It’s a busy time in Walford, with Christmas and the big 40th Anniversary celebrations fast approaching – meaning there will be plenty of comings and goings ahead in EastEnders.

Fans have been thrilled to see a number of high-profile returns in recent months, including Chrissie Watts (Tracey-Ann Oberman), David Wicks (Michael French) and Bianca

Jackson (Patsy Palmer), whilst twisted Nish Panesar (Navin Chowdhry) seemed to make a grand exit this week.

The Square is set to welcome back and say goodbye to more faces in the coming weeks.

Here’s the lowdown on who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…

EASTENDERS CAST RETURNS

Ruby Allen

It was announced in September that actress Louisa Lytton would be arriving back to stir the pot with Martin Fowler (James Bye).

Ruby was sent to prison in November 2021 after being wrongly accused by the Slater family of running a cannabis farm – and claimed to be pregnant with Martin’s baby.

This was later backed up by Chrissie Watts, who told her fellow prisoner Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) that he had once shared a cell with Ruby, though she was later transferred to a different wing to give birth.

Since then, Sharon has battled with telling Martin the truth.

Speaking about her return, Louisa said: ‘I am thrilled to have been asked back to the Square to revisit Ruby once more, and to shed some light on what the past three years have been like for her during her time away from Walford. I’ve always loved playing Ruby as there is never a dull moment and I cannot wait for everyone to see what Ruby has in store.’

When is Ruby Allen returning to EastEnders? Late 2024, for a prolonged stint.

Nancy and Lee Carter

Actors Maddy Hill and Danny Hatchard were pictured reprising their roles as Nancy and Lee Carter as the cast filmed funeral scenes last month.

Also in attendance at what seemed like a family funeral were Johnny Carter and Elaine Peacock (Charlie Suff and Harriet Thorpe) – though there was no sign of Linda Carter actress Kellie Bright…

Nancy was seen wearing flamingo earrings, a staple of her mother’s wardrobe.

Lee was last seen in the show in 2020, encouraging his dad Mick (Danny Dyer) to follow his feelings and get back with Linda.

Maddy departed as Nancy two years ago, after boyfriend Zack Hudson (James Farrar) cheated on her with Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf). She also found it difficult to deal with her mum’s alcoholism.

When are Nancy and Lee Carter returning to EastEnders?

Sonia Fowler

Poor Son’ is currently locked up after being framed for the murder of her fiancé Reiss Colwell’s (Jonny Freeman) comatose wife Debbie.

As we all know, it was Reiss himself who smothered her with a pillow to avoid having to cough up any further private care fees.

Since then, the residents have launched a ‘Save Our Sonia’ campaign to get the pregnant legend free – with Reiss being the biggest supporter, with guilt slowly encompassing him.

We know that actress Natalie Cassidy is taking a short break from the soap to explore other projects, including a TV show with comedian Ricky Gervais.

When is Sonia Fowler returning to EastEnders? Late 2024/Early 2025

Reiss Colwell

Reiss has been driven out of the area by David Wicks, who witnessed his appalling attitude towards Sonia’s concerned sister Bianca.

He was adamant to escape the allegations pressed against him, and went to stay closer to where Sonia is imprisoned.

In upcoming scenes, he returns home and discovers an incredibly hostile Bianca has made herself at home in his house.

Soon, some crucial CCTV evidence that could prove Sonia’s innocence comes to light, and Bianca wants to get her hands on it!

When Bonfire Night approaches, there’s fireworks aplenty – but mostly inside of No. 25 Albert Square, where Bianca and Reiss have an ultimate showdown.

Huge consequences follow for them both… will Sonia finally get the justice she deserves?

When is Reiss Colwell returning to EastEnders? Next week