Ross Kemp looks unrecognisable with a full head of hair as he confirms EastEnders return

Actor Ross Kemp will make his long awaited return to EastEnders for the show's 40th anniversary in February

EastEnders actor Ross Kemp has stunned soap fans when a throwback picture of him with a full head of hair has resurfaced.

Kemp - who announced his return to the BBC soap on New Year's Day - is more known for his current image which includes a bald head and hardman look. Yet it wasn't always his style, with the actor at one point sporting a full head of wavy, dark hair.

In pictures shown on Good Morning Britain, Kemp's youthful look was shown with a picture of him playing rugby and another as he finished drama school. The photos form part of the EastEnders legend's autobiography 'Take Nothing For Granted: Tales From An Unexpected Life', which he promoted for its release in 2023.

The actor, 60, recently revealed that he would never undergo a hair transplant, despite losing his hair. In an interview with The Times he said: "I do try and make myself look presentable, which isn't easy with this face. I look in the mirror and think: squashed sultana. Do I wish I had a head of hair? Course, but I'd never have hair implants, or plastic surgery to fix this bit under my chin. This is me. If you don't like it, you know what you can do."

Kemp originally joined the EastEnders cast almost 35 years ago as Grant Mitchell, brother of Phil Mitchell and son of Queen Vic landlord Peggy Mitchell. He initially appeared in the soap for nine years from 1990 to 1999, also returning for a brief stint between 2005 and 2006 and finally in 2016. During his time on the soap he featured in some of its most memorable and iconic storylines including the love triangle with Sharon Mitchell and his brother and also his volatile marriage with wife Tiffany Raymond.

However the actor is now to return to Watford and Albert Square, ahead of the BBC soap's 40th anniversary in February. Speaking about his return, the actor turned documentary maker said he was delighted to be back, as he said: "EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary, is an absolute honour. Grant has never been far from the action and let’s just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang."

Chris Clenshaw the Executive Producer of EastEnders added: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell. Whilst I’m not currently revealing exactly what brings Grant back to Walford, I can say that his return will play a significant part in the show’s 40th anniversary, and will make up many moments of truly unmissable TV."

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