Ross Kemp has confirmed that he won't be joining the rest of the EastEnders cast for their 30th anniversary.
The actor insists he's not available to join Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor) on the BBC One soap for the week of live element episodes because of prior filming commitments.
Speaking to the Gloucester Citizen newspaper, he said: "I can't join her [Windsor]. It's just about space in my diary."
Grant Mitchell has been a character in the popular soap series on and off since 1985 and admits that in the future he would absolutely consider reprising the role.
"I would never rule out going back to 'EastEnders', I owe it a heck of a lot. I think it's a great show."
Rumours that he was planning a surprise return to Albert Square were sparked when BBC bosses refused to confirm or deny a report that he was to make an appearance in February on forthcoming episodes.
Meanwhile, Barbara is excited about making new appearances.
Speaking previously she commented: "I am absolutely thrilled that Peggy has been included in the celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of 'EastEnders'. What an incredible achievement for all the production, cast and crew, past and present."
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