The funeral of June Brown’s cherished character, Dot Branning, will be broadcast on EastEnders in memory of the soap stalwart who passed away earlier this year. Several of the soap opera’s original cast members will make a comeback in the poignant episode.
Dot was a mainstay in the BBC soap from 1985 to 2020, and she over the years developed into a soap icon. To honor the passing of well-known actress June, EastEnders will soon air a storyline about Dot’s passing. Some of Walford’s most beloved and enduring characters will make a comeback to say goodbye to the laundromat assistant who touched many lives.
Dot’s funeral is currently being filmed, and several of the most well-known Albert Square actors will return for the special episode, according to the soap opera.
To say goodbye with Dot’s stepgranddaughter Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), old friends like Colin Russell (played by Lord Michael Cashman CBE), Barry Clark (Gary Hailes), George “Lofty” Holloway (Tom Watt), Mary “the punk” Smith (Linda Davidson), and Disa O’Brien (Jan Graveson) will also be there.
The cast members who are returning are currently shooting scenes that will update viewers on their lives as they share their cherished memories of Dot.
The episode gives the actors a chance to pay tribute to their late co-star, who passed away in April at the age of 95.
Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer, stated that it was crucial to include significant figures from Dot’s past in her final farewell celebration along with her Walford family.
It’s a privilege to welcome back so many of Walford’s cherished characters to honor Dot, he said.
“Dot had a significant impact on the lives of numerous young people over the years who were facing the most difficult obstacles in life.
“We wanted to bring together some of the people she helped the most because her warmth, heart, and compassion changed lives.
“I’m delighted that these gifted and kind actors wanted to share this unique experience with us so we can give Dot a proper send-off,” the actor said.
The last time Lord Cashman played Colin, it was in 2016 for a plot that questioned Dot’s views on same-sex relationships.
Dot had been extended an invitation to his wedding, but he was aware that she might turn it down due to her beliefs about gay marriage.
Dot, however, changed her mind and brightened Colin’s day after some lengthy, thoughtful scenes.
Colin returns this time to catch up with Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean), Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth), and other old friends with a lot of sadness and some life-changing news of his own.
According to Lord Cashman, “I couldn’t have imagined not being there for June, and I know Colin couldn’t have imagined not being there for Dot – they had that amazing, deep friendship that lasted throughout their years, and it was exactly the same with June and me. So when I was asked back, I didn’t even hesitate.
One of my favorite Dot moments was her monologue to Jim; she was a character and actress who will endure beyond the test of time. June was exceptional, and there are so many amazing stories I could share.
For the first time since 1989, Colin will make an appearance with his former flame Barry. Barry left the relationship after their divorce in 1988 to work as a DJ on a cruise ship.
Gary Hailes, however, made a comeback the following year to play a co-star who left Walford.
After so many years since their painful breakup, viewers will be curious as to where Colin and Barry currently fit in each other’s lives.
Being invited back to the show after nearly 30 years away was exciting, frightful, and strange, but overall it was really nice, said Gary.
There were some initial nerves because EastEnders has always played a significant role in my life. However, those nerves soon gave way to excitement and warmth at the prospect of paying tribute to Dot.
Both on and off the screen, June was a genuinely kind person who paid attention to others. That’s one memory I’ll always have.
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