TITLE:EastEnders,EP NUMBER:7105,TX DATE:21-04-2025,TX WEEK:16,EMBARGOED UNTIL:15-04-2025,PEOPLE:Phil Mitchell (STEVE MCFADDEN);Yolande Trueman (ANGELA WYNTER);Jean Slater (GILLIAN WRIGHT);Harvey Monroe (ROSS BOATMAN),DESCRIPTION:***EMBARGOED UNTIL TUE 15th APR 2025***,COPYRIGHT:BBC PUBLIC SERVICE,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Kieron McCarron
EastEnders Cast: Who is Joining, Leaving and Returning to the Soap?
As the iconic soap opera *EastEnders* gears up for a momentous year in 2025, with its 40th anniversary approaching, fans are buzzing with excitement over upcoming cast changes. With a year filled with dramatic turns, the audience is eager to discover which beloved characters will be joining, leaving, or making a comeback in the beloved series.
Recent Departures
The past year has seen the exit of several noteworthy characters, significantly reshaping the landscape of the show. Among these departures is Whitney Dean, a pivotal character who captivated audiences for 15 years. Her departure has carved out new storylines, paving the way for the introduction of new characters, including the matriarch Nicola Mitchell, who adds fresh dynamics to the unfolding drama.
Current Cast for 2025
As *EastEnders* continues its thrilling narrative, its regular cast in 2025 includes an impressive lineup of talent:
- Gillian Taylforth as Kathy Cotton
- Letitia Dean as Sharon Watts
- Adam Woodyatt as Ian Beale
- Michelle Collins as Cindy Beale
- Steve McFadden as Phil Mitchell
- Lacy Turner as Stacey Slater
This diverse ensemble offers a variety of compelling story arcs, appealing to a broad audience and maintaining the show’s reputation for engaging drama.
Notable Upcoming Departures
One significant upcoming departure is **Felix Baker**, portrayed by Matthew Morrison. After three impactful seasons as the first drag queen character in the series, Felix will exit the show in mid-2025. His departure is expected to create a poignant void, especially regarding the representation and storylines surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, which he has contributed to significantly.
Potential Returns
Excitement is stirring around the possible return of **Shirley Carter**, an iconic fan favorite played by Linda Henry. She has been on a hiatus since late 2022 following the storyline centered around the departure of her son, Mick. Producers have hinted that Shirley’s absence will not be long-lasting, suggesting her return will bring back her memorable presence to the show.
Characters Who Departed Recently
Several notable characters have also exited the show in 2025, further changing the dynamics within Walford:
- Nish Panesar
- Ruby Allen
- Sonia Fowler
- Bianca Jackson
These departures have created a shifting narrative landscape for the series, as new characters arrive and established ones leave, fostering evolving relationships and interactions among the remaining cast.
Viewing Information
Fans can catch *EastEnders* from Monday to Thursday at 7:30 PM on BBC One, with episodes available for streaming from 6 AM on BBC iPlayer. To stay up-to-date with all the latest news, interviews, and spoilers, audiences can turn to dedicated resources such as the Radio Times and various fan websites.
The evolution of the cast not only keeps the soap fresh but also reinforces *EastEnders* as a captivating and continually engaging viewing experience, ensuring viewers remain connected to the drama they love. Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting changes unfold!
