EastEnders Sean Slater return confirmed in huge comeback

Sean Slater is heading back to EastEnders for a permanent return, bringing one of Walford’s most unpredictable characters back into the heart of the Square.

The comeback will see Sean reconnect with his family as a major autumn storyline unfolds, with his arrival set to open up several different relationships from his past.

Sean has strong links across Walford, particularly through the Slater family, while his history with several other residents means his return is unlikely to be straightforward. His relationship with Amy is also expected to become significant after he spent a brief period acting as a father figure to her when she was younger.

There is also unfinished history involving Max and Jack. Sean and Max share a difficult past, while Jack is another character with whom he has plenty of history, giving the show several directions to explore once Sean is settled back in the Square.

The return will also allow viewers to see a different stage of Sean’s life. He is older than when he first became one of Walford’s biggest troublemakers, but the character’s energy and unpredictability are set to remain an important part of what makes him distinctive.

Sean originally appeared between 2006 and 2009 before making later guest appearances. His latest comeback is different because he will be returning on a permanent basis rather than for another short stint.

That opens the door for the character to become involved in much wider Walford stories rather than being restricted to one family crisis. With his connections spanning the Slaters, Brannings and several long-running relationships, there is no shortage of material waiting for him.

Exactly what brings him home remains to be revealed, but his comeback is already shaping up to be one of the biggest EastEnders returns ahead.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. For more EastEnders news and spoilers, visit the EastEnders Hub on SoapLandTV.co.uk. Images: BBC.