EastEnders star Kim Medcalf has revealed a hopeful future for her iconic character, Sam Mitchell, following the character's recent breast cancer diagnosis. The actress appeared on BBC's The One Show to discuss the impactful storyline, confirming that Sam's journey has a positive resolution.
Sam Mitchell's Secret Struggle
Sam Mitchell returned to Walford in December 2025, keeping a significant secret from her famous family, the Mitchells. Known for her sharp wit and scheming ways, Sam's uncharacteristic behaviour quickly raised suspicions. It was soon revealed that she had discovered a lump in her breast and was terrified to seek medical help.
This fear was deeply rooted in family history, as her mother, the legendary Peggy Mitchell – portrayed by the late Barbara Windsor – had herself battled breast cancer. Sam initially believed her fate was sealed, but was eventually persuaded to get the lump checked.
A Positive Outcome Confirmed
Speaking to hosts Lauren Laverne and Roman Kemp on Thursday 15 January 2026, Kim Medcalf detailed the storyline's progression. She confirmed that Sam is diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, leading to confrontations with old rival Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) and a reliance on her family during treatment.
Most importantly, Medcalf shared the crucial news: "She has a lumpectomy, and it's a positive outcome." This confirmation strongly suggests that the character will not be killed off by the disease and will remain part of the BBC One soap's fabric.
Raising Awareness Through Drama
The actress emphasised the importance of the plot in raising public awareness about breast cancer. "The big thing about this is that she comes back from Spain and she's found a lump," Medcalf explained on the programme.
She highlighted Sam's initial fatalistic mindset, driven by her mother's experience, and the critical message about seeking help. "People around her are saying, 'go and get it checked out' and she does... So I think if we just raise awareness on that, that feels a really great thing to be part of," Medcalf stated.
The character of Sam Mitchell was first introduced to EastEnders as a teenager in 1990, originally played by Danniella Westbrook. Kim Medcalf took over the role from 2002 to 2005 before making a permanent return in 2022. The current storyline showcases Sam, the younger sister of hardman Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), in one of her most vulnerable and humanising plots to date.
EastEnders continues to air Monday through Thursday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
