Danny Dyer has once again fueled speculation about a return to EastEnders, just as fans rally for Mick Carter to reappear for Linda's (Kellie Bright) exit storyline. The actor, who played Mick for nine years before his dramatic departure in 2022, has repeatedly teased a comeback, and with Kellie Bright confirming she is leaving the BBC soap after 13 years, the pressure is on for a reunion.
Fans demand Mick's return for Linda's farewell
Following the news of Kellie Bright's exit, viewers have taken to social media to express their hopes that Mick will be brought back to give Linda a happy ending. One fan, Sarah, commented: 'Mick better comeback as her leaving storyline,' while another, Emily, echoed: 'Bring Mick back for a while. Then they can leave together. That will be great. Something happy for a change.'
The sentiment is widespread, as many believe that Linda's story can only conclude properly with Mick's return. The couple, who arrived in Walford in 2013 as the new landlords of the Queen Vic, became one of the Square's most beloved pairs, enduring affairs, trauma, and Linda's battle with alcoholism. Their love story was tragically interrupted in 2022 when Mick disappeared at sea while saving Linda from drowning, after Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) drove her into the water.
Danny Dyer's repeated hints
Danny Dyer has not shied away from discussing a potential return. In 2024, he joked at the National Television Awards that EastEnders should 'bring Mick back', prompting a strong reaction from the audience. Ahead of the show's 40th anniversary last year, he told the KISS Breakfast Radio Show: 'I've chucked it out there. I think I need to go back and save my wife Linda, who's now become a murderess.'
In 2023, while promoting his roles in Disney Plus's Rivals and Sky's Mr Bigstuff, Dyer joked that he could always 'walk in the Queen Vic smothered in seaweed.' These comments, combined with the soap's golden rule that no body means a possible return, have kept hope alive among fans.
The perfect ending for Linda
Linda's journey since Mick's disappearance has been tumultuous, including her involvement in The Six storyline and her eventual departure from the Queen Vic after more than a decade as landlady. With her exit now confirmed, many argue that a reunion with Mick is the only fitting conclusion.
Adding to the speculation, a Janine Butcher comeback is reportedly planned for later this year, which could serve as the catalyst for Linda's departure and Mick's return. If Danny Dyer does reprise his role, it would tie up a significant loose end and provide a rare happy ending for a character who has suffered greatly.
What's next for EastEnders?
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One, with episodes available from 6am on BBC iPlayer. As the soap prepares for Linda's farewell, fans will be watching closely for any confirmation of Mick's return. Whether or not Danny Dyer steps back into the Queen Vic, the exit of Kellie Bright marks the end of an era for the show.
For now, viewers can only speculate, but the overwhelming demand from the audience is clear: bring Mick back, and let Linda ride off into the sunset with the love of her life.
