The actress – who plays Chrissie Watts in the BBC soap – was revealed to be behind the revenge scheme against Zoe Slater in tonight’s episode.

“They are so respectful about the characters and the actors that originated them. So, we had a long discussion about why Chrissie would actually come back to the Square, and what her motivations were and are.

“Who wouldn’t want to be part of the storyline on Christmas Day in Albert Square, particularly when it’s Chrissie!”

And while Chrissie’s return was a bombshell – the limited stint will see her reunite with Zoe and Sam Mitchell for the first time in more than two decades.

“Ben and I were keen to keep Chrissie’s return a complete secret, so I’m delighted my return was kept under wraps,” she added.

“What started off as a game for Chrissie, has ended up becoming a little bit of an obsession, and finding this gorgeous daughter, who was also hurt by Zoe, seemed like too good of an opportunity to miss.

“Also, I do think she is genuinely very fond of Jasmine. She’s like the daughter she never had, and I think she wants to empower Jasmine to also get revenge on the woman who abandoned her. Chrissie thinks Zoe needs to take responsibility, and that’s her motivation.”

Tracy-Ann added: “The other absolute joy of coming back to EastEnders on Christmas Day was the opportunity to work with Jessie, Michelle and Kim.

“I spent so much time with them in my short but powerful stint on EastEnders. Being back in The Queen Vic with Michelle and Kim was really emotional.

“We kept hugging each other and discussing how a lifetime had passed since we were last together, and there was so much to catch up on, including sharing photos of children, and talking about how our lives had evolved over the last 20 years. It’s been a really amazing experience.

“It also was a reminder of what EastEnders does best. Strong female characters, in dynamic storylines, working together to create the drama.”