Tonight, Chrissie Watts’ highly anticipated return to EastEnders was finally revealed, and actress Tracy-Ann Oberman has opened up about the moment she learned of her character’s dramatic comeback.
“When Chris Clenshaw first told me the storyline, I was blown away,” Tracy shared. “I remember sitting outside a coffee shop, and when he explained it, I thought, ‘This is brilliant – like Orange Is the New Black.’ It was such a strong plotline, I knew it would be a lot of fun.”
For fans wondering how Chrissie has changed after 19 years behind bars, Tracy paints a vivid picture: “Prison has made her tougher. She’s had a long time to reflect on her toxic relationship with Den, and it’s hardened her. She’s not the strongest physically, but she has this incredible charisma and power of persuasion. She’s definitely risen to the top in prison.”
Despite the time spent locked away, Chrissie doesn’t harbor much guilt for killing her notorious husband, Den Watts. “He was a coercive controller and a liar,” Tracy explained. “I think over the years, Chrissie has come to fully understand how manipulative Den was. It pushed her to the edge.”
But the real fireworks are yet to come, as Chrissie and Sharon Watts are set for a tense reunion. “It’s the meeting of two strong women,” Tracy teased. “There’s 19 years of history between them, and the big question is whether Chrissie is happy to see an old friend, or if she’s still angry that Sharon stopped her escape with Jake, the love of her life.”
Tracy was equally thrilled to be back on set with EastEnders legend Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon. “Tish [Letitia] is a joy to work with. We hadn’t crossed paths much over the years, but as soon as we started filming, we both looked at each other and thought, ‘This is really good.’ We just clicked.”
As for what’s next, Tracy promises plenty of drama: “Expect a real rollercoaster between Chrissie and Sharon. There’s love, jealousy, hatred – all the emotions. The big question is, will they come out of it alive, and will they find closure?”
Tracy, who recently wowed audiences in The Merchant of Venice and has a host of other projects lined up, will be keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Chrissie Watts is back, and things are about to get explosive!
EastEnders continues Monday at 7.30 on BBC One
You must be logged in to post a comment.