Huge Congratulations to our incredible Patron, Anita Dobson!
Anita Dobson’s surprise return to EastEnders during its 40th anniversary celebrations has been met with widespread acclaim, culminating in the prestigious ‘Scene of the Year’ award at the 2025 British Soap Awards.
In February 2025, Dobson reprised her iconic role as Angie Watts in a poignant dream sequence, where Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) experiences a vision of her late mother while recovering in hospital. This emotionally charged moment resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning it the top accolade at the ceremony. The scene was so secretive that even many of Dobson’s co-stars were unaware of her return until it aired.
Reflecting on her decision to return, Dobson shared that it took considerable persuasion to reprise her role. She emphasized the importance of a compelling script, stating, “I wanted it to be right and I didn’t want to do it if it wasn’t going to actually work.” She also confirmed that this would be her final appearance as Angie, marking a heartfelt farewell to the character.
Her performance was part of a broader celebration of EastEnders’ legacy, which dominated the British Soap Awards with eight wins, including Best British Soap and Best Leading Performer for Lacey Turner. Dobson’s return not only delighted long-time fans but also showcased her enduring talent and the lasting impact of her portrayal of Angie Watts.
For those who missed the original broadcast, the award-winning scene is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
