Former EastEnders actress, Lin Blakley, 70, who is best known for her role as Pam Coker on the BBC soap, is set to make a return to the theatre stage. The soap star has now opened up on the new challenges she faces as she admitted it’s “a different kettle of fish”. The small-screen star talked candidly about the difference of playing Pam Coker on EastEnders compared to taking on legendary writer and Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, in the upcoming UK tour of Philip Meeks’ critically-acclaimed play Murder, Margaret and Me this autumn. Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Lin divulged: “Playing Pam Coker you get to see what the writers are putting down.
“You get to know her because you’re playing her. You’ve developed it.”
She continued: “Whereas [theatre] is a different kettle of fish and it has been a challenge to say the least.
“People say Agatha Christie didn’t smile much but actually she did have a sense of humour. And I hope that I can bring that out.”
The actress admitted it is “huge challenge” but has her “fingers crossed” that she will be able to deliver a good portrayal.
Lin mused: “So it’s a huge challenge because she’s such a known figure isn’t she. She really, really is.
“It’s been one hell of a challenge but I’m praying and keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll do the job properly. I hope.”
The play will explore the friendship between famed actress Margaret Rutherford and crime-novelist Agatha Christie.
Meanwhile, the mother-of-two recently hinted she may be making a return to Walford.
Lin spilled: “I love going back. I’m going back soon. Just for a couple of episodes and I love it. I love popping back.
“I’m so happy and pleased that I’m able to do that.
“I haven’t been back for a year but I’m going back for a couple of episodes, so that is wonderful.”
Viewers of the show will remember her character Pam as the grandmother of Paul Coker (played by Johnny Labey) who was the boyfriend of Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden).
Paul was tragically killed in a homophobic attack in 2016 with Ben still traumatised by the shocking events that led to his boyfriend’s death.
Lin has not revealed exactly when she will be returning to the show.
The soap star returned to the show for two episodes in 2017 and made another surprise appearance in March last year.
Murder, Margaret and Me UK Tour beings in September until November 2019.
EastEnders continues tonight on BBC One at 7.30pm.