Yasmin Vince

Judi Dench recounted a childhood prank in which she pushed a dead rat with a note through a neighbour’s door at the urging of her brothers after repeated disputes over lost cricket balls. Speaking on a BBC podcast, she reflected on the ineffective outcome of the gesture and noted her brothers were eventually banned from playing cricket. The story was shared alongside mention of her long acting career and her decision to step back from work due to declining health.

Actor Matthew James-Bailey, previously known for playing Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks before the character’s 2024 on‑screen death, is joining EastEnders as DC Craig Ingram. His role will tie into a major Branning family storyline as the character steps in to support Jack Branning while he copes with his wife Denise Fox’s cancer diagnosis. James-Bailey described the opportunity as a dream come true, while producers highlighted his strong addition to the cast. Scenes featuring his arrival are set to air later this year.

Two major characters, Sharon Watts and Ravi Gulati, return to EastEnders, prompting renewed speculation about the identity of the mysterious gunman featured in a New Year’s flashforward. Ravi’s threatening behaviour toward Priya’s new partner fuels fan theories that he is responsible for the future kidnapping of Lauren and Oscar. Viewers have also learned that Max will marry Cindy Beale on New Year’s Day.

Fans speculate about Honey Mitchell’s fate after she is knocked unconscious during a confrontation with Bea Pollard, who previously faked her death to frame Billy Mitchell. Viewers offer differing theories on whether Honey will survive and whether Bea will further incriminate Billy, while others question the police’s failure to identify that the apparent blood at the scene was actually gravy. EastEnders continues to air on BBC One and iPlayer.