EastEnders Cast: Major Changes as Iconic BBC Soap Marks 40th Anniversary
EastEnders Cast Evolution in 2025/26
As Britain’s iconic BBC soap opera marks its milestone anniversary, the EastEnders cast is undergoing significant transformation. The programme celebrated its 40th anniversary with an hour-long episode on 19 February 2025 and a live episode on 20 February 2025, making this a pivotal moment in the show’s history.
The beloved Albert Square continues to evolve with a dynamic mix of departures, arrivals, and returns that will shape the drama heading into 2026. All characters before February are introduced by the show’s executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, with the remainder to be introduced by future executive producer Ben Wadey.
Notable Departures from Walford
The EastEnders cast has bid farewell to several major characters in recent months. EastEnders has seen the departures of Walford legends Martin Fowler, Bianca Jackson and Sonia Fowler already this year. The exits continued with Freddie Slater and Anna Knight leave Walford together, for pastures new. After rekindling their romance, the pair decided to go travelling together, jetting off for a new life in Thailand.
Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders, marking the end of Jay Brown’s journey. Additionally, Junior Knight recently left the soap after just over a year on screen. Deciding to return to Dubai for son Xavier’s sake, Junior packed his bags and headed back.
Fresh Faces Joining the Cast
Despite the departures, exciting new additions are breathing fresh life into Walford. Comedian, impressionist and actress Ronni Ancona is set to join the soap as a new character named Bea. Bea, the BBC have revealed, is an old schoolmate of Linda Carter’s, who she bumps into at their school reunion.
Earlier in 2025, the show introduced several new characters. Ross Marshall, portrayed by Alex Walkinshaw, is the boyfriend of established character Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), who arrives in Walford for the funeral of her uncle, Martin Fowler (James Bye), alongside Ross and his son, Joel (Max Murray), on 31 March 2025. Walkinshaw’s casting was announced on the same day as Haig’s and Murray’s on 22 February 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2026
At a recent event, the soap’s current boss Ben Wadey detailed four stories to look out for in 2026. Nigel Bates’ heart-wrenching dementia storyline is going to continue to be a big one, while Harry Mitchell is going to seek revenge against Ravi Gulati for everything he was put through recently. Evil Joel Marshall is set to return as he goes on trial for his actions.
The evolving EastEnders cast reflects the show’s commitment to delivering compelling drama whilst honouring its rich history. As Walford enters its 41st year, viewers can expect both nostalgic returns and exciting new characters that will continue to captivate audiences across the UK.