between Janine and Linda.

The pair's rivalry produced one of EastEnders' most dramatic storylines. Janine framed Linda for drink driving, destroying her reputation and leaving her fighting to prove her innocence. The fallout stretched far beyond the accusation itself, with the chain of events eventually leading to Mick Carter disappearing at sea during a desperate confrontation with Janine.

Although Linda has gradually rebuilt her life since those traumatic events, the scars have never completely disappeared. She has worked hard to regain the trust of those around her while rebuilding both herself and The Queen Vic, making the prospect of Janine returning all the more significant.

A surprise reunion would immediately force Linda to confront memories she has spent years trying to leave behind. Even if Janine arrived claiming she had changed, it would be difficult to imagine Linda believing her after everything that happened.

The reporting also suggests Janine's appearance could form part of a major storyline. That naturally raises questions over whether she would simply make peace with the people she hurt or arrive with another agenda that throws the Square into turmoil once again.

Janine has always been one of EastEnders' most unpredictable characters. Throughout her many appearances, she has repeatedly shown an ability to manipulate situations in her favour, often convincing those around her that she has turned over a new leaf before revealing her true intentions.

That history alone means Linda would have every reason to remain on guard if Janine returned to Walford. It would also place those closest to Linda in a difficult position as they attempt to protect her while dealing with the emotional impact of seeing Janine back where so much heartbreak unfolded.

For now, the reported comeback remains unconfirmed, and viewers will have to wait to see whether Janine really is heading back to Albert Square. If she does, however, a confrontation with Linda feels almost impossible to avoid given the lasting impact their previous feud had on both characters.

Where to watch: EastEnders airs on BBC One and streams on BBC iPlayer. For all the latest EastEnders news, spoilers and features, visit the SoapLandTV EastEnders hub.