EastEnders star hints at return on one condition as he admits ‘never say never’
EXCLUSIVE: The former EastEnders star addressed a possible return after leaving the BBC soap almost a decade ago.
A former EastEnders star has teased his return on one condition, insisting the storyline has to be “right”.
Richard Blackwood played Vincent Hubbard in the BBC soap from 2015 to 2018, before moving to Hollyoaks as Felix Westwood from 2020.
Vincent was shot on EastEnders by Aidan Maguire’s gang in 2018, though his off-screen death wasn’t confirmed until 2021, when Kim Fox’s sister Denise demanded proof and was left horrified at the video she saw.
However, after the returns of Kathy Beale and Cindy Beale in recent years, both believed to have been dead by their families, there could always be a way back for Vincent.
He’s now addressed a possible comeback, telling The Mirror exclusively at The National Film Awards: “I would never say never, EastEnders was really good to me. I’ve never had a bad experience on EastEnders or Hollyoaks, any of the shows, they’ve all been good to me.
“If the storyline is right and it makes sense, obviously it’s also about what the fans want as well.”
When asked about his favourite role, he went on: “I think they’re all my favourites at the time.
“Vincent put me on the map if you think about it, in terms of a soap drama, Vincent was like the first to do it, it will always be in my heart. But also Felix from Hollyoaks cemented it.”
When he left EastEnders nearly a decade ago, Richard said it was the “right time” to go.
He shared in a statement: “I have loved every minute of my time at EastEnders and although I will be sad to say goodbye, after three years it feels the right time to leave.
“I have been truly blessed with some great storylines since the moment I joined but when I was presented with my last story I knew it was time for Vincent to depart Walford.
“I’m now excited about what the future holds, I have a feature film out this year, I will be returning to theatre and also some great presenting TV gigs.”
A show insider added to The Mirror at the time: “Richard has known for quite some time that he would be leaving EastEnders as his leaving storyline was presented to him last year and he was happy to go ahead with the ending planned.
“Although it’s a shame that he will be departing Walford the decision was completely mutual and it came at the right time for Richard as he wanted to pursue other opportunities.”
Elsewhere at the National Film Awards on July 1, Richard teased an appearance on Strictly Come Dancing after a stint on Dancing on Ice in 2019, where he was partnered with professional skater Carlotta Edwards and became the second celebrity eliminated.
He said: “I could do it, it’s safer, because it’s concrete, carpeted… as I say, I would never say never.
“Dancing on Ice is probably one of the hardest because no matter how much training, it can be dangerous. So it’s an achievement but I would do Strictly.”
