Tamzin Outhwaite to make shock return to EastEnders as Melanie Owen 15 years after leaving the soap
Her first scenes back on the soap will be aired in the New Year
TAMZIN Outhwaite is making a shock return to EastEnders – 15 years after leaving the soap.
The British actress, 46, will reprise her role as Melanie Owen and her first scenes will be aired in the New Year.
Her comeback is new chief John Yorke’s first major signing since he took over the reins from ex-boss Sean O’Conner who departed in June.
Tamzin’s signing is a major coup for the soap in the ratings war with ITV rivals Emmerdale and Coronation Street.
A soap insider said: “John has been desperate to bring back a big name and nobody was expecting Tamzin.
“She’s gone on to become a successful actress in her own right since leaving EastEnders and many fans had ruled her out of ever returning.
“But clearly her heart still lies in Walford.”
Tamzin was last seen on Albert Square in April 2002 when her character left Walford following the death of on-screen husband Steve Owen, played by Martin Kemp.
After being unknowingly implicated in his drug dealing she faced a long stretch in prison but fled the country along with £30,000 worth of bail money given to her by Phil Mitchell.
She had also previously been married to another EastEnders stalwart Ian Beale.
Speaking about her return, Tamzin said: “When I got the call from John asking if I would consider coming back to EastEnders, it was something I just couldn’t refuse.
“John created Mel’s most memorable storylines so it is an honour that he has asked me to return.
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“EastEnders is in my DNA and I always knew deep down that someday I would revisit Mel; she is a strong independent woman with lots more stories to tell.
“To be stepping back into Mel’s shoes nearly 20 years after I first started feels just perfect.”
Since she quit EastEnders Tamzin has forged a successful TV career, featuring in hit dramas including Hotel Babylon and New Tricks.
She also enjoyed a stint on the West End, performing in Grease, Oliver! and Stepping Out.
What she's been doing
2003
TAMZIN played lead character Sgt Jo McDonagh in BBC1 drama Red Cap.
2006
SHE appeared with Max Beesley in BBC1 drama series Hotel Babylon.
2013
JOINED Nicholas Lyndhurst in cast of BBC’s police unit drama New Tricks.