Following his surprise return in tonight’s special episode, Peter Beale is making his way back to Walford alongside parents Ian and Cindy, later this summer as Thomas Law reprises the role.

Peter’s character is cemented in Walford’s history as the eldest living son of EastEnders’ longest-serving character, Ian (Adam Woodyatt) and the iconic Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). He first appeared on screens in 1993 alongside twin sister Lucy, and was played by Thomas Law between 2006 and 2010.

His character has been involved in some of the show’s most iconic storylines, including the gripping Who Killed Lucy Beale whodunnit in 2014 that saw younger brother Bobby (Clay Milner Russell) imprisoned for his sister’s death.

Peter left Albert Square in 2022 after clearing out his grandmother Kathy’s business account, and has been living in France with his estranged mother, Cindy, in recent months. With old wounds to mend, and parents who have made an enemy of themselves with most of the residents of Walford, it’s safe to say that his return will be far from smooth-sailing, but viewers will have to watch on screen to find out how and why the Beale family have reunited.

On reprising the role, Thomas Law says: “Over the years, I had hoped for a return to the Square although I never thought it would happen so it’s an absolute delight to be back in Walford as Peter Beale. It’s been great to see familiar and new faces, and I can’t wait to explore the character again in the wake of Cindy’s return – it’s an exciting time to return!”

Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer adds: “I’m thrilled to welcome Thomas back to the role of Peter Beale. Although his time away from the Square has been short-lived, the Beale family dynamics have changed immensely since he last left Walford. Viewers will soon learn the details relating to how he came to learn that his mum, Cindy, was in fact alive, and how he and dad, Ian, reconciled their differences. We’re delighted to have him back permanently, but one thing is for certain, the Beale’s comeback will be nothing less than explosive for the Square.”