Jon Lee is set to return to EastEnders on May 1, 2026, nearly 30 years after his original appearance in 1997. He will reprise his role as Josh Saunders for the funeral of Nigel Bates, a character who recently died following a battle with dementia.
Lee originally appeared in 20 episodes back in 1997. He expressed that it felt “surreal” to step back onto Albert Square after all these years. His last appearance in the show was in 1998.
Key facts about Jon Lee’s return:
- Jon Lee joins other returning cast members, including Gemma Bissix, who will portray Clare, Nigel’s estranged stepdaughter.
- Nigel Bates has been a part of EastEnders for over 34 years, making his death significant for long-time viewers.
- This storyline serves as the conclusion of a long-running dementia narrative within the series.
S Club 7, of which Jon Lee is a member, was formed in 1998 and has sold over 10 million records worldwide. The group’s reunion adds another layer of excitement around his return to television.
Gemma Bissix commented on the importance of returning for Nigel’s funeral, stating, “He meant so much to her, and it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story.” This sentiment resonates with many fans who cherish the show’s history.
Lee’s various TV appearances since leaving the show include roles on programs like ‘Celebs Go Dating’. His upcoming return is highly anticipated by fans eager to see how his character fits into the current storylines.
