Anita Dobson

Angie's Back! Anita Dobson Makes Surprise Return to EastEnders for 40th Anniversary

Anita Dobson, the iconic actress who brought Angie Watts to life in the early days of EastEnders, has made a sensational return to Albert Square after more than 37 years. The BBC soap is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and Dobson's surprise reappearance as the Queen Vic's original landlady is sending waves of nostalgia and excitement through the nation.

A Return to Walford: Why Angie's Cameo Matters

For many, Angie Watts is EastEnders. Alongside her on-screen husband, "Dirty" Den Watts (played by Leslie Grantham), Angie ruled the roost at the Queen Vic, becoming a cultural icon in the process. Her turbulent relationship with Den, her struggles with alcoholism, and her larger-than-life personality captivated millions of viewers.

Dobson's return, even in the form of a vision or flashback, is a powerful nod to the show's history and a treat for long-time fans. It's a reminder of the soap's enduring legacy and the characters who helped shape its identity. The BBC has confirmed the return, stating that Dobson reprised her role for the anniversary celebrations.

Recent Updates: Angie's Secret's Out

The news of Anita Dobson's return was kept tightly under wraps, adding to the surprise and delight of viewers.

• Initial Reports: The BBC officially announced Anita Dobson's return as Angie Watts as part of EastEnders' 40th-anniversary celebrations.
• Surprise Appearance: Angie's comeback was designed as a special moment for long-time fans, evoking the show's rich history.
• Dobson's Revelation: Anita Dobson revealed that she only told her husband, Queen guitarist Brian May, about her surprise reappearance.

The Daily Mail also reported on the stunning return, highlighting the impact of seeing Dobson back in her iconic role.

Angie Watts: A Contextual Background

To understand the significance of Anita Dobson's return, it's important to delve into the history of Angie Watts and her impact on EastEnders.

• The Original Landlady: Angie Watts was the first landlady of the Queen Vic, appearing in the very first episode of EastEnders in 1985.
• Relationship with Den: Her marriage to Den Watts was a central storyline, filled with drama, infidelity, and ultimately, heartbreak. Their relationship was so iconic that it regularly drew in over 30 million viewers.
• Angie's Departure: Dobson left EastEnders in 1988, but Angie Watts remained a legendary figure in soap history.
• Beyond Albert Square: In 1986, Dobson reached number four in the UK Singles Chart with "Anyone Can Fall in Love", a song based on the theme music of EastEnders. This further cemented her status as a household name.

Anita Dobson's portrayal of Angie Watts was groundbreaking for its time. Angie was a complex character, flawed and vulnerable, but also strong and resilient. She resonated with viewers who saw their own struggles reflected in her story.

Immediate Effects: Nostalgia and Renewed Interest

The immediate impact of Anita Dobson's return has been a wave of nostalgia and renewed interest in EastEnders. Social media has been flooded with comments from fans expressing their excitement and reminiscing about the "good old days" of the soap.

• Increased Viewership: While specific figures aren't yet available, it's likely that Dobson's return has boosted viewership for the anniversary episodes.
• Social Media Buzz: The hashtag #EastEnders40th has been trending, with fans sharing their favourite Angie Watts moments and celebrating Dobson's return.
• Media Coverage: News outlets across the UK have covered the story, highlighting the significance of Dobson's comeback.

The return of Angie Watts has served as a powerful reminder of EastEnders' enduring appeal and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.

Future Outlook: What's Next for EastEnders?

While Anita Dobson's return is a one-off for the 40th anniversary, it raises questions about the future of EastEnders and its relationship with its past.

• Will more classic characters return? The success of Dobson's cameo may encourage the show's producers to bring back other beloved characters from the past.
• How will the show balance nostalgia with new storylines? EastEnders needs to honour its history while also remaining relevant to contemporary audiences.
• Can the show recapture the magic of the 1980s? While it's impossible to recreate the exact cultural landscape of the past, EastEnders can learn from its history and use it to inform its future direction.

The return of Anita Dobson as Angie Watts is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It's a reminder of the power of television to create lasting cultural icons and the enduring appeal of a good soap opera. As EastEnders celebrates its 40th anniversary, it's clear that the show still has plenty of stories to tell, and plenty of fans eager to hear them.

Anita Dobson: Life Beyond the Vic

While best known for her role as Angie Watts, Anita Dobson's career extends far beyond Albert Square. Born in Bow, London, she trained in acting and had various jobs before landing her breakthrough role in EastEnders.

• Early Career: Before finding fame on EastEnders, Dobson worked as an insurance clerk and even as a model for C&A, a now-defunct clothing chain.
• Stage and Screen: Dobson has enjoyed a successful career in theatre and television, appearing in productions such as Chicago, Hamlet, and Calendar Girls. She also had a role in Red Dwarf.
• Marriage to Brian May: Dobson has been married to Queen guitarist Brian May since 2000. May was knighted in 2023 for services to music and charity.

Dobson's talent and versatility have allowed her to maintain a thriving career long after leaving EastEnders. Her return as Angie Watts is a testament to the enduring power of her performance and the character's lasting impact on British television.