NEW ARRIVALS: Fresh Faces Stir Up Drama!
Keith Allen as Gaz – A Ghost from Phil’s Past!
Trainspotting star Keith Allen is set to guest star as Gaz, a mysterious figure Phil Mitchell encounters during his stay at a mental health facility. This emotionally charged storyline promises to dive deep into Phil’s struggles, with Gaz playing a crucial role in his journey toward recovery. Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw praised Allen’s performance, hinting that this new character will have a lasting impact on Phil’s future.
Alex Walkinshaw as Ross – A Newcomer with a Hidden Agenda?
EastEnders is welcoming The Bill legend Alex Walkinshaw as Ross, the new partner of Vicki Fowler. Arriving in Walford for Martin Fowler’s funeral, Ross brings his teenage son Joel (Max Murray) into the mix. But is this seemingly devoted family man hiding something? With Vicki’s history and Ross’s presence stirring speculation, expect secrets to surface that could rock the Fowler family.
Max Murray as Joel – A Troubled Teen with a Dark Side?
As Ross’s teenage son, Joel could either be a breath of fresh air or a ticking time bomb. Played by newcomer Max Murray, Joel’s introduction promises to add tension among Walford’s younger residents. Will he settle in smoothly, or will he bring trouble to Albert Square?
FAREWELLS: Emotional Goodbyes Rock Walford! 
💔 Sonia Fowler’s Shocking Exit!
After 32 years, Natalie Cassidy is saying goodbye to Sonia Fowler—and her exit is set to be explosive! Surviving the Queen Vic explosion and welcoming baby Julia, Sonia faced heartbreak with Martin’s tragic death. Now, with her world crumbling, could grief push her to leave Walford for good? Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw confirmed that Sonia’s final storyline will be game-changing, leaving fans wondering if she’ll ever return.
💔 Bianca Jackson Bows Out – But How Will She Go?
Fan favorite Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) has officially wrapped filming, meaning her days in Walford are numbered. While details surrounding her exit remain under wraps, speculation is rife. Will Bianca leave on her own terms, or will her departure be more dramatic than expected?
💔 Stacey Slater’s Sudden Disappearance!
With Lacey Turner welcoming her third child in real life, Stacey Slater will temporarily step away from Albert Square. But with Martin’s death weighing heavily on her, could grief be the reason for her sudden exit? Will she return stronger, or will this be the beginning of another downward spiral for Stacey?
RETURNS: Familiar Faces Shake Up the Square!
🔥 Bex Fowler Comes Home – But Is It Too Late?
Jasmine Armfield reprises her role as Bex Fowler, returning just in time for her father Martin’s funeral. Having been away since 2020, Bex is set to face a drastically changed Walford, from her mother Sonia’s turmoil to a new baby sister. But with so much heartbreak, will Bex’s return bring healing—or more chaos?
🔥 Vicki Fowler Returns with Secrets of Her Own!
After 20 years, Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) is back! Once a wild child, Vicki has been living in Australia but returns to Walford with her new partner Ross and his son Joel. But why now? Could there be more to Vicki’s return than just family ties? And how will her unexpected arrival affect Sharon and the rest of the Mitchells?
🔥 Shirley Carter – A Mystery Return?
Linda Henry’s beloved character Shirley Carter has been absent since her shocking exit in 2022. With Dean Wicks finally behind bars for his past crimes, fans are desperate to know when Shirley will return. Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw has confirmed that Shirley WILL be back—but the big question is when and why. Will she come home to reclaim her place, or is there more heartbreak ahead?
WALFORD WILL NEVER BE THE SAME!
As EastEnders celebrates 40 years of drama, the streets of Walford are undergoing their most shocking transformations yet. With major departures, unexpected comebacks, and intriguing newcomers, nothing is certain. Will old rivalries reignite? Will dark secrets be exposed? And most importantly—who won’t make it out of this year alive?
Buckle up, because EastEnders is about to change forever! 😱🔥