EastEnders fans are talking about 2026 like it’s the next big drama. People are desperate for answers, new twists, and returns that actually matter. Some want old faces to shake things up, others need fresh characters to cause chaos. Keep scrolling to learn more.
EastEnders’ Fans’ Hopes For 2026
2026 is near, and fans have already started sharing their wishlist for next year. Some characters didn’t get enough attention and screen time this year. So now, fans want the BBC soap to focus on characters having potential. Moreover, many of them want the entire focus to be on Priya Nandra-Hart.
Some fans think that Lily and Ricky, who themselves are young now, will have to face challenges raising Charli. However, fans want to see some real depictions of co-parenting. Also, some characters have been a part of this soap for many years, like Linda and Ian. Fans want to see them with a new love interest. Moreover, fans need Kat Moon to reclaim her place as the heart of The Vic. She always brings her fierce energy to the pub.
Elsewhere, fans also want another character to be in focus. And it is Max Branning. Viewers would want to see him become a responsible dad. They do not like him chasing women all the time. Even Chelsea needs more attention on the soap. Fans would love to see a storyline where she is at the centre. Even Zack and Barney’s father-son bond is very underdeveloped for now. It would be great if that part were explored more.
Even Will, who is one of the most iconic Mitchells, doesn’t get enough screen time. So, even he needs to be given proper storylines. Even a matriarchal presence like April or Suzy would help to guide Lauren, Amy and Penny. This will bring stability for the next generation in their family.
Fans React And Share Theories
One viewer said, “Eve should get her law license back and stop driving the van. It’s time she gets serious again.” Another said, “Priya needs someone in her life who challenges her but doesn’t overshadow her. She derived to stand on her own.”
Elsewhere, some want parents to be realistic. One user wrote, “Lily needs to show what it’s really like to be a teenage mum. No sugarcoating, let her feel the weight of it.” While other suggestions include, “Kim has to feel the negative side of being online, swear off it, and just be Kim Fox again.”
Some viewers need new entries on the soap or the return of old characters. One said, “A new family with no ties to existing ones would shake up the Square.” Another added, “If Sam Mitchell comes back, we need Chrissie Watts too. That fire would be incredible.” Some fans do not want anybody else to get pregnant as it has become too old for them.
Many characters do not get attention. And so fans demand these characters to be given enough screen time. One wrote, “Give Zoe depth, not just drama for the sake of it.” While another said, “Harry and Gina have chemistry; they deserve a proper storyline instead of being side characters.” All viewers want one thing: growth. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.