Some of the most famous names in EastEnders' history are set to spook Ian Beale in an exclusive sketch, The Ghosts of Ian Beale, that will form part of this year's BBC Children in Need Appeal extravaganza on Friday 14th November 2014.
Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) is in for the shock of his life when he is knocked unconscious and visited by some infamous ghosts from his past. He's astonished to find his adulterous, home-wrecking ex-wife Cindy (Michelle Collins) in his kitchen; Pat (Pam St Clement) and her notorious earrings are running The Queen Vic; his mum Kathy (Gillian Taylforth) has a surprising new love interest and he has a touching encounter with his daughter Lucy (Hetti Bywater), whose killer is still on the loose.
"It was one of the best days I have ever had at work," revealed Adam Woodyatt. "I never thought I would see the day where I was reunited with Gillian, Pam, Michelle and Hetti, so to work with them all again and for such a great cause was an absolute dream. As soon as we got on set it was like none of them had ever left."
Elaborating on what viewers can expect, Adam told us that "After being knocked unconscious Ian finds himself taken back in time and he comes into contact with Pat, Cindy, Kathy and Lucy in various iconic places around The Square. I don't want to spoil it, but Ian is really happy to see some faces - and completely knocked for six by others! But then again I think finding your late ex-wife in your kitchen is enough to shock anyone.”
“It was surreal being back but it was fantastic to have the chance to play Kathy again," said Gillian Taylforth. "Once I was back in the café with my apron on and stirring the beans it was like I had never left. It was an honour to take part in this sketch for BBC Children in Need. Not only is it for a fantastic charity that helps so many disadvantaged children and young people, but it meant I got to revisit EastEnders.”
Hetti Bywater, who played Lucy seized the opportunity for one last chance to recreate her role. "I thought it was such a great idea that Lucy and Ian would be reunited one last time. Ian feels guilty as the last few conversations they had didn’t end well, so it was nice for them to have a final moment together. Lucy and Ian have had their fair share of ups and downs but Lucy always loved her family so to work with Adam again at such a prominent time for the Beale family was fantastic.
"It was so nice to be back on set and see everyone again especially as Lucy’s murder is such a big storyline at the moment and her killer is still on the loose. The fact that the sketch is for BBC Children in Need is an added bonus as it’s such an amazing charity.”
Will Lucy be able to give Ian the answers he’s looking for and will he wake up in time for Monday night’s EastEnders episode? Tune into the BBC Children in Need Appeal show on Friday 14th November to find out!
Watch the trail:
