EXCLUSIVE: EastEnders icon Rita Simons, best known for playing Roxy Mitchell, has spoken candidly about the possibility of returning to Albert Square as fans continue to campaign for her comeback.
BBC EastEnders star Rita Simons has shared what lies ahead for her in 2026.
The actress became a household name during her decade-long stint on the BBC soap from 2007 to 2017, later making special guest appearances in 2019 and 2023. Although she has since taken on the role of Marie Fielding in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks, it’s her iconic portrayal of Roxy Mitchell that continues to strike a chord with fans.
Over the years, EastEnders has brought several characters back from the dead – including Kathy and Cindy Beale, as well as Dirty Den Watts – and viewers have long been calling for Roxy and her sister Ronnie Mitchell (played by Samantha Womack) to return following their dramatic deaths on New Year’s Day in 2017.
Addressing the possibility of a comeback, Rita said: “Someone said to me the other day that the dedication of the fans is incredible. And honestly, without that level of support from our amazing fans, the idea probably wouldn’t even cross either of our minds,” according to the Mirror.
“It would normally be a case of saying, ‘No, don’t be silly,’ but our fans just keep the enthusiasm alive all the time, and we’re genuinely blown away by it. Sam and I are stopped by people in the street every single day.
“Sometimes I read the theories and think, ‘Wow, that’s actually quite convincing,’ so you should never say never. Kathy returned, Dirty Den came back, Cindy’s back too – so anything’s possible. We’ve even had some incredibly detailed scripts sent to us by fans.”
Rita also told WhichBingo: “I posted a TikTok the other day from my theatre dressing room about panto, and someone commented, ‘She’s blinking in Morse code – that means she’s coming back.’ Whatever I do, people take it as a sign that I’m returning, and it’s exactly the same for Sam.”
“We’re incredibly thankful to have such devoted, passionate fans. I honestly can’t think of many other departed characters who still have such loyal and unwavering support.”
Rita is currently starring as the villainous Captain Hook in the 2025 Christmas pantomime The All New Adventures of Peter Pan at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable, where she is performing throughout the festive season until early January 2026. Known for her powerful voice and strong stage presence, she brings a mischievous edge to the iconic pirate, delighting audiences alongside her fellow panto cast members.
Speaking about her latest role, Rita said: “Panto is without a doubt the toughest job of the year. You have to be incredibly disciplined, and you can’t afford to miss a performance.
“I absolutely love doing pantomime, but every year I find myself saying, ‘Why do I put myself through this?’ because it’s such a huge physical challenge. You’re doing 13 shows a week, each lasting two and a half hours – two performances a day and three on Saturdays.”
Comparing pantomime to soap opera work, Rita explained: “There’s really no similarity between the two.
“On screen, a raised eyebrow or a simple sigh can communicate so much, but on stage it’s the complete opposite. You have to exaggerate every movement and expression a hundred times over just to make sure it registers with the audience.
“Personally, I enjoy screen work more. I love the subtlety of conveying emotion with just a look. Panto, on the other hand, is all about big laughs, and I adore it for that.”
When asked about potentially joining Emmerdale or Coronation Street, Rita said: “Right now, my priority is to move back to London to be closer to friends and family. I really miss it, so for the time being, my focus will be on projects based in London.
“There are plenty of exciting meetings about fantastic dramas, which is exactly the direction I want to be heading in.”
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