EastEnders star making shock return nine years after quitting the Square for major new storyline

AN EASTENDERS star is making a shock return nine years after quitting the soap.

The actress left the show back in 2017 after spending eleven years in the centre of the action in Walford.

But now she is making a shock return for a major new storyline.

The BBC soap has announced that Belinda Owusu will be reprising her role as Libby Fox for a short stint.

Whilst Libby Fox left Albert Square in 2017, viewers last saw her this January when she appeared in the flash forward episode which was New Years’ Day 2027.

Having been away from Albert Square for almost 9 years, Libby returns to Walford to support her family in the wake of Denise’s blood cancer diagnosis.

But once she arrives, it becomes clear that her family need all the support they can get.

Viewers watched this week as Libby’s sister Chelsea has been through hell with son Jordan hit by drink driver Ian Beale’s car.

Libby will be able to support her sister as she struggles in the aftermath.

Speaking on her return, Belinda Owusu said: “I am beyond thrilled to be back on the Square. 

“Getting the Foxes back together has been such a joy, full of fun and nostalgia! 

“It’s been 20 years since I first joined, so coming back has been like returning home! 

“It’s a really great team and I’ve been loving my time here. 

“Libby is coming home to support her family during a difficult time, and it’s been so wonderful stepping back into her shoes and becoming a Fox again.”

Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Belinda back to the role of Libby Fox as we start to uncover another piece of the puzzle of the New Year’s Day flashforward storyline. 

“Libby returns at a particularly emotional time for the Fox-Trueman family, and it’s clear that her family need her now more than ever.”