Zöe Lucker talks 'EastEnders' return

Good news for all you Zöe Lucker fans out there, she's been handed a new contract with EastEnders!

Click here to read more about that, or read on to find out what Zöe herself has to say about her comeback...

How long are you in EastEnders for?
"Initially, I'm in for seven episodes and I've just signed a new contract - It's great, I'm so pleased.

"Vanessa was brought in to make Max realise that he still loves Tanya, while brightening up his life in the process. By the end of my first seven episodes, Vanessa's presence prompts Max to go and visit Tanya."

Do you know anything about your return story?
"I genuinely know nothing! But I trust Bryan and the writers so much that I'm really looking forward to it."

Are you looking forward to Jo Joyner returning from maternity leave?
"Wow, yeah. Jo's a fab actress. She's one of the few I haven't met because she's been away having her twins but Jake speaks so highly of her. I've seen her around at awards ceremonies and she's a lovely person."

What do you think Vanessa will make of Tanya?
"I think she'll like her. Tanya has strength and is someone she'd admire. Vanessa probably thinks Tanya could clean herself up a little but she respects strong women and Tanya's one of them."

Do you think Vanessa will be involved in many catfights?
"No, Vanessa's not a fighter. She's never had a fight in her life - she wouldn't be seen dead having a scrap in the Square! She'd always walk away."

Do you not think that's why they dressed her all in cream?
"(Laughs) They love that she's someone who isn't prepared to put herself in a horrific humiliating situation like that. Remember that catfight between Tanya and Amber in the players' lounge in Footballers' Wives? It was hilarious but Tanya didn't care about anyone seeing her fight!"

What do you think of your new boss Bryan Kirkwood?
"Bryan's absolutely fantastic. When I got the call, I didn't know much about his work but when I [heard how successful he's been] I was so pleased. He's definitely going to be injecting some glamour into the show. The thing that's always worked so well with EastEnders is that it's always been gritty - he's keen to hold onto that but he wants to brighten it up."

How do you feel to be part of the show's reinvention?
"It's really exciting. As with everything, though, things have to change at some point and Bryan obviously knows what he's doing. It's sad that some characters are leaving but having said that, they've had a good long run. It's always said when anyone leaves a series but the show's going into a new chapter of its life."

Are you pleased that Zöe/Vanessa will be returning to Walford? Let me know your thoughts using the usual form below!