2025 saw plenty of cast changes in EastEnders, and the departures and arrivals are continuing in 2026.

Last year saw the returns of Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) and Max Branning (Jake Wood) to Walford, months after high-profile returns such as Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts.

Christmas brought cameos from departed legends such as Pat and Barry Evans (Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson), Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett) and Chrissie Watts (Tracy-Ann Oberman).

2026 has so far brought about another return for Chrissie and Jake Moon (Joel Beckett), with Grant set to stage a further comeback for an extended sting.

We lost some of our most beloved Albert Square last year, with audiences saying goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison), Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier), Anna Knight (Molly Rainford) and Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey)

This year will see the departures of Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) and, presumably, Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley).

With things constantly fluctuating in Walford, here’s what we currently know about who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…

EastEnders cast arrivals

Josh and Sandra

Jasmine Fisher’s (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness) twin brother will arrive in Walford soon, but he won’t be alone.

Josh, played by Joshua Vaughan, will follow behind adoptive mother Sandra (Dawn Steele), who heads to Albert Square in time for Jasmine’s trial.

On joining EastEnders as Josh, Joshua Vaughan said: ‘It has been incredibly humbling to join the cast of EastEnders and find myself at the intersection of the iconic Trueman and Slater families.

‘Getting to work alongside such legacy actors is a masterclass, and I’ve learned so much from them. Josh is a big ball of love and I’m so excited for the audience to see the drama unfold as he arrives onto the Square.’

Holby City star Dawn Steele will star as Sandra for a short stint. ‘I was thrilled to be asked to play the role of Sandra who arrives and throws a spanner or two into the Square!,’ she said.

‘It was so great to go back to Elstree after the end of Holby City. Lots of the same crew (and a few cast!) are still there so it was joyful to see them all again.

‘Everyone was so welcoming and I really enjoyed learning new ways of filming, it really is a well-oiled machine, and everyone works so hard. But it was Sandra’s storyline and character that really made me want to do it and I’m sure viewers will be thrilled with another piece of the puzzle ahead of the trial, Sandra’s timing couldn’t be better, or worse…’

When are Josh and Sandra arriving?

The exact date is unknown, but the recent press release means it won’t be long.

EastEnders cast returns

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell last appeared as part of EastEnders’ 40th birthday celebrations, and Ross Kemp is set to make another return this year for an extended stint.

‘I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year,’ said Ross.

‘As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life.’

As confirmed by the man himself, Grant will find himself in the mix with his recently returned son, Mark, who’s found himself deeply ensconced within a shadowy drug cartel.

He’s also set to play a part in Nigel’s ongoing dementia story.

When is Grant Mitchell returning to EastEnders?

Ross Kemp is returning to EastEnders as Grant Mitchell for a short, ‘explosive’ stint in spring 2026.

Stacey Slater

Our Stace’ left Walford for a new life in Brazil after realising that she’d never escape the ghost of ex-husband and true love, Martin Fowler (James Bye) while remaining in Albert Square.

Though hearts across the nation broke when Stacey departed, actress Lacey Turner was quick to reassure viewers that they wouldn’t have to miss her for too long and that she’d definitely be back.

In a behind-the-scenes video shared to EastEnders official YouTube, Lacey said: ‘I am coming back, I won’t be long’.

When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders?

Currently, the date of Stacey’s return is unknown.

EastEnders cast departures

Sam Mitchell

The return of the Mitchell Princess, Sam will, unfortunately, be a brief one.

The character was going to leave Walford once her cancer storyline had concluded. However, as of mid February, she is choosing to stick around.

This increases the possibility of her crossing paths with brother Grant, who is also returning.

When is Sam Mitchell leaving EastEnders?

Currently unknown.

Nigel Bates

There was a huge surprise for 90s EastEnders fans back in December when Nigel made an unexpected comeback, 26 years after his last appearance.

Since his return, he has supported old school friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) through his mental health crisis, while also dealing with the fact he has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia himself. 

While Nigel has been a welcome addition to the Square, actor Paul is only back temporarily – although it is not yet known how long his stint is set to last. 

When is Nigel Bates leaving EastEnders?

Currently unknown.

This article was first published on November 3, 2024 and has been updated.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

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2025 saw a number of cast changes in EastEnders, with even more comings and goings set to take place in 2026.

Last year saw the returns of Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) and Max Branning (Jake Wood) to Walford, months after high-profile returns such as Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts, with Christmas bringing cameos from departed legends such as Pat and Barry Evans (Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson), Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett) and Chrissie Watts (Tracy-Ann Oberman).

2026 brought about another return for Chrissie and Jake Moon (Joel Beckett), with Grant set to stage a further comeback for an extended sting.

We lost some of our most beloved Albert Square last year, with audiences saying goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison), Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier), Anna Knight (Molly Rainford) and Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey), while this year will see the departures of Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) and, presumably, Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley).

With things constantly fluctuating in Walford, here’s what we currently know about who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…

EastEnders cast arrivals

Jasmine’s twin brother

Jasmine Fisher’s (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness) twin brother is reported to arrive in Walford this year and kick off an incredibly steamy love triangle alongside his long-lost sister and her boyfriend, Oscar Branning (Pierre Counihan-Moullier).

Rumoured to be played by Joshua Vaughan, a source told The Sun: ‘This is going to be one of the hottest love triangles the soap world has ever seen.

‘Oscar is happy with Jasmine but when her twin arrives the chemistry between them is something neither can ignore.’

When is Jasmine’s brother arriving in EastEnders? Currently unknown

EastEnders cast returns

Grant Mitchell

Grant Mitchell last appeared as part of EastEnders’ 40th birthday celebrations, and Ross Kemp is set to make another return this year for an extended stint.

‘I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year,’ said Ross.

‘As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life.’

As confirmed by the man himself, Grant will find himself in the mix with his recently returned son, Mark, who’s found himself deeply ensconced within a shadowy drug cartel.

He’s also set to play a part in Nigel’s ongoing dementia story.

When is Grant Mitchell returning to EastEnders? 2026

Anthony Trueman

No, this isn’t another Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) situation. Anthony is definitely dead.

But, despite his gruesome Christmas Day death, he’ll be returning to EastEnders imminently, brought back by Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker).

This resurrection will be less gory than it may sound, though, as Anthony’s grieving dad uses A.I to deal with his grief, eventually becoming reliant on the site, and the plot will also explore the effects it has on the legendary character as his reliance on the software intensifies.

When is Anthony Trueman returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown

Stacey Slater

Our Stace’ left Walford for a new life in Brazil after realising that she’d never escape the ghost of ex-husband and true love, Martin Fowler (James Bye) while remaining in Albert Square.

Though hearts across the nation broke when Stacey departed, actress Lacey Turner was quick to reassure viewers that they wouldn’t have to miss her for too long and that she’d definitely be back.

In a behind the scenes video shared to EastEnders official YouTube, Lacey said: ‘I am coming back, I won’t be long’.

When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown

EastEnders cast departures

Chrissie Watts

Chrissie’s return to Albert Square was driven by a seemingly unquenchable thirst for revenge, as she masterminded a revenge plot against former frenemy Zoe alongside Jasmine.

Disappearing as quickly as she arrived, Chrissie was lured back to Walford by long time love, Jake, who was working with Kat to solve the mystery behind Anthony Trueman’s death.

With Jasmine unmasked as the true killer, Chrissie and Jake are set to leave once again, but will they leave together or apart?

When is Chrissie Watts leaving EastEnders? February 2026

Jake Moon

Jake staged his second return this year as he sought to discover whether or not his beloved Chrissie was involved in the death of Anthony.

Visiting Zoe and determining to rid himself of Chrissie forever, he was tracked down to his canal boat by Kat and lured home to Walford for a reunion with his cousin, Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), who’d long thought him dead.

He worked to lure Chrissie back to Albert Square and, upon proving her innocence, the two are set to depart again.

When is Jake Moon leaving EastEnders? February 2026

Sam Mitchell

The return of the Mitchell Princess, Sam will, unfortunately be brief one, as she’ll be leaving upon the conclusion of her cancer storyline.

Fans have plenty to look forward to, though, as they’ll see scheming Sam reunite with frenemy, Zoe Slater, after 20 years apart, while also seeing her family and loved ones surround her as she faces her breast cancer diagnosis, that will see her undergo a successful lumpectomy in early 2026.

When is Sam Mitchell leaving EastEnders? Early 2026.

Nigel Bates

There was a huge surprise for 90s EastEnders fans back in December when Nigel made an unexpected comeback, 26 years after his last appearance.

Since his return, he has supported old school friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) through his mental health crisis, while also dealing with the fact he has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia himself. 

While Nigel has been a welcome addition to the Square, actor Paul is only back temporarily – although it is not yet known how long his stint is set to last for. 

When is Nigel Bates leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.

This article was first published on November 3, 2024 and has been updated.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

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2025 saw a number of cast changes in EastEnders, with even more comings and goings set to take place in 2026.

Last year saw the return of Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) to Walford, months after high-profile returns such as Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts, with Christmas bringing cameos from departed legends such as Pat and Barry Evans (Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson) and Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett).

We also lost some of our most beloved Albert Square last year, with audiences saying goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison), Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier), Anna Knight (Molly Rainford) and Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey).

Here’s what we currently know about who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…

EastEnders cast returns

Mark Fowler Jnr

First appearing as the mysterious ‘man’ in the New Years Day flashforward episode (no, really, he was credited as ‘man’), we recently learned that the new face in our midst is none-other than a recast Mark Fowler Jnr, now played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple.

‘He seemed to be a chip off the old Mitchell block back then, and still seems to be taking after his dad 10 years later as it transpires he’s hiding a massive secret that could spell serious trouble for his relatives!’ said an EastEnders source.

‘He’s clearly in trouble but assures Vicki he’s there to support her through Joel’s trial. However, it turns out there’s more to the story as he later confides in Phil what’s really going on…’

Sounds juicy!

When is Mark Jnr returning to EastEnders? Late January 2026.

Stacey Slater

Our Stace’ left Walford for a new life in Brazil after realising that she’d never escape the ghost of ex-husband and true love, Martin Fowler (James Bye) while remaining in Albert Square.

Though hearts across the nation broke when Stacey departed, actress Lacey Turner was quick to reassure viewers that they wouldn’t have to miss her for too long and that she’d definitely be back.

In a behind the scenes video shared to EastEnders official YouTube, Lacey said: ‘I am coming back, I won’t be long’.

When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown.

EastEnders cast departures

Sam Mitchell

The return of the Mitchell Princess, Sam (Kim Medcalf) will, unfortunately be brief one, as she’ll be leaving upon the conclusion of her cancer storyline.

Fans have plenty to look forward to, though, as they’ll see scheming Sam reunite with frenemy, Zoe Slater, after 20 years apart, while also seeing her family and loved ones surround her as she faces her breast cancer diagnosis, that will see her undergo a successful lumpectomy in early 2026.

When is Sam Mitchell leaving EastEnders? Early 2026.

Nigel Bates

There was a huge surprise for 90s EastEnders fans back in December when Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) made an unexpected comeback, 26 years after his last appearance.

Since his return, he has supported old school friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) through his mental health crisis, while also dealing with the fact he has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia himself. 

While Nigel has been a welcome addition to the Square, actor Paul is only back temporarily – although it is not yet known how long his stint is set to last for. 

When is Nigel Bates leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.

Joel Marshall

Star Max Murray is leaving his role as Joel Marshall.

The actor, 18, is currently at the centre of a storyline that draws comparison to Netflix’s Adolescence.

Following months of misogynistic behaviour, Joel lashed out recently and brutally attacked his dad Ross’ (Alex Walkinshaw) girlfriend Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig).

The episode was followed by a special BBC Three documentary that explored the worrying ‘Manosphere’, and the influence that figures such as Andrew Tate are having on teenage boys.

As with all soap villains, the end of the road and their comeuppance has to come eventually – but that doesn’t mean the story can’t be revisited in the future.

A source exclusively told Metro: ‘Max is leaving EastEnders following an incredible year. There’s still lots to come in the weeks ahead that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

‘Following his spellbinding performance, there’s no doubt that producers will be keen to snap him up – and Max is already on the lookout for his next role.’

When is Joel Marshall leaving EastEnders? Early 2026

This article was first published on November 3, 2024.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

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2025 was one hell of a busy year in Walford, with the big 40th Anniversary celebrations sparking plenty of comings and goings in EastEnders.

In September, we welcomed back Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) to Walford after a 20 year absence, and her recent scenes have been nothing if not explosive!

This came months after high-profile returns such as Ross Kemp’s Grant Mitchell and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts.

We’ve also lost some of our most beloved Albert Square residents along the way. In the second half of they year, we’ve said goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison), Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier) and Anna Knight (Molly Rainford).

As any EastEnders viewer knows, Walford is prone to frequent shake ups, and, to keep abreast of any changes, here’s the lowdown on who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…

EastEnders cast arrivals

Bea

Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) is set for a high school reunion when she encounters old school friend, Bea, at a reunion.

While Bea’s full back-story is currently unknown, it’s been confirmed that she’s a ‘force to be reckoned with’ and that she ‘leaves a lasting impression on all those who cross her path.’

Multi-award actress and comedian Ronni Ancona will be playing her: ‘I am honoured to have been invited to join the iconic institution that is EastEnders, and to go on this whirlwind of a journey with such an unpredictable, nuanced and complex character as Bea,’ she said amid the announcement of her casting.

‘I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life.’

When will Bea debut in EastEnders? 2026

EastEnders cast returns

Max Branning

It was reported in May that love rat Max Branning (Jake Wood) would be heading back to Albert Square after four years, with EastEnders officially confirming his return earlier this month.

The last time we saw him, Max decided to call time on his life in Walford to join daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) and grandson Louie in New Zealand.

It later transpired that Linda – who he had an affair with the previous year – was pregnant with their daughter Annie.

A few weeks ago, Max briefly returned for Lauren’s wedding to Peter Beale (Thomas Law).

The scenes also saw Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) discover that Max was involved with Zoe, as she witnessed them kissing outside the pub.

Max departed after clashing with a number of Walford residents, but is expected to return permanently.

When is Max Branning returning to EastEnders? Later this month.

Stacey Slater

Our Stace’ left Walford for a new life in Brazil after realising that she’d never escape the ghost of ex-husband and true love, Martin Fowler (James Bye) while remaining in Albert Square.

Though hearts across the nation broke when Stacey departed, actress Lacey Turner was quick to reassure viewers that they wouldn’t have to miss her for too long and that she’d definitely be back.

In a behind the scenes video shared to EastEnders official YouTube, Lacey said: ‘I am coming back, I won’t be long’.

When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown.

EastEnders cast departures

Teddy Mitchell

After only 18 months in the role of Teddy Mitchell, Roland Manookian will be bowing out before the end of the year.

An EastEnders spokesperson confirmed to Metro: ‘We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future’

When is Teddy Mitchell leaving EastEnders? Later in 2025.

Sam Mitchell

The return of the Mitchell Princess, Sam (Kim Medcalf) will, unfortunately be brief one, as she’ll be leaving upon the conclusion of her cancer storyline.

Fans have plenty to look forward to, though, as they’ll see scheming Sam reunite with frenemy, Zoe Slater, after 20 years apart, while also seeing her family and loved ones surround her as she faces her breast cancer diagnosis, that will see her undergo a successful lumpectomy in early 2026.

When is Sam Mitchell leaving EastEnders? Early 2026.

Nigel Bates

There was a huge surprise for 90s EastEnders fans back in December when Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) made an unexpected comeback, 26 years after his last appearance.

Since his return, he has supported old school friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) through his mental health crisis, while also dealing with the fact he has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia himself. 

While Nigel has been a welcome addition to the Square, actor Paul is only back temporarily – although it is not yet known how long his stint is set to last for. 

When is Nigel Bates leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.

Joel Marshall

Star Max Murray is leaving his role as Joel Marshall.

The actor, 18, is currently at the centre of a storyline that draws comparison to Netflix’s Adolescence.

Following months of misogynistic behaviour, Joel lashed out recently and brutally attacked his dad Ross’ (Alex Walkinshaw) girlfriend Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig).

The episode was followed by a special BBC Three documentary that explored the worrying ‘Manosphere’, and the influence that figures such as Andrew Tate are having on teenage boys.

As with all soap villains, the end of the road and their comeuppance has to come eventually – but that doesn’t mean the story can’t be revisited in the future.

A source exclusively told Metro: ‘Max is leaving EastEnders following an incredible year. There’s still lots to come in the weeks ahead that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

‘Following his spellbinding performance, there’s no doubt that producers will be keen to snap him up – and Max is already on the lookout for his next role.’

When is Joel Marshall leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.

This article was first published on November 3, 2024.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

Comments