Samantha Womack is returning to 'EastEnders'. The 40-year-old actress - who quit the soap two years ago - is to reprise her role as Ronnie Mitchell for at least six months in a storyline which sees her alter ego released from prison, where she has been held for kidnapping Kat Slater's baby when her own little boy died from cot death.

She said: "I am thrilled to be returning to the role of Ronnie for the next six months. Ronnie is coming out of prison and her re-appearance in the Square is going to create havoc.

"I can't wait to be a Mitchell once again."

The return will see the controversial storyline brought back to the forefront as Ronnie deals with her actions, including divorcing husband Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) while in prison, and soap bosses can't wait to see the actress back in Walford.

Lorraine Newman, 'EastEnders' executive producer, said: "We're delighted to announce Samantha Womack's return to Albert Square.

"The Mitchell sisters are a fabulous pairing and it will be an absolute delight to have Ronnie and Roxy back together on screen.

"However, Ronnie's departure wasn't without controversy for many residents in Walford and her return will be sure to ruffle quite a few feathers."

Samantha returns to filming this summer ahead of a return to the screen later this year.