Walford Gazette [Vol. II] #29

All the latest updates and news down Walford way!

EDITORIAL

Tuesday 14th July 2026

Welcome back to another week of gossip, thrills and excitement from Albert Square, Walford — where an unwelcome return causes chaos, one man’s look may wreck a marriage, and another resident might not see daylight again for a long while…

But first, some news that broke at the end of last week…

It appears Michelle Ryan has left the role of Zoe Slater. According to a tabloid report, the actress took a short break and has already filmed her final scenes, with the character reportedly set to be killed off later this year. Is Zoe destined to become Max’s victim as the police arrest him for conspiracy to commit murder? And if so… why? Walford suddenly has a lot of questions.

It also appears that Jessie Wallace and Shane Ritchie will be performing in Panto around Christmas time, although neither Kat nor Alfie will actually leave the screen.

Secondly, a new face is joining the cast — and very, very soon. The storyline introducing Craig Ingram begins next week. Played by former Hollyoaks star Matthew James‑Bailey, Craig is a DC colleague of Jack’s, brought in to help ease the pressure of everything Jack is juggling at home. Whether Jack appreciates the newcomer remains to be seen…

**Michelle** has already filmed her final scenes

Now, onto next week’s drama.

Things kick off with Lauren Beale. She’s spent months comparing herself to her dad Max — in all the wrong ways — and now she seems to be embracing her inner Branning. Lauren finds herself rowing with business partner (and part‑time eye candy) Mark Fowler, who is clearly more than interested in her. And, since this is EastEnders, their argument leads straight to passion.

Lauren backs away afterwards, but Ian notices tension between her and husband Peter. Luckily for Lauren, Ian is somewhat distracted by the prospect of going to jail for running down poor Jordan Fox. Ian proceeds to celebrate his “last night of freedom” — right in full view of Chelsea. How will she react? And is Ian Beale really heading to prison?

Elsewhere, Joel receives some well‑earned just desserts as Walford gives him a frosty reception. He tries to convince everyone he’s turned over a new leaf, but eventually decides to walk away while he still can.

A conversation with Lily about life inside — and Ross’ pleas for him to stay — change his mind, and things seem to be looking up when the teens of Walford gather to celebrate the end of term and invite him along. But it’s all a cruel setup to humiliate Joel… and things soon spiral out of control.

Finally, Clive and Linda cross paths next week, giving matchmaker Elaine a few ideas. And Jack receives about another resident that deeply concerns him as he struggles with Denise’s treatment and the strain on their relationship. But when he meets a blonde in the Vic, will the former Branning lothario cheat on his ill partner?

**Elaine** spots a vibe between **Linda** and
**Clive**…

Say what you like about Walford — it’s never dull.

Until next time…

The Curator

Week Commencing: 20th – 23rd July 2026

Directed by: Paul Copeland

Monday 20th July 2026
Written by: Jonny O’Neill

Lauren discovers that Mark has messed up by leaving to deliver the car he’s illegally selling when the fake number plates aren’t on it yet. The police spot Mark but he speeds off and asks Lauren to help him. They argue at the lock-up, but their tension turns to passion.

Lauren ultimately pulls away, but Mark isn’t giving up easily and asks if they can meet at the gym to talk.

Meanwhile, Joel faces an angry backlash from Nugget, Avani and Amy after returning to school, but Ross steps in to ease the tensions. Vicki and Ross struggle with the situation, which only gets worse when Priya and Ravi have their say. Realising that nobody wants him around, Joel books a train.

Elsewhere, Jack discovers that his colleague Craig is taking over his current case while he goes on compassionate leave.

Also today, Linda’s latest dancing lesson at the community centre doesn’t go according to plan.

Tuesday 21st July 2026
Written by: Jonny O’Neill

Denise and Jack’s relationship is in a difficult place, so Phil gives Jack some advice.

When Denise finally opens up about her friend’s death, it causes more drama between her and Jack. As Jack is struggling to be honest about his emotions, he flees from the situation by leaving.

Meanwhile, Lauren turns up to see Mark at the boxing gym.

Elsewhere, Linda consults with councillor Clive amid fears that the community centre could close – and it’s clear that she’s attracted to him.

Also today, Ian decides to mark what could be his last night in Walford by going out for drinks tomorrow.

Wednesday 22nd July 2026
Written by: Gem Copping

Amy and Avani make a plan against Joel, which begins with asking him to join them at the park for some end-of-term celebrations. Ross is initially unsure but agrees that Joel can go.

Later at the park, Avani, Denzel, Barney, Lily, Amy, Ricky and Nugget all film Joel as they lock him to a fence and soak him with beer.

Meanwhile, Lauren turns on the affection with Peter, but Ian questions whether she’s hiding something.

Elsewhere, Chelsea questions why the Beales are in such high spirits when she walks in on Ian’s final drinks at the club.

Also today, Clive turns up to help Linda save the community centre.

Thursday 23rd July 2026
Written by: Lisa Gifford

As Ian continues to question Lauren, she insists that she loves Peter. Despite his recent suspicions, Ian decides to believe his daughter-in-law.

Later, Ian arrives at Peacock Palace to spend the night with Elaine, who’s also busy trying to play matchmaker between Clive and Linda.

Meanwhile, Denise and Jack get their relationship back on track – but their progress is interrupted when Jack receives a call from the police to let him know that Joel has been attacked.