Who is David Wicks in EastEnders? Meet the character played by Michael French
EVERYONE loves a good soap comeback, and this latest one on EastEnders is a big one.
It’s been revealed that David Wicks will be walking back into Walford once more.
Who is David Wicks?
David Wicks is the son of Pat Butcher and Pete Beale, and the brother of Simon “Wicksy” Wicks.
He arrived in Albert Square in 1993 and was never far away from drama.
David was involved in some of EastEnders‘ most iconic storylines,.
He was best known for being sworn enemies with his half-brother, Ian Beale.
Their feud started after David had an affair with his then wife, Cindy Beale – which almost ended in Ian being murdered.
David was also known for conducting endless dodgy deals at step-father Frank Butcher’s car lot.
During his time on EastEnders he discovered that Bianca Jackson, the woman he had started developing feelings for, was in fact his secret daughter.
He then left the Square in 1996.
David last returned to Walford after the death of nemesis Derek Branning in 2014, and sought to rekindle his relationship with teen sweetheart, Carol Jackson – Bianca’s mum.
However things weren’t meant to be and David left Walford alone once again after she called time on their relationship.
It came after he was a no-show at their wedding due to suffering a sudden heart-attack.
When will David Wicks return to EastEnders?
In July 2024, it was announced that David Wicks would be making his Walford return.
Although an exact date is still to be confirmed, his comeback will coincide with the BBC One soap’s 40th anniversary.
The soap also recently announced the return of Tracy-Ann Oberman as the legendary villain Chrissie Watts.
While, Laurie Brett made a surprise comeback as Jane Beale in July 2024.
I feel honoured to be asked to reprise the role of David Wicks once again. It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David never fails to create a lot of drama in a very short time.
David Wicks actor Michael French
Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders Executive Producer added: “David Wicks is undoubtedly one of EastEnders’ most beloved rogues.
“We are thrilled to welcome the talented Michael French back to the legendary role as we lead up to the show’s 40th anniversary.
“David’s character was never shy of drama during his previous stints, and I can assure you this return will be no different.”
Who plays David Wicks and what else has he starred in?
David Wicks is played by actor Michael French.
Speaking about his big EastEnders’ comeback, the TV star said: “I feel honoured to be asked to reprise the role of David Wicks once again.
“It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David never fails to create a lot of drama in a very short time.”
Away from EastEnders and actor Michael is best known for playing consultant Nick Jordan in both Casualty and Holby City.
He also played Jeff Slade in the BBC sci-fi crime series Crime Traveller.
The talented star is also known for his theatre work, this includes big West End shows like Chicago and The Sound of Music.
David Wicks' life on Albert Square
- David Wicks first appeared on screen on December 23, 1993 and is the son of Pat Butcher and Pete Beale, and half-brother to Ian Beale and Simon Wicks.
- The character shares daughter Bianca Jackson with teen sweetheart Carol Jackson, although he wasn’t aware of her existence until March 1994.
- He is also a father to son, Joe Wicks, and daughter Karen Wicks who he shares with Lorraine Foster.
- David briefly returned to Walford in December 2012 to visit his mum, Pat Butcher, before her death.
- The character last appeared in Walford on May 30, 2014 after his relationship with Carol Jackson broke down following their failed wedding attempt.