Paul Nicholls shocked fans with his return to EastEnders after a nearly 27-year hiatus. The actor reprised his role as Joe Wicks in a surprise video call to his father, David Wicks (Michael French), on Thursday’s episode. While Joe didn’t make an on-screen physical appearance, his return marked a momentous event in EastEnders, drawing attention to Paul’s tumultuous life after his initial stint on the show.

A Quick Look Back: Paul Nicholls’ EastEnders Role

Nicholls, who portrayed Joe Wicks in the 1990s, first appeared on the BBC soap in 1996, with his character making waves in Albert Square over 177 episodes. As the son of David Wicks, Joe found himself in a complex web of family drama and relationships. His role initially earned him a spot in the show’s regular lineup, but after just a year, Paul’s character was written out, and the actor set out to explore new horizons.

Life After EastEnders: A Rollercoaster of Success and Struggle

Since leaving EastEnders, Paul has enjoyed various roles, including his portrayal of Jed in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004), and a stint in the police procedural drama City Central. However, Paul’s life has been far from smooth sailing.

In 2017, Paul was involved in a near-fatal accident while on a trip to Thailand. After falling from a waterfall and suffering severe injuries, including a broken leg and the loss of part of his kneecap, Paul was left stranded for hours before being found semi-conscious. He spent the day battling leeches and crabs while dealing with severe pain. The accident led to a major shift in his life, spiraling into a period of addiction and depression.

Addiction and Recovery: A Hard-Fought Battle

Following the accident, Paul faced a significant battle with addiction, fueled by the physical and emotional toll of the incident. He began using opiate painkillers in combination with cocaine, which led to his descent into substance abuse. His addiction reached a new low when he suffered a stroke a year later, leaving him partially paralyzed.

However, Paul eventually found the strength to turn his life around. After receiving help from friends and joining Narcotics Anonymous, he began to rebuild his life. Today, Paul still struggles with the aftereffects of his past but credits his recovery to his determination and support from loved ones. His current focus is on his health, and he lives a quieter life with his partner, Hemma Kathrecha, and her young son.

Return to EastEnders: A Full Circle Moment

Paul’s return to EastEnders is bittersweet. While his character Joe Wicks only appeared briefly on a video call, it’s clear that Paul’s journey in life and on-screen has come full circle. His return has resonated with fans, both those who remember his first stint in the soap and those who have followed his personal and professional growth since.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Paul Nicholls

Paul Nicholls’ return to EastEnders is not just a nostalgic moment for fans, but a symbol of his resilience. Having overcome immense personal struggles, including addiction, a life-threatening accident, and a stroke, Paul’s story is one of perseverance and redemption. While Joe Wicks’ return to EastEnders may be brief, it marks a powerful chapter in Paul’s life, both professionally and personally. With a future of hope ahead, fans will no doubt continue to cheer for Paul as he continues his journey of recovery and success.