Actress Jaime Winstone has expressed the overwhelming honor she felt while reprising her role as a young Peggy Mitchell for an upcoming *EastEnders* episode. 

Known for her portrayal of the iconic matriarch, 

Winstone steps into the shoes of Dame Barbara Windsor’s legendary character once again for a crucial moment in the soap’s ongoing mental health storyline. 

The episode, which focuses on Phil Mitchell’s (played by Steve McFadden) struggle with depression and psychosis, 

will see a flashback to 1985, where Phil experiences vivid hallucinations that transport him back to his childhood home in Walford. 

In this emotional sequence, Peggy, in her younger years, will make a powerful return.

Jaime Winstone, who first portrayed Peggy Mitchell in a flashback episode set in 1979 in 2022, is now back for this pivotal mental health story. Reflecting on her return, Winstone described the role as both thrilling and emotional, acknowledging how iconic Peggy is within the *EastEnders* universe. “Peggy Mitchell is so iconic: Everybody refers to her still, everybody knows her, and it’s such an honor,” she said. Winstone recalled her initial excitement upon being offered the role again, but as soon as she read the script and understood the emotional depth of the storyline, she felt the weight of the responsibility. 

For many fans of the show, Peggy Mitchell has been a symbol of strength and resilience. Dame Barbara Windsor, who originally portrayed Peggy, became synonymous with the character after joining *EastEnders* in 1994. Windsor’s portrayal of the tough yet loving matriarch captured hearts and made Peggy one of the most beloved characters in soap history. Sadly, Windsor passed away in December 2020 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, leaving behind a lasting legacy. 

Winstone’s portrayal of Peggy continues to honor this legacy, and in this new episode, she gets to delve deeper into Peggy’s past. The storyline provides an opportunity to explore why Peggy was so fiercely protective of her family, particularly her sons Phil and Grant. “She’s a real representation of a woman who had been through domestic violence and had to protect her children,” Winstone reflected. This glimpse into Peggy’s earlier years will help fans better understand the roots of her tough exterior and why she became such a strong and independent character in Walford.

As part of her preparation for this role, Winstone revisited some of the character’s most memorable moments, watching old *EastEnders* episodes to capture the essence of Peggy. However, it’s the moment she dons Peggy’s signature voluminous blonde wig that truly brings the character to life for Winstone. “As soon as I put that wig on in the make-up chair, I always feel such warmth and confidence because I feel like Barbara’s giving me the go-ahead,” she explained. The emotional transformation is palpable, and Winstone noted that it was almost like Peggy’s presence fills the room when she steps into the role.

The episode will focus on Phil Mitchell’s battle with mental health, showing the complexities of depression and psychosis. Phil, in the midst of his emotional turmoil, experiences hallucinations that transport him back to his childhood, offering him a chance to reconnect with his younger self and his troubled past. As a teenager, Phil will be portrayed by Daniel Delaney, while the adult Phil is, of course, played by Steve McFadden. Alongside Winstone’s return as young Peggy, other actors from the 2022 flashback episode, such as George Russo as Eric Mitchell and Teddy Jay as young Grant Mitchell, will reprise their roles.

Winstone praised *EastEnders* for addressing mental health issues with such care and sensitivity. “There is such a stigma around men’s mental health, particularly. I think the way the writers haven’t rushed this storyline has been incredibly important,” she said. *EastEnders* has long been known for tackling hard-hitting issues, and this storyline is no exception. In collaboration with mental health organizations like The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, and Mind, the soap is ensuring that Phil’s journey through depression is portrayed in a responsible and realistic manner.

The return of Jaime Winstone as Peggy Mitchell adds a layer of depth to Phil’s ongoing struggle. As the show continues to address sensitive topics like mental health, it is clear that *EastEnders* remains committed to telling authentic and impactful stories. Fans can expect an emotional and gripping episode that explores the complexities of family, trauma, and the lasting effects of mental illness. Winstone’s return is a reminder of the enduring power of Peggy Mitchell’s character, and her portrayal continues to honor Barbara Windsor’s unforgettable legacy.

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