HOTTEST NEWS TODAY!!! All EastEnders cast returns, exits and new arrivals coming up in 2026
2025 saw a number of cast changes in EastEnders, with even more comings and goings set to take place in 2026.
Last year saw the return of Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) to Walford, months after high-profile returns such as Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts, with Christmas bringing cameos from departed legends such as Pat and Barry Evans (Pam St Clement and Shaun Williamson) and Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett).
We also lost some of our most beloved Albert Square last year, with audiences saying goodbye to Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison), Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris), Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), Freddie Slater (Bobby Brazier), Anna Knight (Molly Rainford) and Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey).
Here’s what we currently know about who is returning, leaving and arriving in EastEnders…
EastEnders cast returns
Mark Fowler Jnr
First appearing as the mysterious ‘man’ in the New Years Day flashforward episode (no, really, he was credited as ‘man’), we recently learned that the new face in our midst is none-other than a recast Mark Fowler Jnr, now played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple.
‘He seemed to be a chip off the old Mitchell block back then, and still seems to be taking after his dad 10 years later as it transpires he’s hiding a massive secret that could spell serious trouble for his relatives!’ said an EastEnders source.
‘He’s clearly in trouble but assures Vicki he’s there to support her through Joel’s trial. However, it turns out there’s more to the story as he later confides in Phil what’s really going on…’
Sounds juicy!
When is Mark Jnr returning to EastEnders? Late January 2026.
Stacey Slater
Our Stace’ left Walford for a new life in Brazil after realising that she’d never escape the ghost of ex-husband and true love, Martin Fowler (James Bye) while remaining in Albert Square.
Though hearts across the nation broke when Stacey departed, actress Lacey Turner was quick to reassure viewers that they wouldn’t have to miss her for too long and that she’d definitely be back.
In a behind the scenes video shared to EastEnders official YouTube, Lacey said: ‘I am coming back, I won’t be long’.
When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown.
EastEnders cast departures
Sam Mitchell
The return of the Mitchell Princess, Sam (Kim Medcalf) will, unfortunately be brief one, as she’ll be leaving upon the conclusion of her cancer storyline.
Fans have plenty to look forward to, though, as they’ll see scheming Sam reunite with frenemy, Zoe Slater, after 20 years apart, while also seeing her family and loved ones surround her as she faces her breast cancer diagnosis, that will see her undergo a successful lumpectomy in early 2026.
When is Sam Mitchell leaving EastEnders? Early 2026
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.
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? Early 2026