🔍 Spotlight: Fan-Favourite Asked to Return—but Said No

🌟 Scarlett Alice Johnson and Vicki Fowler

Former EastEnders star Scarlett Alice Johnson, known for playing Vicki Fowler from 2003–2004, was reportedly asked to return in 2025 for a storyline centered around her uncle Martin’s funeral. However, she declined the offer, saying that the timing wasn’t right for her comeback.
Instead, the character of Vicki was recast and will now be portrayed by Alice Haig Reddit+15Reddit+15Reddit+15

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Scarlett’s return would have delighted long-time viewers who still associate her face and portrayal with the character. Despite the respectful invitation and the strong nostalgia factor, she opted not to reprise the role. Her absence leaves fans divided: excited to see Vicki back but disappointed the original star chose not to return.

🗣️ Redux Breakdown

• Fan reaction: Many expressed disappointment at social for not seeing Scarlett Alice Johnson in the role, citing her as the only original Vicki they could accept tvguide.co.ukReddit.

• Creative decision: EastEnders producers chose to recast the role with Alice Haig, positioning Vicki’s return around the emotionally charged context of Martin’s death and bringing a refreshed version of the character to the Square tvguide.co.uk+1Reddit+1.

📝 Why This Matters

1. Nostalgia vs. Renewal: Bringing back a fan-favourite in its original form often sparks excitement—but it’s not always practical or preferred by the actor. This keeps the door open for fresh storytelling while honoring the character’s legacy.

2. Legacy weight: Vicki Fowler is tied to pivotal families on the Square. Her return—especially at such a key moment—carries emotional and narrative weight for her mother Sharon, uncle Martin, and the Fowler legacy.

3. Creative integrity: Johnson’s decision to decline suggests she’s prioritizing her own direction, despite fan pressure or nostalgic pull.

✅ In Summary

• Scarlett Alice Johnson was approached to return as Vicki Fowler in early 2025 but ultimately declined.

• The part is recast with Alice Haig, who will portray Vicki attending Martin Fowler’s funeral.

• Fans are split: happy to see Vicki back, yet disappointed the original actress didn’t reprise her role.