Anita Dobson returns as Angie Watts in EastEnders’ 40th-anniversary special, offering comfort to Sharon amidst a Queen Vic explosion. A nostalgic and emotional comeback!
Anita Dobson reprised her iconic role as Angie Watts in EastEnders after 37 years, in celebration of the show’s 40th anniversary. Her return took the form of a vision, with Angie appearing in her original 1985 costume to support her daughter, Sharon Watts, amidst the chaos of an explosion at The Queen Vic.
During the hour-long special, Sharon found herself trapped under rubble, fighting for her life. In her semiconscious state, Angie Watts appeared to offer comfort and encouragement.
Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer of EastEnders, expressed his delight at Dobson’s return, stating that Angie Watts is one of EastEnders’ most memorable characters. He highlighted the significant impact Anita Dobson had on the show and British television. Clenshaw considered her return the “best birthday present” for the anniversary.
Anita Dobson’s Interview
In an interview, Anita Dobson shared her experience of returning to the role after nearly four decades.
Stepping Back into the Role
Dobson expressed gratitude to the EastEnders team for making her feel welcome. She described putting on the costume again as both joyful and surreal. She only told her husband, Brian May, about her return, managing to keep it a secret from others despite speculation due to her involvement in an EastEnders documentary.
Embracing Angie Watts Again
Dobson noted that Angie Watts is an intrinsic part of her, making it easy to step back into the role. She described the experience of acting alongside Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon Watts, as seamless and heartwarming, strengthening her decision to return.
Pride in Angie Watts’ Legacy
Dobson feels honored to have played a role in EastEnders’ history and is proud of the impact Angie Watts had. She considers Angie Watts a perfect fit for her, a role she played effortlessly and enjoyed immensely.
Initial Expectations
When she joined the cast, Dobson had no idea the show would become such a phenomenon. She and her colleagues, including Leslie Grantham, were primarily focused on having a steady job. However, after watching the first episode, they realized they were part of something special.
Fond Memories
Dobson cherishes the camaraderie among the cast, particularly her close-knit group with Sandy Ratcliff, Letitia Dean, Susan Tully, and Gillian Taylforth. She also appreciates the quality of the Watts’ storylines, crediting the writers, directors, and cameramen for their contributions to the show’s success.
Dobson considers her role as Angie Watts a turning point in her career, opening doors and changing her life in ways she never anticipated.
The 40th Anniversary Episode
The anniversary episode featured the aftermath of an explosion at The Queen Vic. Sharon Watts was trapped and injured, and Angie Watts appeared as a vision to encourage her to fight for her life. Grant Mitchell eventually rescued Sharon.
Other storylines included Sonia Fowler giving birth, and the death of Reiss Colwell, who was killed by a falling bathtub.
The episode also saw Linda Carter and Nigel Bates helping Phil Mitchell get professional help after a suicide attempt.
Fan Reactions
Fans expressed excitement and emotion over Angie Watts’ return, considering it a highlight of the anniversary episode.
The EastEnders 40th anniversary episode aired on Wednesday, February 19, marking four decades of the show’s presence on British television.
Sources: https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/anita-dobson-reprises-role-of-angie-watts-in-eastenders
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/eastenders-confirms-one-character-dead-9959894
https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/celebrity-news/anita-dobson-brian-may-queen-head-bbc-b1212193.html