It’s news that EastEnders fans probably never expected to hear – legendary characters Lofty and punk rocker Mary are returning.
After 30 years away from Albert Square, the pair will be making a shock comeback, hitting long-term viewers with a serious jolt of nostalgia.
Read more: Christmas return for EastEnders legend revealed to be a hoax
But it’s not all good news as the pair will be returning back for a very sad reason indeed… The funeral of Doctor Legg, after he tragically loses his battle with cancer.
According to The Sun, Tom Watt and Linda Davidson will reprise their roles next year after the sad death of Harold Legg, played by 92-year-old Leonard Fenton.
Long-term viewers will remember that Mary Smith and Lofty Holloway were two of the show’s original 26 characters when the BBC soap launched in 1985.
Read more: EastEnders fans sickened by “disgusting” kiss between Linda and Stuart
Neither have been seen in Walford since they left in 1988.
Gone but not forgotten, though, with Sharon even referencing the iconic character Mary in a conversation with her step-daughter Louise earlier this year.
Walford’s original wild child, Mary Smith lived in Walford from 1985 to 1988. She was a troubled single mum with a chequered history, which included drugs, prostitution and teenage pregnancy.
She was played by Linda Davidson, who eventually gave up acting. She now works for Jamie Oliver Enterprises.
Meanwhile, Lofty was a barman at the Queen Vic who was hopelessly in love with Michelle Fowler, who dumped him at the altar. Obviously a glutton for punishment, Lofty agreed to marry her again after she had Dirty Den’s illegitimate child, Vicki.
However, when their marriage broke down, he left Walford and became a social worker.
In real life, Tom became a journalist and writer, even ghostwriting David Beckham’s autobiography.
An insider told The Sun: “Lofty and Mary the punk are two of the most memorable characters of the original set of stars.
“It’s staggering to think it’s been more than 30 years since they were last on the Square but soap fans will be delighted to hear of their comeback.
“Regular viewers will know Dr Legg’s health is bad and it’s thought his death will play out in February next year, and these two will be back around the time of his funeral.”
According to the tabloid, actors Tom and Linda are expected to start filming their scenes in the coming days.
The reaction to the news has been hugely positive so far, with one gushing: “Can’t wait for Mary’s return to eastenders and lofty.”
Another said: “I’m swinging to see that Lofty and Punk Mary are coming back really enjoy seeing them both on classic Eastenders.”
@abridgetv can’t wait for Mary’s return to eastenders and lofty
— chetan vanker (@chetanvanker) December 12, 2018
https://twitter.com/AngelaBeesley71/status/1072784656569982977
So chuffed that lofty and Mary the punk are coming back #Eastenders
— Louie Benn (@BadwolfBean8) December 12, 2018
https://twitter.com/KickAssCantona2/status/1072623686581145600
Other fans said they were “chuffed” and “excited” at the “unexpected news”.
“About bloody time! Fans have been calling for this for 20+ years!” said another.
While EastEnders have not confirmed the news, they haven’t denied it either…
Are you excited to see original characters Mary Smith and Lofty Holloway back in Walford? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!