An actress is set to reprise a familiar role on a short return to EastEnders.
Belinda Owusu will return as Libby Fox, the supportive daughter of Denise Fox, played by Diane Parish.
It will be part of a storyline focused on Denise’s recent blood cancer diagnosis.
The character, who first appeared on the BBC soap 20 years ago, was last seen by viewers in a flash-forward episode aired in January.
EastEnders star Belinda Owusu returning to BBC soap 20 years after debut
On her return, Belinda said: "I am beyond thrilled to be back on the Square.
"Getting the Foxes back together has been such a joy, full of fun and nostalgia.
"It’s been 20 years since I first joined, so coming back has been like returning home.
"It’s a really great team and I’ve been loving my time here."
She continued: "Libby is coming home to support her family during a difficult time, and it’s been so wonderful stepping back into her shoes and becoming a Fox again."
Libby will return to Walford to support Denise and her sister Chelsea, played by Zaraah Abrahams, as they cope with Denise’s recent diagnosis.
Walford favourite Denise was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia following a period of unexplained tiredness and resulting medical tests.
The storyline will follow her diagnosis and its impact on her and her loved ones over the coming months.
Ben Wadey, executive producer of EastEnders, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome Belinda back to the role of Libby Fox as we start to uncover another piece of the puzzle of the New Year’s Day flashforward storyline.
"Libby returns at a particularly emotional time for the Fox–Trueman family."
Fans excited for return of Belinda Owusu as Libby Fox
After the news was announced on social media, fans were very excited, with many welcoming home "squiggle".
"Squiggle" is the childhood nickname of Libby on EastEnders, and was given to her in 2006 by her sister, Chelsea, because the baby on Libby's ultrasound scan looked just like a squiggly line.
One said: "Mummy needs ALL the support now.... Welcome Home.
"@officialdianeparish DENISE.. U sooo goin' to smash this storyline."
Another wrote: "Hope she stays! So many prospective new storylines for her character."
A third added: "Yessss! Incredible actor and love Libby as a character xx."
Outside of EastEnders, Belinda also played Nicky McKendrick in BBC medical drama Holby City.
EastEnders airs on BBC One every Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm.
Are you excited to see Belinda return as Libby Fox in EastEnders? Let us know in the comments.
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