After a 10-year absence from Albert Square the character of Sean Slater is returning to EastEnders with a mission of “social awareness”.
Robert Kazinsky will reprise his role as the troubled character, who was last seen on screen escaping a frozen lake in 2009.
The actor, who has starred in Hollywood productions since leaving EastEnders, wants to return with a social message on what he has called “the most important serial on British television”.
Kazinsky said his character has more to reveal about his past and the wounds that made him a compelling figure.
He said: “EastEnders is still the most important serial on British television, never afraid to combat hard storylines and tell hard truths.
“I have always been proud of what EastEnders has done for social awareness throughout my lifetime and that is why I’m back.
“To tell a story that means something to me with the family that I know can tell it right.
“I can’t wait to see my Slaters again and see what’s in store for Sean as he brings an evolved animal to Albert Square.”
The brother of Stacey Slater first appeared in 2005, he became something of a seducer on the Square.
A climactic final seen with Slater saw him scramble out of a lake after attempting to drown his family in a car.
The character is set to return to Albert Square in the spring in what has been described as a “brief stint” for an undisclosed storyline.
Kazinsky said: “I have unfinished business in Albert Square and am thrilled to be returning to what I still consider to be my home, however briefly.”