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Another iconic face returns to Walford later this year when Michael French reprises his role as David Wicks in EastEnders.
David, the son of Pat Butcher and Pete Beale, first arrived in Walford in 1993 and is the father of Bianca Jackson, a daughter he has with childhood sweetheart Carol Jackson. David is also the father of Joe and Karen Wicks, whom he has with Lorraine Foster.
David was last seen in Albert Square ten years ago, but left after his failed attempt to marry Carol. But with neither Carol nor Bianca in Walford any longer, what could bring him back to his old home?
One connection he has to the Square is, of course, his half-brother Ian Beale and his then-wife Cindy Beale. That sounds like a recipe for disaster considering David’s affair with Cindy almost cost Ian his life!
David is not the first character to return for EastEndersTo mark the 40th anniversary, it was announced last month that Tracy Ann Oberman would be reprising her role as Chrissie Watts for a brief appearance. Laurie Brett also returned briefly as Jane Beale, delighting long-time fans of the series.
Viewers will remember David as a smooth-talking womaniser and during his four years on Albert Square, David was always in for some drama as he was involved in some of the show’s most iconic storylines.
Not only did David get into trouble for his endless shady dealings in the car lot of his stepfather Frank Butcher (Mike Reid), but he also got into a lot of trouble when he discovered that Bianca Jackson, the woman he had developed feelings for, was actually his secret daughter.
While the circumstances of his return are not yet known, actor Michael French has revealed that there is plenty of drama on the cards: “I am honoured to have been asked to reprise the role of David Wicks. It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David always manages to create plenty of drama in a very short space of time.”
Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders The executive producer added: “David Wicks is undoubtedly one of the EastEnders‘ most popular villains, and we are thrilled to welcome the talented Michael French back in the iconic role as we prepare for the show’s 40th anniversary. David’s character has always been dramatic in his previous roles, and I can assure you this return will be no different.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.
