In a dramatic break from tradition, the BBC has ripped up the rulebook for how the nation consumes its favourite soap. EastEnders is set for a monumental scheduling shift, moving from its long-standing daily broadcast model to a bulk-release strategy on its streaming platform.
Starting from the week of Monday, 24th June, a full week's worth of episodes—that's all five instalments—will be available to binge on BBC iPlayer from 6am each Monday morning. This revolutionary change grants viewers unprecedented freedom, allowing them to watch the dramatic goings-on in Albert Square at their own pace throughout the week.
What This Means for Traditional TV Viewers
For those who prefer the classic appointment-to-view television experience, fear not. The soap will continue to air in its usual 7:30pm slot on BBC One from Monday through Thursday each week. This dual approach ensures the show caters to both the binge-watchers and the traditionalists.
A BBC spokesperson emphasised this commitment, stating: "EastEnders will still play out on BBC One every evening of the week for those who want to watch it at linear pace."
A Strategic Move for the Digital Age
This isn't the first time the Beeb has experimented with early releases for the Walford-based saga. The show was previously made available on iPlayer from 6am on the day of its linear broadcast. This new strategy, however, represents a far more significant leap, aligning EastEnders with the 'box-set' model popularised by streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+.
The move is a clear strategic effort to boost the show's performance on the BBC's flagship streaming service and to attract a younger, digitally-native audience who expect content on demand.
This seismic shift in how one of Britain's most beloved soaps is delivered marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of television consumption, solidifying the dominance of streaming in the modern media landscape.
