EastEnders fans can brace themselves for an exciting twist as actor Michael French confirms his return to the beloved BBC soap opera. French, who portrays the character David Wicks, has promised “a lot of drama” during his upcoming appearance.

The BBC has announced that French will return “for a short stint” later this year. David Wicks was last seen on the show in 2014, leaving after his tumultuous relationship with Carol Jackson, played by Lindsey Coulson, fell apart following a failed wedding.

David Wicks, the son of the late Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement) and late Pete Beale (Peter Dean), has always been a notorious character in Albert Square, known for his womanizing ways and shady deals.

Speaking about his return, the 61-year-old French said, “I feel honoured to be asked to reprise the role of David Wicks once again. It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David never fails to create a lot of drama in a very short time.”

David Wicks has been involved in several memorable storylines, including his bitter rivalry with half-brother Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) after an affair with Ian’s then-wife Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), which nearly led to Ian’s death. David was also infamous for his dodgy dealings at his step-father Frank Butcher’s car lot and the shocking revelation that Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer), with whom he had started developing feelings, was actually his secret daughter.

David’s last return to Walford in 2014 was marked by a dramatic heart attack on his wedding day, after which he left the UK for the US.

EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw expressed his excitement about French’s return, saying, “David Wicks is undoubtedly one of EastEnders’ most beloved rogues, and we are thrilled to welcome the talented Michael French back to the legendary role as we lead up to the show’s 40th anniversary. David’s character was never shy of drama during his previous stints, and I can assure you this return will be no different.”

While the exact date of Wicks’ return to EastEnders remains under wraps, and the reasons for his return to Albert Square are yet to be revealed, fans can certainly expect a riveting and drama-filled storyline.