EastEnders legend Shaun Williamson has been confirmed to have returned as Barry Evans for special scenes amid Nigel’s dementia storyline.

Hapless and lovesick Barry was iconically pushed to his death off a hill by wife Janine back in 2004 – something she later attributed to him not wearing slip-on shoes as he ‘tripped over his laces’.

During his 10 years of living in Walford, Barry was seen struggling to find love, trying his hand at running businesses.

Now for one special episode, he’ll be making a comeback after 21 years to check in on his friend Nigel, whose dementia is escalating.

Speaking on his return, Shaun Williamson said: “It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!

“I have to admit to a few nerves (loads!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode. Just goes to show, you never know what’s around the corner!”

Barry will be seen alongside his stepmum Pat (played by Pam St. Clement, who will also be returning for the special), despite their checkered feuding history, at a time when Nigel needs them most.

EastEnders has worked alongside charity Dementia UK to bring the story to life.

The special episode will air in December.

Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer added: “I’m delighted to welcome Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders for Nigel’s special episode.

“Barry Evans was renowned for being one of Walford’s unluckiest residents, most notably for his choice of shoes, and so it was a privilege to welcome him back alongside Pat for these special scenes in The Vic.

EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.