EastEnders has announced that it will mark its 40th anniversary, which takes place next month, with a one-hour documentary special "tracking iconic moments and groundbreaking storylines through the years".
"The documentary will be fronted by actor and presenter Ross Kemp, who is best known to the EastEnders viewers as the infamous Grant Mitchell, and will delve into the show's rich 40-year history to determine how the show's portrayal of working-class London life transcended the silver screen to directly impact society and help shape and change audience perceptions on some of the most prevalent issues over the last four decades," said the BBC.
"EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square will revisit some of the show's most poignant and ground-breaking storylines, including the first kiss between two gay men on British television, Kat's historical abuse storyline, Mark Fowler and Zack's HIV diagnoses, as well as many more, and will share a behind-the-scenes insight as Ross speaks to some of the actors that were directly involved in those storylines, many of which tackled themes and issues that had never been featured on primetime British TV or on soaps beforehand.
"Whilst looking at the impact of the show's continued success, Ross will chat to original cast members and show stalwarts Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Cotton), and Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts) as they reminisce on their early days in E20 and offer their thoughts on some of their favourite storylines across the past 40 years.
"Special appearances from EastEnders legends Anita Dobson (Angie Watts) and Pam St Clement (Pat Butcher) will also feature, with the original landlady taking a trip back down memory lane alongside her on-screen daughter.
"Ross's trip to Albert Square is just the first of many, as he has now reprised the iconic role of Grant Mitchell and will arrive back in Walford as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary in February."
"It was a privilege to be asked to present this documentary, celebrating 40 years of EastEnders," said Kemp.
"During the making of it, I was constantly reminded of the impact EastEnders has, not only on the cast and everyone that works on the show, but also on the audience, as well as the effect it has had culturally in the United Kingdom.
"It also gave me a wonderful opportunity to take a trip down memory lane with some of my dear friends - old and new - and celebrate this special anniversary. It was an absolute honour."
A broadcast date has yet to be announced.
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