HOTTEST NEWS TODAY!!! All EastEnders cast returns, exits and new arrivals coming up in 2025
It’s been one hell of a busy time in Walford, with the big 40th Anniversary celebrations sparking plenty of comings and goings in EastEnders over the last year.
In September, we welcomed back Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) to Walford after a 20 year absence, and her recent scenes have been nothing if not explosive!
This came months after high-profile returns such as Ross Kemp’s Grant Mitchell and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts.
We also recently said goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison) and Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), who left Albert Square together in the back of a cab.
Although the big 40th week is now over, there are still set to be more faces popping in and out of Albert Square in the coming months.
Here’s the lowdown on who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…
EASTENDERS CAST RETURNS
Max Branning
It was reported in May that love rat Max Branning would be heading back to Albert Square after four years, with EastEnders officially confirming his return earlier this month.
The last time we saw him, Max decided to call time on his life in Walford to join daughter Lauren and grandson Louie in New Zealand.
It later transpired that Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) – who he had an affair with the previous year – was pregnant with their daughter Annie.
A few weeks ago, Max briefly returned for Lauren’s wedding to Peter (Thomas Law).
The scenes also saw Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) discover that Max was involved with Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan), as she witnessed them kissing outside the pub.
Max departed after clashing with a number of Walford residents, but is expected to return permanently.
When is Max Branning returning to EastEnders? Later this year.
EASTENDERS CAST DEPARTURES
Freddie Slater
After four years on Albert Square, Bobby Brazier is set to leave Freddie Slater behind, bowing out later this year.
An EastEnders spokesperson confirmed to Metro: ‘We can confirm that Bobby Brazier will be leaving EastEnders, and we wish him all the best for the future.’
The actor, 22, is reportedly looking to pursue other projects.
When is Freddie Slater leaving EastEnders? Later in 2025.
Anna Knight
Anna Knight (Molly Rainford) is set to depart the show later this year after a two-year stint.
A spokesperson told Metro: ‘We can confirm that Molly Rainford will be leaving EastEnders later this year, and we wish her all the best for the future.’
Anna and Freddie have had a complicated relationship during their time on the show, though it is yet to be seen if their exits will coincide with each other…
When is Anna Knight leaving EastEnders? Later in 2025.
Nigel Bates
There was a huge surprise for 90s EastEnders fans back in December when Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) made an unexpected comeback, 26 years after his last appearance.
Since his return, he has supported old school friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) through his mental health crisis, while also dealing with the fact he has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia himself.
While Nigel has been a welcome addition to the Square, actor Paul is only back temporarily – although it is not yet known how long his stint is set to last for.
When is Nigel Bates leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.
Joel Marshall
Star Max Murray is leaving his role as Joel Marshall.
The actor, 18, is currently at the centre of a storyline that draws comparison to Netflix’s Adolescence.
Joel Marshall recently attacked Vicki Fowler
Following months of misogynistic behaviour, Joel lashed out recently and brutally attacked his dad Ross’ (Alex Walkinshaw) girlfriend Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig).
The episode was followed by a special BBC Three documentary that explored the worrying ‘Manosphere’, and the influence that figures such as Andrew Tate are having on teenage boys.
As with all soap villains, the end of the road and their comeuppance has to come eventually – but that doesn’t mean the story can’t be revisited in the future.
A source exclusively told Metro: ‘Max is leaving EastEnders following an incredible year. There’s still lots to come in the weeks ahead that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
‘Following his spellbinding performance, there’s no doubt that producers will be keen to snap him up – and Max is already on the lookout for his next role.’
When is Joel Marshall leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.