Lacey Turner, one of EastEnders' most popular actresses, is set to reprise her role as Stacey Branning.
After just over three years away from Albert Square, Stacey will arrive back in Walford early next year. Last seen fleeing the country after Janine exposed her for killing Archie Mitchell (and who can forget that tearful goodbye that Stacey and Max shared at the airport?) Stacey’s return is set to be one to remember.
Lacey Turner’s portrayal of Stacey created one of EastEnders' most-loved characters. Over the six years of playing Stacey, Lacey won over 30 awards, including Best Newcomer, Best Actress and Most Popular Actress at the National TV Awards and British Soap Awards, as well as numerous others. Lacey’s portrayal of Stacey’s bi-polar disorder also won praise from the Mental Health in the Media Awards.
During her time on EastEnders, Stacey Branning was heavily involved in many of the show's biggest storylines, including her affair with her father-in law, Max Branning, which attracted an audience of 14.3 million viewers when it was finally revealed on Christmas Day 2007 in THAT episode! She also played a huge part in the live episode which transmitted as part of EastEnders 25th anniversary - where it was revealed that Stacey was the one who killed Archie Mitchell.
“I may have left EastEnders over three years ago, but the show has always been in my heart - as has Stacey - and she has never really left my side," said Lacey. "I am so excited about returning and seeing what the future holds for her. It’s been a while since I set foot in Albert Square and I am looking forward to coming home.”
Executive Producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: “Stacey is one of EastEnders’ best-loved characters, played by one of television’s finest actors, and I am tremendously excited that Lacey has decided to return home to Walford. Stacey’s last time on The Square was iconic. But that was just the first act. There is so much more to come for Stacey - and her return will send ripples of drama through The Square.”
We cant wait to see how Stacey's return is going to go down with the rest of Walford's residents...
Since leaving EastEnders, Lacey has starred in numerous dramas including BBC One’s Our Girl. Lacey will also be filming a five part series of Our Girl next year, as well as reprising her role in EastEnders.
Lacey will start filming in January 2014.