Viewers of the long-running BBC soap can look forward to new storylines as a notorious figure makes his comeback to the programme.

The infamous killer, portrayed by Toby-Alexander Smith, will reappear in an episode scheduled for Monday evening.

Smith had not been seen on the programme since 2022, when his character was imprisoned for multiple offences, including killing Chantelle Atkins, Kush Kazemi, and Tina Carter.

The actor reflected on his return to the show, describing it as an unusual experience to slip back into the role of Gray. He explained that the character ranks among the most intricate he has portrayed, and returning to him after several years presented a stimulating challenge. He noted that discovering who the character has become has been compelling, and he looks forward to audiences witnessing this incarnation as events unfold.

Still serving a life term, Gray’s comeback involves efforts to reach his former spouse Chelsea Fox through his grandmother Sheila, after hearing about his son Jordan being involved in an accident.

His underlying motives stay unclear, though an EastEnders representative indicated that Gray would stop at nothing to create chaos among those who were closest to him.

Executive producer Ben Wadey expressed enthusiasm about Smith resuming the part of Gray Atkins. He mentioned that while the character remains incarcerated, viewers would soon understand that his physical absence from Walford would not diminish his capacity for manipulation.

Meanwhile, supporters of the programme should prepare for another scheduling adjustment this week due to the World Cup continuing its BBC broadcast. The programme typically airs between 7.30pm and 8pm from Monday through Thursday, but this week will differ from the usual pattern. No episode will screen on Tuesday 30 June, with a double bill scheduled for Wednesday 1 July at 7.30pm and 8pm on BBC Two. Normal transmission will resume on Thursday 2 July on its usual channel.