Doctor Who star joins EastEnders as serial killer Gray returns

WARNING: Embargoed for publication until 00:00:01 on 01/03/2022 – Programme Name: EastEnders – January-March 2022 – TX: 10/03/2022 – Episode: EastEnders – January-March 2022 – 6449 (No. 6449) – Picture Shows: ***EMBARGOED TILL TUESDAY 1ST MARCH 2022*** Gray Atkins (TOBY-ALEXANDER SMITH) – (C) BBC – Photographer: Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron

Fans of EastEnders are in for a treat as a familiar face joins the cast in Albert Square. Former Doctor Who star Sheila Ruskin will hit Walford as Sheila, the grandmother of convicted killer Gray Atkins.

And her appearance is set to kick off a new level of drama for Chelsea and the Fox family. Sheila’s arrival will tie in with the return of one of the BBC soap’s most notorious villains.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the news of Gray’s return. The character, played by Toby Alexander-Smith, will briefly return to the Square despite being behind bars.

Toby will return as Gray

The former solicitor terrorised a number of close pals and family when he was last on screen. He was found responsible for the deaths of three residents and pleaded guilty in 2022.

After he was sent to prison, it was thought his dark chapter on the soap had come to an end. But scriptwriters appear to have different ideas.

While his return will only be short-lived, there will be a jam-packed storyline waiting to unravel. His connection to Chelsea and Jordan will bring mayhem to the Square following Jordan’s recent op.

Jordan had to have a life-saving operation following a devastating road traffic accident. It has left the family in a in both emotional and financial turmoil.

Sheila Ruskin

Gray’s return has been teased recently. As Chelsea became overwhelmed caring for Jordan and facing rising costs, Libby secretly attempts to contact Sheila for help. However, she is soon caught out by Chelsea.

As the sisters eventually make peace, Chelsea plucks up the courage to ask Sheila for help. When Sheila meets with Chelsea and Libby, she claims she has no contact with Gray.

She also offers financial help for Jordan, which is accepted by Chelsea accepts. Max supports a struggling Jack. Honey is relieved that Bea has moved out to stay with Mo, and she and Billy enjoy a date.

The latest comeback follows Libby actress Belinda Owusu confirming her return to the show. She recently said: “I am beyond thrilled to be back on the Square. Getting the Foxes back together has been such a joy, full of fun and nostalgia!

“It’s been 20 years since I first joined, so coming back has been like returning home! It’s a really great team and I’ve been loving my time here.

“Libby is coming home to support her family during a difficult time, and it’s been so wonderful stepping back into her shoes and becoming a Fox again.”