EastEnders delivered one of its most emotional episodes yet as Kat Moon finally confronted the darkest chapter of her past. The powerful flashback sequence, showing never-before-seen VHS footage from 1988, gave fans a heartbreaking glimpse into the Slater family’s history — and introduced a talented new cast playing their younger selves.

The episode revisits Kat’s traumatic childhood as the truth about her abuse at the hands of her uncle Harry Slater is laid bare, forcing her to open up to her teenage son Tommy for the first time. The haunting home video brought the Slaters’ complicated past back to life — and gave fans their first look at the younger generation of iconic EastEnders characters.

Here’s who plays the young Slaters in this unforgettable flashback episode.

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Kat Slater – Amelia Crouch

At the center of the story is young Kat, portrayed by Amelia Crouch, who delivers a moving performance that captures Kat’s fiery personality and deep emotional pain.

In the VHS footage, Kat struggles to hide her discomfort as Harry returns from Spain, forcing her to relive memories she’s tried to bury. Despite limited screen time, Amelia perfectly channels Kat’s mix of defiance and vulnerability.

Crouch made her West End debut at just seven years old and has appeared in films including The Woman in Black: Angel of Death, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, and Alice Through the Looking Glass.

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Harry Slater – Stephen Leask

Playing the predatory Harry Slater, Stephen Leask brings a chilling realism to one of EastEnders’ darkest figures. His character’s unsettling charm makes every scene with young Kat uncomfortable to watch — as he tries to hug her and bond with Zoe, unaware of the audience’s knowledge of his crimes.

Leask is best known for his extensive stage career, including leading roles in Waitress, School of Rock, and Back to the Future. On screen, he has appeared in Trigger Point, Silo, and the upcoming film Mother’s Pride.

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Zoe Slater – Effie Mander

Only four years old in the 1988 footage, Zoe is portrayed by the adorable Effie Mander, who lights up the screen in two Halloween costumes. Her innocence provides a stark contrast to the darkness simmering beneath the surface.

Effie’s theatre school praised her performance online, saying: “At just six years old and already gracing our screens, Effie charmed everyone on set in true Effie style.”

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Lynne Slater – Libby Brake

Teenage Lynne, played by newcomer Libby Brake, brings humor and attitude to the family dynamic. Viewers see her angrily confronting her dad for filming her private phone call and later chatting about baby names with Jean — foreshadowing the Slater family’s future generations.

Brake’s confident debut gives fans a glimpse of Lynne’s early personality — strong-willed, outspoken, and already trying to keep her chaotic family together.

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Little Mo and Belinda – Layla Ingleby & Cerys Wing

Younger sisters Little Mo and Belinda, portrayed by Layla Ingleby and Cerys Wing, bring lighthearted energy to the VHS scenes. Their dance to Bananarama captures the warmth and joy of the Slater sisters before everything changes.

Their laughter fades when Harry’s surprise arrival at the family gathering turns the mood uneasy — a moment that perfectly bridges innocence and dread.

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Viv Slater – Scarlett Brookes

Matriarch Viv Slater, played by Scarlett Brookes, represents the family’s old-fashioned, judgmental edge. She mocks Jean’s mental health struggles and belittles her name choices — showing the toxic environment Kat and her sisters grew up in.

Brookes is a seasoned stage actor and has appeared in acclaimed TV series including Foundation, Silent Witness, and National Treasure: Kiri. Her commanding presence adds authenticity to the 1980s setting.

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Charlie Slater – Martin Maynard

The Slater patriarch Charlie is mostly behind the camera in the flashback footage, capturing the Halloween chaos. But when young Zoe briefly goes missing, Martin Maynard steps into view, showing the worried father fans would come to love decades later.

Maynard’s past credits include Casualty and The Bill, and his brief but powerful scenes remind viewers why Charlie was always the heart of the Slater family.

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A Painful Look Back — and a Door to the Future

This latest flashback is one of EastEnders’ most emotional storytelling choices yet, echoing the show’s previous “Young Mitchells” specials. By revisiting the Slaters’ haunted past, it opens the door for a potential full-length flashback episode — one fans would no doubt welcome.

For now, the 1988 home video stands as a haunting reminder of Kat’s strength, Zoe’s innocence, and the family’s long, painful road toward truth.