Fans know that the cast of EastEnders is always changing and their fave characters can pop off in the back of black cab (or worse!) at the drop of a hat.
Old favourites return, new ones pop up and quickly become iconic, while others can meet a sorry end or simply stroll off across the Square to Walford tube station.
So we can keep track, here’s the complete list of who’s in the EastEnders cast in 2023.
Meet the cast of EastEnders 2023
Kathy Cotton played by Gillian Taylforth
Kathy Beale, as she was until recently, played by Gillian Taylforth, is one of EastEnders’ original cast members. She was in the show’s first episode, back in 1985.
Mum to Ian Beale and Ben Mitchell, gran to Bobby, Peter and Lexi, she’s also great-gran to Peter’s son Louie.
She’s been at the centre of some of Enders’ most iconic storylines including her shocking rape at the hands of James Wilmott-Brown.
Kathy was married to Ian’s dad, Pete Beale but when their marriage broke down in the early 90s, she got together with Phil Mitchell and gave birth to their son, Ben.
Kathy and Phil’s marriage was a rocky one, thanks to his alcoholism, and Kathy eventually left to live in South Africa.
She was killed off-screen in a car accident. But that wasn’t the end of Kathy! Nine years after her ‘death’ she came back to Albert Square.
Kathy settled back into Square life, bought The Albert and is running Ian’s businesses in the wake of his departure.
She has supported her son, Ben, following his rape, and has recently married Rocky Cotton. Now she’s coping with the unexpected return of her former daughter-in-law, Cindy Beale!
Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden
The self-titled leader of the Square, Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, is one of EastEnders’ most iconic characters.
He’s had several wives in his time in Walford, become a father and grandfather, beaten his alcohol problem and survived a crack addiction, several car accidents and being shot.
Phil was at the centre of the famous Sharongate episode when his affair with his brother Grant’s wife Sharon was revealed to the shocked drinkers in The Queen Vic.
The ‘who shot Phil’ mystery became one of the fans’ favourite ever episodes.
Phil’s currently in a relationship with Kat Slater, feuding with his son Ben Mitchell, and building bridges with son Raymond.
Some of his past dealings recently came back to haunt him – with a sneak peek for viewers at what the Mitchells were like back in the 1970s! And Phil went to prison. He cut a deal with DCI Keeble to turn grass for his freedom, but was secretly working against her.
Now things have quietened down and he’s back to being nice Phil. How long will that last though, eh?
Ian Beale, played by Adam Woodyatt
Ian’s another one of EastEnders’ original cast members. He’s had all sorts of drama in his time on the Square, including four marriages – with two wives who tried to kill him – and the murder of his daughter, Lucy.
Ian’s been away for a while, and it was recently revealed he’d been living in France with ex-wife Cindy!
Now they’re both back in Walford, which looks like trouble!
Cindy Beale, played by Michelle Collins
She’s dead! Or at least, she was. But it turns out Cindy Beale has been in witness protection since her ‘death’ in prison more than two decades ago.
She was living in Spain, where she was married to George Knight – the new landlord of the Queen Vic – and mum to two daughters, Anna and Gina.
But now she’s returned to Walford, much to the SHOCK of her family and friends.
What’s next for Cindy? We can’t wait to find out.
Peter Beale, played by Thomas Law
Peter’s a chip off the old Beale block, willing to manipulate, lie and steal to get his own way. But now he’s back in Walford after a while away, and he seems to have turned over a new leaf.
With Peter desperate to make amends for nicking a load of Kathy’s cash, wanting to help Bobby with his business, and determined to get to know his new half sisters, Gina and Anna, is this a new beginning for the next generation of Beales?
George Knight, played by Colin Salmon
We don’t know much about George yet – but we’re looking forward to finding out. So far, we know he was once married to Cindy Beale, and he’s brought up their girls – Gina and Anna – alone. Now he’s engaged to Elaine Peacock and thoroughly flummoxed to have his ex-wife rock up in Walford!
George has a son, George Jr, who we also don’t know much about. We reckon there’s a lot more to come from the former champion boxer!
Gina Knight, played by Francesca Henry
Prickly Gina has been struggling to cope with being abandoned by her mum and has even turned to drugs to hide her emotional torment.
But now Cindy’s back and we’re guessing her return isn’t going to help Gina!
Anna Knight, played by Molly Rainford
Sweet Anna has been desperate to get in touch with her long-lost mum – she even hired a private detective to track her down.
But now her dreams have come true, will it be happy families?!
Sharon Watts played by Letitia Dean
Sharon Watts, played by Letitia Dean, is another member of the original EastEnders cast.
She’s been involved in many dramatic storylines in her time, from the legendary Sharongate, to her steamy affair with Keanu Taylor and the death of her beloved son Dennis Rickman junior.
Sharon tried to kill Ian Beale – who she’d married on his deathbed – in revenge for son Denny’s death, but luckily for Ian, she seems to have moved on from her plan for vengeance!
Now Sharon’s bringing up her young son, Albie, and planning her wedding to Keanu. But we know – and now Phil knows too – that Keanu was the one who kidnapped the little lad.
We know Sharon will be in a bridal gown on Christmas Day thanks to the flash forward episode – but will the wedding go ahead?
Oh, and by the way. Shaz just found out that Albie’s not Keanu’s son as she thought, but actually Phil’s boy. But she’s not told Phil that yet. Surely it’s just a matter of time before that secret is revealed?!
Kat Slater played by Jessie Wallace
Kat Slater played by Jessie Wallace arrived in Walford on the back of a milk float after a night out and she’s been causing trouble ever since!
The reveal that Kat’s sister Zoe was actually her daughter – the famous ‘you ain’t my mother’ scene – is one of ‘Enders fans favourite ever plot twists.
Now Kat’s a mum to sons Tommy, Bert and Ernie.
And Kat’s married to Phil Mitchell – partnered both in business and romantically. Things have been quiet for a while – but will that last?! Especially now Phil knows the truth about what Keanu’s been up to.
Tommy Moon played by Sonny Kendall
When Tommy Moon, played by Sonny Kendall, was born he was at the centre of a baby swap storyline after Ronnie Mitchell’s baby, James, died and she swapped him for Tommy.
Kat and husband Alfie grieved for their baby until Ronnie returned their little boy.
Now Tommy’s a talented footballer.
Bert and Ernie Moon played by Elliot and Cody Briffett
Kat Slater’s twin boys Bert and Ernie Moon played by Elliot and Cody Briffett are starting to appear more now their dad Alfie is back in town.
The boys were nicknamed Bert and Ernie by their dad Alfie Moon when Kat was pregnant and when the twins arrived, the names stuck.
Alfie Moon played by Shane Richie has returned to the EastEnders cast
Shane Richie has reprised his role as Alfie Moon after trying to stop Kat’s wedding to Phil.
He did manage to keep the bride from making her ceremony, but she’s still determined to marry Phil.
Now Alfie’s struggling with the news that he has prostate cancer, but being helped through his tests with some unlikely support from Phil Mitchell. As well as his good friend Linda Carter.
Eve Unwin played by Heather Peace
Heather Peace plays Eve Unwin, who arrived in Walford as Stacey Slater’s wife!
She’s tough as nails and quickly clashed with Stacey’s friends and family.
She soon showed her soft side, however, as she got involved with Suki Panesar.
After weeks of will-they-won’t-they, the pair finally gave into their feelings, but just as Suki became comfortable with her sexuality her abusive husband, Nish, came back into her life.
Eve and Suki planned to run away together but Nish found out the truth and got his son Ravi to kill poor Eve. He let her leave but told her if she came back to Walford, he’d kill Suki and Stacey. Nasty!
But will Eve be back?
Martin Fowler played by James Bye
In the very first episode of EastEnders, iconic Square matriarch Pauline Fowler discovered she was pregnant.
That baby was Martin Fowler – now played by James Bye – and he’s now part of Walford history.
Martin’s had a troubled love life – he got Sonia Jackson pregnant when they were still teens.
Their daughter Bex is now off travelling, while Martin’s dad to ex-wife Stacey’s kids Lily, Arthur and Hope.
Martin and Stacey recently got back together but it didn’t last. Though we’re still hoping they make it work!
Stacey Slater played by Lacey Turner
Stacey Slater, played by Lacey Turner, has had a lot of drama in her time in the Square.
She lost husband Bradley Branning in a tragic fall from the roof of The Vic, was raped by Archie Mitchell and then murdered him, and suffered post-natal psychosis.
And her affair with Bradley’s dad Max Branning – and its reveal on Christmas Day – has entered Enders history.
More recently, devoted mum Stacey split with husband Martin Fowler after he got mixed up with the Mitchells and wanted to protect her.
And she made an enemy of former best friend Ruby Allen when she nicked her money – and in revenge, Rubes nicked Martin.
Ruby eventually had Stacey sent to prison for assault (even though Stacey was innocent).
Stacey was released last year and returned to Walford – with a new wife, Eve, in tow, however they are not romantically together.
Stacey is now coping with daughter Lily’s newborn daughter, Charli, the aftermath of Theo’s creepy campaign against her and she’s totally making eyes at Jack Branning. She’s got a lot on her plate!
EastEnders cast: Jean Slater played by Gillian Wright
Fan fave Jean Slater played by Gillian Wright is famous for her sausage surprise! But she’s also had a tough few years, battling her bipolar disorder and fighting cancer, as well as seeing her beloved daughter Stacey Slater banged up.
Jean arrived in Walford to see daughter Stacey, and eventually settled in Albert Square.
She left briefly when she got married and moved to Brighton, but came back when her marriage broke up. Jean also has a son called Sean, who she’s devoted to, despite his troubles.
When Jean was diagnosed with cancer, she met a man called Daniel and the pair fell in love.
Daniel eventually died peacefully from his cancer, leaving Jean mourning but determined to live life to the fullest.
Now Jean’s happily loved up with Harvey Monroe.
Lily Slater played by Lilia Turner
Stacey’s daughter Lily Slater, played by Lilia Turner, is proving to be a chip off the old Slater block.
Lily’s real dad is Stacey’s ex Ryan Molloy – Whitney Dean’s brother – but she considers her former stepdad Martin Fowler the closest thing she’s got to a dad.
Right now, Lily – who’s just 13 years old – is a new mum to Ricky Branning’s baby, Charli. How will she cope with motherhood?
Arthur Fowler played by Hunter Bell
Arthur Fowler played by Hunter Bell is named after Martin’s EastEnders icon dad.
But Martin’s not Arthur’s biological dad. His best friend Kush Kazemi was the tot’s real pa, though Martin’s stepped in since Kush’s death.
Hope Fowler
Little Hope Fowler is Stacey’s youngest child and is Martin’s biological daughter, meaning she has an older half-sister in Bex Fowler.
Hope was born prematurely and was in intensive care for a while but she’s now fit and healthy.
Freddie Slater played by Bobby Brazier
Sweet, kind Freddie arrived in Walford thinking Billy Mitchell was his dad and recently his heart was broken when he discovered the truth. His mum, Mo Slater, was raped by Graham Foster and it’s Graham who is Freddie’s biological father.
Despite that shock, Freddie’s made himself at home in Walford. He’s been diagnosed with ADHD and got himself a new solid bestie in Bobby Beale, though their friendship wobbled when Freddie slept with Bobby’s crush, Anna Knight.
Poor Freddie reacted badly when he met his dad Graham Foster, and the family revealed Graham had raped his mum, Mo.
And his feelings about Graham led to Freddie attacking Theo when he walked in on him trying to rape Stacey.
What a mess!
Theo Hawthorne played by William Ellis
Theo seemed too good to be true when he first arrived in Albert Square. Freddie’s former teacher was keen to make amends for being so mean when Freddie was a kid, as well as stepping up to help Stacey and Lily in their hour of need!
But it was soon revealed that Theo is actually Stacey’s creepy online pics ‘client’ AND her sinister stalker.
After a dramatic confrontation Theo ended up in hospital thanks to Bobby attacking him while defending Stacey.
But what will happen next?
EastEnders cast: Sonia Fowler played by Natalie Cassidy
Trumpet-playing Sonia Fowler, played by Natalie Cassidy, has seen some dramas during her time in Walford.
She’s had her heart broken when fiancé Jamie Mitchell died, had a surprise pregnancy, questioned her sexuality and nicked a load of money from her step-grandma Dot Branning.
Sonia was left heartbroken at the end of 2022 when Dot Branning died.
After Sonia organised the funeral and gave a eulogy, she was pleased to inherit Dot’s house – and meet Dot’s distant relation, Reiss Colwell. She and Reiss are now planning a future and a family together, though there is the small matter of Reiss’s wife, Debbie, to consider…
Jack Branning played by Scott Maslen
Walford’s worst detective Jack Branning played by Scott Maslen has recovered from his disastrous on/off romance with Ronnie Mitchell – and the one-night stand he had with her sister Roxy Mitchell – and the sisters’ tragic deaths on Ronnie and Jack’s wedding day.
Now he’s happily married to Denise Fox after their Christmas Day wedding.
He’s bringing up his kids Amy and Ricky, and Denise’s son Raymond.
Amy has had a difficult time of it with her self-harming. While Denise almost played away with Ravi Gulati, causing trouble for her and Jack. And is that a spark we detect between him and Stacey…
Amy Mitchell played by Ellie Dadd
Amy Mitchell played by Ellie Dadd is the daughter of Jack Branning and Roxy Mitchell. Her mum died tragically and since then Amy’s lived with her dad.
Amy’s already proved to be trouble.
She encouraged Bailey Baker to run away, developed a crush on teacher Isaac Baptiste, and bullies frenemy Lily Slater.
Amy’s been working hard to fight her urge to self harm.
Ricky Branning played by Frankie Day
The son of Jack Branning and Sam Mitchell, Ricky Branning played by Frankie Day lives with his dad and half-sister Amy.
Still a young teen, Ricky’s recently become a new father to baby Charli.
Ben Mitchell played by Max Bowden
Son of Phil Mitchell and heir to the family empire, Ben Mitchell, played by Max Bowden, has upset his dad by marrying a policeman and letting Kheerat Panesar invest in the Arches.
Ben was abused by Phil’s fiancée Stella, who died on their wedding day, and lost his boyfriend Paul Coker to a homophobic attack.
Despite being settled with husband Callum Highway, Ben struggled with being out in the open.
He ended up at loggerheads with Callum.
Things got worse when Ben was raped by Lewis.
Ben struggled and took an overdose. No sooner was he getting back on track, than he had to support daughter Lexi through the loss of her mum, Lola.
And now Ben’s dealing with his own eating disorder, too.
Being married to Ben Mitchell causes trouble for poor Callum (Credit: BBC)
Callum Highway played by Tony Clay
Callum Highway, played by Tony Clay, is one half of fan fave ‘Ballum’ with husband Ben Mitchell.
He arrived in Walford as a friend of Lee Carter’s from the army.
He quickly settled into the Square and started a romance with Whitney Dean. But she found out he was struggling with his sexuality and called off their wedding on the big day.
Since then Cal’s joined the police, causing friction in his romance with Ben Mitchell, and tied the knot with his crime lord boyfriend.
But the pair split after Ben’s night with Lewis. When Cal discovered the truth, he supported Ben.
They have now got back together and are supporting Lola and Ben’s daughter, Lexi.
Lexi Pearce played by Isabella Brown
Confident Lexi Pearce played by Isabella Brown is the daughter of Lola Pearce and Ben Mitchell.
She’s smart and funny, and never afraid to say what she thinks!
But little Lexi is struggling to cope after the death of her beloved mum, Lola.
Billy Mitchell played by Perry Fenwick
Olympic torch bearer, Mitchell family outsider and Walford legend Billy Mitchell, played by Perry Fenwick, has been in a bad patch since he split from wife Honey.
Billy cheated on Honey with Tina Carter and they split soon afterwards. Ever since then he’s been trying to get back on his feet.
Honey getting together with Jay Brown – who Billy looked on as a surrogate son – was the last straw for Bill.
But he finally managed to win Honey back, though their happiness took a hit when Billy’s granddaughter Lola died.
Linda Carter played by Kellie Bright
Devoted mum Linda Carter, played by Kellie Bright, has been through some tough times lately.
She fought alcoholism with the support of husband Mick, and then struggled to cope when he couldn’t open up about his abuse.
Linda turned to Max Branning for comfort and the pair had a brief romance. But childhood sweetheart Mick is the only one for her and they were soon reunited.
When L found out she was pregnant she knew Max was the daddy.
Baby Annie was born in a hurry and added to the Carter brood. Mick stood by his wife but the family fled to Linda’s mum’s for a while (while actress Kellie Bright took real-life maternity leave).
Cracks began to show when Mick returned alone. Janine Butcher set her sights on the landlord and used every scheming trick in her book to win him over.
However, when Janine’s lies were exposed, Linda and Mick confessed their love for each other.
But tragedy struck when Mick went missing following a cliff-top car chase that saw Linda and Janine end up in the sea.
Mick saved Janine, then tried to help Linda, but has disappeared into the ocean, presumed dead.
And as if that wasn’t enough trauma, poor L is now faced with her rapist Dean Wicks, who’s moved back to Walford and forced her to lie that he didn’t rape her. Can Linda cope?
Ollie Carter played by Charlie Harrington
The youngest boy in the expanding Carter family, Ollie Carter played by Charlie Harrington, is doted on by his older brothers and sisters. Ollie has autism and returned to the EastEnders cast last year.
Annie Carter
Toddler Annie Carter is the latest addition to the Carter clan. She’s blissfully unaware that she’s been born into a whole lot of drama.
Tiny Annie’s biological dad is Max Branning, who mum Linda had a brief fling with in 2020.
Elaine Peacock played by Harriet Thorpe
Elaine is Linda’s mum and recently joined her as landlord of The Queen Vic, along with fiance George Knight.
Elaine’s trying very hard to win over George’s daughters Anna and Gina, but she got a shock when his ex-wife – Rose – also known as Cindy Beale arrived in the Square.
Is there still a spark between George and Cindy? Is Elaine going to be heartbroken?
Whitney Dean played by Shona McGarty
Whitney Dean, played by Shona McGarty is the adopted daughter of Bianca Jackson, sister to Tiffany Butcher-Baker and aspiring singer.
Poor Whit’s known nothing but heartbreak in her short life. She was abused by Bianca’s boyfriend Tony as a teenager, and suffered sexual exploitation at the hands of evil Rob.
She was stalked by Tony’s son, Leo, who she ended up killing in self-defence – and stood trial for his murder.
Whitney’s also very unlucky in love. Her marriage to Lee Carter broke down, fiancé Woody Woodward left her, she called off her wedding to Callum Highway on the big day itself, and fiancé Kush Kazemi died when serial killer Gray Atkins pushed him under a tube.
Whit briefly fell for Gray himself, but soon saw his true colours.
It was Whitney who eventually brought him down. She refused to let him fall over the train bridge to his death, wanting him to pay for his crimes.
More drama followed when Whit conceived a baby, only to discover her child wouldn’t survive. She and baby dad Zack have found solace in each other as they grieve for baby Peach.
Bobby Beale played by Clay Milner Russell
Bobby Beale, played by Clay Milner Russell, is the son of EastEnders icon Ian Beale and his late wife Laura.
In a square full of troubled teens, Bobby’s probably the worst.
His dodgy past includes him having killed his older sister Lucy Beale, and spending time in a young offenders’ centre for the crime.
Since then Bob’s converted to Islam, and struggled with OCD.
Now he’s busy running the chippy and romancing Anna Knight. But the arrival of his dad, brother and Anna’s mum Cindy Beale, looks like it’s going to cause Bobby all sorts of trouble!
Zack got cosy with Janine Butcher (Credit: BBC)
Zack Hudson played by James Farrar
A newcomer to the EastEnders cast, Zack Hudson played by James Farrar, is the long-lost younger brother of EastEnders legend Sharon Watts.
Zack’s dad was Gavin Sullivan – Kathy Beale’s evil ex and Shaz’s biological dad. Now he’s moved to Walford and is busy getting to know his big sis.
Zack’s already broken Nancy Carter’s heart, and got cosy with Janine Butcher. Big mistake, Zack. Huge.
He managed to win Nancy back, but things hit the skids again and she left Walford.
Zack also bedded Sam Mitchell before Whitney Dean discovered she was pregnant with his baby. Though the pregnancy ended in tragedy, the pair are looking forward to a future together.
Albie Watts
Sharon Watts gave birth to Albie just as his half-brother Dennis Rickman was tragically dying.
Albie is the son of Sharon’s lover Keanu Taylor, who is also dad to baby Peggy Mitchell. Peggy’s mum is Sharon’s former stepdaughter Louise Mitchell. Making the whole thing very awks indeed.
But what’s even more awks is that Albie’s not Keanu’s after all. He’s Phil Mitchell’s son. Except mum Shaz hasn’t told Phil that yet.
Oh, and Keanu recently kidnapped His Boy for £50,000. And Sharon doesn’t know that
But Phil does.
Told you it was awks.
Suki Panesar played by Balvinder Sopal
The matriarch of the Panesar clan, Suki Panesar played by Balvinder Sopal, is intimidating, bullying and not easy to be around.
She’s fiercely protective of her family but blames herself for the death of her son, Jags, in prison.
And she’s right to take responsibility. Jags was only behind bars because Suki forced him to take the rap for his brother Vinny’s crime.
Since then Suki has showed a different side of her personality when she grew close to Honey Mitchell and ended up kissing her.
But when Honey knocked her back, she turned on her new friend.
Suki then grew close to Eve. The pair ended up in bed and Suki confessed her husband was controlling and abusive.
However, when Nish was released from prison, he wormed his way back into Suki’s life. Suki and Eve planned to run away together but Nish found out and arranged for son Ravi to kill poor Eve!
Now Suki thinks Eve’s abandoned her, Nish thinks Eve’s dead but the viewers – and Ravi – know he let her go and she’s scarpered.
But will she be back, despite Ravi’s threats?
Vinny’s had his heart broken (Credit: BBC)
Vinny Panesar played by Shiv Jalota
The baby of the Panesar clan, Vinny Panesar played by Shiv Jalota is his mum’s favourite. But that’s not always the best place to be in their complicated family!
Vinny’s struggling with the guilt of knowing his brother Jags was in prison because of him when he was murdered.
Ambitious and determined to be a DJ, he’s also got a soft side, which he revealed when he fell head over heels for Dotty Cotton.
And then had his heart broken when she slept with Keegan Butcher-Baker.
Vinny was the one who brought his dad back to the Square, but will he live to regret it?
Ravi Gulati played Aaron Thiara
Phil’s former prison ally Ravi Gulati played by Aaron Thiara was released from jail and roared straight into the EastEnders cast to cause trouble.
Ravi killed his dad and let Suki Panesar believe it was her. Kheerat Panesar has gone down for the crime.
Meanwhile, Suki’s husband Nish revealed he was actually Ravi’s real father.
And then Ravi set his sights on Denise Fox – causing her heartache as he tried to seduce her. In fact, some people think Ravi could end up being the body on the floor of the Vic at Christmas.
Nish Panesar played by Navin Chowdhry
The patriarch of the Panesars, Nish, played by Navin Chowdhry, arrived in Walford after time inside.
He’d been sent down for killing someone who Suki had grown close to.
Controlling and abusive, Nish seems like he’s turned over a new leaf. But we know he’s treating Suki badly. Can he be stopped?
Davinder ‘Nugget’ Gulati played by Juhaim Rasul Choudhury
Nugget is the son of Ravi Gulati and arrived to join his father shortly after Ravi’s release from prison.
Nugget was close to his grandfather, Ranveer, but is slotting into his new family already.
Friends with Denzel, Nugget has come under fire for his treatment of Amy Mitchell.
Avani Nandra-Hart
Avani is a newcomer to the Square, having arrived with a bang with her mum, Priya.
She’s the daughter of Ravi Gulati, though Ravi didn’t know she existed until recently! Avani’s settling into Walford, generally making a nuisance of herself and getting to know her newly found brother, Nugget.
Priya Nandra-Hart
Having managed to get her feet under the table at the Panesars’ house, land herself a job at the MinuteMart, rub Suki up the wrong way, sleep with Peter Beale AND annoy Stacey Slater, Priya’s made herself right at home in Walford.
And we absolutely love it!
She’s annoying just about everyone as she makes her presence felt, but will she live to regret getting on the wrong side of the residents of Albert Square?
Jay Brown played by Jamie Borthwick
Jay Brown, played by Jamie Borthwick, didn’t have the easiest start in life.
He grew up in care and saw his dad murdered. Young Jay was taken under the Mitchells’ wing and became a surrogate son to Phil and Billy. And he’s a loyal best friend to Ben Mitchell, too.
Jay had an ill-fated romance with Linzi Bragg, who turned out to be underage. But the people of the Square forgave him – eventually – and he moved on with Lola Pearce then Ruby Allen.
Jay was in a relationship with Honey Mitchell. Things were complicated when they first got together thanks to their age difference and the fact that Honey’s ex Billy was like a dad to Jay.
They stayed strong until cracks began to show and Honey ended things.
However, it was clear Jay’s heart belonged to Lola and the pair happily reunited.
But it was only meant to be for a week or so before she was diagnosed with a devastating brain tumour.
Now Lola has tragically passed away and Jay’s trying to cope without his wife – though he’s really not coping at all.
Honey Mitchell played by Emma Barton
Ex-model and devoted mum Honey Mitchell, played by Emma Barton, is sweet-natured and kind.
She was heartbroken when husband Billy Mitchell cheated on her with Tina Carter, while their daughter Janet was in hospital. And since then, the kind-hearted shop assistant has shown a new stronger side to her personality.
Honey dotes on her kids Janet and William.
She has recently started work as the market inspector, and is going to have to deal with creepy Mr Lister in her own way.
Honey ended her romance with Jay Brown, but soon reunited with Billy once again.
Janet Mitchell played by Grace
Model and actress Janet Mitchell, played by Grace, didn’t have an easy start to life.
Her mum, Honey, didn’t cope well when she discovered baby Janet had Down Syndrome and considered putting the tot up for adoption.
But Honey fell in love with her daughter and she’s now a doting mum.
Will Mitchell played by Freddie Phillips
Will Mitchell played by Freddie Phillips is another model member of the Mitchell family. He landed a modelling contract that took him, his mum Honey and sister Janet to Canada for a while.
But now he’s back in Walford, putting up with dad Billy Mitchell’s shortcomings and looking after big sister Janet.
Mia Atkins played by Mahalia Malcolm
The daughter of tragic Chantelle, Mia Atkins played by Mahalia Malcolm is struggling to cope without her mum.
She dotes on occasional childminder Whitney and did not like spending time with her dad’s new wife Chelsea Fox.
Mackenzie Atkins played by Isaac Lemonius
Mia’s brother Mackenzie Atkins played by Isaac Lemonius, has anger issues, just like his dad.
But will he prove to be as dangerous as serial killer Gray?
EastEnders cast: Patrick Trueman played by Rudolph Walker
Rum drinking Patrick Trueman played by Rudolph Walker has recently reunited with former wife Yolande!
Smooth-talking Patrick is dad to former Albert Square GP Anthony Trueman, and the late Paul.
Patrick is devoted to his surrogate daughters Kim and Denise Fox, and is enjoying getting to know Denise’s young son Raymond.
He also has a connection with Denzel and is helping Howie navigate fatherhood.
Yolande Trueman played by Angela Wynter
Yolande was a fixture in Walford for many years, before she left in 2008 to live in Birmingham – without her husband Patrick.
But after a few mentions in recent years, Patrick realised he still loved his ex and set about trying to win her back.
Yolande came back to Walford and she and Patrick have rekindled their romance.
Denise Fox played by Diane Parish
Denise Fox played by Diane Parish has been through all sorts of disasters in her time on the Square.
She was held hostage for months by her serial-killer husband Lucas Johnson while he pretended she was dead and her family grieved.
Vicar Lucas – dad to Denise’s daughter Chelsea – eventually went to jail for his crimes though he recently reappeared in Den’s life, bringing chaos with him.
Denise is now happily loved-up with new husband Jack Branning after a Christmas Day wedding, and bringing up young son Raymond.
Den gave him up for adoption after she unexpectedly became pregnant after a one-night-stand with Phil Mitchell. But now he’s back with her.
Kim Fox played by Tameka Empson
Foxcatcher Kim Fox played by Tameka Empson is the Square’s resident matchmaker. She’s a devoted mum to her kids and is keeping busy running her business.
Kim is loved up with Harvey and he’s supporting her as she copes with her PTSD and anxiety.
Pearl Fox played by Arayah Harris-Buckle
Pearl was born into the EastEnders cast in dramatic fashion in the loos at The Queen Vic during the live episode to celebrate EastEnders’ 30th birthday in February 2015.
Her name is a nod to pearls being the precious stone for 30th wedding anniversaries.
Pearl is a gifted child and Kim is determined to provide the best education possible for her daughter.
Mica Fox
Pearl’s little brother Mica arrived just as dramatically as his big sister. He was delivered by Phil Mitchell in the Minute Mart!
Howie Danes played by Delroy Atkinson
Howie Danes played by Delroy Atkinson arrived in the EastEnders cast in October 2021 having stolen deceased Vincent Fox’s wallet and created a new identity for himself.
He reappeared to help Kim out and went to the police about Phil Mitchell’s involvement in Vincent’s murder.
Howie seems devoted to Kim.
Denzel Danes, played by Jaden Ladega
Howie’s son, Denzel, played by Jaden Ladega, is a good lad, who’s very fond of his step-mum, Kim.
He’s in a romance with Amy Mitchell, and supporting her through her self-harming.
Chelsea Atkins played by Zaraah Abrahams
Wannabe trophy wife Chelsea Fox played by Zaraah Abrahams has struggled with drug addiction and has a very questionable moral code.
Chelsea’s problems are normally of her own making, but it’s no surprise she’s drawn to trouble considering her dad is ‘Enders serial killer Lucas Johnson.
Since she returned to Walford, Chelsea married serial killer Gray Atkins and had his baby. It wasn’t long before he began abusing her and she knew she’d made a terrible mistake.
Gray has thankfully finally been apprehended for his crimes after Chelsea recorded his confession.
Chelsea works in Peggy’s.
Raymond Dawkins played by Michael Jose Pomares Clixte
Little Raymond Dawkins played by Michael Jose Pomares Clixte, is the son of Denise Fox and Phil Mitchell.
He was adopted when he was born but Denise got her little boy back after his adopted parents were killed in a car accident.
Jordan Atkins
The baby son of Chelsea and Gray Atkins, Jordan was born very prematurely.
Mum Chelsea has taken to parenthood despite her son’s difficult start to life.
Karen Taylor played by Lorraine Stanley
Ferocious mum Karen Taylor played by Lorraine Stanley is fiercely proud of her kids. She’s devoted to daughter Bernadette Taylor and sons Keegan Baker, Keanu Taylor and twins Chatham and Riley.
She was devastated when her oldest child, Chantelle Atkins died, and even more heartbroken when she discovered Gray killed her.
Karen’s also taken in Bailey Baker, who’s the daughter of her ex, Mitch Baker.
Karen had a romance with Billy Mitchell, and then embarked on a second chance with Mitch. However, things ended again and the pair are trying to stay friends instead. Rumour has it Karen could meet a sticky end this autumn – but are the whispers true?
Bernadette Taylor played by Clair Norris
Fiercely protective of her family, Bernadette Taylor played by Clair Norris, has gone the extra mile to make some cash for them.
She gave birth to Roland for Stuart and Rainie Highway, but found giving up her son hard.
She is also proud of her sexuality, though she’s not been lucky in love.
Keanu Taylor
Actor Danny Walters has reprised his role in the EastEnders cast as Keanu Taylor.
He made a shock return in December 2022, claiming he wanted to get to know son Albie.
Since then, he’s also had an unexpected visit from daughter Peggy (and her gran, Lisa!) rekindled things with Sharon, and broken up with her again. Now he’s on a mission to get his mitts on son Albie – whatever it takes!
Mitch Baker played by Roger Griffiths
Mitch Baker played by Roger Griffiths is Keegan and Bailey’s dad, and Karen’s ex. He’s not been the best partner or dad in the past, though he seems determined to make up for lost time.
When Bailey’s mum died, he stepped up and took the little girl under his wing.
Mitch was also Chantelle Atkins’ dad and felt distraught when he realised Gray had killed her. Mitch had long been suspicious of Gray’s Mr Nice Guy act, but blamed himself for not doing more.
Mitch was surprised by the arrival of his estranged brother Avery. The pair made it up just before Avery died from cancer.
Bailey Baker played by Kara-Leah Fernandes
Bailey Baker played by Kara-Leah Fernandes was a young carer for her mum. When she died Bailey moved to Albert Square.
She’s super clever, and sweet-natured and constantly let down by well-meaning but useless dad Mitch.
Bailey ran away from home, thinking her presence was causing the Taylor/Bakers money problems. Her family rallied round to find her and since then Bailey’s felt more at home.
In 2020 she went on a mission to save the planet.
Felix Baker played by Matthew Morrison
Mitch’s nephew Felix Baker, played by Matthew Morrison, joined the EastEnders cast with his brother Finlay and dad Avery.
Felix is a drag queen whose alias is Tara Masu.
He’s quick and witty, but fiercely loyal to his family.
Rocky Cotton played by Brian Conley
Rocky Cotton played by Brian Conley, arrived in Walford claiming to be Sonia Jackson’s long-lost dad, Terry.
He convinced poor Son he was for real and won her trust over several months. But then it was revealed that Rocky isn’t Terry Cant as he claimed and is instead Dotty Cotton’s Uncle Tommy.
The Cottons were planning to fleece Dot Cotton out of her money, with the help of Sonia who has control of Dot’s finances.
Sonia discovered the truth about her ‘dad’ on Christmas Day – and Dotty also discovered he wasn’t her uncle, but actually her father. Although Rocky soon rubbished that idea and told her Nick was her dad after all.
Rocky has worked hard and managed to get new wife Kathy to forgive him. Even Son’s not bearing a grudge. But there’s a storm brewing in the shape of Rocky’s gambling habit…
Harvey Monroe played by Ross Boatman
Cabbie Harvey Monroe is dad to Dana and Aaron. He’s a little over-protective and doesn’t always say or do the right thing.
After a whirlwind romance with Jean, they got engaged, but Harvey couldn’t see she was in the middle of a manic episode.
He has eventually realised it wasn’t real and he was using her as a distraction from his problem son, Aaron, who is in prison after being part of a far-right gang.
Now Harvey and Jean are back together.
Ross was awarded Best Newcomer at last year’s British Soap Awards so is definitely a worth addition to the EastEnders cast!
Reiss Colwell played by Jonny Freeman
Jonny Freeman joined the EastEnders cast of Reiss Colwell in December 2021.
The great-nephew of Dot Branning arrived for her funeral.
He immediately struck up a bond with Sonia and the pair slept together. Now they’re planning a family, but Reiss’s wife Debbie is in a care home after a stroke. Can he and Son really make a go of it?
Ritchie Scott played by Sian Webber
Whenever Phil Mitchell is in trouble there’s one person he calls: Ritchie Scott.
Phil’s faithful lawyer has got him out of more scraps than he can remember, but this latest one, which sees him facing life in prison, even super solicitor Ritchie is struggling with.
Ritchie might not be a regular part of the EastEnders cast, but she’s certainly an important part of it!
Tracey played by Jane Slaughter
Tracey the barmaid has been an extra on EastEnders since day one.
Every now and then Tracey has a few lines and even confessed to sleeping with Phil Mitchell on one occasion!
Another non-regular in the EastEnders cast – where would Walford be without Tracey?!
EastEnders usually airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One.
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**This article is updated regularly to reflect the ongoing changes in the EastEnders cast.