EastEnders icon Charlie Brooks is set to make an epic comeback to Albert Square as Janine Butcher. After almost four years away, the character will return for a guest stint in a storyline that a source says will 'blow the roof off' the Square.
Return details and source tease
According to The Sun, Janine will appear in a couple of episodes this autumn. A source teased: 'Janine's appearance is going to blow the roof off Albert Square.' The insider added: 'The bosses have several huge stories planned for this autumn, which will all start building towards Christmas. Although Charlie is only reprising her role as Janine for a couple of episodes this time around, her involvement is bound to cause plenty of drama.'
Further details are being kept 'top secret', as bosses are keen to avoid spoiling things for fans. 'But no doubt they are going to love seeing Janine back to cause chaos,' the source said.
Brooks' history with EastEnders
Charlie, 45, made her debut in the long-running BBC soap in 1999. She first left in 2004 before returning from 2008 to 2014, then had a stint from 2021 to 2022, meaning her return will mark her fourth era in Walford. In her time, she has been front and centre of some of the Square's most memorable moments, including tantrums, fights, and pushing Barry Evans (Shaun Williamson) off a cliff.
Brooks marked her 1,000th episode in 2022. Her character was sentenced to five years in prison in April 2023 for her crimes, including her contribution to Mick Carter's (Danny Dyer) disappearance. However, Brooks recently hinted at a return, noting on Good Morning Britain that Janine should be out of prison in 'about a year'. When asked if she could see herself returning, the I'm A Celebrity star said: 'I get asked this question all the time. I love Janine; I love playing her; she's a wonderful character. I always get blessed with such great storylines. So who knows.'
Other projects and upcoming tour
Post-EastEnders, Brooks appeared in the final series of ITV's Dancing On Ice in 2025, finishing sixth. She then starred alongside David Tennant in the seven-part drama The Hack, playing Kim Vian. Brooks has also announced her casting in a new tour of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, playing Judy, Chris's mother. The tour runs from September to the end of May 2027, alongside Alex Keenan, Imi Price, and fellow soap star Joe McFadden.
