Walford Gazette #4

Well, that was certainly a pleasant surprise! With news of Phil‘s impending depression storyline for the 40th Anniversary (not to mention the return of brother Grant), it seems quite a Mitchell reunion is set to occur!

Reprising their roles from 2022’s ‘Winter of Discontent flashback‘ as the younger Peggy Mitchell and boys Phil and Grant are Jaime Winstone, Daniel Delaney and Teddy Jay! They’ll also be joined by Eric, once again played by George Russo and even an appearance from a younger Nigel, as played by Sam Miles!

Jaime, who’s previously played the late Dame Barbara Windsor in the BBC drama Babs in 2017 had this to say on her surprise return:

“It was such an honour to be welcomed back to play Peggy Mitchell, she is a dream role for me,”

“So to be able to contribute to this iconic family on this major storyline has been such a joyous and emotional journey and I truly hope I have done her justice. Thank you to all the EastEnders family, this has been such a wonderful experience.”

Outgoing producer Chris Clenshaw added:

“We are thrilled to welcome back the young Mitchells for these special scenes as we lead up to our 40th anniversary week.

“In 2022 fans and critics alike celebrated Jaime’s portrayal of Peggy, and with Phil’s story, this feels like the perfect time for her to reprise the iconic role – joined once again by George, Daniel, Teddy and now Sam as a young Nigel.

“Flashbacks like these give the audience a unique opportunity to better understand Phil’s mindset and the traumatic events that have led him to his mental health crisis.”

Also this week, Inside Soap are given fans the opportunity to vote for their favourite moments from the last four decades, with choices ranging from the Six storyline to Den and Angie‘s divorce!

Elsewhere, wherever you get your podcasts and on BBC Sounds, Lacey Turner‘s new project We Started Here sees the Stacey Slater actress talking to soap stars about their careers, and she’s starting with her Slater co-star Jessie Wallace, aka Kat Slater, who’ll be taking about the impact her character has had since she arrived in 2000. Other EastEnders cast members for the series also include Anita Dobson (Angie Watts), Davood Ghadami (Kush Kazemi) and Rakhee Thakrar (Shabnam Masood)!

Meanwhile, as we head into February, a dangerous lie is uncovered, a discovery is made and we tick ever forward to Reiss‘ dramatic downfall… But warning, there’ll be spoilers ahead…

Until next time,

The Curator.

Monday 3rd February 2025
written by: Jonny O’Neill

Cindy waits for news from the police regarding some new evidence in her attack case. She also clashes with Ian over her latest accusations. Cindy tries to arrange a dinner with those involved, claiming that it’s to call a truce, but her true motivations are soon revealed.

Later, Cindy discovers that her locket has gone missing. She realises that her attacker must have taken it after hitting her.

Meanwhile, Nigel turns up at The Vic for a date with Norma, who has brought her friend Livi with her. Nigel asks Phil to join them, but Phil remains in a bad mood and soon rushes off. Later at The Arches, Phil’s actions put him in danger.

Elsewhere, Lauren speaks to Sonia about her concerns regarding Bianca’s supposed murder confession.

Also today, Priya gets suspicious over a conversation between Ravi and Nicola, while Ruby is upset when Martin wants to share some exciting news with Stacey.

Tuesday 4th February 2025
written by: Jonny O’Neill

When Harry turns up for work at The Arches, he finds Phil in a bad way.

Nigel is pleased that his date went well, but when he goes to check on Phil, he finds his friend being taken off in an ambulance.

Meanwhile, Denise worries when she overhears Ravi discussing a shady deal on the phone. Ravi also snubs Denise when she asks him to help with a fuse box at the salon, but Jack turns up to save the day. This leaves Kim wondering if Jack is a better option for Denise than Ravi.

Later, Priya urges Ravi to ditch his criminal activities for the sake of the kids.

Elsewhere, Junior offers Cindy a lifeline as tensions continue between the Beales.

Also today, Lauren begs Jack to get her a copy of Bianca’s confession, but asks him not to tell Reiss what’s going on.

Wednesday 5th February 2025
written by: Daran Little

Nish’s will reading takes place, but his family are confused as Bernie has been asked to attend too. The contents of the will soon shock everyone.

Later, Ravi makes a grand gesture to Denise and things get passionate between them. When Bernie mistakenly believes that a burglar has targeted No.20, Ravi and Denise’s secret relationship is finally exposed.

Meanwhile, Jack gives Sonia the footage of Bianca’s confession. She prepares to secretly watch it, but Reiss catches her just as she’s about to press ‘play’.

Elsewhere, Cindy faces another backlash from her family when they find out that she’s staying with Junior.

Thursday 6th February 2025
written by: Daran Little

Chelsea and Jack are shocked to learn that Ravi and Denise are in a secret relationship again.

Kim and Yolande comfort Denise after the drama, and she admits that she’s torn between Ravi and Jack. The situation turns ugly when Ravi and Jack clash at The Vic.

Meanwhile, Reiss reluctantly agrees to watch Bianca’s confession with Sonia, but her reaction isn’t what he’d expected. Later, DI Xiang informs Sonia that the police have issued a search warrant for Bianca and want to charge her with murder.

Elsewhere, Martin and Stacey reminisce over family.