BBC Share By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 Sam Mitchell to face breast cancer diagnosis she returns to EastEnders First details on Sam's return have emerged Kim Medcalf Sam Mitchell Share By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 Sam Mitchell will reckon with a breast cancer diagnosis when she returns to EastEnders next month. Sam, played by actress Kim Medcalf, departed Walford in early 2024 amid a family feud with brother Phil. The soap announced in early November that Sam would be returning at Christmas 2025, after months of speculation. But what brings Sam back to Walford? Details of her return have now emerged, with the soap revealing that Sam struggles when she discovers a lump on her breast. Terrified, Sam initially tries to hide her fears. However, Jack, Denise and Phil convince her to speak to a doctor – who diagnoses her with breast cancer. This, in turn, leads to successful surgery in scenes which will air over the New Year. Sam’s heading back home (Credit: BBC) Sam Mitchell diagnosed with breast cancer in EastEnders return Sharing the news of Sam’s diagnosis, Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “It was imperative that we worked with Breast Cancer Now to ensure that Sam’s important breast cancer storyline was portrayed sensitively and accurately. Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers “Sam is initially hesitant to seek medical advice after she finds a lump in her breast. But with the support of family and friends, Sam gets help quickly. And because her cancer is caught early, she’s able to successfully remove her breast lump via a lumpectomy in the New Year.” EastEnders is working with the charity Breast Cancer Now to ensure that they handle the storyline sensitively and accurately. Sally Kum, associate director of nursing and health information shared: “Sam’s experience will resonate with thousands of EastEnders viewers. We’ve drawn on our insights and extensive expertise supporting people affected by breast cancer to help guide this storyline and ensure it’s portrayed authentically. “We know that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment and, ultimately, of lives being saved. As such, EastEnders is delivering a vital health message by raising awareness of the importance of breast checking, knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and getting any new or unusual breast changes checked by a GP.” Sam left Walford after falling out with Phil (Credit: BBC) What to expect from Sam’s soap return The BBC revealed that Sam would be returning to EastEnders earlier this month. Sam will return during the Christmas period, where she reunites with brother Phil and old frenemy Zoe Slater. Of her return to EastEnders, actress Kim Medcalf said: “It’s such a joy to be asked to come back to EastEnders. Especially as it’s the festive period and you know there will always be plenty of fireworks. She continued: “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.” And, as the news broke, Kim also posted to her X account: “So excited to be back on the Square!!!” Sam’s return to Walford will begin in December. Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 By Joel Harley Nov 28 2025 Previous Story Next Story
