EastEnders legend Charlie Brooks has addressed the possibility of her character Janine Butcher returning for the soap’s 40th anniversary.

Janine was last seen after the events of Christmas 2022, which saw the watery demise of her on-screen husband Mick Carter (Danny Dyer).

The character is currently in prison for perverting the course of justice after framing Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) for drink driving, where she gave birth to Mick’s son in 2023.

With EastEnders celebrating its milestone anniversary next month, fans would be forgiven for wondering whether the iconic villain could stage a shock return.

Asked about that possibility, Charlie ruled it out – but did not deny the chances of her returning as Janine later down the line.

Speaking to The Mirror, Charlie, who is currently a contestant on Dancing on Ice, said: ‘I’m going straight back into Chitty Chitty Bang Bang for a while, and then I probably need a little bit of time off.

‘And then we’re in talks about another theatre project at the moment, so I don’t know yet. I’m biding my time. So who knows,’ she added cryptically.

Charlie made her debut as the Childcatcher in the UK tour of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang last year and will rejoin the production in April.

While Charlie will not be returning to EastEnders any time soon, next month, fans will see Ross Kemp reprise his role as Grant Mitchell.

Earlier this month, bosses confirmed the character would be returning to Walford and be a central part of the 40th celebrations.

Ross said in a statement: ‘I’m delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary.

‘EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary is an absolute honour.

‘Grant has never been far from the action and, let’s just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang.’