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.

Fans have been thrilled to see a number of high-profile returns for the milestone, including Ross Kemp as Grant Mitchell and a shock cameo from Anita Dobson as original Queen Vic landlady Angie Watts.

Sadly, however, the week’s episodes saw beloved legacy character Martin Fowler (James Bye) tragically die in Stacey Slater’s (Lacey Turner) arms after the Queen Vic exploded, while a falling bathtub comically killed Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman).

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 DEPARTURES

Sonia Fowler

It’s the end of an era, as EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy is set to depart EastEnders in the coming weeks. 

At the end of January, the actress announced she had quit her role 32 years after her debut as Sonia Fowler. 

Sonia has been at the centre of a big story after finding out fiancé Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) killed his comatose wife Debbie last year and let Sonia take the fall for it.

With Reiss now dead and Sonia having given birth to their daughter Julia in the ruins of the Queen Vic during the live episode, Sonia is entering a huge new chapter of her life – one that will see her eventually leave Albert Square for good.

Natalie previously said in a statement: ‘After another 11 solid years back on The Square, I have decided it’s time to move on to pastures new. EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show.’

When is Sonia Fowler leaving EastEnders? Early 2025

Bianca Jackson

It’s no secret that Patsy Palmer has only signed on the dotted line to appear as Bianca Jackson for a limited time – and it could well be likely that she has a combined exit with Natalie Cassidy.

The actress, who first appeared on the show back in 1993, shared a post on her Instagram Stories earlier this month saying goodbye to Bianca. 

‘Bye bye B,’ she wrote alongside a picture of her in the role. ‘Always grateful to see her again,’ she added.

It came following a joint leaving do for Patsy and Natalie Cassidy. Her husband Richard Merkell also flew over from their home in LA to be at the celebrations.

When is Bianca Jackson leaving EastEnders? Early 2025

Ruby Allen

Actress Louisa Lytton reprised her role as controversial Ruby Allen last year, sending shockwaves through the Square when it was revealed she had secretly given birth to a child by ex-husband Martin during her three years away from Walford.

Since her return in November, Ruby had reunited with Martin, but he confessed his feelings for ex-wife Stacey during his dying moments.

Whether Ruby will learn the truth about Martin and Stacey remains to be seen, but the character will be leaving the Square imminently. When Louisa’s return was announced last September, bosses confirmed she was only back ‘for a prolonged stint’.

It was later announced that Louisa had signed up to appear in a touring production of A Girl on the Train, playing the lead role of Rachel Watson between 15 April and 31 May.

When is Ruby Allen leaving EastEnders? Currently unknown.

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 been supporting 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.

Felix Baker

Felix Baker star Matthew James Morrison, who made history as Walford’s first ever regular drag queen Tara Misu, will exit the show after three years.

The character made his Square debut in 2022, arriving with brother Finlay (Ashley Byam) and dad Avery (Omar Lye-Fook).

A BBC spokesperson said: ‘We can confirm that Matthew will be leaving EastEnders later in the year. 

‘We wish him all the best for the future.’

Felix’s exit comes as new boss Ben Wadey commences his tenure as Executive Producer.

EASTENDERS CAST RETURNS

Stacey Slater

Stacey Slater actress Lacey Turner is currently on maternity leave from the soap after welcoming her third child – a daughter called Gipsy – in January.

However, Lacey returned to the show’s studios at Elstree just a month after giving birth for the live episode, where she delivered a powerhouse performance during Martin’s final moments.

In scenes filmed prior to Lacey’s leave, fans saw Stacey struggle to come to terms with Martin’s death, and has gone to stay with brother Sean (Robert Kazinsky).

It’s currently unclear whether or not her trip will be long-term, as Lacey has been pictured filming for Martin’s funeral scenes. It could be likely that Stacey is only back for the service.

When is Stacey Slater returning to EastEnders full time? 2025.

Vicki Fowler

Vicki Fowler is set to return to our screens with a new face as Martin is laid to rest in emotional funeral scenes.

Vicki last appeared on our screens in 2004, played by Scarlett Alice Johnson, before moving away with Spencer Moon.

Now, Alice Haig is taking on the iconic role of Michelle Fowler and Den Watts’ daughter as she returns to Albert Square for uncle Martin’s funeral.

When is Vicki Fowler returning to EastEnders? Within the next month.

Bex Fowler

Martin and Sonia’s daughter Bex Fowler is also set to return to Walford, with Jasmine Armfield reprising her role.

Having last appeared on our screens five years ago, Bex has been travelling the world, but will return home for her dad’s funeral.

‘It’s amazing for me to come home, but for Bex, it’s an absolutely devastating time because she’s lost her dad,’ Jasmine said.

‘She’s grown up a lot, having spent the past few years travelling, so we’re going to see a much more mature and grown-up version of Bex this time around.’

When is Bex Fowler returning to EastEnders? Within the next month.

Cindy Beale

Following her shameful behaviour over the last year, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) escaped Walford for a new beginning with old best pal Gita Kapoor (Shobu Kapoor) last month.

Shunned by her family for causing the explosion that killed Martin Fowler, and with nowhere left to turn, she jetted off – but this isn’t the last we’ve seen of her in Albert Square.

When is Cindy Beale returning to EastEnders? Currently unknown.

EASTENDERS NEW ARRIVALS

Ross

Vicki Fowler doesn’t arrive back in London alone, as she is joined by new boyfriend Ross.

This comes as a shock to Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) and Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), who had no idea about her breakup with Spencer.

Taking on the role of Ross is Holby City and The Bill star Alex Walkinshaw.

‘I am really excited as I’ve had so many friends on EastEnders throughout the years, and I always hear lovely things about it,’ he said of the role.

‘The show is top draw drama and I can’t wait to get stuck in. Ross is a decent, hardworking family man, he always puts family first, and he is very in love with Vicki, but it’s not always plain sailing.’

When does Ross arrive in EastEnders? Within the next month.

Joel

Ross is also joined by son Joel, who is played by TV newcomer Max Murray.

‘It’s an absolute privilege and honour to be joining such a wonderful production full of a lovely cast and crew,’ Max said.

‘I’m really looking forward to introducing Joel to EastEnders viewers and telling his story.’

When does Joel arrive in EastEnders? Within the next month.

This article was first published on November 3, 2024.

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