n’s character, Sharon Watts, found herself trapped under rubble following a dramatic explosion at The Queen Vic. In a surreal, emotionally charged scene, Sharon saw a vision of her mother — the formidable Angie — standing beside her and urging her to fight for survival.

It wasn’t just a treat for viewers, but also a deeply symbolic moment that reunited two of the show’s most cherished characters.

The Reunion That Moved Them to Tears

Behind the scenes, the emotional weight of this reunion proved overwhelming. During the filming of the anniversary documentary EastEnders: 40 Years on the Square, Dobson spoke candidly about seeing Letitia again, calling it “incredibly emotional.” Dressed once again in Angie’s original 1985 costume — a striped blouse and blazer — Dobson said it felt like stepping into the past, as if no time had passed at all.

“She looked absolutely beautiful,” Anita said of Letitia. “I love her to bits. She’s like a daughter to me.”

Letitia, clearly moved, responded in kind: “She’s like a second mum. Always was. Always will be.”

The chemistry and genuine affection between them was palpable, drawing tears from both actresses — and from many viewers watching at home.

A Secret Worth Keeping

Anita’s return was kept a tightly guarded secret, with only a few key individuals aware — including her husband, rock legend Sir Brian May. The secrecy heightened the emotional impact of her comeback, both for the audience and her fellow cast members.

“It’s been really hard keeping it to myself,” Anita confessed. “So many friends asked if I was coming back, and I had to smile and say nothing. But I wanted the moment to be a true surprise — and I think we pulled it off.”

She added that stepping back onto the EastEnders set after so many years brought back a flood of memories — of long filming days, laughter between takes, and a cast that quickly became more like family than colleagues.

A Lasting Legacy

Angie Watts remains one of the most iconic characters in EastEnders history. Her troubled marriage to Den Watts, her struggles with addiction, and her unforgettable Christmas episode in 1986 where Den served her with divorce papers in front of the Queen Vic’s tree all cemented her place in British television history.

Anita Dobson’s performance gave Angie a complex humanity that resonated with millions. That legacy — and the actress’s return — was not lost on EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw, who called her “one of the show’s most formidable and iconic landladies.”

“She not only helped shape the DNA of EastEnders, she shaped British TV,” Clenshaw added.

The Power of On-Screen Family

What makes this reunion truly remarkable is the off-screen relationship between Anita and Letitia. While their on-screen mother-daughter bond was often turbulent, filled with heartbreak and miscommunication, their real-life friendship is built on decades of trust, respect, and mutual admiration.

Letitia spoke fondly of the early days, recalling how Anita mentored her and made her feel at home on set as a young actress. Anita, in turn, expressed pride at seeing the woman Letitia has become — both on and off screen.

“She’s the baby girl I never had,” Anita said, her voice cracking with emotion.

A Bittersweet Farewell… or a New Beginning?

While Dobson’s return was brief, the impact it left was anything but. Fans have since flooded social media with messages of love and gratitude, praising the show’s decision to honor its history while still pushing forward with new stories.

Could this emotional reappearance open the door for more flashbacks or dream sequences in the future? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear: Anita Dobson’s presence on EastEnders is as powerful and unforgettable as ever.

And the love between Angie and Sharon — between Anita and Letitia — continues to echo through the halls of Albert Square.