Actress Nicola Duffett returned to EastEnders after 30 years for a special standalone episode following Nigel Bates’s (Paul Bradley) worsening young-onset dementia in the days before Christmas. The episode, tragic and highly emotional, featured the return of several iconic characters, including Debbie Bates, last seen in 1995.

Debbie Bates in EastEnders

Debbie, first credited under the surname Tyler, was a regular Albert Square resident from 1993 to 1995. She moved to Walford with her daughter Clare (Gemma Bissix) to escape her abusive husband Liam (Francis Magee). Debbie soon met Nigel Bates, and despite Liam’s attempts to ruin their lives—including trying to sabotage their wedding—he was stopped by Phil and Grant Mitchell.

How did Debbie leave EastEnders?

Nigel adopted Clare, and his marriage with Debbie was happy until she was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident. After her death, Nigel faced a custody battle with Liam, who attempted to take Clare back. Some years later, Nigel met teacher Julie Haye, and the blended family moved to Scotland. When Clare returned to Walford in 2008, she visited her mother’s grave, paying tribute to Debbie alongside Dot Branning (June Brown).

Earlier in 2025, Nigel envisioned younger versions of Debbie and Clare in a special episode, highlighting the lasting impact of Debbie’s character on Walford and her family.