Mark Fowler Jr is making his return to Albert Square after a decade, with Stephen Aaron-Sipple stepping into the role, taking over from Ned Porteous, who last portrayed the character in 2016.
EastEnders is preparing for a major return storyline after the BBC soap finally confirmed the identity of the mysterious figure teased in its recent flashforward scenes.
Mark Fowler Jr is set to make his comeback to Albert Square after being away for ten years. He will reunite with his sister Vicki Fowler in Walford, as well as reconnect with the Mitchell family — although how he becomes involved with the Brannings remains unclear.
When viewers last saw Mark in 2016, he learned that Grant Mitchell was his biological father. The role was previously played by Emmerdale actor Ned Porteous, who is currently appearing as Joe Tate in the ITV drama. Following a recast, Stephen Aaron-Sipple has now stepped into the part.
Sharp-eyed fans had already spotted Stephen during flashforward scenes earlier this month, before his character was officially revealed.
Speaking about Mark’s return to Walford, Stephen said:
“Growing up in East London, EastEnders has been part of my life since I was a child, so I’m thrilled to be joining not just one, but two iconic Albert Square families.
“I can’t wait for viewers to discover why Mark is back — and what’s in store for him in Walford,” reports the Mirror.
Executive Producer Ben Wadey also shared insight into what’s coming next. He said: “We’re delighted to welcome Stephen Aaron-Sipple to EastEnders and to bring Mark back to Albert Square.
“Viewers caught a glimpse of Mark during the New Year’s Day flashforward episode, and the details surrounding his future involvement with the Brannings will be revealed as the year goes on.”
Further hints suggest Mark could reconnect with the Mitchells as well as Vicki, implying he may have already been in contact with them — or at least that his identity as Grant’s son is now widely known.
It’s thought that Grant and Mark haven’t been in contact, as Grant made no mention of his son during his brief appearance on the show last year.
The reasons behind Mark’s return remain under wraps, as does how he will become involved with the Brannings. Very little is known about what he has been up to during his time away from Walford.
Following the flashforward, fans speculated that the mysterious figure — now confirmed as Mark — could either be a recast or a completely new resident of the Square.
Some viewers have also suggested that Mark’s link to the Brannings could spark a potential affair with Lauren Branning, who is currently married to Peter Beale, since the flashforward scenes were set in January 2027.
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