In a stunning move that has sent waves of nostalgia through its fanbase, the BBC soap opera EastEnders has resurrected one of its most beloved legends. Pat Evans, played by actress Pam St Clement, made a surprise return from the dead in an episode released early on BBC iPlayer on December 22, 2025.
An Emotional Return to Walford
The episode, which also airs on BBC One at 7:30pm, serves as an early Christmas gift for long-term viewers. Pat's unexpected reappearance comes during a poignant and heart-wrenching storyline focusing on the deteriorating health of fan-favourite character Nigel Bates, portrayed by Paul Bradley.
Nigel's struggle with dementia forms the emotional core of the instalment. The episode opens with him lost and confused amid the festive chaos of Albert Square. A concerned Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) finds him, only for Nigel to ask about old friends Pat, Roy, and Barry Evans, all of whom are no longer in Walford.
As the narrative unfolds, tensions rise between Nigel's wife, Julie (Karen Henthorn), and Phil. Julie, who is secretly hiding a black eye Nigel gave her during a confused state, is investigating care homes. Phil, however, is fiercely protective and refuses to consider the idea.
A Premiere Plunged into Crisis
The crisis deepens at the premiere of a film Nigel was involved with. After a confused moment leads to an accident, Nigel is helped by Julie, whose visible bruising is highlighted under the projector's light. When Nigel realises he caused her injury, he is overcome with shame and flees the event.
Overhearing Julie and Phil arguing once more about potential care, a panicked Nigel confronts them before begging for time alone. In his confused state, he wanders to the car lot and then heads towards the Queen Vic, still searching for Pat and a taxi.
A Ghost of Christmas Past
The camera then shifts to reveal the world as Nigel is experiencing it. He enters the Vic to find a vibrant 1990s-style Christmas party. As he again asks about a taxi, a familiar voice rings out: "…and a very merry Christmas to you n’all, sweetheart!"
Nigel turns to see the unmistakable figure of Pat Evans, who offers a warm chuckle and a wave just as the iconic 'duff duff' theme music rolls. This brief, euphoric moment provides a powerful and bittersweet glimpse into Nigel's mind, blending past and present in a deeply moving climax.
The episode masterfully intertwines the harsh reality of dementia with the comforting spectre of nostalgia, reminding viewers why Pat Evans remains one of EastEnders' most quotable and iconic figures, years after her on-screen death in 2012.
