EastEnders has long held a mirror to society, reflecting real-life issues and capturing the challenges communities face. From domestic struggles to social crises, the soap has consistently tackled tough topics with nuance and responsibility. Now, as the world faces particularly turbulent times, actor Scott Maslen believes the role of the soap has never been more crucial.

Speaking to RadioTimes.com at a recent press event, Maslen, who plays Jack Branning, explained why EastEnders’ stories are more important than ever: “The world’s a mess. EastEnders is going to be even more key. I think moving forward, we’re in desperate times and I think the right messaging is really important.”

Maslen’s comments highlight the unique position soaps occupy in popular culture. While entertainment is their primary goal, series like EastEnders often offer insight into societal issues, spark conversations, and even influence public awareness. Maslen believes the series has an opportunity — and a responsibility — to address pressing matters with sensitivity and clarity.

Excitement for the Future

Maslen also discussed the recent shake-ups behind the scenes at Albert Square. Following the departure of former showrunner Chris Clenshaw, Ben Wadey has taken over the helm, bringing fresh energy and perspective to the long-running soap.

Maslen praised the new leadership, saying: “Ben’s come in after Chris, and everyone was big on Chris, but Ben’s come in and created such brilliant scripts and I’m very excited. Ben’s been clever in getting Jake [Wood, who plays Max Branning] back because that’s a key player.”

Max Branning’s return promises to shake up the Branning family storylines, creating fresh drama and tension for viewers. Maslen’s excitement is evident, both for the character-driven arcs and for the socially relevant stories that EastEnders continues to tackle.

Why Soaps Matter

In times of uncertainty, audiences often turn to familiar characters and storylines for comfort — or as a lens through which to process real-world issues. Maslen’s comments underscore the idea that soaps aren’t just escapism; they can provide context, reflection, and even hope. With the combination of new leadership and key character returns, EastEnders seems poised to continue this tradition while navigating stories that resonate with today’s viewers.

For fans of Albert Square, the message is clear: big drama is coming, both in terms of compelling storylines and socially relevant themes. As Maslen points out, in a world that often feels chaotic, EastEnders has the opportunity to be more than just entertainment — it can be a vital cultural touchstone.