EastEnders fans have been longing for the return of beloved Queen Vic landlord Mick Carter ever since his dramatic disappearance on Christmas Day 2022. While the character has not been seen in Walford since, actor Danny Dyer has certainly not disappeared from our screens. Following his explosive departure from the BBC soap, Danny has thrown himself into a variety of new roles—and now, he’s stirring excitement again by teaming up with a familiar face from Albert Square in a brand-new project.
Dyer, who first stepped into the role of Mick Carter in 2013, quickly became a household name thanks to his tough-but-loving persona and commanding presence in the Queen Vic. His chemistry with the Carter family, particularly his complex relationship with Shirley Carter, resonated deeply with viewers. Over his nine-year run, Mick’s character faced trauma, heartbreak, betrayal, and fatherhood—and then vanished under tragic circumstances during a high-stakes storyline that ended with him presumed drowned at sea.
Since parting ways with EastEnders, Dyer has been anything but idle. He took on a gritty role in the crime drama Marching Powder, further cementing his range as a dramatic actor. He also earned acclaim for his work alongside David Tennant in the Disney+ series Rivals, showing a more refined, dramatic edge that impressed both fans and critics alike. However, it’s his return to comedy that’s now generating fresh buzz.
Danny Dyer is reprising his role as Lee Campbell in the second season of Mr Bigstuff, a hit Sky original comedy that made waves last year and even landed Dyer his first-ever BAFTA nomination. The series centers on two estranged brothers—Lee and Glen—who are brought back together under chaotic circumstances after discovering their father is still alive. Picking up just two weeks after the dramatic twist of Season 1, Season 2 promises even more emotional clashes, awkward hilarity, and family tension as the brothers struggle to navigate their newfound reality.
The most exciting development for EastEnders fans is that Danny Dyer won’t be appearing alone this season. Joining him in Mr Bigstuff is none other than Linda Henry, the powerhouse actress who brought Shirley Carter to life. In EastEnders lore, Shirley began as Mick’s supposed sister, only for a shocking truth to later emerge—she was actually his biological mother. The storyline led to fierce family strife but ultimately evolved into one of the show’s most meaningful and emotional relationships.
In Mr Bigstuff, Linda Henry steps into the role of Pam, a tough, capable mechanic who works at the family’s haulage company. Described as hands-on and no-nonsense, Pam is likely to bring the same fiery energy that made Shirley Carter such a compelling presence on EastEnders. While her character in this new show is unrelated to the soap, the real-life reunion between Henry and Dyer is sure to deliver nostalgia, chemistry, and plenty of memorable moments.
But that’s not all—Mr Bigstuff Season 2 is expanding its universe with even more familiar faces from the British soap world. Shaun Williamson, who EastEnders fans will remember as the lovable but unlucky Barry Evans, is also set to appear. In a completely unexpected twist, he’ll be playing an angry clown—adding a surreal and comedic edge to the already offbeat show. Williamson’s knack for self-deprecating humor and slapstick roles will no doubt elevate the series’ comedic credentials.
Adding yet another layer of soap royalty is Rula Lenska, who played the elegant and outspoken Claudia Colby on Coronation Street. Lenska joins the cast as Rita, a flamboyant and flirtatious woman with a taste for the eccentric. Her presence promises to shake things up with her bold energy and unpredictable behavior.
The upcoming season of Mr Bigstuff looks to be a rollercoaster of comedy, drama, and family conflict—carried by a stellar ensemble of beloved British talent. With its mix of familiar faces, quirky plotlines, and heartfelt moments, the show continues to evolve from a sleeper hit into a mainstream success. And for EastEnders fans still wondering about Mick Carter’s fate, Dyer’s continued success on other projects is at least some consolation.
Whether this reunion between Dyer and Henry signals anything about potential future appearances in EastEnders remains unknown. While Mick is still considered “missing” rather than definitively dead, the show has yet to indicate a return. For now, though, fans can look forward to seeing the iconic duo together again—albeit in a new light.
Mr Bigstuff Season 2 premieres this July on Sky and NOW, and if the trailers and cast announcements are anything to go by, it promises to be a wild and hilarious ride.
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