In a thrilling development that is sending shockwaves through the soap opera world,
beloved EastEnders icon Linda Henry is returning to television screens, and fans are overjoyed to
learn that she will be reunited with her on-screen son Danny Dyer. The dynamic duo, who portrayed Shirley and Mick Carter on the long-running BBC One drama, are teaming up once again—this time, in a brand-new and highly anticipated comedy project titled Mr. Bigstuff.
Henry, 65, left EastEnders in 2022 following the presumed death of Mick Carter in a storyline that left viewers heartbroken. Her character Shirley, a tough, no-nonsense matriarch with a complicated past and a fierce love for her family, disappeared from Walford in emotional scenes that fans have never forgotten. Now, over two years later, Linda Henry is stepping back into the spotlight in a role that promises to be every bit as powerful—if not more so.
Dyer, who captured the hearts of millions as Mick Carter from 2013 to 2022, has also been on a new career trajectory since leaving Albert Square. In Mr. Bigstuff, which first aired last year to critical acclaim, he plays Lee Campbell, one of two estranged brothers navigating their fractured relationship after a life-altering revelation: their father, long believed dead, is actually alive.
The upcoming second series, set to premiere this July on Sky, will dive deeper into the chaos that ensues as Lee and his brother Glenn (played by Ryan Sampson, who also writes the series) wrestle with their troubled past, complicated family ties, and newfound truths. Henry joins the cast as Pam, a hands-on, straight-talking mechanic who works at the family’s garage business. Her character is expected to bring the same grit, heart, and fire that made Shirley Carter a fan favorite on EastEnders.
Speaking to Metro, Dyer expressed his excitement for the direction of the show and praised Sampson’s writing: “You can go where you want with these characters. They’re all very lovable, very flawed. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what Ryan comes up with next.” With Dyer and Henry’s on-screen chemistry already proven in their EastEnders days, their reunion in Mr. Bigstuff is poised to be nothing short of electric.
Adding even more excitement for soap fans, Mr. Bigstuff is bringing in a constellation of familiar faces from Soapland. Among the guest stars are EastEnders alum Shaun Williamson (Barry Evans), who famously met a tragic end in 2004, and Coronation Street legend Rula Lenska, who will portray the mysterious and eccentric Rita—whom the brothers suspect may have ties to their father. Also appearing is Shobna Gulati, best known for her role as Sunita Alahan on Corrie, further elevating the show’s nostalgic appeal.
The fan reaction has been immediate and overwhelming. Social media platforms lit up with expressions of joy and disbelief at the news of Linda Henry’s return. “I genuinely stopped in my tracks!” wrote one fan, sharing a dramatic reaction gif. “It’s not Shirley Carter, but it’s LINDA HENRY and that’s enough for me. Iconic!” added another. The enthusiasm underscores just how deeply these characters and their actors are woven into the fabric of British television.
But that’s not all that’s stirring up emotions in EastEnders fandom. In a recent episode, viewers watched as Lauren Branning and Peter Beale welcomed their baby boy, naming him Jimmy in honor of her late grandfather, Jim Branning. While many praised the name as a touching tribute to EastEnders history, others questioned the originality and relevance of the choice in 2025. Still, it’s clear that the Branning legacy remains central to the soap’s emotional core.
Meanwhile, EastEnders continues to deliver bombshells, both past and present. In a surprise storyline twist, Phil Mitchell revealed to Linda Carter that Sharon Watts had secretly slept with his brother, Grant. The revelation stunned Linda, especially given her own brief flirtation with Grant in years past. With Phil and Sharon’s relationship hanging in the balance, Linda steps into the role of matchmaker, urging Phil to forgive and rekindle their romance before it’s too late.
“Phil and Sharon still care deeply for each other,” says an inside source from EastEnders. “And Linda, having lost the love of her own life, is determined not to let her friends throw away a second chance at happiness.” Whether her efforts will succeed remains to be seen, but this classic soap trope—love, betrayal, and redemption—is playing out with gripping intensity.
As fans wait for the return of Henry and Dyer in Mr. Bigstuff, their minds also drift back to the unforgettable storylines of the Queen Vic. Danny Dyer recently reflected on his favorite EastEnders memory during a special ITV panel for The Assembly, describing the early days of the Carter family’s takeover of the iconic pub as a career highlight.
Twelve years after first walking onto the set, Dyer has left an indelible mark on the soap world. And now, with a new show, a familiar co-star, and a devoted fanbase cheering them on, he and Linda Henry are about to make television magic once again.
Game-changing? Absolutely.
The return of Linda Henry alongside Danny Dyer is more than just a nostalgic reunion—it’s a testament to the enduring power of character-driven storytelling. Whether it’s Shirley and Mick at the Vic or Pam and Lee in the garage, these two actors bring heart, humor, and authenticity to every role they take on. As the curtain rises on the next chapter of their shared journey, one thing is certain: fans won’t want to miss a moment.
Are you ready for their triumphant comeback?
