Who is Barry Clark in EastEnders as he returns for Dot's funeral?

EastEnders fans are set to receive yet another blast from the past, as Barry Clark (Gary Hailes) stages a comeback which is over three decades in the making.

A number of faces from years gone by have stopped by Albert Square this week in order to play tribute to Dot Cotton (June Brown) following her death earlier this month.

The icon’s funeral service took place on Monday (December 12), with Colin Russell (Michael Cashman), Disa O’Brien (Jan Graveson), Lofty Holloway (Tom Watt) and Mary ‘The Punk’ Smith all returning to pay their respects.

The legend’s reflected on fond memories, as they reminisced about happier times in the Square before laying beloved Dot to rest.

The celebration of the icon’s life continues in Tuesday’s (December 13) outing of the serial drama, with Dot’s wake taking place at The Vic, and viewers can expect to see some more familiar faces, namely Barry.

No, not THAT Barry.

We’re talking eighties legend Barry Clark! But if you’d like a refresher on all-things Barry before his appearance in tonight’s episode, then we’ve got you covered.

Who is Barry Clark as he returns to EastEnders?

Barry Clark was a market trader during the late eighties, who worked on a stall opposite Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth), selling records.

He was introduced on November 18, 1986, during the BBC One soap’s 186th episode, and swiftly became a love interest for Colin, who was one of the genre’s first ever regular gay characters.

Barry was the complete opposite of graphic designer Colin, and his wild behaviour often led to Colin having to clean up his messes, but despite the differences between them, the duo cared deeply for one another, and did everything they could to make their relationship work.

The pairing in question was one of TV’s first same-sex relationships, and is considered to be a breakthrough moment for LGBTQ+ representation.

EastEnders screened the first ever same-sex kiss in 1987, as Colin gave poorly Barry a simple peck on the forehead as he headed off for jury duty. The kiss in question caused absolute controversy at the time.

Dot, meanwhile, cared for both Colin and Barry, but a famous scene in 1987 saw her react badly when she discovered that they shared the same bed, and she subsequently spread rumours that they had AIDs.

Ultimately, Dot came to accept their sexuality.

Barry, meanwhile, was scared of his family’s reaction if he were to ever come out, but his brother Graham (Gary Webster) proved incredibly supportive, revealing that he always knew his little brother was gay in what were undeniably heartwarming and groundbreaking scenes.

His father, however, ultimately learned the truth in scenes that never aired but were reportedly filmed, and Barry therefore pretended to be straight in the aftermath.

Colin and Barry ultimately went their separate ways, with Barry later dating a girl – in order to prevent his dad from disowning him – and he left the Square in 1988, accepting a job on a cruise ship.

The character returned the following year for one episode, with aired on February 23, 1989, which saw former flame Colin depart Walford. The once-happy couple shared a special moment together, before going their separate ways once more.

Barry has not been seen since February 1989.

His upcoming return will see him not only set foot on the Square for the first time in over three decades, but also reunite with Colin.

Our hearts are full.

Who plays Barry Clark in EastEnders?

Barry Clark is played by actor Gary Hailes.

 ‘When I first got the phone call [to return to EastEnders], I was terrified,’ Gary admitted. ‘I hadn’t been in it for 33 years. To come back, it was a bit freaky.’

There was never any doubt in his mind that he would agree to return, though. ‘It was such an honour to be part of such a special episode, it really, really was,’ he said.

‘I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like Dot, or June, or both. She’s so special and to be part of that was an honour, to be honest.’

In addition to EastEnders, Gary has also starred in Luther, Casualty and The Bill.

EastEnders continues Tuesday December 13 at 7:30pm on BBC One.

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