The character of Penny Branning will return to EastEnders after 15 years, it has been confirmed.
The estranged daughter of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) was last seen in Walford as a 10-year-old but left for France to live with her mum, Jack's ex-wife Selina Branning.
Penny's return to the Square will come alongside that of her cousin Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), although the reason for their surprise arrival remains a mystery.
Newcomer Kitty Castledine, who has been cast as Penny, said: "I didn't expect to start my EastEnders journey so soon out of drama school – I can't actually believe it!
"My whole family are EastEnders fans, and I remember sitting on my Nanny Kay's lap to tune in, and now they get to watch me in Albert Square.
"The inclusion of disabled talent on screen is so important to me as a wheelchair user, so I'm thrilled to be playing a character as feisty and cool as Penny. She's thrown into the middle of the drama straight away, and I can't wait to see what she gets up to."
Exec producer Chris Clenshaw added: "It's been a long time since Penny Branning was in Walford, and she's a very different person from the one our viewers might remember.
"Kitty is a terrific addition to the show, and we're looking forward to seeing Penny back in Albert Square."
Penny and Lauren are expected to be seen on screen from next month.
Neil Wilkes
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