Who's leaving EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns
There are some big name departures and returns to Walford this year!
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?
Zoe Slater – rumoured to be leaving
According to reports, Michelle Ryan is set to be leaving EastEnders just one year after her long-anticipated comeback. It has been reported that Michelle has already filmed her final scenes, with her departure set to air later this year. In further shocking news, it has been revealed that it will be a permanent exit, with the character set to be killed off.
“We can confirm that Zoe Slater will be departing EastEnders later this year,” a BBC spokesperson told The Sun. “We wish Michelle Ryan all the best for the future. However, we never comment on future storylines as we don’t want to spoil it for the viewers.”
While it remains under wraps how Zoe will leave, many fans will be wondering what this means for the future of her long-lost twins, Jasmine and Josh. The trio were recently reunited after Zoe gave her babies up at birth. As always, we will have to wait and see how this drama unfolds over the coming months.
Bea Pollard – arrested by the police
In early January 2026, 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.”
Since she arrived in Walford, Bea has wormed her way into Honey’s family. She’s also taken out a credit card in her name, landed Honey in hospital after tampering with a ladder and is now sabotaging Honey’s marriage.
It was announced in June 2026 that Ronni would be leaving the soap in the coming months. Fans were shocked as Bea framed Billy for her murder by staging a crime scene. She then kidnapped Honey and took her to a cottage in the middle of nowhere. Thankfully, Honey’s quick thinking alerted her friends and family to where she was, and Nicola and Linda eventually rescued her.
However, that wasn’t the end of the ordeal, as Bea returned to the Square and threatened to kill Billy… just as the police finally arrested her and carted her off.
Patrick Trueman – gone to visit family
Patrick might have left Walford again, but fear not, he will be back! The legendary character has gone to visit Anthony’s children for a few weeks, but he is set to return shortly.
He is set for a shock when he returns from seeing his grandchildren, however. Not only has Jordan had a life-threatening accident since he left, but Denise has also been diagnosed with an aggressive form of blood cancer. Not quite the welcome home he will be expecting.
Sam Mitchell – went to Portugal
Sam Mitchell returned to EastEnders last Christmas – where she revealed she’d found a lump, which she feared was cancer. Since she returned, Sam bravely battled breast cancer and has recently been given the all-clear by doctors.
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, 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.”
Sadly, Sam’s return wasn’t a permanent one, despite fans calling for her to stay forever! Sam left the soap back in May after deciding to move to Portugal with Grant. However, the character has a habit of returning on a fairly regular basis, and with her son Ricky still in Walford, she always has a good reason to come back.
Grant Mitchell – returned to Portugal
Ross Kemp reprised his iconic role as Grant Mitchell for a short stint, having briefly returned to Walford last year for the show’s 40th anniversary.
Grant returned to cover two huge storylines. One saw 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…”
Sadly, Grant’s return was only brief, and he has now returned to Portugal. The character made a swift exit after taking the blame for crimes committed by his son, Mark. With the police now on his case, it doesn’t look like Grant will be returning any time soon, but never say never.
Eddie Knight – died
Eddie returned earlier this year to cause more drama for George by manipulating Nicola into letting him live with them for his final days. Despite pretending to be sorry for everything he has done, Eddie hasn’t changed a bit and is just trying to avoid dying in prison.
The Night That Changes Everything week saw George and Eddie take centre stage. George had finally had enough of his dad’s manipulation, and after a bitter showdown between the pair, Eddie started choking on his painkillers. But instead of offering his dad the water he was reaching for, George coolly drank it himself, and Eddie died.
Fans had already predicted that someone in Walford might bump Eddie before he died from cancer, but the fact that George finally got revenge on his evil dad left viewers thrilled.
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.
Julie Bates – returned to Edinburgh
With Nigel no longer around, Julie decided to move back to Scotland, a place that holds happy memories of her life with her late husband.
It was revealed after Nigel’s funeral that Julie wouldn’t be staying in Walford. News that left Phil Mitchell and EastEnders fans devastated.
During a heartfelt moment, Phil told Julie that she was ‘one of them now’ and hoped that she would stay in Albert Square. But Julie had other plans and decided it was time to move on with her life. After Nigel left her some money from a pension, Julie decided to take the trip to India that she and her late husband had always dreamed of.
This latest stint on the soap was the second time Julie has put down roots in Walford. So you never know, we might see her again one day.
Who’s leaving EastEnders? Sandra Goodwin – moved to Southend
Sandra arrived in Walford with her son Josh, who is also Zoe Slater’s biological son and Jasmine Fisher’s twin.
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.”
Since she left, Sandra has been seen on screen once, when she made a cameo for Josh’s birthday in a video call to her adoptive son.
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 – 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.
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 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 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?
Ravi Gulati – back after a breakdown
Ravi recently finished time in a mental health unit following a severe breakdown caused by past trauma. He returned to Walford, giving girlfriend Priya hope they could reignite their relationship. However, Ravi revealed he was only back to pack and was leaving Albert Square so that he could continue to focus on rebuilding his mental health.
Since then, Ravi has returned, full of apologies and hope that he can rekindle things with Priya. He was heartbroken to find she had moved on with a new man – but little does he know that it is Max Branning!
Gray Atkins – in prison
Serial killer, Gray Atkins, is returning to EastEnders, four years after he was last seen on our screens.
Fans will remember that Gray arrived in Walford back in 2019 as the charming and successful husband of Chantelle Atkins. However, Gray’s true colours were soon revealed, and he subjected Chantelle to horrific abuse before she tragically died as she tried to escape him in 2020.
But Gray’s evil ways didn’t end there. He went on to murder Tina Carter after she worked out what really happened the night Chantelle died. Gray’s third victim was lovely Kush Kazemi. EastEnders fans were left stunned when Gray pushed Kush in front of a speeding tube train as he tried to flee Walford with Whitney Dean – someone Gray was obsessed with.
His crimes were finally uncovered in 2022, when he was thrown behind bars, never to be seen again. Until now.
Gray has now returned and is putting pressure on his nan, Sheila, to get more information on his son, Jordan.
Sharon Watts – back from America
Sharon recently returned for Vicki and Ross’s wedding after taking a break from Walford since last October.
Sharon returned last year and came face-to-face with Zoe Slater… one of the women involved in the demise of Sharon’s dad, Den. Following a showdown with Zoe after she claimed that Dennis was the father of her then-missing twins, Sharon fled the Square once again.
She has been living with Mark’s mum, Michelle, in America, since – but recently returned to Walford with Albie in tow. Phil was pleased to see Sharon and their son, but she soon dropped the bombshell that she was selling her share in the gym. Does this mean Sharon isn’t sticking around?
Joel Marshall – released from prison
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 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 serving 6 months behind bars for his crimes.
Sadly, this storyline meant we lost actor Max Murray after less than a year. However, Joel is now back in Walford, much to the horror of Avani and Vicki. Is Joel going to be a changed person after his stint inside? Or is there more drama to come?
Clare Bates – returned for Nigel’s funeral
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.
Clare also returned for Nigel’s funeral as she joined Julie to say farewell to the Albert Square icon. Speaking of her second return of the year, Gemma said, “When I returned earlier this year, we always knew Clare had to come back for Nigel’s funeral. He meant so much to her, and it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story, as everyone came together to say their final goodbyes.”
Josh Saunders – returned for Nigel’s funeral
Jon Lee reprised his role as Julie’s son, Josh Saunders, as everyone gathered to say goodbye to Nigel. S Club’s Jon Lee first appeared in EastEnders as Josh Saunders from 1997 until 1998.
Speaking of his return to EastEnders after all these years, Jon Lee said: “It was quite surreal stepping back on to Albert Square after so many years as it’s so familiar to so many of us. It was lovely to see my onscreen family again”.
Libby Fox – back after 10 years
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, perhaps? But is all as it seems? We now know that Denise is currently battling for her life after being diagnosed with cancer, and Libby has returned to support her mum. As well as being there for Denise, Libby will also help Chelsea navigate her way through Jordan’s recovery after he was hit by Ian’s car and also Gray’s imminent return.
Fans are thrilled to have Libby back on their screens again, with actress Belinda Owusu reprising her role for the first time in almost ten years.
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 Stacey. 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.
Max has since taken centre stage in an exciting flashforward on New Year’s Day. Suffice to say that it changed everything for the Branning family.
Mark Fowler Jr
Mark Fowler returned to Walford in January 2026 after a decade away. But, before he made his grand entrance on Albert Square, he secretly appeared in Max’s New Year’s Day flashforward episode.
Although we didn’t know it at the time, Mark was present in the scene where Max was arrested. He was credited at the end of the episode as ‘Man’.
Stephen Aaron-Sipple replaces actor Ned Porteus, who previously played the character.
Speaking of joining the soap, Stephen said: “Having grown up in East London, EastEnders has been in my life since childhood. I’m excited to be joining not one, but two iconic Albert Square families! I’m looking forward to seeing what Walford has in store for him.”
After settling into Walford life, Mark has proved himself to be trouble, but with a side helping of charm… just like his dad, Grant!
Who’s joining or has joined EastEnders in 2026?
Jason Durr as Clive
Clive, a local Councillor, arrives in Albert Square as the residents rally together to save the Community Centre when it becomes at risk of redevelopment. Linda, who is leading the charge, sparks up a friendship with Clive following his support, and quickly realises there might be more to their budding friendship…
Jason, who is best known for his roles in Heartbeat and Casualty, says: “Few shows command their place in the national conversation quite like EastEnders, so I’m delighted to be joining the cast as Clive Masters.
“Working with the wonderful Kellie Bright has been an absolute joy and pleasure from day one. All the cast, crew and production staff have been incredibly generous, welcoming and good-humoured. I’m excited for audiences to meet Clive and see what’s in store.”
Matthew James-Bailey as DC Craig Ingram
Craig is a younger colleague of Jack’s, brought in to take over his workload when Jack’s boss begins to suspect he is struggling to balance the demands of work with Denise’s ongoing cancer treatment, but is quickly working on a case close to Albert Square…
Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “We’re delighted to welcome Matthew to EastEnders, and he has been a fantastic addition to the cast. Craig’s presence in Walford forms part of a storyline involving the Brannings that will unfold this summer.”
On joining the cast of EastEnders, Matthew James-Bailey said: “Joining EastEnders has been a dream come true. From it being the soundtrack to my childhood, always on in the background at home, to gathering around the TV with my family every Christmas, being able to play even a small part in such an iconic piece of British television is truly surreal.”
Sheila Atkins
Actress Sheila Ruskin is heading to Walford as Grey Atkins’ grandmother, Sheila. As Chelsea struggles financially after Jordan’s accident, she admitted to Libby that Sheila has been sending cheques for Jordan, but that she has never cashed them. Libby took matters into her own hands and contacted Sheila, convinced she could be the answer to her sister’s prayers. Chelsea later agreed to meet Sheila, but will they regret welcoming killer Gray’s grandmother into their lives?
Actress Sheila has been in EastEnders before, playing a judge in three episodes that aired in 2001. Sheila has countless TV credits to her name, including roles in Casualty, Doctors, The Bill and Holby City.
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.”
Josh is now well and truly settled into life in Walford. He is living with the Truemans and was recently revealed to be sleeping with his sister’s boyfriend, Oscar.
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 recently reunited with her twin, Josh. However, a love triangle between the twins and Oscar meant their fragile relationship was under threat. When the news came out that Oscar and Josh had been sleeping together, all hell broke loose, and Jasmine relied on the Slaters to support her through her heartache.
Ria – fostered by Suki and Eve
Ria joined the soap in the summer after being fostered by Suki and Eve. She has had a troubled childhood so far, but little is known about the character. So far, she has struggled to bond with Eve and has instead gravitated towards Suki. It is unknown how long Ria will be staying in Walford, but watch this space!
Read more: What time is EastEnders on tonight? Get up-to-date schedules and changes here
