BBC Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 Who's leaving EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns There are some big name departures and returns to Walford this year! Features Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 EastEnders saw the departures of Walford legends Martin Fowler, Bianca Jackson and Sonia Fowler last year, before finishing with the shocking murder of Anthony Trueman. And there’ll be a lot more to come – so who’s leaving EastEnders in 2026? But never fear – for everyone who’s leaving, there’s also a host of old faces and newcomers who will appear on the soap in their stead. Here’s our round-up of who’s leaving, returning and joining the cast of EastEnders this year. Who’s left and who’s leaving EastEnders in 2026? Nigel is suffering from dementia (Credit: BBC) Nigel Bates – died Soap icon Nigel Bates sadly lost his battle with dementia, leaving his wife Julie and his best friend Phil devastated. Nigel first arrived in Walford in the 90s and returned to the soap last year after a 26-year absence. Nigel revealed that he was suffering from dementia and had run out on his family so as not to be a burden. He then moved in with Phil, who took on carer duties for his old friend, along with Nigel’s wife Julie. Sadly, Nigel’s dementia got progressively worse until he passed away in a heartbreaking standalone episode in April. Suffice to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in Walford when Nigel took his last breath, and Albert Square won’t be the same without him. Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Patrick has left Walford, but not for long (Credit: BBC) Patrick Trueman – left temporarily Following the harrowing death of his son, Anthony, on Christmas Day, life in Walford has become too much for Patrick. With Jasmine’s trial for murder proving to be the straw that broke the camel’s back, Patrick gave evidence via video and left for an extended break in Trinidad. But fear not, this break is only temporary. Although we don’t know exactly when the EastEnders legend will be back, we know it will be before the end of the year. Patrick played a part in the flashforward episode aired at New Year, so it is only a matter of time before he is back where he belongs. Phew! Who’s leaving EastEnders? Sandra Goodwin – moved to Southend Sandra’s time in Walford has been brief (Credit: BBC) Sandra arrived in Walford with her son Josh, who is also Zoe Slater’s biological son and Jasmine Fisher’s twin.Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your EastEnders newsIt's important to us that you never miss our articles when searching for stories! We have all the latest TV news & schedules to share with our community of loyal readers. Click here and tick TVGuide.co.uk to ensure you see stories from us first in Google Search. The pair caused chaos for the Slater and Trueman families when they arrived. Mainly because Sandra was keeping a secret about their past. It was eventually revealed that she blamed Jasmine for the death of her husband, Keith. As a result, Sandra officially adopted Josh, but Jasmine went to live with a new family. Sandra has since moved to Southend to care for her elderly mother. She has left Josh to live with the Truemans… but some fans aren’t convinced this is the last we have seen of her. Speaking of joining the soap, Dawn Steele said: “I was thrilled to be asked to play the role of Sandra who arrives and throws a spanner or two into the Square! 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…” Scheming Chrissie returned this Christmas (Credit: BBC) Chrissie Watts – moved away Chrissie returned on Christmas Eve for a short spell when she was revealed to be Jasmine’s mystery boss, who had been tormenting Zoe for sins past. She revealed herself (and Jasmine) during a dramatic showdown on Christmas Day, where she shared how she’d been responsible for all Zoe’s recent misfortunes. It emerged that Jasmine had killed Anthony, although Kat and Zoe are convinced that Chrissie was behind his death. Chrissie was lured back to Walford in February by Jake, her estranged boyfriend. Despite everyone thinking she had Anthony’s blood on her hands, it turned out she was innocent for once. After exposing Jasmine as the true killer, Jake and Chrissie reunited, finally leaving the soap once again in February 2026 Jake Moon is back for answers (Credit: BBC) Jake Moon – moved away Jake Moon returned to EastEnders in February for a short stint, looking for answers about what happened at Christmas. After initially thinking Chrissie killed Anthony, he soon realised he was barking up the wrong tree. Chrissie might be guilty of many crimes, but killing Dr Trueman isn’t one of them! After it was revealed that Jasmine was the one who killed Anthony, Chrissie and Jake got engaged. However, they believed that Kat and Jasmine had framed Chrissie for the murder and when the police arrived, they quickly drove off into the sunset so she couldn’t be arrested. Toxic teenager Joel attacked Vicki in harrowing scenes (Credit: BBC) Joel Marshall – in prison for attacking Vicki Joel Marshall was arrested following his horrific attack on Vicki Fowler in October last year. And in January 2026, we saw his court case play out. In a shock twist, Joel finally took some responsibility for what he’d done and decided to plead guilty to attacking Vicki and recording (and sharing!) a video of him sleeping with Avani. He is now facing 6 months behind bars for his crimes. Sadly, this storyline meant we lost actor Max Murray after less than a year. A source told Metro.co.uk: “Max is leaving EastEnders after an incredible year. “Following his spellbinding performance, there’s no doubt that producers will be keen to snap him up. Max is already on the lookout for his next role.” But with Ross and Vicki now arguing over where Joel will live when he is released, will the teen be back? Jasmine killed Anthony on Christmas night (Credit: BBC) Anthony Trueman – dead! Doctor Anthony Trueman became the latest character to suffer a Christmas death in EastEnders last year. Anthony’s demise came as he lashed out at Zoe, knocking her unconscious during a dramatic confrontation. When she regained consciousness, Anthony was dead. Of his surprise death actor Nicholas Bailey said: “I was sad things were coming to an end, but I wanted to lean into the excitement of this story being a launch pad for some incredible stuff heading into 2026. I love EastEnders and I love seeing the show thrive. “So, while I’m sad to be saying goodbye to Anthony, I’m happy it means my friends are going to have some incredible stuff to play following his death.” Jay has exited the soap off-screen (Credit: BBC) Jay Brown – off-screen exit Last year, media outlets reported that Jamie Borthwick, who plays Jay Brown, had been axed following his recent suspension. The star, who appeared on Strictly Come Dancing last year, was suspended after footage emerged of him using a slur against disabled people during a live show. Jamie was initially set to return to the soap after three months’ suspension, although this is no longer the case. A spokesperson for the BBC told The Sun: “We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders. We do not comment on individual matters.” On screen, Jay is off visiting his grandfather, who has been taken ill. The soap revealed that he’s found a new girlfriend up north. They are now getting married and having a child. Sorry, Lexi. Teddy joined the soap last year (Credit: BBC) Teddy Mitchell – in prison! The soap has said farewell to star Roland Manookian after only 18 months. The actor, who plays Teddy Mitchell, will leave after taking the blame for killing drug dealer Okie… a crime his son actually committed. After pleading guilty, a judge sentenced Teddy to life in prison – meaning he probably won’t be back anytime soon. A spokesperson for The BBC told The Sun: “We can confirm Roland will be leaving EastEnders this year, and we wish him all the best for the future.” Who’s returning or returned to EastEnders in 2026? Clare has returned for dad Nigel (Credit: BBC) Clare Bates As Nigel Bates’ time on the soap came to a close, his step-daughter Clare came back to see him before he passed away. Clare and Nigel were estranged and lost touch in recent years. But when Clare found out about Nigel’s dementia, she returned to Albert Square to see her former step-dad. Clare was shocked when she arrived and was confronted by the reality of how frail Nigel had become. Clare is played by Gemma Bissix, who played the role as a youngster. Clare’s mum, Debbie, married Nigel in the 1990s and the three lived as a family until Debbie’s tragic death. Gemma said: “Nigel and Clare were a formidable pairing in the 90s with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship. Whilst it will be an emotional reunion, I hope the viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel on screen together once again!” Grant is back to support Nigel (Credit: BBC) Grant Mitchell Ross Kemp has reprised his iconic role as Grant Mitchell for a short stint, having briefly returned to Walford a year ago for the show’s 40th anniversary. Grant is back to cover two huge storylines. One has seen him reunited with his estranged son, Mark Fowler Jr. The other saw him support his family and friends as Nigel lost his battle with dementia. “I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year,” said Ross. Executive producer Ben Wadey added, “The Mitchells remain one of EastEnders’ defining dynasties, and we can’t wait to see them reunited again. As always when Grant is around, drama inevitably follows him…” Libby’s coming back to EastEnders! (Credit: BBC) Libby Fox Max Branning’s New Year flashforward was full of surprises for fans of the soap. This included the surprise return of Libby Fox, who appeared in scenes as Max’s mystery bride prepared for her wedding. This implied that Max might be marrying a Branning woman – Chelsea or Denise, perhaps? But is all as it seems? Either way, we’ll have Libby back on our screens again, with actress Belinda Owusu reprising her role for the first time in almost ten years. Sam’s home! (Credit: BBC/Composite: EI) Sam Mitchell In another huge festive comeback, Sam Mitchell also returned to EastEnders last Christmas – where she revealed she’d found a lump, which she feared was cancer. Kim, who plays Sam, said: “It’s such a joy to be asked to come back to EastEnders.” “I love the character of Sam. She always causes drama wherever she goes, but she also has that vulnerable side too, which is great to play. It’s also lovely being back on set with the fantastic cast and to see old friends and new faces.” Since she returned, Sam has bravely battled breast cancer and is now undergoing radiotherapy with the support of her loved ones. Max is returning for his family (Credit: BBC) Max Branning Walford lothario Max Branning returned to the soap in a shocking twist to Zoe Slater’s own tale. In a flashback, the soap revealed that she had struck up a relationship with Max, who’d loaned her the money to pay a Private Detective in order to find her children. He returned again in October for Lauren and Peter’s wedding, sending the Square into chaos by pursuing both Slater women at once. He left again soon after that (as did Stacey), only to turn up in the wake of a devastating (although your mileage might vary) fire at Peter and Lauren’s place. Sharing the news, actor Jake Wood said: “I’m excited to see what he’s been up to, and what is next for the character, but if his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, I’m sure there will be plenty of chaos.” Max was then subject to an exciting flashforward on New Year’s Day. Suffice to say that it changed everything for the Branning family. Who’s joining or has joined EastEnders in 2026? (Credit: BBC) Josh Goodwin Zoe Slater was in for a shock when her long-lost son and Jasmine’s twin brother, Josh (Joshua Vaughan), arrived in Walford, having followed his adopted mother Sandra Goodwin (Dawn Steele) to Albert Square. Sandra turned up seeking answers about Jasmine, unveiling new details from her past and insight into Sandra’s version of events. Meanwhile, and unbeknownst to Sandra, Josh had followed her to Walford, not knowing his birth family were closer than he realised. On joining the cast, 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. I’m so excited for the audience to see the drama unfold as he arrives on the Square.” Actress and comedian Ronni Ancona plays Bea (Credit: BBC) Bea Pollard In early January, comedian, impressionist and actress Ronni Ancona joined the soap as a new character named Bea. Bea, her early scenes revealed, is an old schoolmate of Linda’s, and the pair don’t exactly have the fondest memories of each other. Of her new role, Ronni said: “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. I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life.” Meanwhile, EastEnders Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Ronni Ancona to EastEnders playing the character of Bea. “Bea’s character is mysterious, and we’re thrilled to have an esteemed actress and comedian like Ronni playing her.” Bea has now wormed her way into Honey’s family. Fans are worried that she has a plan to take over her life… but only time will tell what her true intentions are. Say hello to newcomer Jasmine (Credit: BBC) Jasmine Fisher The mysterious Jasmine Fisher arrived in Walford in early October last year, wrangling herself a job at The Albert. It soon became clear that not all was as it seemed with Jasmine, though. As it turned out, Jasmine was working with Chrissie Watts to torment her long-lost mother, Zoe Slater! Fast forward a few months and Jasmine has made quite the impact. Mostly by killing her long-lost dad, Anthony Trueman! Jasmine has since reunited with her twin, Josh. However, it has been hinted that there could be a love triangle between the pair and Oscar. Watch this space! Read more: What time is EastEnders on tonight? Get up-to-date schedules and changes here Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google Good to Know Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Joel Harley 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 By Claire Crick 29 Apr 2026, 15:04 Previous Story Next Story
