EastEnders fans are in for a tumultuous year, with the BBC One soap's executive producer, Ben Wadey, unveiling a slate of dramatic storylines set to unfold in Albert Square throughout 2026. The revelations come hot on the heels of the show's special New Year's Day flash-forward episode, which catapulted viewers into 2027 and centred on the Branning family.
New Faces and Tragic Comedy
Wadey confirmed that actress and comedian Ronni Ancona is joining the cast as Bea, an old school friend of Linda Carter's. "She brings such a unique tone to it," he said, explaining that Bea's arrival will introduce a story with elements of tragic comedy. "Her memory of Linda is very different to Linda's memory of Linda," Wadey teased, hinting at potential conflict. This plot will also significantly involve Billy and Honey Mitchell.
Major Storylines for Key Characters
The fallout from 2025's hard-hitting misogyny storyline will continue, with the return of the abusive Joel Marshall. "We've got his trial coming up so we're gonna see Joel again as he faces the consequences of his actions," Wadey stated, revealing that Joel will plead not guilty, forcing his victim Vicki and others through a difficult court process.
This trauma strains Vicki's relationship with Ross, leading to a "big soapy love triangle" as her eye wanders towards Zack Hudson. Meanwhile, Ravi Gulati will grapple with the psychological impact of his past actions, and a revenge plot from Harry Mitchell will kick off early in the year. The heartfelt storyline between Phil Mitchell and Nigel will also continue.
Flash Forward Fallout and Answers
Addressing the mystery of the New Year's Day flash-forward, Wadey promised audiences "won't have to wait an entire year to get all the answers." He explained that revelations will begin almost immediately and continue monthly, but warned that "things are not as they seem." The plan involves re-examining elements of the 2027 scene with new context and additional scenes as 2026 progresses.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
