EastEnders cast guide exposes a revolving door of dramatic arrivals, exits and shocking returns for 2026. Several popular faces are preparing to pack up and leave Albert Square forever after major dramatic storylines.
Meanwhile, brilliant new characters are arriving in Walford to cause trouble for the current residents. Keep scrolling to get the complete breakdown of who is in and who is out.
New Faces Arrive In Walford To Support Struggling Residents
Former Hollyoaks favourite Matthew James-Bailey is joining the cast as a police officer named DC Craigh Ingram. Well, this new detective arrives in the square to take over some heavy responsibilities for Jack Branning.
As fans are aware, Jack is struggling to balance a busy police workload with supporting Denise Fox during a devastating medical emergency. Denise is fighting aggressive blood cancer and that means her husband wants to spend every spare moment at the hospital.
Elsewhere, even executive producer Ben Wadey is excited about the casting. He has also promised that Craig’s arrival will kickstart a massive summer plot for the Branning family. Additionally, veteran actor Jason Durr is also set to appear as guest character Councillor Clive Masters.
Clive will become a close ally and friend to Linda Carter. In fact, this exciting guest stint is scheduled to broadcast over the coming months as Linda searches for support. Well, the new additions will bring plenty of fresh energy and drama to the streets of Elstree and the upcoming episodes will surprise the audience.
Several Familiar Names Prepare To Depart EastEnders Very Soon
Meanwhile, several notable departures will shake up the neighbourhood over the coming months. Libby Fox is set to say goodbye for now after she completed a short return storyline. But the character will eventually reappear around the New Year to attend wedding celebrations in the Square.
Elsewhere, evil serial killer Gray Atkins is also scheduled to leave after he caused major prison-based trouble for Chelsea Fox. Furthermore, Michelle Ryan is also permanently departing after her comeback as Zoe Slater last year. Also, reports suggest that Zoe will be killed off in a tragic upcoming storyline.
Also, criminal Joel Marshall will return to the Square on July 15th. He is returning alongside his birth mum, Cleo. Fans are also wondering when Stacey Slater will return after taking an extended break to live in Brazil. And these major cast changes are sure to keep fans hooked all year. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates keep following Soap Opera Daily.