Ross Kemp is to present a documentary celebrating four decades of EastEnders.
The actor, who is reprising his role as Grant Mitchell in the soap, will present a one hour documentary exploring how EastEnders‘ depiction of working-class life in London has gone beyond entertainment, influencing society and shifting public views on significant issues over the years.
The documentary will air on BBC One and will be titled EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square.
Ross Kemp said:
“It was a privilege to be asked to present this documentary, celebrating 40 years of EastEnders. During the making of it I was constantly reminded of the impact EastEnders has, not only on the cast and everyone that works on the show, but also on the audience, as well as the effect it has had culturally in the United Kingdom. It also gave me a wonderful opportunity to take a trip down memory lane with some of my dear friends – old and new – and celebrate this special anniversary, it was an absolute honour.”
The programme will revisit some of the soap’s most impactful and pioneering storylines, such as the first kiss between two gay men on British television, Kat Slater’s storyline involving historical abuse, and Mark Fowler’s HIV diagnosis, among others.
Ross will speak to some of the actors that were directly involved in these storylines, many of which tackled themes and issues that had never been featured on primetime British TV or on soaps beforehand. He will also chat to original cast members and show stalwarts Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Cotton) and Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts), as they reminisce on their early days in E20 and offer their thoughts on some of their favourite storylines across the past 40 years.
Special appearances from EastEnders legends Anita Dobson (Angie Watts) and Pam St Clement (Pat Evans) will also feature, with the original landlady taking a trip back down memory lane alongside her on-screen daughter.
EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square will be produced by Pulse Films.
Joe Ingham, Executive Producer, Pulse Films said:
“EastEnders has had a transformative effect on television audiences for forty years – myself included. It has been a privilege to work with the legend that is Ross Kemp and an honour to spend time in Walford, revealing a never before seen side of Albert Square, forging emotional family reunions, and exploring the impact its residents have and continue to have beyond E20.”
EastEnders, first look on the BBC iPlayer and every Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm
