Radio Times
type: channel
link: https://www.radiotimes.com
date: 2026-05-01T21:53:12.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap?
items: EastEnders confirms return of S Club 7 star for Nigel Bates's emotional funeral scenes
items: EastEnders airs emotional Phil Mitchell scenes in the wake of Nigel Bates's death in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders confirms villainous character's return – and they're already back filming months after exit
items: All 76 times EastEnders has used emotional Julia's Theme - from Ian Beale's tears to Nigel Bates's death
items: EastEnders airs heartbreaking death scenes as Nigel Bates leaves soap after 34 years in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders airs tragic dilemma for Grant Mitchell in early BBC iPlayer release
items: 7 EastEnders spoilers next week: Twisted villain Eddie Knight returns and drops a huge bombshell
items: EastEnders airs Grant Mitchell's return and emotional scenes for Phil in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders spoilers for next week as Ravi Gulati receives mental health diagnosis in emotional scenes
items: EastEnders legend teases tributes to late Barbara Windsor as the Mitchell siblings all reunite on-screen
items: EastEnders airs sad Ravi Gulati scenes in explosive aftermath of car crash in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders icon Ross Kemp confirms emotional scenes behind special extended episode next week
items: EastEnders airs terrifying car crash with two families left in deadly danger in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders confirms important new storyline for Will and Janet Mitchell as part of special week on BBC
items: EastEnders airs game-changing Ravi Gulati twist as major secret exposed in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders' Ross Kemp is this week's Radio Times cover star
items: 5 EastEnders spoilers next week: Nigel Bates's tragic story ends as Grant Mitchell returns
items: British TV legend Ross Kemp: "Nothing I've done fills me with fear more than EastEnders"
items: EastEnders airs surprise unannounced return in Ravi storyline with early BBC iPlayer release
items: Ross Kemp reveals plans for real-life boating trip with two fellow EastEnders icons
items: EastEnders spoilers as return confirmed for vile villain in all-new story for George Knight
items: EastEnders first-look pictures reveal Grant's return – and Mitchell family reunion after 10 years
items: EastEnders reveals Vicki and Zack's blackmailer in early BBC iPlayer release - and it's not who you'd expect
items: EastEnders blackmail intensifies as Vicki Fowler accuses innocent locals in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders airs shock passion for Zack Hudson in early BBC iPlayer release - and it's not Vicki Fowler
items: 6 EastEnders spoilers next week: Ravi Gulati's mental health worsens and Grant Mitchell return teased
items: EastEnders' Vicki Fowler and Zack Hudson caught out amid affair story by mystery local in early BBC iPlayer release
items: EastEnders reveals Ravi Gulati mental health storyline to reach climax this month - as key charity involvement confirmed
items: EastEnders reveals Jasmine Fisher trial outcome and emotional exit in dramatic early BBC iPlayer release

EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap?
type: item
date: 2026-05-01T21:31:16.000Z
creator: Lewis Knight
subject: EastEnders
subject: News
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
description: All the changes to life in Albert Square you need to keep up with.
encoded: We're finally in 2026 in EastEnders. 2025 saw some major exits, including the deaths of Nish Panesar and Martin Fowler, along with the departure of Stacey Slater. Elsewhere, we experienced some major comebacks with the returns of Zoe Slater, Anthony Trueman (RIP), and Max Branning. RadioTimes.com is here with a handy update on which characters are leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders in the coming months. So who's in? Who's out? And which rumours are true? Read on for all the latest details on cast changes for EastEnders. EastEnders cast 2026 The full present regular cast for EastEnders can be found below in order of the character's first appearance. Gillian Taylforth as Kathy Beale Letitia Dean as Sharon Watts Adam Woodyatt as Ian Beale Alice Haig as Vicki Fowler Michelle Collins as Cindy Beale Steve McFadden as Phil Mitchell Ross Kemp as Grant Mitchell Kim Medcalf as Sam Mitchell Gemma Bissix as Clare Bates Thomas Law as Peter Beale Karen Henthorn as Julie Bates Perry Fenwick as Billy Mitchell Laila Morse as Mo Harris Jessie Wallace as Kat Moon Michelle Ryan as Zoe Slater Rudolph Walker as Patrick Trueman Shane Ritchie as Alfie Moon Angela Wynter as Yolande Trueman Gillian Wright as Jean Slater Emma Barton as Honey Mitchell Zaraah Abrahams as Chelsea Fox Diane Parish as Denise Fox Grace as Janet Mitchell Jake Wood as Max Branning Jacqueline Jossa as Lauren Beale Scott Maslen as Jack Branning Freddie Phillips as Will Mitchell Pierre Counihan-Moullier as Oscar Branning Kitty Castledine as Penny Branning Ellie Dadd as Amy Mitchell Tameka Empson as Kim Fox Lillia Turner as Lily Slater Frankie Day as Ricky Branning Sonny Kendall as Tommy Moon Isabella Brown as Lexi Pearce Kellie Bright as Linda Carter Charlie Suff as Johnny Carter Harriet Thorpe as Elaine Peacock Elliot Briffett as Bert Moon Cody Briffett as Ernie Moon Arayah Harris-Buckles as Pearl Fox Harry Farr as Ollie Carter Stephen Aaron-Sipple as Mark Fowler Jake McNally as Louie Beale Michael Jose Pomar…

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EastEnders confirms return of S Club 7 star for Nigel Bates's emotional funeral scenes
type: item
date: 2026-04-30T17:00:50.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: A familiar face is returning to Walford after 28 years.
encoded: S Club 7 star Jon Lee is reprising his former EastEnders role after almost three decades away. Lee, who shot to fame in the late '90s as part of the pop group responsible for hits such as "Don't Stop Movin'" and "Reach", starred in 18 episodes of the BBC soap between 1997 and 1998. His comeback, will coincide with the funeral of beloved character Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), who passed away earlier this week in heartbreaking scenes. With wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) and best pal Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) by his side, Nige' envisioned his final moments to be taking place in a idilic beachside setting. His character Josh Saunders is Julie's son, first introduced as a love interest for Nigel's stepdaughter Clare (Gemma Bissix), who will also stage a return for the funeral. Ahead of his return, Lee said: "It was quite surreal stepping back on to Albert Square after so many years as it’s so familiar to so many of us. It was lovely to see my onscreen family again". Bissix added: “When I returned earlier this year, we always knew Clare had to come back for Nigel’s funeral. He meant so much to her, and it felt right to be there for the conclusion of his story, as everyone came together to say their final goodbyes”. He initially prevented a group of bullies from harassing her, and she spent the following weeks trying to gain his attention. When Clare realised his maternal connection to their teacher Julie, she was mortified and called off the relationship. However, some weeks later, the pair reconciled and despite the odd dynamic, was pleased when Nigel pursued his own romance with Julie. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Before long, Julie announced her plans to move to Scotland, something which angered Josh's father Eliot. He tried to force him into having a B…

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EastEnders airs emotional Phil Mitchell scenes in the wake of Nigel Bates's death in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-30T16:04:10.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Walford grieved one of their finest in today's episode of EastEnders, as news spread of Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) death. Bradley reprised his role in December 2024 after a 26 year absence, and as the weeks rolled by, it became apparent that he was hiding something. He eventually chose to divulge the fact he had been diagnosed with young-onset dementia to old friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), and the men quickly rekindled their childhood friendship. As Nigel's condition worsened, Phil promised to stand by him. However, in recent months, Nige's condition rapidly worsened and he was forced to move into a care home. Phil believed that he'd betrayed his mate, and chose not to join the other residents in visiting. When Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) arrived back in Walford, he feared that his brother had taken a turn for the worse and that he was on the brink of another spate of poor mental health. This was only intensified when he discovered Phil scouring a beach searching for a specific type of stone that Nigel had asked for. He convinced him to say his final goodbyes, and the two had an eventful trip to the care home. After a series of setbacks, Phil hitched a ride on the back of a pizza delivery motorbike, and was sat with Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) as Nigel slipped away. In today's episode, the pair remained at the facility as the sun began to rise. Julie said she was ready to leave, as her husband was no longer there. She reflected on the times she had with Nigel, but had accepted that his spirit had left. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Back in Albert Square, Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) and the Slater clan pulled together a last-minute celebration of his life, gathering as many residents together to watch the comedy thriller film he'd produced last …

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EastEnders confirms villainous character's return – and they're already back filming months after exit
type: item
date: 2026-04-30T13:52:50.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: The actor bowed out in January, but will be back.
encoded: Max Murray is returning to EastEnders, just months after troubled Joel Marshall made his last appearance. The character's sentencing, which came after he was found guilty of grievous bodily harm, voyeurism, and producing and distributing indecent images of a child, aired off-screen earlier this month and Murray didn't reprise his role for these scenes. A BBC spokesperson has told Radio Times today, 30 April: "We can confirm that Max Murray will be returning to EastEnders." This comes following reports from Digital Spy that Murray is already filming new scenes at the soap's set in Elstree, Hertfordshire, and will be back on our screens within weeks. During Joel's January court appearance, it became clear that despite the testimonies given by victims Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) and Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James), he couldn't see the error of his ways. This proved too much for Vicki, who rushed out of the courtroom in tears, fearing that her attacker would never face justice for his crimes. As viewers will recall, he brutally assaulted her and was left for dead following the ordeal. After some reassurance from Avani – who he secretly recorded himself sleeping with before shaming her for falling pregnant with his child – she returned to court and faced Joel. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. He laughed in Avani's face as she delivered her statement, and told the court that he felt he'd been repeatedly failed by his dad and Vicki, who had paid off another of his victims. Joel said that they had been a terrible example to him, and as a result, couldn't decipher right from wrong. When the judge came to give her verdict, she delivered some surprising news. Joel had decided to change his plea to guilty. While this was somewhat of a relief to Vicki, she couldn't he…

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All 76 times EastEnders has used emotional Julia's Theme - from Ian Beale's tears to Nigel Bates's death
type: item
date: 2026-04-29T18:17:19.000Z
creator: Lewis Knight
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: BBC One
description: The tears flow when this classic theme from Simon May replaces the traditional doof doof...
encoded: Simon May's theme tune to EastEnders is one of the most recognisable compositions in British music history. In fact, during a 2008 poll by PRS for Music, it was voted as more of an earworm than the national anthem. May was approached by creators Julia Smith and Tony Holland in 1984 to write the tune, originally opting for a more edgy piece that reflected the serial's apparent grittiness. This was vetoed, and a new piece that would "bring people in from the kitchen or garden" was chosen instead. He also crafted a "romantic pre-empt", which could be used in place of the traditional drum beats to conclude an episode. Named Julia's Theme, in tribute to Smith, it features several slow piano buildups that can allow for it to be cut at any given point. It has become synonymous with the tragic, heartwarming, tender or emotional moments from the BBC soap's 41-year history, with fans often speculating which moment will be awarded the treatment. View oEmbed on the source website Here, as it is used once more in the soap, Radio Times looks back at all 76 times Julia's Theme has been used, plus the alternative arrangements we've heard from time to time. Every time EastEnders has used Julia's Theme... 1. Ian cries to grandmother Lou Beale (1985) The first use of Julia’s Theme is intended to provide an emotional backing to this sweet family scene between a teenage Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) and his steely grandmother, Lou Beale (Anna Wing). Fitting that Ian is the first to get the theme, and he is the longest-running character in the show's history. 2. Sue Osman breaks down to her husband Ali after the death of their son (1985) A heartbreaking moment for original cafe owners Sue (Sandy Ratcliff) and Ali Osman (Nejdet Salih), who discovered their son Hassan had died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). 3. Sue Osman holds baby Annie Smith (1985) Having recently suffered the devastating loss of baby Hassan, Sue holds the infant Annie, daughter of Mary ‘The Punk’ Smith (Linda Davi…

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EastEnders airs heartbreaking death scenes as Nigel Bates leaves soap after 34 years in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-29T05:30:11.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Wednesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: It's the end of an era in EastEnders - beloved Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) has passed away after a battle with dementia. Bradley reprised his role in December 2024, though some weeks passed before Nige' chose to divulge his illness to old friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden). The men struck up an unlikely bond, despite their estrangement for almost three decades, and as Nigel's condition worsened, Phil promised to stand by him. They had a somewhat unconventional care arrangement in place at No. 55 Victoria Road, that was disturbed when wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) came to London from Scotland seeking her husband. By this point, his conditioned had worsened to a point where he was mistaking her for his first wife Debbie (Nicola Duffett). Last Christmas, he saw visions of Debbie alongside a number of former Walford residents, and it soon became clear to Phil and Julie that they couldn't provide the level of care that he needed. Following an emotional reunion with stepdaughter Clare (Gemma Bissix), Nigel moved into a proper facility. This left Phil guilt-ridden, believing that he'd betrayed the promise he'd made. This week, as Nigel's dying days neared, Mark Fowler (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) decided to do the right thing and summon his father Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) back to his homeland. He hoped that Grant could not only reconnect with Nigel, but also convince Phil to go and visit him. Phil flatly refused, and later headed to the beach for a moment of reflection and to find a special skimming stone that matched the one that Nigel had treasured for decades. Grant had followed him there, though knew that time was running out when Julie called to ask if he wanted to say goodbye. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. An explosive argument between the brothers ensued i…

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EastEnders airs tragic dilemma for Grant Mitchell in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-28T09:18:12.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Tuesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7:30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) has found himself in an impossible situation in EastEnders, having been forced to choose between helping brother Phil (Steve McFadden) or being by his best pal Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) side in his final hours. Following on from the conclusion of yesterday's instalment – which saw Phil throw his family out into the street and crumble into a state of distress – he didn't want to visit Nigel in his care home, believing that he'd betrayed his promise to support him until the very end. He also thought that Nigel, Julie (Karen Henthorn) and the Mitchells didn't need him, which couldn't have been further from the truth. Time was running out, as after Nige' was admitted to hospital following a fall, Julie made the tough decision to suspend his treatment and ensure that he was comfortable. Grant popped by the care home as she explained the difficult news, and he began to fear that Phil would never get to say goodbye. Meanwhile, Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) tried to make a breakthrough with his cousin, but was similarly thrown out when Phil couldn't contain his overwhelming grief. Before Grant left, Nigel leapt out of bed and began shouting out for "one last stone." He couldn't see the significance, though soon remembered a special skimming stone that Nige's dad had given him when he was younger. He kept it on the side of the bath, and Grant hoped that he'd brought it with him to Walford. Phil revealed that it was long lost, and that they'd never be able to find a suitable replacement. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Grant scrambled to find a replacement from the Square Gardens, though the one he took to Nigel fell straight through his hands and seemingly confirmed that it wasn't what he'd requested. Little did Grant realise, Phil …

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7 EastEnders spoilers next week: Twisted villain Eddie Knight returns and drops a huge bombshell
type: item
date: 2026-04-27T23:01:39.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Phil is crumbling following Nigel's death, Max and Cindy make things official and it's war between Ian and Elaine.
encoded: An emotional time in Walford continues next week following Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) death. The EastEnders rally around his grieving wife Julie (Karen Henthorn), while Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) quietly suffers. Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) focuses his attention on supporting Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) amid her concerns for son Johnny (Charlie Suff), and Max Branning (Jake Wood) decides to go public with Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). The arrival of an old face - evil Eddie Knight (Christopher Fairbank) - stirs trouble for adoptive son George (Colin Salmon), and Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) is worried about Denise Fox (Diane Parish). Here's everything happening in EastEnders between Monday 4 and Thursday 7 May. 7 EastEnders spoilers for next week 1. George Knight is rocked by Eddie request to see him Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) and George return home from the hospital to what should be a joyful moment - a surprise welcome party for newborn Ivy. But for Nicola, it’s all too much, and she quickly shuts the celebrations down. Later, a quieter heart-to-heart with Gina Knight (Francesca Henry) helps steady her, and she finds comfort watching George embrace fatherhood. That moment of calm is short-lived however, when Nicola realises George has had his phone switched off and has missed several calls from the hospital. She initially believes that these calls concern Ivy, but when she discovers the truth she heads to the ward. There, she comes face-to-face with Eddie Knight, who drops the revelation that he’s dying. Back at No.1, Nicola attempts to keep her visit under wraps, but George soon pieces things together after finding a parking ticket. With the truth exposed, he heads to the hospital himself and is shaken by Eddie’s frailty. News of Eddie’s whereabouts also ripples outward, leaving Gina and Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho) stunned. As questions mount from his family, George is forced to confront his feelings, and makes the decision to visit Eddie one last ti…

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EastEnders airs Grant Mitchell's return and emotional scenes for Phil in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-27T05:30:36.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Monday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) has made a spectacular return to EastEnders at a tragic time for brother Phil (Steve McFadden). The OG Walford hard man was summoned back to his old haunt by estranged son Mark Fowler (Stephen Aaron-Sipple), who believed that he needed to know about best mate Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) declining health. Mark had betrayed his aunty Sam's (Kim Medcalf) wishes, as she'd asked him not to contact Grant as he probably wouldn't be interested. She'd tried several times to tell him about her breast cancer diagnosis, and he hadn't returned any of her calls. A car sped into the Square, immediately catching both Sam and Mark's attention. They were stunned to see Grant, who was under the illusion that Mark wanted him there because of Phil's mental wellbeing. As viewers will recall, the last time Grant visited London, Phil was struggling immensely and attempted to take his own life. Before facing his brother, Grant headed for some brekkie at the caff but faced a frosty reception from Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig). With over 30 years passing since they last crossed paths, it was clear that he didn't recognise her. She slammed his plate down on the table and tore strips off him for his treatment of her mum Michelle, their altercation only broke up by the arrival of Sam and Mark. He began to ask questions about Phil, though it soon became apparent that it was Nigel who was the concern. Grant still believed that he was living with the Mitchells, and was gobsmacked to learn that he had been in a care home for several months. He charged out of the and bumped into Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn), who explained that Nigel had been hospitalised after falling out of bed. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. It was an emotional reunion as Grant headed to the war…

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EastEnders spoilers for next week as Ravi Gulati receives mental health diagnosis in emotional scenes
type: item
date: 2026-04-24T13:28:37.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: An emotional follow-up to this week's episodes.
encoded: This article contains discussion of subjects including mental health issues that some may find distressing. Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) mental health storyline continues in EastEnders next week. The BBC soap has been airing an ongoing plot surrounding the character's wellbeing over recent months, as he has began to self-harm and became paranoid that his family were in danger. Executive Producer Ben Wadey said of the story: "EastEnders always takes great care when researching storylines such as Ravi’s and we’re grateful to Samaritans for the advice they have given us, helping us ensure Ravi’s story is told with the care and sensitivity it deserves." During episodes that aired earlier this week, Priya Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James) attempted to take Ravi to Walford Hospital to seek urgent medical attention after he held their family captive inside their flat. Tensions were at an all time high when Ravi revealed that he was the one who'd mistakenly attacked Nugget in January, and the only thing that would calm him down was the promise that they could leave Albert Square and start a new life. Of course, this was Priya's way of driving him to the hospital, and it didn't take him long to spot signage directing to the emergency department on their journey. Nugget began to suffer another seizure, and as Priya took her eye off the road, their car collided with Max Branning's (Jake Wood). Ravi then discharged himself from hospital early, climbing to the top of the Turpin Road viaduct and refusing to get down. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. His horrified family watched on, though following some reassurance from son Nugget (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) that everything would be ok in time, he made his way to safety. On the ground, the police were waiting to section him und…

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EastEnders legend teases tributes to late Barbara Windsor as the Mitchell siblings all reunite on-screen
type: item
date: 2026-04-24T06:00:47.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Ross Kemp tells Michael Adams of the family environment at EastEnders.
encoded: Ross Kemp has revealed that his forthcoming EastEnders stint will feature tributes to the late Barbara Windsor and her character Peggy Mitchell. Windsor took over the role from original actress Jo Warne in 1994, and continued in a regular capacity until 2010. After a number of guest appearances, she returned for the final time in 2016 for Peggy's final storyline. The star had requested then-executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins create a plot that would see her bow out as the Mitchell matriarch following her own diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease, something she revealed publicly two years later. She passed away aged 83 in December 2020, with the BBC soap dedicating an episode to her. While Kemp's comeback is flooded with sadness, as Grant Mitchell says goodbye to old school friend Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), he has teased that one particular scene is "farce" in comparison to the severity of the events happening around him. During an interview following a photoshoot for this week's Radio Times magazine cover, Kemp revealed: "There's one scene, which is farce, it's them cooking a dinner together and burning it in the way that apparently Peggy burned everything. "So, you know, and there's little tributes to Barbara all the way through it of course." Reflecting on how much those nods would mean to viewers, he continued: "I think what means a lot also to us as a cast. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. "Being back with Phil, Sam and Grant - it was good stuff. It was fun stuff." His return marks the first time that the trio of siblings have been reunited in a decade. Kemp also hasn't worked with Sam actress Kim Medcalf in 20 years, as the last time the characters interacted, the role was fulfilled by Danniella Westbrook. "What was really good about it was t…

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EastEnders airs sad Ravi Gulati scenes in explosive aftermath of car crash in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-23T05:30:40.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: This article contains discussion of subjects including mental health issues that some may find distressing. EastEnders has aired an emotional climax to Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) mental health storyline. Today's episode picked up following a devastating car crash, which happened after a frantic Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) attempted to take Ravi to Walford Hospital to seek urgent medical attention. He'd locked Priya, alongside children Avani (Aaliyah James) and Davinder "Nugget" (Juhaim Rasul-Choudhury) in their flat all day, bolting the door and confiscating their phones. When they planned to make an escape, Ravi revealed that he was the one who'd mistakenly attacked Nugget earlier this year, leading to his epilepsy diagnosis. Tensions were running high, and the only thing that would calm him down was the promise that they could leave Albert Square and start a new life. Of course, this was Priya's way of driving him to the hospital, and it didn't take him long to spot signage directing to the emergency department on their journey. Nugget began to suffer another seizure, and as Priya took her eye off the road, their car collided with Max Branning's (Jake Wood). He was travelling back from a nursery mixer with Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) and their grandson Jimmy, and were unable to swerve before being hit. It seemed like everyone walked away unscathed as the opening scenes played out, with Ravi guiding his family to safety on the edge of the road. However, screams could still be heard from the car, and as he walked over it became clear that it was all a vision. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Everyone was still trapped, and Ravi refused to leave the vehicle. Priya dragged Avani and a disorientated Nugget out of their seats and pleaded for him…

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EastEnders icon Ross Kemp confirms emotional scenes behind special extended episode next week
type: item
date: 2026-04-22T13:32:34.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Ross Kemp tells Michael Adams about how extra time was allocated to the special episode.
encoded: An emotional week is approaching in EastEnders, as Ross Kemp returns to the serial as Walford's prodigal son Grant Mitchell. He's back to bid farewell to beloved Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley), whose health is seriously declining amid his young on-set dementia battle. There's also concerns for brother Phil (Steve McFadden) too, who's cutting himself off from the world and refusing to visit ailing Nige' at his care home. Phil feels like he's betrayed his mate's wishes, having promised to care for him during his dying days. In a special episode, which airs next Wednesday (April 29), Grant follows a distressed Phil to the beach, where he's searching for a special item relating to Nigel's past. The brothers have an emotional conversation, though Grant is left in somewhat of a predicament as Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) calls to say that Nigel doesn't have long left. Will Grant choose to support his brother, or his old school friend? "[The episode] has been extended because it was very hard, I think, for the editor and the director and the producers to cut any of it. But they had to cut some of it because it was 10 minutes over," Ross explained to Radio Times after a photoshoot for this week's magazine cover. "I think it's now running in about 35 minutes, which is five minutes longer than you normally get at least." During the episode Grant urges Phil to race back to the care home - but the brothers face a number of setbacks on their journey. View oEmbed on the source website Kemp continued: "What was quite amazing about it was that quite early on in me going back, and I had something happen personally to me - which was really shocking - and someone was very, very ill very quickly. "So we allowed two hours to shoot the scene where we drive off and it started raining, and Steve and I managed to shoot what was a two hour schedule in 40 minutes, which shows how quickly we can work together. "It was pouring down with rain. We went down to the beach, the sun came out. All of a su…

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EastEnders airs terrifying car crash with two families left in deadly danger in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-22T05:30:11.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Wednesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Seven Walford residents are in serious danger after a horrifying car crash at the conclusion of today's EastEnders. It comes amid Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) worsening mental health, with him refusing to allow his family to leave their flat for fear of them getting hurt. He'd bolted the door, confiscated their mobiles, and called them all in sick at work and school. With his behaviour becoming increasingly erratic, girlfriend Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) searched for the keys to leave while asking daughter Avani (Aaliyah James) to distract him. While rifling through the kitchen drawers, son Davinder "Nugget" (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) noticed a series of bruises on her arm, and was quick to accuse Ravi of causing them. Trying to explain himself, Ravi became emotional and fell to the floor in tears, before confessing to another of his sins. He admitted that he was the one who attacked Nugget earlier this year, which left him with a life-changing head injury and subsequent epilepsy diagnosis. Picking up from the dramatic doof doof, the latest instalment - which can be streamed on BBC iPlayer now - saw Nugget verbally lash out towards his father. He was disgusted to learn that the details surrounding his assault had been kept secret for months. While the argument ensued, Priya decided to use this as a perfect opportunity to escape. Ravi was distracted and in a state of despair, but clocked her moving towards the hallway. He rushed over to stop her, saying that the outside world was dangerous. When Priya explained that she felt in more danger trapped in the flat, Ravi flipped. Thinking on her feet, she suggested making a quick flit out of Walford together so that they could be safe. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Ravi agreed, and the family made thei…

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EastEnders confirms important new storyline for Will and Janet Mitchell as part of special week on BBC
type: item
date: 2026-04-21T16:30:36.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
subject: On demand
description: The storyline will see Will step up and attempt to juggle caring for Janet with looking after his family.
encoded: An EastEnders storyline will shine a light on caring by focusing on Will and Janet Mitchell next month as part of a week-long spotlight on the subject across the BBC. Titled Caring Matters, the special week – which will run from Saturday 23 May until Saturday 30 May – will bring together programming to reflect the experiences of unpaid carers and the role they play in families and communities across the country. As EastEnders fans will know, Will (Freddie Phillips) has been a supportive brother to Janet (Grace), who has Down’s syndrome, in recent years, defending her from bullies in 2021, and criticising their grandad Stevie’s (Alan Ford) attitude towards her when he first arrived in 2024, amongst other storylines. But next month on the BBC show, viewers will see the 18-year-old attempt to step up even more and juggle caring for Janet while supporting his family at home after Honey Mitchell (Emma Barton) suffers an injury. Caring Matters will kick off with a special episode of Songs of Praise, in which Reverend Kate Bottley will explore the joys and challenges of being a carer and how faith fits in. There’ll also be a special episode of Bargain Hunt, in which Eric Knowles will celebrate the millions of people who dedicate their lives to helping others. Also airing during the week will be Natalie Cassidy: Caring Together – a documentary following the EastEnders star as she fulfils her long-standing ambition to train as a carer. Elsewhere during the week, Cassidy will appear as a guest on Saturday Kitchen Live and The One Show to speak about her new documentary, while Morning Live will also shine a light on unpaid carers, offering practical take-home advice while highlighting the importance of carers’ wellbeing and how and where help and support can be accessed. Read more: 5 EastEnders spoilers next week: Nigel Bates's tragic story ends as Grant Mitchell returns EastEnders first-look pictures reveal Grant's return – and Mitchell family reunion after 10 years EastEnder…

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EastEnders airs game-changing Ravi Gulati twist as major secret exposed in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-21T11:08:55.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Tuesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Amid a worrying time for Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) in EastEnders, his family have been rocked by a major revelation. The character's mental health has seriously declined in recent months, only intensified by son Nugget's (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) diagnosis with epilepsy – something which he is responsible for. The teenager suffered a serious head injury during an altercation with his father, who had been spiked by vengeful Nicola and Harry Mitchell (Laura Doddington and Elijah Holloway). Panic set in when Ravi failed to return home. He'd fallen into the pit at the garage, and began to suffer intense hallucinations of late father Nish Panesar (Navin Chowdhry). Lashing out towards the villain, he was unaware that Nugget was actually stood in front of him. Earlier this week, Ravi self-harmed again and was rushed to hospital. This came after a restful night where he'd sprung out of bed in a disorientated state and grabbed girlfriend Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy). On the ward, the pair were spooked to realise that the doctor assigned was none other than Nina Gupta (Hersha Verity), his ex-girlfriend and former step-mother. She said that she had a duty to report the incident to the police, with Priya cautiously explaining that he had inflicted the injury himself. Nina was satisfied that he was seeking the best medical attention and was happy to discharge him on the condition he had an appointment with his therapist. However, in today's episode, it became apparent that he had no intentions of attending. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. He'd placed a number of padlocks on the flat door, rang Walford High and the car lot to say that Nugget, daughter Avani (Aaliyah James) and Priya were unwell, and hoped that they would get on board with his idea of a 'reset …

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EastEnders' Ross Kemp is this week's Radio Times cover star
type: item
date: 2026-04-21T08:46:18.000Z
creator: Shem Law
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Magazine
description: Ross Kemp reveals his softer side - and why nothing scares him more than returning to Albert Square.
encoded: Few characters are as firmly woven into British television as Grant Mitchell, which is why Ross Kemp's return to EastEnders still feels like an event. Grant made a fleeting visit for the 40th anniversary last year, but he's back for longer this time as he comes to terms with the deterioration in health of his old friend Nigel. Over a cup of tea in a north-London cafe, Kemp admits what drew him in was the chance to play the character at 61, "with all the life you've experienced in the intervening years". It's a candid interview in which he reflects on how his career has changed: from Walford enforcer to TV quizmaster. We also catch up with Tony Schumacher, the writer of the hit drama The Responder, as he returns with a new BBC drama The Cage, starring Sheridan Smith and Michael Socha. He speaks movingly about the origins of the story: "My brother Philip was an alcoholic who passed away last year". When he came up with the idea, he started thinking about addiction, but alcoholism felt too close to home. "I used to work on cruise ships and everyone who worked in those casinos would gamble like mad the minute they weren't working... which fascinated me." And finally, inside this week's issue there is a delightful conversation with Michaela Strachan. She looks back on her 40 years in the business and reminds us just why she's still on our screens. As always with Radio Times it's an eclectic mix that we bring you this week. The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here. Also in this week's Radio Times: Tony Schumacher brought us The Responder, now he's back with The Cage, a drama set in the world of casinos. News at Ten presenter and writer Tom Bradby lays out the plot of his thriller, Secret Service. Three stars of the drama Unchosen weigh up the pros and cons of living in a cult. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news a…

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5 EastEnders spoilers next week: Nigel Bates's tragic story ends as Grant Mitchell returns
type: item
date: 2026-04-20T23:01:30.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
description: Ravi heads to therapy, Max and Cindy grow closer and there's a big birthday celebration.
encoded: An incredibly emotional week on EastEnders is fast-approaching, as Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) stages his return for a very sad occasion. After being summoned by son Mark Fowler (Stephen Aaron-Sipple), who has warned him of Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) declining health, Grant's concerns spread towards brother Phil (Steve McFadden) too. The brothers have an emotional conversation at the beach, in the moments leading up to Nigel's death. Elsewhere, Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) receives a diagnosis amid his mental health battle, Max Branning (Jake Wood) and Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) make things official, and Big Mo Harris (Laila Morse) celebrates a big occasion. Here's everything you need to know about the episodes of EastEnders airing between Monday, 27 and Thursday, 30 April. 5 EastEnders spoilers for next week 1. Grant Mitchell returns and has concerns for brother Phil Following son Mark's frantic voicemail message to inform him of Nigel's deteriorating health, Grant races into Albert Square and immediately catches the attention of his family. But it's not just Nige' who is a cause for concern, as Mark expresses his fears for Phil too. The last time Grant and Phil were together was during the latter's mental health crisis, and now he fears that he's back to square one with his recovery. Having not been in the same room together for a decade - since they laid matriarch Peggy to rest - Phil, Grant and Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) sit down to lay their cards on the table. It's an emotional and tense reunion, and results in Phil deciding to cut his family off. He orders Sam and Mark out of the door, and she worries that only Grant can help him. Having avoided visiting Nigel, Phil is in a bad place and has become convinced that Julie Bates (Karen Henthorn) and the rest of the clan don't need his support. Grant races after his brother, who is in search of a special item relating to Nigel's past, but it soon gets to a point where he has to choose whether to support Phil or…

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British TV legend Ross Kemp: "Nothing I've done fills me with fear more than EastEnders"
type: item
date: 2026-04-20T16:01:14.000Z
creator: Pete Paphides
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Interview
subject: Magazine
description: He may be back in Walford as tough guy Grant Mitchell, but Ross Kemp is now a family man who would rather go fishing than pick fights
encoded: This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. Ross Kemp insists he’s not “any sort of a hard man, really”. And, of course, you can’t help but smile, because the very act of hearing him say it triggers a mental slideshow of moments that suggest otherwise. Long-time Kemp watchers will have their own favourites. Perhaps the episodes of his Extreme World documentary that saw him dodging sniper fire in Afghanistan and Syria. Or the time he was in Colombia reporting on the drug trade there only to be stopped in his car by a man with a knife looking for a bribe. And what did Kemp do? “I told him to f**k off.” The list goes on. How about the time he was told to get down on his knees by armed guerrillas in Papua New Guinea and, instead, he reached for one of their gun barrels and said, “You’re not going to kill me.” Fans of Kemp’s 2023 memoir Take Nothing for Granted may also recall the story of the night he drunkenly went swimming in crocodile-infested waters in Australia and, with almost no recall of what he’d done, was told the next day that he challenged any crocs nearby to “come and have a go if you think you’re hard enough”. So, when Kemp claims that “nothing I’ve done fills me with fear more than EastEnders,” it’s hard to judge your reaction. But he really isn’t joking. Thirty-six years since Grant and Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) first stepped onto Albert Square, Kemp says, “EastEnders is still the one that pushes me the most.” And his latest return to Walford has been no exception. Next week, we’ll see Grant return from Portugal as he finally comes face to face with his estranged son, Mark – their first encounter since Mark discovered who his biological father is. Coming after Grant’s flying visit to the Square for the show’s 40th anniversary last year, he’s due to stick around considerably longer, this time as he comes to terms with the deterioration of the Mitchell brothers’ dementia-stricken school-friend Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley. Between sips…

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height: 2406

EastEnders airs surprise unannounced return in Ravi storyline with early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-20T09:09:21.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Monday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: This article contains discussion of topics including self-harm that some readers may find upsetting. A former EastEnders character has staged an unannounced return amid Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) worsening mental health. Last week, viewers saw Ravi mocked by Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) for helping to clean out Penny Branning's (Kitty Castledine) new shop unit on Turpin Road. Ordinarily, he would've reacted, but instead he just watched on with a vacant expression. He then fell asleep in The Queen Vic, preparing to attack landlady Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) when she attempted to wake him. Step-mum Suki Panesar-Unwin (Balvinder Sopal) was alerted to what was unfolding, and Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) had to open up about his recent struggles. That night, while lay in bed, Ravi sprung upwards and tried to lash out at a sleeping Priya. Unfortunately, matters worsened in today's episode, as the realisation of what had happened weighed heavy on him. In the kitchen, he self-harmed again, and Priya rushed him to hospital. He'd cut deeply into his leg, and was terrified of the consequences. Both Ravi and Priya got more than they bargained for in a side ward. The agency doctor attending to him was Nina Gupta (Hersha Verity), his ex-girlfriend and former step-mother. Nina appeared on the BBC soap in 2022. She was married to Ranveer Gulati (Anil Goutam), and was secretly plotting to kill him with Ravi. When Ranveer attempted to sexually assault Suki, Ravi went through with the deed and she was part of the cover up. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. The two attempted to frame Suki, though eventually Ravi stood by his family and chose to disown Nina instead. Priya wasn't happy with her treating Ravi, and was terrified of what she would do. She promised tha…

Ross Kemp reveals plans for real-life boating trip with two fellow EastEnders icons
type: item
date: 2026-04-19T07:00:36.000Z
creator: Patrick Cremona
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: Exclusive
subject: Magazine
description: Kemp, Steve McFadden and Paul Bradley will be taking a trip down the Thames on McFadden’s 72ft-long fishing boat.
encoded: Ross Kemp has revealed that he has a real life boating trip planned with fellow EastEnders icons Steve McFadden and Paul Bradley. Kemp made the comments during an exclusive interview with Radio Times when asked what other projects he had in the pipeline beyond his much publicised upcoming return to Albert Square. "There’s never been a strategy to any of this, so I don’t see any reason to start now," he said of his career, before adding that the only thing he was currently committed to was a trip aboard McFadden’s 72ft-long fishing boat with those fellow stars. "It's sort of a three-men-in-a-boat type of thing," he explained. "We’ll go off down the Thames and end up having a nice dinner together, which is what gentlemen of our age should be doing." Asked if there might be room for the trip to be immortalised in a TV documentary, he added: "I think there should be!" Kemp will be reprising his iconic role as Grant Mitchell once again later this month, just over a year after he last briefly returned as part of the show's 40th anniversary celebrations in February 2025. Speaking earlier about stepping back into the role, Kemp said: "I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year. "As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life." Radio Times can confirm that Kemp's comeback scenes will air on Monday 27 April. You can read our full interview with Ross Kemp in the next issue of Radio Times magazine. Visit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Add EastEnders to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For…

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EastEnders spoilers as return confirmed for vile villain in all-new story for George Knight
type: item
date: 2026-04-17T19:54:51.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: They last appeared in the soap two years ago.
encoded: George Knight (Colin Salmon) is set to receive a chilling shock in forthcoming EastEnders episodes - as adoptive father Eddie (Christopher Fairbank) stages a return. Auf Wiedersehen, Pet star Fairbank portrayed Eddie across 16 episodes in early 2024, and was eventually sent down for the murder of George's birth father, Henry Asare, four decades previously. An EastEnders spokesperson told Radio Times: "We can confirm Christopher Fairbank will be returning to EastEnders for a short stint later this spring." Arriving into Albert Square alongside wife Gloria (Elizabeth Counsell), it quickly transpired that their motives for reuniting with their son were deeply sinister. George discovered that he was adopted from West Africa as part of a baby farming agreement, and when Henry was sent to the UK to collect him, Gloria pleaded with Eddie to do whatever it took to stop him. With a number of his racist cronies, Eddie beat Henry to death before stuffing his body into a suitcase and throwing it into the canal. A young George witnessed the incident, unaware of Henry's true identity. In court, George gave Eddie a damning character reference, and he was put behind bars. On the same day, Gloria became unwell and passed away. He took control of the funeral arrangements, banishing George from attending the ceremony and not telling him when it was taking place. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. The news, which was first reported in The Sun, couldn't come at a worse time for George, who seems to finally be back on the right path towards happiness following the birth of his daughter, Ivy. He's also launched a new business venture, Knight Fusion, and has formed a relationship with Ivy's rather complicated mum, Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington). At the time of his casting in 2…

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EastEnders first-look pictures reveal Grant's return – and Mitchell family reunion after 10 years
type: item
date: 2026-04-16T19:00:49.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: There's not long to wait to see Grant back in Albert Square.
encoded: Walford's prodigal son and original hard man Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) is returning to EastEnders later this month. Kemp last slipped on Grant's leather jacket in February 2025 as part of the BBC soap's 40th anniversary celebrations, when he briefly returned amid concerns about brother Phil’s (Steve McFadden) deteriorating mental health. He also shared scenes with Paul Bradley, who plays Grant's old school mate Nigel Bates. Living with young-onset dementia, Nigel was offered a home at Grant's villa in Portugal, though he chose to stay living with Phil. It was revealed earlier this year that, with Nigel's health rapidly deteriorating, he would be lured back to support him once more. Spoilers for next week's episodes show that estranged son Mark Fowler (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) is the one to put in the call to Grant, despite Sam's (Kim Medcalf) reluctance to see her brother. The forthcoming episodes will be the first time Mark comes face-to-face with his father, having learned the truth about his parentage in 2016. Speaking about stepping back into the role, Kemp said: "I’m truly delighted to be stepping back into Grant Mitchell’s shoes and returning to EastEnders later this year. "As well as exploring Grant’s attempts to reconnect with his son Mark, it’s especially an honour to be part of Nigel’s powerful ongoing dementia storyline, which holds deep personal meaning for me due to a close family connection in real life." Radio Times can confirm that Kemp's comeback scenes will air on Monday 27 April. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. New on-set photos show Grant with his siblings, the first time they have all been together since matriarch Peggy's (Barbara Windsor) funeral a decade ago. It's also an off-screen reunion for Kemp and Medcalf, who are working toget…

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EastEnders reveals Vicki and Zack's blackmailer in early BBC iPlayer release - and it's not who you'd expect
type: item
date: 2026-04-16T05:30:12.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) has been left gobsmacked after the identity of her blackmailer was revealed in EastEnders. Earlier this week, following her hen do, Vicki enjoyed a passionate moment with Zack Hudson (James Farrar). This isn't the first time the two have connected, despite being warned by Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) about pursuing something serious. While Vicki told fiancé Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw) that she had been unfaithful, she didn't tell him who with! Little did the two realise at the time, someone had snapped a picture of their illicit encounter. Matters worsened when Vicki received a text demanding £20,000, and she was forced to tell brother Mark (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) what had happened. He used some software to determine where the message had been sent from, and the pinpoint was on Lauren Beale's (Jacqueline Jossa) house. Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) and son Peter (Thomas Law) had credible alibis - they'd both been in the cinema when the text was sent, so it couldn't be them. Lauren was completely clueless, as was Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) - until he clocked what was going on. He urged Vicki to come clean to Ross before the blackmailer had opportunity to, but it wasn't long before the culprit was revealed. While visiting Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) in his care home, Ian and Kathy clocked that their grandson Louie (Jake McNally) was acting strangely. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. He seemed to be fixated on his phone, and quickly discovered why. They took him back to Albert Square for an audience with Vicki, who asked him to delete the image and never speak of what he saw. She also questioned how he knew what blackmail was - and he spilled that his granny Cindy had told him that it was sometimes a "necessary evil"! Very Cindy…

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EastEnders blackmail intensifies as Vicki Fowler accuses innocent locals in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-15T10:04:08.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Wednesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on ITVX.
encoded: Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) and Zack Hudson's (James Farrar) blackmailer has upped their game in EastEnders, after she wrongly accused a member of her own family. Earlier this week, the two shared a passionate kiss after Vicki's hen do. Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) had asked him to be the stripper, and although this made Vicki feel uncomfortable at first, she couldn't deny the chemistry between them both and they shared a charged moment. Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) - who is well aware of her infidelity - clocked them gazing into one another's eyes and fired the Harry's Barn fire alarm to shut it down. However, outside the bar, they fell into a passionate embrace. Little did they realise, someone was watching from afar and had snapped a sneaky picture. They then texted Vicki demanding her to pay up, or they'd show her fiancé Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw) the evidence. In today's episode, Vicki hadn't slept, and rushed over to The Queen Vic kitchen to ask Zack what their action plan was going to be. She couldn't help but notice that he didn't seem to be bothered by the blackmail, evidently because she had a lot more to lose than he did. Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) then walked in, and made a comment about seeing some sort of footage of them both. It turned out that she'd actually seen the video of him stripping, though Vicki accused her of being the blackmailer. With nowhere left to turn, Vicki admitted all to brother Mark (Stephen Aaron-Sipple), and he used some software to determine where the message had been sent from. The pinpoint was on Lauren Beale's (Jacqueline Jossa) house, and they wasted no time in charging over to the car lot to confront her. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Lauren was completely oblivious, and Vicki had to cover by saying she wonde…

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EastEnders airs shock passion for Zack Hudson in early BBC iPlayer release - and it's not Vicki Fowler
type: item
date: 2026-04-14T10:04:23.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Tuesday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: Zack Hudson (James Farrar) has jumped into another woman's bed in EastEnders amid his affair with Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig). Just yesterday, the two shared a passionate kiss after Vicki's hen do. He'd been roped into being the stripper, and although this initially made her feel deeply uncomfortable, she couldn't deny the chemistry between them both. Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) - who is well aware of her infidelity and warned against upsetting their mutual sister Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) - clocked the interaction and fired the Harry's Barn fire alarm to stop them. However, outside in the cold, Vicki offered Zack her coat and they began to kiss. Little did they realise, someone witnessed them and snapped a quick photo. In today's episode, Zack tried to corner Vicki in the kitchen and talk about the kiss and what it meant for them both moving forward. Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) had urged him to seize the day and lay his heart on the line, though she didn't want to discuss it. Vicki insisted that, despite her feelings, there could never be anything between them. Any doubts about her future with fiancé Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw) were then quashed when he reassured her that he'd be sorting an alternative living arrangement for abusive teenage son Joel (Max Murray) when his six month stint in a young offenders institute came to an end. As viewers will recall, Joel assaulted Vicki and left her for dead, and she's now fearful that he will play a part in their future. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. With his tail between his legs, Zack wandered off to Harry's Barn to drown his sorrows and to update Sam on what had happened. The pair enjoyed a heart-to-heart, and Sam revealed that she'd just received the news that she was clear following her breast canc…

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6 EastEnders spoilers next week: Ravi Gulati's mental health worsens and Grant Mitchell return teased
type: item
date: 2026-04-13T23:01:18.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
description: Max and Cindy grow closer after a car crash, and Nigel takes a turn for the worse.
encoded: A busy week is ahead in EastEnders as Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) takes a turn for the worse. After effectively holding his family hostage in their own home, a huge argument escalates and girlfriend Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) makes an attempt to get him the help he needs. Their son Davinder "Nugget" (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) experiences another seizure, and Priya crashes a car into Max Branning (Jake Wood) and Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). Meanwhile, Lauren Beale (Jacqueline Jossa) resorts to asking for Mark Fowler's (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) help once again, and Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown) is acting strangely. When news reaches Albert Square that Nigel Bates's (Paul Bradley) pneumonia has worsened, Mark ignores his aunty Sam's (Kim Medcalf) wishes and decides to call his dad Grant (Ross Kemp). Here's everything happening in EastEnders between Monday 20th and Thursday 23rd April. 6 EastEnders spoilers for next week 1. Ravi Gulati's mental health crisis worsens Ravi continues to wrestle with a growing sense of helplessness, convinced he can no longer protect those closest to him. Though he’s determined to keep his struggles under wraps, Priya is becoming increasingly alarmed following his recent self-harm and takes matters into her own hands by bringing him to the hospital for support. Elsewhere, tensions boil over in McKlunky’s when Nugget confronts Will Mitchell (Freddie Phillips) and his mates after discovering they’ve filmed and shared footage of one of his seizures. Humiliated, Nugget rushes out, prompting a frantic search from Ravi. When father and son are finally reunited, Ravi is clearly shaken and lashes out, insisting the family return home immediately. Back at the flat, Ravi attempts to regain control by proposing a ‘reset day’, urging the family to stay in, play games and watch films. However, it soon becomes clear to Priya that this is more than a simple bonding exercise. As she quietly contemplates escape, Ravi doubles down, adamant that they ar…

EastEnders' Vicki Fowler and Zack Hudson caught out amid affair story by mystery local in early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-13T10:33:56.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Monday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: It was only a matter of time before someone else caught Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) and Zack Hudson (James Farrar) in the act. The EastEnders love triangle story is in full swing, and despite Kathy Beale's (Gillian Taylforth) earlier reservations and warning against it, the two just can't resist one another. This is despite the fact Vicki is engaged to Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw), and their wedding prep is seemingly full steam ahead with the organisation of hen and stag parties. Denise, Kim and Chelsea Fox (Diane Parish, Tameka Empson and Zaraah Abrahams) turned up on Vicki's doorstep in today's episode, dressed up in '60s style wigs and costumes. They told her to turn up at Harry's Barn that evening, though she couldn't help but feel that it wasn't an appropriate time to celebrate. She'd learnt that Ross's son Joel (Max Murray) - who almost killed her last year - had only received six months in a young offenders institute and therefore would be returning to Walford sooner than expected. Although she told Ross that she'd support whatever decision he made about Joel's future, she told him that she didn't want to live with the abusive teen. With that playing on her mind, Vicki headed to the club to meet her friends. It was an obvious struggle, and when the conversation turned to what first attracted her to Ross, she reflected on the understanding he had for her - though was now unsure whether this was the case. Kim decided to lighten the mood and asked Vicki's brother Mark (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) to be the stripper. He laughed about how inappropriate it was, but agreed to accompany her to The Vic to find a suitable replacement. Just moments before, Zack had opened up to Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) about his feelings for Vicki. She wondered how things were now they were living under the same roof, and he said that all he wanted was for her to be happy. Zack noted that he just wanted the same, but couldn't help but feel that their fling was more than just a sordid after…

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EastEnders reveals Ravi Gulati mental health storyline to reach climax this month - as key charity involvement confirmed
type: item
date: 2026-04-09T18:59:29.000Z
creator: Lewis Knight
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: BBC One
subject: News
description: Ravi Gulati's emotional turmoil reaches a crisis point this April.
encoded: This article includes discussion of suicide that some readers may find distressing. Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) is to reach a crisis point on EastEnders later this month. The BBC One soap has been airing an ongoing storyline surrounding the character's mental health in recent months as Ravi has begun to self-harm and grown increasingly erratic and unstable. In a career-best performance from Thiara, viewers have seen Ravi dealing with immense guilt surrounding his criminal exploitation of vulnerable Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho) and Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) in a drug operation. If that wasn't enough, he's also had to come to terms with violently attacking his son Davinder 'Nugget' Gulati (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) after being spiked in a revenge plot by the Mitchells, and also dealing with the pressure of being an undercover informant for the police in an organised crime organisation. In the coming weeks, as he continues to fear for protecting his family, Ravi's spiralling mental health will lead him to consider taking his own life. Ravi's partner, Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy), step-mother Suki Panesar-Unwin (Balvinder Sopal), and his children will be seen trying their hardest to help, and will ultimately get him the help he needs. EastEnders has also confirmed that the soap has been working with Samaritans on the story in a bid to portray these scenes as accurately and sensitively as possible. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Executive Producer Ben Wadey said of the story: "EastEnders always takes great care when researching storylines such as Ravi’s and we’re grateful to Samaritans for the advice they have given us, helping us ensure Ravi’s story is told with the care and sensitivity it deserves." Meanwhile, Lorna Fraser, Head of Media Advisory…

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EastEnders reveals Jasmine Fisher trial outcome and emotional exit in dramatic early BBC iPlayer release
type: item
date: 2026-04-09T05:30:24.000Z
creator: Michael Adams
subject: EastEnders
subject: Soaps
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: BBC iPlayer
subject: News
description: Warning: Contains spoilers for Thursday's episode of EastEnders, which airs at 7.30pm on BBC One or can be streamed now on BBC iPlayer.
encoded: The jury's verdict is in - is EastEnders' Jasmine Fisher (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness) guilty, or not guilty? For months, the relative newcomer has been locked up awaiting trial for the murder of her own father, Anthony Trueman, on Christmas Day. It was just moments after she'd realised he was her birth dad, when he suddenly lunged towards her and she killed him with a salt lamp. Birth mum Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) was out cold on the floor beside him, but after regaining consciousness, she decided to hand herself in for the crime to save Jasmine. Just weeks later, Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) betrayed her granddaughter and reported her to the police. Footage of the incident was recorded on Jasmine's phone, though it didn't fall back into the Slater family's hands until fairly recently. Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) - who had her own vendetta against Jasmine - had stolen the device in the hope it would put her behind bars permanently. However, she quickly became guilt-ridden and planned to plant the phone in The Vic, but was caught in the act. For most of this week, it seemed that the video wouldn't be enough evidence to prove that Jasmine acted in self-defence. Her paternal grandfather Patrick (Rudolph Walker) recorded a character statement that completely discredited her innocence, while Kat agreed that she couldn't be 100 per cent sure that she wasn't lying. Legal eagle Richie Scott (Sian Webber) urged Jasmine to change her plea to guilty, saying that it was looking incredibly likely that they wouldn't believe her. In a true soapy twist, the outcome of the trial was delivered in today's instalment. Jasmine was found not guilty, and was free to leave. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. Back in Walford, as her newfound family celebrated the win, not everyth…

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