EastEnders Cast Updates: Who’s Joining, Leaving & Returning in 2025? | EastEnders Spoilers

As EastEnders celebrates its 40th year on air in 2025, the iconic BBC soap is going through a major shake-up—introducing new faces, bidding farewell to fan favorites, and potentially welcoming back some beloved characters. With so much movement both on and off-screen, viewers are bracing themselves for a year full of surprises, emotional exits, and long-awaited comebacks. Here’s a full rundown of who’s coming, who’s going, and who might just return to Albert Square.

Who’s Leaving EastEnders in 2025?

Lacey Turner as Stacey Slater

One of the most emotional goodbyes of the year will come from Lacey Turner, who plays the fiery and fearless Stacey Slater. After first appearing on our screens in 2004, Lacey has become a central part of EastEnders, with Stacey’s dramatic storylines keeping fans hooked for over two decades. But now, Lacey has decided it’s time for a well-deserved break.

Speaking to The Sun, Lacey revealed: “It’s time for myself and Stacey to take a rest. And who knows what Stacey will get up to in her time away. Knowing her, it will never be boring.” Though it’s not a permanent farewell, Stacey will be off-screen later in the year. An EastEnders spokesperson confirmed her departure but reassured fans that there’s still “plenty more drama to come” before her temporary exit. The big question now is: how will Stacey say goodbye to Walford this time?

Matthew Morrison as Felix Baker

Another emotional exit is on the horizon as Felix Baker, played by Matthew Morrison, is also being written out of the soap. Felix, introduced in 2022 as Mitch Baker’s relative, made history as the first regular drag queen character in the show, known to fans by his alter ego Tara Misu. His vibrant performances at The Albert and heartfelt friendships with Chelsea Fox and Bernadette Taylor added charm to the Square.

However, despite Felix’s unique character, he never received a long-term storyline, and the decision was made to let him go. A show insider shared: “Matthew has been great, but bosses felt the time was right to say goodbye to Felix.” In the lead-up to his exit, the show will reportedly explore a potential romance between Felix and Johnny Carter, which could provide some heartfelt closure for his character.

Who’s Joining EastEnders in 2025?

As of now, the BBC has not confirmed any new additions to the EastEnders cast for 2025. However, with long-time characters leaving and new storylines unfolding, fans can expect announcements soon. Given EastEnders’ tradition of dramatic arrivals, it’s only a matter of time before fresh faces walk into the Queen Vic or cause chaos on the Square.

Who’s Returning to EastEnders?

While no official names have been confirmed, major buzz surrounds potential returns. BBC’s Head of Continuing Drama, Kate Oates, teased fans during the 2025 BAFTA TV Awards press conference: “If you like a return, I don’t think you’re going to be disappointed. There’s potentially one on the cards.” She added, “There are some really big stories coming up. If it’s a return you’re after, then you might be interested in what’s on the horizon.”

Let the speculation begin. Could we be seeing a beloved character making a shocking comeback? Fans are already theorizing—and topping the list is Shirley Carter.

Could Shirley Carter Be Making Her Return?

Played by Linda Henry, Shirley Carter is a longtime fan favorite who left Walford just after Christmas 2022 following the tragic disappearance and presumed death of her son, Mick Carter. Feeling lost, Shirley packed up and left the Square with Lady Di to live with her daughter Carly. Since then, Shirley’s been off-screen, but her story hasn’t ended.

In early 2023, it was revealed off-screen that Shirley had reunited with her estranged son Dean Wicks—who, infamously, had raped Linda Carter back in 2014. Dean later claimed Shirley had a breakdown and was institutionalized, a revelation that sparked concern and outrage among fans. Though Linda Henry has been on a lengthy break from the show, EastEnders bosses have reassured viewers that this isn’t a permanent departure.

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said in late 2023: “Linda Henry is on a break, but it won’t be the last you see of Shirley Carter.” That statement alone has been enough to keep the rumor mill churning, and many now believe 2025 might mark her dramatic return.

What Lies Ahead?

As EastEnders marks four decades on television, it’s clear that the show isn’t slowing down. With emotional exits like Stacey and Felix’s on the horizon, the show is preparing to shift into a new era while still paying tribute to its rich legacy. Whether it’s through shocking returns or fresh storylines, Walford remains as unpredictable as ever.

And while fans may be heartbroken to see favorites go, the promise of jaw-dropping plot twists and new faces means that EastEnders is poised to keep viewers hooked throughout 2025.