Next week in Walford, tensions run high as Phil Mitchell’s road to recovery takes center stage, Nigel Bates faces a heartbreaking struggle, and shocking accusations shake the Mitchell family to its core. Meanwhile, emotions flare over Martin Fowler’s send-off, and a fierce showdown between Nicola Mitchell and Sharon Watts threatens to expose life-altering secrets. Here’s what to expect from EastEnders from March 17th to 20th, 2025.
1. Nigel Bates’ Dementia Causes a Devastating Mix-Up Nigel Bates continues to battle with young-onset dementia, and his memory lapses lead to a deeply distressing situation. After an emotional day, Nigel confides in Linda Carter, who has been aware of his diagnosis since last month. However, things take a dramatic turn when Nigel mistakenly identifies Lexi Pierce as his adoptive daughter, CLA, after finding her reading a letter from Phil Mitchell’s suicide attempt. Convinced that Phil has passed away, Lexi rushes off in distress. As Billy Mitchell and Linda attempt to calm the situation, will the Mitchell family finally recognize the extent of Nigel’s illness?
2. Phil Mitchell’s Mental Health Struggles Explored Phil’s loved ones rally around as his battle with depression takes center stage in a special standalone episode. After weeks of uncertainty, Lexi confronts Billy and Honey Mitchell, demanding to know whether her grandfather is dead. Callum Highway steps in to tell Lexi the truth before she visits Phil at the mental health unit alongside Billy, Linda, and Nigel. Meanwhile, Phil’s journey to recovery is revealed, showcasing his struggle to adapt to therapy and group activities. He bonds with another patient, Gaz, who shares similar life experiences, but is left shaken when Gaz is discharged. With the help of support worker Yasmin, Phil finally begins to heal, but is he truly ready for a fresh start outside the unit?
3. Nicola Mitchell Exposed After Shocking Accusation The mystery surrounding Shireen’s disappearance resurfaces, leading to explosive revelations. On the fourth anniversary of the incident, Harry Mitchell is confronted by Shireen’s brother, Assad, who no longer believes Harry is innocent. Nicola organizes a vigil for Shireen at Harry’s bar, but she’s blindsided when Assad arrives and accuses Teddy Mitchell of being responsible for Shireen’s fate. As Harry desperately defends his father, Nicola seeks answers from a mysterious contact named Benji. Meanwhile, Teddy strikes a secret deal with Junior Knight, unaware that Nicola is making dangerous moves behind his back. When Nicola’s involvement in drug dealing is exposed, will this be the end of her deception?
4. Jean Slater and Ruby Allen Clash Over Martin Fowler’s Funeral With Martin’s funeral looming, tensions mount between Jean Slater and Ruby Allen as they struggle to agree on the arrangements. Ruby dismisses Jean’s offer to help, but after some wise words from Kathy Cotton, Jean insists on being involved. However, their conflicting visions lead to a heated argument, leaving Kathy stuck in the middle. As Martin’s family and friends argue over how to honor him, Amy Mitchell and Denzel Danes step in to support his adoptive daughter, Lily Slater. Will the fractured family come together in time to give Martin the send-off he deserves?
5. Nicola vs. Sharon: A Fierce Showdown Turns Violent Longstanding animosity between Nicola Mitchell and Sharon Watts boils over in an intense confrontation. Nicola, determined to reclaim her ex, Teddy Mitchell, finds herself at odds with Sharon, who is deeply involved with him. Their rivalry takes a shocking turn when secrets spill out—Nicola discovers that Sharon had a fling with Grant Mitchell, while Sharon learns the truth about Nicola’s son’s real father. As accusations fly, their altercation turns physical, leaving Nicola injured. With Teddy witnessing the fallout, will he uncover the full extent of the deception surrounding him?
6. Cathy Beale Faces a Heartbreaking Revelation As the community mourns Martin Fowler, Cathy Beale takes a bold step by confronting her past. Encouraged by her friends, she visits her ex-husband, Rocky Cotton, in prison. Cathy is left shaken by his deteriorating condition and his struggle with gambling addiction. As she processes the emotional toll of their past, she finds comfort in an unexpected connection with Harvey Monroe. Will Cathy be able to move forward, or will the weight of her past keep her trapped in heartbreak?