Key Highlights
- Shaun Williamson returns as Barry Evans for a special EastEnders episode in December 2025.
- The storyline involves Nigel’s dementia and Barry’s reunion with Pat Evans.
- Barry’s character is known for his bad luck, hopeless love life, and feud with Pat.
- The episode will air to support Dementia UK’s work on the storyline.
New EastEnders Episode: Barry Evans Returns After 21 Years
In a surprising twist for fans of the long-running British soap opera EastEnders, actor Shaun Williamson will return to Albert Square as his iconic character, Barry Evans.
The special episode, set to air in December 2025, marks Barry’s first appearance on the show after a 21-year absence. Williamson expressed his excitement and some nerves for rejoining the cast: “It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting! I have to admit to a few nerves (lo!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode.”
Barry Evans: A Character Etched in Walford’s History
Barry Evans is a well-known character within EastEnders, often remembered for his bad luck, hopeless love life, and long-standing feud with step-mother Pat Evans. The drama surrounding Barry’s relationship with Janine Butcher and their tragic end are part of the show’s rich history.
In 2004, after a series of failed romances, Barry married Walford’s Janine Butcher, but their marriage was fated to be short-lived. An unforeseen wardrobe mishap led to Barry’s untimely death when Janine pushed him off a cliff while he wore non-slip shoes.
Nigel’s Dementia and Community Support
The storyline will focus on Nigel’s worsening dementia symptoms, bringing together Pat Evans and Barry in a time of need. The episode aims to support Dementia UK, which has been working with the show since the inception of the storyline.
Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders for Nigel’s special episode. Barry Evans was renowned for being one of Walford’s unluckiest residents, most notably for his choice of shoes, and so it was a privilege to welcome him back alongside Pat for these special scenes in The Vic.”
Supporting Dementia Awareness
The EastEnders team is committed not only to providing compelling storytelling but also to raising awareness about dementia. This collaboration with Dementia UK ensures that the storyline is both impactful and educational, helping to destigmatize the condition and promote understanding within the community.
“This episode will not only entertain our audience but also bring attention to a crucial issue,” stated an EastEnders spokesperson. “We are proud to partner with Dementia UK in this endeavor, and we hope that by bringing these issues into the homes of millions of viewers, we can make a difference.”
As EastEnders continues to navigate complex storylines, the return of Barry Evans offers fans a nostalgic journey through familiar Walford while addressing contemporary social issues. Stay tuned for the special episode in December 2025.
