EastEnders killer Gray Atkins returns to Walford

[Dominique Farrell]

Toby-Alexander Smith has returned to EastEnders as imprisoned serial killer Gray Atkins.

The character, who was last seen in Albert Square in 2022, is serving a life sentence for the murders of his former wife Chantelle Atkins, Kush Kazemi and Tina Carter.

Gray's return comes as his ex-wife Chelsea Fox faces a difficult time following an accident involving their son Jordan.

After learning about Jordan’s condition, Gray asks his grandmother Sheila, played by Sheila Ruskin, to get close to Chelsea.

His motives remain unclear, but EastEnders has hinted that Gray’s absence from Walford will not stop him from attempting to manipulate those closest to him.

 

Toby-Alexander Smith said it had been "very surreal" to return to the role.

"He’s one of the most complex characters I’ve had the opportunity to play and revisiting him after several years has been an exciting challenge to get my teeth into.

"Exploring who Gray is now has been fascinating, and I’m excited for the audience to see this version of him and watch the storyline play out."

 

Gray was at the centre of a major domestic abuse storyline involving Chantelle before her death in 2020. His crimes were eventually exposed two years later, leading to his imprisonment.

 

EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey said: "We’re delighted to welcome Toby-Alexander Smith back to the role of Gray Atkins.

"Although his character remains in prison, it will soon become apparent to viewers that Gray’s physical separation from Walford is no match for his levels of manipulation."

 

RTÉ Television.