Charlie Brooks cherishes her EastEnders return
Charlie Brooks has reflected on her return to EastEnders.
Charlie Brooks has relished reprising the role of Janine on EastEnders.
The 45-year-old actress has returned to the role of Janine after a four-year absence from the BBC show, and Charlie is thrilled to be back in Albert Square.
She told the BBC: "I always love coming back to Janine.
"She’s an exciting character to play, and it’s always fun to discover what she’s been doing and what she’s been up to as an actress. Seeing everyone back at the studio, and working with Kellie [Bright] again, has been amazing. It always feels like home when I go back."
Charlie acknowledged that lots has changed on the EastEnders set in the last four years.
The soap star said: "I can’t believe it’s been four years, as it feels like much less time has passed for me!
"It [the studios] feels completely different. I did see the new lot [external set] when I was there last time, which feels like yesterday."
Charlie particularly enjoyed working with Kellie Bright and Jake Wood once again.
The actress shared: "It was so amazing to see the whole crew and cast.
"One of the reasons I was coming back was to be part of Kellie’s storyline as we had such a great time working together last time. I’ve known a lot of the cast for many years, and that brings a nice sense of familiarity and peace when I go back. It also allows playfulness because it’s familiar and it feels safe.
"Being in that environment and having done it since I was 17 is why I feel like I can be quite brave with Janine because I’m surrounded by great people."
Asked what makes Janine such a fun character to play, Charlie replied: "I always like trying to understand a little bit more about her each time I play her, and I think the ‘why’ is so important. She’s a lot of things, but she’s also a super fun character to play. She’s very camp, and I have a lot of fun with her.
"Janine is also deep, and she’s got a lot going on, so it’s always interesting to explore that."
