EastEnders legend Pam St Clement breaks down in tears over Barbara Windsor as she reunites with co-star on 40th special
EASTENDERS’ legend Pam St Clement breaks down in tears over Barbara Windsor as she reunites with her co-star on a 40th anniversary special show.
Ross Kemp – best known to viewers as the infamous Grant Mitchell – took viewers on a nostalgic journey through Albert Square’s rich 40-year history, reconnecting with cast to reflect on the show.
Ross sat down with legendary cast members, including Adam Woodyatt, Gillian Taylforth, Letitia Dean and Jessie Wallace, who shared their memories of portraying some of the soap’s most-beloved characters.
But it was his interview with Pam St Clement, one of the square’s most iconic matriarchs that left fans in tears.
The 82-year-old actress, who is best known for playing feisty Pat Butcher for over two decades, lamented the death of Dame Barbara Windsor, who passed away at 83 in 2020, after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Pam shared memories about her iconic role, which included her big earrings, and how she based her character on a bus conductor.
But it was when she discussed her on screen friendship with love rival Peggy Mitchell that her emotions overwhelmed her.
Revisiting their past storylines, the pair watched scenes from a touching 2016 episode where Pat returned as a ghost and promised never to leave Peggy as she passed away.
Both actors were visibly moved by the memories of their late friend and co-star.
And when Ross asked Pam how she felt watching the scenes again an emotional Pam replied: “Well, I miss her, I mean, basically I miss her tremendously.”
With tears in her eyes and Ross also upset, it was clear that Dame Barbara’s presence was deeply missed.
Viewers were so moved by Ross and Pam’s conversation that they shared their emotions on social media.
“Peggy’s final episode… eeehhh don’t do this to me! #EastEnders #EastEnders40” said one fan.
Another added: “Pam St Clement choking up remembering Barbara Windsor #Eastenders #EastEnders40.”
“Pam St Clement talking about Barbara Windsor just broke my heart #EastEnders #EE40.” said another.
While others expressed their opinions that the soap bosses were wrong to get rid of Pam’s character Pat.
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Ricky Groves – Groves returned as Garry Hobbs, a character who has not been seen since 2009.
Cliff Parisi – Parisi returned as Minty Peterson, a character who was last seen on the square in 2010.
Ross Kemp – Kemp has returned to play Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.
“Should never have killed Pat off #EastEnders40” exclaimed one.
“Bring back #PatButcher I miss her earrings #EastEnders40 #Eastenders #EastEndersCountdown” said another fan.
A third declared: “They should have never killed Pat!! Nah Pat butcher is the real east end legend #EastEnders40.”
EastEnders: 40 Years on the Square is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.