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The following are characters who first appeared in the
BBC #REDIRECT BBC #REDIRECT BBC #REDIRECT BBC Here i going to introduce about the best teacher of my life b BALAJI sir. He is the precious gift that I got befor 2yrs . How has helped and thought all the concept and made my success in the 10th board ex ...
soap opera ''
EastEnders ''EastEnders'' is a Television in the United Kingdom, British soap opera created by Julia Smith (producer), Julia Smith and Tony Holland which has been broadcast on BBC One since February 1985. Set in the fictional borough of Walford in the Ea ...
'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
, executive producer until December 2013, when
Dominic Treadwell-Collins Dominic Treadwell-Collins (born 26 August 1977) is a British television producer, known for his work on the soap operas ''Family Affairs'' and ''EastEnders'', creating the ''EastEnders'' spin-off series ''Kat & Alfie: Redwater'' and Executive Pr ...
took over. The first character to be announced was
Dexter Hartman Dexter Hartman is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, '' EastEnders'', played by Khali Best. His debut was on 7 January 2013. Dexter is the grandson of Cora Cross (Ann Mitchell) and son of her illegitimate daughter, Ava Hartman (Clare ...
(Khali Best), the teenage son of
Ava Hartman The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Clare Perkins Clare Perkins (born 18 August 1965) is an English actress who is known for her roles as Denise Boulter in ''Family Affairs'' and Ava Hartman in '' EastEnders''. Career Perkins' first role was as Opal in the 1991 TV film 'Hallelujah Anyhow' in ...
). He was introduced in January.
Steve Lowe The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(Michael Simkins),
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
's (
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
) probation officer and a love interest for
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
(
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
), arrived as a recurring character in February, and in March, Kane and his gang appeared for a storyline involving
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(James Forde). Dexter's father Sam James (
Cornell S John Cornell Salmonn John (born 1963) is a British actor who has appeared in various film and television productions since 1999. He is most renowned for his role as Trife's uncle, Curtis, in the films ''Kidulthood'' (2006), ''Adulthood'' (2008) and ...
) arrived in May.
Kirsty Branning The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
's (
Kierston Wareing Kierston Wareing (born 7 January 1976) is a British actress. Her first film role was the lead in Ken Loach's '' It's a Free World...'', followed by a supporting role in Andrea Arnold's ''Fish Tank'' – which won the BAFTA award for ‘Best Bri ...
) ex-boyfriend
Carl White Carl White is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Daniel Coonan. He first appears in the 4660th episode, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 20 June 2013. Carl is the ex-boyfriend of Kirsty Brannin ...
(
Daniel Coonan Daniel Coonan is a British actor. Early life Coonan was brought up in Haringey, in north London, moving to Plymouth, Devon in his teens, where he took up acting lessons. He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Career After ...
) joined the show in June. Two short-term characters, Betty Spragg (
Tessa Wyatt Tessa Wyatt (born 23 April 1948) is an English actress best known for her role as Vicky Tripp (née Nicholls) on the ITV sitcom '' Robin's Nest''. Early life Wyatt was born in Woking, Surrey in 1948 and attended Elmhurst Ballet School. She was e ...
), and
Ollie Walters The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(
Tony O'Callaghan Tony O'Callaghan (born 16 June 1956) is an English television actor. His most notable role is that of Sergeant Matt Boyden on the British television series ''The Bill'' from 1991 to 2003. He had previously appeared as a villain in ''The Bill'' i ...
), arrived in July.
Sadie Young The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(
Kate Magowan Katie Victoria "Kate" Magowan (born 1 June 1975) is an English actress and producer. She has been in film, theatre, television and radio productions. Her best known role is Princess Una in the 2007 feature film '' Stardust''. She is married to ...
) arrived on the show in August, as the new owner of the beauty salon. Former ''
Hollyoaks ''Hollyoaks'' is a British soap opera which began airing on Channel 4 on 23 October 1995. It was created by Phil Redmond, who had previously conceived the soap opera ''Brookside (TV series), Brookside''. Since 2005, episodes have been aired on ...
'' actor
Jamie Lomas James Lomas (born 21 April 1975) is an English actor, known for his soap opera roles as Warren Fox in ''Hollyoaks'' and Jake Stone in ''EastEnders''. Life and career Lomas was born in Manchester. Before joining ''Hollyoaks'' in 2006, he had m ...
made his first appearance in August as well, playing
Jake Stone Jake Stone is the name of: *Jake Stone (singer) Bluejuice was an Australian band based in Sydney, active between 2000 and 2014. The group's final line-up consisted of lead vocalist Jake Stone, backing vocalist Stavros Yiannoukas, bassist Jami ...
. Upon the announcement that established character
David Wicks David Wicks is a fictional character from the BBC TV soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Michael French. David originally appeared from 23 December 1993 to 21 November 1996. He returned to the show on 1 January 2012 and departed two weeks later ...
(
Michael French Michael French (born Michael Clark, 17 September 1962) is an English actor, known for his roles as David Wicks in ''EastEnders''; Nick Jordan, a consultant and Clinical Lead, Senior Consultant in emergency medicine in ''Casualty'' and former ca ...
) was returning to the show, Lisa Maxwell was cast as his girlfriend,
Naomi Naomi or Naomie may refer to: People and biblical figures * Naomi (given name), a female given name and a list of people with the name * Naomi (biblical figure), Ruth's mother-in-law in the Old Testament Book of Ruth * Naomi (Romanian singer) (bo ...
, who appeared in September for one episode.
Terry Alderton Terry John Alderton (born 31 October 1970) is an English comedian who had acting and presenting roles in the early 2000s before returning to stand-up comedy a decade later. Personal life Alderton was born on 31 October 1970 in Rochford, Es ...
, playing Terry Spraggan, made his debut in November, along with his children TJ (
George Sargeant George Sargeant (born 30 November 1997) is a British actor. He is best known for playing the role of TJ Spraggan in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Sargeant made his acting debut during a two part episode of the BBC medical drama '' D ...
) and Rosie (Jerzey Swingler). Former ''
Holby City ''Holby City'' (stylised on-screen as HOLBY CIY) is a British medical drama television series that aired weekly on BBC One. It was created by Tony McHale and Mal Young as a spin-off from the established BBC medical drama ''Casualty'', and pr ...
'' actress
Luisa Bradshaw-White Luisa Bradshaw-White (born 9 December 1974) is a former English actress, known for playing Tina Carter in '' EastEnders'' and for her previous roles on '' Bad Girls'', '' Holby City'' and ''This Life''. She has also made appearances in televisi ...
was cast as
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
's (
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
) younger sister
Tina Tina may refer to: People *Tina (given name), people and fictional characters with the given name ''Tina'' Places *Tina, Iran, a village in Khuzestan Province, Iran *Tina, Tunisia, a town in Sfax Governorate, Tunisia * Tina, Guadalcanal, Solomon ...
, who first appeared in November, followed in December by Shirley's brother, who later transpired to be her son,
Mick Carter Mick Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' played by Danny Dyer, making his first appearance in the show in the episode originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 25 December 2013. Dyer's casting was announ ...
(
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
), Mick's partner,
Linda Linda may refer to: As a name * Linda (given name), a female given name (including a list of people and fictional characters so named) * Linda (singer) (born 1977), stage name of Svetlana Geiman, a Russian singer * Anita Linda (born Alice Lake i ...
(
Kellie Bright Kellie Denise Bright (born 1 July 1976) is an English actress. Her roles include Linda Carter in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', for which she won the 2015 British Soap Award for Best Actress and Best Dramatic Performance, Julie in ''Ali G I ...
), and their youngest son,
Johnny Johnny is an English language personal name. It is usually an affectionate diminutive of the masculine given name John, but from the 16th century it has sometimes been a given name in its own right for males and, less commonly, females. Varian ...
(
Sam Strike Samuel Harry Strike (born 18 January 1994) is an English actor. Life and career Strike was born in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. He starred in two revival series of CBBC's '' M.I. High'' as Dan Morgan from 2013–2014. In 2014, Strike guest starred ...
).


Dexter Hartman

Dexter Hartman, played by Khali Best, is the son of
Ava Hartman The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Clare Perkins Clare Perkins (born 18 August 1965) is an English actress who is known for her roles as Denise Boulter in ''Family Affairs'' and Ava Hartman in '' EastEnders''. Career Perkins' first role was as Opal in the 1991 TV film 'Hallelujah Anyhow' in ...
) and grandson of
Cora Cross Cora Cross is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Ann Mitchell. Cora is the mother of Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner), Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks) and Ava Hartman ( Claire Perkins) and the grandmother of Lauren (J ...
(
Ann Mitchell Ann Mitchell (born 22 April 1939) is a British stage and television actress. She came to prominence in the 1980s when she starred as Dolly Rawlins in the crime series ''Widows'' as well as the sequels '' Widows 2'' and ''She's Out'', all writte ...
). He made his first appearance on 7 January 2013. The casting and character was announced on 8 November 2012. Best was offered the role after he was paired up with Perkins at a workshop held by the producers of ''EastEnders''. Executive producer,
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
described Dexter as a "force of nature." Dexter comes to Walford and gets a job as a mechanic at The Arches, and befriends
Jay Brown Jay Brown (also Mitchell) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Jamie Borthwick. He made his first appearance on 14 December 2006. Jay's storylines since joining the programme have included being part of a ...
(
Jamie Borthwick Jamie Simon Borthwick (born 23 June 1994) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Jay Brown in the BBC One, BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2006. He is also known for his role in Not Going out as The kid who Kicks Lee Career Borth ...
) and
Lola Pearce Lola Pearce is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Danielle Harold. She is introduced as the granddaughter of Billy Mitchell (EastEnders), Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) and Julie Perkins (Cathy Murphy), and a ...
(
Danielle Harold Danielle Amy Louise Harold (born 30 May 1992) is an English actress. She is known for her role as Lola Pearce in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', which she played from 2011 to 2015, and reprised the role from 2019 to 2023. Career Before Har ...
). His significant storylines include his struggle to accept his estranged father, Sam James (
Cornell S John Cornell Salmonn John (born 1963) is a British actor who has appeared in various film and television productions since 1999. He is most renowned for his role as Trife's uncle, Curtis, in the films ''Kidulthood'' (2006), ''Adulthood'' (2008) and ...
) and his losing
Phil Mitchell Phil Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Steve McFadden. He was introduced to the soap opera on 20 February 1990 and was followed by his brother Grant Mitchell (EastEnders), Grant (Ross Kemp), s ...
's (
Steve McFadden Steve Robert McFadden (né Reid; born 20 March 1959) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Phil Mitchell in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'', which he has played since 1990. He was also the presenter of the game show, ''Britain's ...
) £10,000. More recently, Dexter has been taking an interest in
Nancy Carter Nancy Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Maddy Hill. Nancy's first appearance is in a combination of the show's 4775th and 4776th episodes, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 1 January 2 ...
(
Maddy Hill Madeleine Kate Hayley Hill (born 19 March 1990) is an English actress, known for her roles as Nancy Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' and Ruby Spark in the BBC medical drama ''Casualty''. Career Hill trained at Rose Bruford College d ...
).


Steve Lowe

Steve Lowe, played by
Michael Simkins Michael may refer to: People * Michael (given name), a given name * Michael (surname), including a list of people with the surname Michael Given name "Michael" * Michael (archangel), ''first'' of God's archangels in the Jewish, Christian and ...
, first appears in episode 4585, first broadcast on 11 February. He is introduced as
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
's (
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
) probation officer. He makes his last appearance in episode 4622, first broadcast on 15 April. Steve first appears when he visits Bianca at her home. He later meets Bianca in the café and takes a liking to her mother
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
(
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
). He arranges to meet Carol, and stops being Bianca's probation officer. He tells Carol that when he heard that her son
Billie Jackson Billie Jackson (credited as Billy until 2004) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Devon Anderson from 1993 to 1997, and by Bluey Robinson for a brief return in 2004. The character returned in 2010, along wi ...
(
Devon Anderson Devon Carlo Anderson (born 25 August 1987) is an English actor. Anderson's roles include Billie Jackson in ''EastEnders'' and Sonny Valentine in ''Hollyoaks''. Early life Anderson was born on 25 August 1987 in London. Acting career Anderson ...
) had died, he felt they had a connection, as his daughter Emily died in 1998, two days before her 10th birthday. They meet again the next day. A few weeks later, Bianca sees Steve on heading for her house, and thinks it has something to do with her son
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(James Forde), but is shocked to find them on a date. Bianca is angry and wants Carol to end the relationship, because Steve could see something and report to Bianca's new probation officer. Carol tells Bianca that she has ended her relationship with Steve but he approaches Bianca in the market and she realises that Carol lied. Carol tells her friend
Masood Ahmed Masood Ahmed is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Nitin Ganatra. The character made his first appearance in episode 3452, first broadcast in the United Kingdom on 16 October 2007. Masood was introduced as p ...
(
Nitin Ganatra Nitin Chandra Ganatra (born 30 June 1967) is a Kenyan-born British actor. He is known for portraying Masood Ahmed in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. Early and personal life Ganatra was born on 30 June 1967 in Kenya. Both sides of Ganatra's ...
), who tells Steve about Carol's difficult position. Steve assumes Carol has sent Masood to tell him their relationship is over and is angry with her. Kate White from ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' wrote on Steve's storyline: "Carol certainly can't be blamed for taking a liking to Steve. Not only is he a nice, eligible fella who's clearly interested in her, but they share a deep bond through having both experienced the agony of losing a child."


Kane, Little Chris, Renzo, Ali and Tayo

Kane ( Harry Rafferty), Little Chris (
Rizwan Shebani Rizwan ( ar, رضوان, links=no) is an Arabic name and surname. It may refer to: * Riḍwan also spelled Rezwan or Rizwan, the angel in charge of maintaining Jannah or Paradise in Islam Athletes *Rizwan Akram, a Dutch cricket umpire and former ...
), Renzo (
Chase Willoughby Chase or CHASE may refer to: Businesses * Chase Bank, a national bank based in New York City, New York * Chase Aircraft (1943–1954), a defunct American aircraft manufacturing company * Chase Coaches, a defunct bus operator in England * Chase Co ...
), Ali (Leanne Dunstan) and Tayo ( Youssef Berouain) are members of a gang, of which Kane is the leader. The gang make their first appearance in the soap on 8 March 2013, and the storyline is the focus of a six-minute episode broadcast during
Red Nose Day 2013 Red Nose Day 2013 is a fundraising event organised by Comic Relief. A number of run-up events took place and the main event consisted of a live telethon broadcast on BBC One and BBC Two from the evening of Friday 15 March 2013 to early the follow ...
on 15 March. The gang's last appearance as a whole is on 29 March, but Kane appears again on 25 and 26 April. In the episode broadcast on 29 March 2013, a character refers to Kane as "Delton Kane". The gang first appear running from the tube station, having evaded their fare. They are chased by a ticket inspector, and
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(James Forde), who already knows them, helps them to hide. They later meet Liam and invite him to join, giving him cash and saying he will make more money than at his job. They later create a mess in the market, and market inspector
Tamwar Masood Tamwar Masood is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Himesh Patel. He made his first appearance on 1 October 2007. On 12 March 2016, it was announced that Patel would be leaving the show, with Tamwar making hi ...
(
Himesh Patel Himesh Jitendra Patel (born 13 October 1990) is a British actor, musician, and singer. He is known for portraying Tamwar Masood on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2007 to 2016, for starring in the 2019 musical romantic comedy film '' Yes ...
) stands up to them, so they leave. They later mug him, taking his money belt, and Kane goes to Liam's house, giving him some money and thanking him for letting them know about Tamwar's money belt. Liam's mother
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
) finds the money belt in Liam's bedroom and is then told that Liam has been associating with a gang.
Kat Moon Kathleen "Kat" Slater (also Moon) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Jessie Wallace. She is also played by Kate Peck in a flashback in 2001 and Sumar-Elise Sandford in a flashback in 2018. Kat is the seco ...
(
Jessie Wallace Karen Jane Wallace (born 25 September 1971), known professionally as Jessie Wallace, is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Kat Slater on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2000. Her role as Kat won her the Nationa ...
) tells Bianca that the police think the mugging was done by a known gang from an estate where a shooting took place recently. Bianca goes there when Liam does not come home, and sees him messing around with the gang. She confronts them, saying they bullied Liam into joining the gang and she knows about the mugging. She tells Liam to come home, saying he could end up dead. Renzo states that Liam is having dinner with him and his mother that night, but Bianca refuses to believe it. Kane threatens Bianca, eventually pushing her to the ground, which displeases Renzo, who checks if Bianca is okay. Some of the other gang members then take Liam away, while Renzo calmly warns Bianca about the area before disappearing. Liam comes home the next day and the gang arrive later on. Bianca finds them, and tries to make them stay away, while Liam has to be physically restrained by
Ray Dixon Ray Dixon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Chucky Venn. Ray is an ex-partner of character Bianca Butcher (Patsy Palmer) and the father of her son Morgan Butcher (Devon Higgs). He made his first on screen ...
(
Chucky Venn Charles Venn (born 24 June 1973), formerly known by the stage names Chucky Venice and Chucky Venn, is a British actor, known for his roles as Ray Dixon in ''EastEnders'', Jacob Masters in ''Casualty (TV series), Casualty'', Curtis Alexander (Dream ...
) and locked in his bedroom to stop him seeing the gang. After he is let out, he returns to the gang, and they tell him to prove his loyalty to them, by walking a dangerous wall, smashing a car window, stealing alcohol and stealing money from his colleague
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
). The gang then congratulate Liam for passing, by holding a party in his honour. Liam tries to leave the party after being warned off by a girl he knows, but the gang stop him leaving so he hides in the bathroom. As Kane confronts Liam, the police arrive and the entire gang, including Liam, are arrested. They are all released without charge, but the gang blame Liam. When Bianca arrives and sees them all together, Little Chris stabs Liam and they run away. Ava and Dexter then discover the gang have trashed their flat. The gang members are arrested again but as they deny any involvement in the stabbing, they are released on bail. Liam receives death threats from the gang via text message. Liam's younger sister
Tiffany Butcher Tiffany Butcher-Baker (also Dean and Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Maisie Smith. Tiffany is the daughter of established characters Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen), ...
(
Maisie Smith Maisie Louise Collender Smith (born 9 July 2001) is an English actress and singer. She appeared in the feature film ''The Other Boleyn Girl'' (2008) and played the regular role of Tiffany Butcher in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2008 ...
) receives an MP3 player from Ali, so Liam tells Bianca and shows her the text message. Tiffany identifies Ali to the police, who then start to patrol the streets outside the school and the Butchers' home. The next day, a brick is thrown through the kitchen window. Liam decides to stay at home while everyone else is out, locking all the doors and unplugging the phone, but then finds Kane sitting at the kitchen table. Kane tells Liam that he can rejoin the gang if he will go to the police and withdraw his statement. Liam agrees until Kane threatens Tiffany, and Liam runs to escape. He unlocks the door but Kane grabs him. Bianca then arrives and attacks Kane, and Kane is arrested.


Development

It was reported on 4 February 2013 that ''EastEnders'' was working with the charity
Comic Relief Comic relief is the inclusion of a humorous character, scene, or witty dialogue in an otherwise serious work, often to relieve tension. Definition Comic relief usually means a releasing of emotional or other tension resulting from a comic episo ...
on a storyline "to highlight the growing problem of teen involvement in gangs" and that
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(
James Forde Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
) would become involved with the gang, leaving his mother Bianca frantic with worry. It is the second time the soap has worked with the charity, following 2011's storyline of
Whitney Dean Whitney Dean (also Carter) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shona McGarty. The character is the ward of long-running character Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and was introduced on 1 April 2008 when Pal ...
's (
Shona McGarty Shona McGarty (born 14 October 1991) is an English actress and singer who portrays Whitney Dean in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Career Before joining ''EastEnders'', McGarty had been involved in amateur musical theatre for six years, in ...
) sexual exploitation. ''EastEnders'' executive producer said, "We are delighted to be working with Comic Relief once again. This subject matter is something which is touching the lives of so many young people in London and other cities around the UK. We have taken the opportunity to see the impact from a mother's perspective, and Patsy Palmer gives a powerful performance of a mother doing all she can to protect her son. The telling of this story has also given us the chance to explore the reasons behind the attraction of gangs for teenagers." Additionally, Judith McNeill of Comic Relief said the storyline should be equally important as Whitney's in helping people to understand why young people are vulnerable to becoming involved in gangs.


Norman Pike

Norman Pike, played by
Timothy Bentinck Timothy Charles Robert Noel Bentinck, 12th Earl of Portland, Count Bentinck und Waldeck Limpurg, (born 1 June 1953), commonly known as Tim Bentinck, is an English actor and writer, known for his long-running role as David Archer in the BBC ...
, is a solicitor who appears in two episodes on 23 and 29 April 2013, and again on 11 June. Michael Moon (
Steve John Shepherd Stephen John Shepherd (born 1 August 1973) is an English actor. He is known for his portrayals of Jo in the TV drama ''This Life'' and Michael Moon in the soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2010 to 2013. Personal life Shepherd was born in London ...
) asks Norman for advice when his estranged wife
Janine Butcher Janine Carter (also Butcher, Evans and Malloy) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', introduced in 1989. The character was played by Rebecca Michael from 1989 to 1993, Alexia Demetriou from 1993 to 1996, and Charlie ...
(
Charlie Brooks Charlene Emma Brooks (born 3 May 1981) is a British actress. Known for the role of Janine Butcher in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'', she has received numerous awards since her first appearance on the soap in 1999, with storylines invo ...
) returns and says she wants full custody of their daughter
Scarlett Moon The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
and wants to divorce her. Norman advises mediation as a court case could be expensive and emotionally draining. He then attends a meeting between Michael and Janine, with Simone Turnbell (Kate Loustau) as Janine's solicitor. When Janine denies Michael access to Scarlett and takes her away from
Walford Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
, Michael goes to the police, who advise him to speak to his solicitor. Michael angrily telephones Norman, and when they meet, Norman tells Michael he can apply for a court order, but Scarlett has not been abducted because they have not left the country. Bentinck posted on Twitter that he was filming his first scenes on 28 February 2013. After his scenes aired, a Manchester solicitor received an increase in calls requesting information about mediation, and welcomed the storyline, saying, "I watched the episode of ''EastEnders'' when it aired on Tuesday and was really pleased to see that such a high profile show was featuring ediation When couples come to divorce, being offered mediation as an option can make a huge difference to their short and long-term future, especially if children are concerned, as in this storyline. We have seen numerous calls on Wednesday asking about mediation, which can only be a positive thing, especially in the light of the recent cuts to legal aid."


Josef

Josef, played by Aleksandar Mikic, appears in three episodes from 6 to 9 May 2013. Josef is a builder hired by
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
(
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
) to work on a restaurant that Ian plans to open. Ian is annoyed that Josef hangs a sign up badly, and when Josef falls and cuts him arm, Ian tells him to go to the hospital and return tomorrow, saying he will not be paid for the rest of the day. Josef instead goes to
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house, where he speaks to
Roxy Mitchell Roxanne "Roxy" Mitchell (also Slater) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Rita Simons.Rita Simons Rita Joanne Simons (born 10 March 1977) is an English actress and singer from London. She is best known for playing Roxy Mitchell in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2007 to 2017, when her character was killed-off, alongside her on screen ...
) about his family. Ian sees Josef and tells him he will get a written warning the next day. The next day, Ian sacks Josef because he is on a break instead of getting cement. Josef gets drunk at the pub and when Roxy leaves the till open,
Kat Moon Kathleen "Kat" Slater (also Moon) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Jessie Wallace. She is also played by Kate Peck in a flashback in 2001 and Sumar-Elise Sandford in a flashback in 2018. Kat is the seco ...
(
Jessie Wallace Karen Jane Wallace (born 25 September 1971), known professionally as Jessie Wallace, is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Kat Slater on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2000. Her role as Kat won her the Nationa ...
) stops him from taking money and Roxy bars him. Kat later sees Josef enter the pub, and Roxy is shocked to see Josef upstairs. He wants cash from the safe, which Roxy closes. Kat arrives and Josef grabs Roxy. Kat tells Josef he is not thinking straight because he is drunk, and he would not be invited to his daughter's wedding if she found out. Roxy's daughter
Amy Mitchell The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' which aired in 2008 (by order of first appearance). All characters were introduced by executive producer Diederick Santer. Santer introduced four ch ...
(Amelie Conway) comes in, and Josef lets Roxy go and apologises before leaving. ''
Heat In thermodynamics, heat is defined as the form of energy crossing the boundary of a thermodynamic system by virtue of a temperature difference across the boundary. A thermodynamic system does not ''contain'' heat. Nevertheless, the term is al ...
'' called Josef "shifty" and said he is the one person in
Walford Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
they would not "want barging into
heir Inheritance is the practice of receiving private property, titles, debts, entitlements, privileges, rights, and obligations upon the death of an individual. The rules of inheritance differ among societies and have changed over time. Officiall ...
lounge uninvited".


Sam James

Sam James, played by
Cornell S John Cornell Salmonn John (born 1963) is a British actor who has appeared in various film and television productions since 1999. He is most renowned for his role as Trife's uncle, Curtis, in the films ''Kidulthood'' (2006), ''Adulthood'' (2008) and ...
, is the former husband of
Ava Hartman The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Clare Perkins Clare Perkins (born 18 August 1965) is an English actress who is known for her roles as Denise Boulter in ''Family Affairs'' and Ava Hartman in '' EastEnders''. Career Perkins' first role was as Opal in the 1991 TV film 'Hallelujah Anyhow' in ...
) and estranged father of her son
Dexter Hartman Dexter Hartman is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, '' EastEnders'', played by Khali Best. His debut was on 7 January 2013. Dexter is the grandson of Cora Cross (Ann Mitchell) and son of her illegitimate daughter, Ava Hartman (Clare ...
(Khali Best). He made his first appearance on 14 May 2013. He departed on 16 December 2013. Sam visits Ava unexpectedly when she is expecting
Billy Mitchell William Lendrum Mitchell (December 29, 1879 – February 19, 1936) was a United States Army officer who is regarded as the father of the United States Air Force. Mitchell served in France during World War I and, by the conflict's end, command ...
(
Perry Fenwick Perry Fenwick (born 29 May 1962) is an English actor. He is known for portraying the role of Billy Mitchell (EastEnders), Billy Mitchell in the BBC One, BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role which he has played since 1998. Career Television ...
), with whom she has a date. Ava is shocked to see Sam and he asks if a voice he hears is his son, Dexter. Ava tells Sam to wait outside while she sends Dexter out, then invites Sam in. He explains his father, who abandoned him as a child, has died and he wants to reunite with Dexter, who he abandoned when he was three months old. Ava is angry but Sam blames her, saying she was not intimate with him after Dexter was born. Dexter comes back and Sam introduces himself as Jacob, an old friend of Ava's. Dexter likes "Jacob", thinking he is better suited to Ava than Billy. When Sam leaves, Ava tells him to never return. Sam stays overnight at the local bed and breakfast where proprietor
Kim Fox Kim Fox (also Fox-Hubbard) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Tameka Empson. She is the half-sister of Denise Fox (Diane Parish), and aunt to Chelsea Fox (Tiana Benjamin/Zaraah Abrahams) and Libby Fox (Bel ...
(
Tameka Empson Tameka Empson (born 16 April 1977) is an English actress and comedian. She appeared as one of the three protagonists in the hidden-camera comedy sketch show ''3 Non-Blondes''. In 2009, she began portraying the role of Kim Fox in the BBC soap ...
) takes a liking to him. Sam helps
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
(
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
) with a plumbing problem at his new restaurant and Dexter invites Sam to go for a drink with him. Sam is about to leave, when Ava arrives and angrily tells Sam to leave. Ava's mother
Cora Cross Cora Cross is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Ann Mitchell. Cora is the mother of Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner), Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks) and Ava Hartman ( Claire Perkins) and the grandmother of Lauren (J ...
(
Ann Mitchell Ann Mitchell (born 22 April 1939) is a British stage and television actress. She came to prominence in the 1980s when she starred as Dolly Rawlins in the crime series ''Widows'' as well as the sequels '' Widows 2'' and ''She's Out'', all writte ...
) calls Sam by his real name and Dexter realises that he is his father, and is angry at Ava for lying to him. Ava and Dexter continue to reject Sam, until eventually Ava realises she is still in love with Sam and they have sex. Dexter is angry to discover this and tells his mother to choose between them. She chooses Dexter and Sam prepares to leave, but when Dexter sees Ava crying, he reluctantly allows Sam to stay. It emerges that Sam requires a kidney transplant. Ava hopes to donate one of hers but is not a match. Dexter decides to take a test to see if he is a match but Ava refuses to let him. He does so anyway and he is a match, but Sam refuses to let him donate. Dexter persuades his father to accept his kidney and they go through the transplant operation. Ava fusses over both of them while they are recovering, and while Dexter is used to Ava's overprotective nature, Sam feels smothered and considers leaving. On Dexter's birthday, Sam invites Dexter's nurse,
Laura Laura may refer to: People * Laura (given name) * Laura, the British code name for the World War I Belgian spy Marthe Cnockaert Places Australia * Laura, Queensland, a town on the Cape York Peninsula * Laura, South Australia * Laura Bay, a bay on ...
(Nathalie Buscombe), who tells Ava how long Sam was waiting for a kidney. Ava then finds a letter confirming that Sam has been on a waiting list since before he returned. Ava confronts Sam, realising that he only returned for Dexter's kidney and tells him to leave. He does but tells Dexter that he is coming back after the weekend. Ava tells him he is not returning but refuses to tell him the truth. This begins to anger Dexter and cause him to insult Ava constantly. Eventually Dexter manages to locate Sam and tells him that he wants to live with him and start afresh. Sam tries to persuade Dexter to go back to Walford and live with Ava but Dexter refuses due to Ava not telling him the truth about the real reason on Sam's departure. Sam assures Dexter that Ava did nothing wrong and confesses that he only came to Walford for a kidney transplant due to failing health and Ava found out when she discovered Sam's letter from a hospital. Once Dexter learns the truth about Sam and realising why Ava evicted Sam from her house, he punches Sam and tells him he does not deserve Ava. As he leaves, Sam attempts to apologise but Dexter tells Sam that he is no father to him and mentions he never wants to see Sam again. This leaves Sam heartbroken and Dexter scowls at him for the last time before leaving him to go back home to Ava.


Development and reception

The character and John's casting were announced by Susan Hill from the '' Daily Star'' on 14 April 2013. Hill stated that Sam's arrival is an attempt made by producers to "shake up" the show. She revealed how Sam once walked out on his wife Ava and their infant son Dexter: he went to buy some milk and did not return. Sam decides to seek out his family following his father's death. He is an unwelcome arrival as Ava and Dexter direct their anger towards him. Sam is described as a "master manipulator and charmer". ''EastEnders'' producer
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
said: "We are delighted to have Cornell join the cast. His powerful presence and natural gravitas will ensure he's a strong presence. The addition of Sam gives us a solid family unit." In September 2013 it was announced that Sam would be leaving at the end of his storyline. Victoria Garo-Falides, writing for the ''
Daily Mirror The ''Daily Mirror'' is a British national daily tabloid. Founded in 1903, it is owned by parent company Reach plc. From 1985 to 1987, and from 1997 to 2002, the title on its masthead was simply ''The Mirror''. It had an average daily print ...
'', said of Sam's kidney transplant storyline: "Sam's got a bad case of PMT and it's all because his kidney's kaput and he needs a new one. Ava's not a match, but would you Adam and Ava it? Dexter's only gone and got the one he needs. Cue lots of shouty, budget- Morgan-Freeman-style acting from Sam and Ava about butchering their son. But bearing in mind we've warmed to Sam as much as we have a bout of haemorrhoids, does anyone actually care what happens to him or the family? Not so much."


Albert

Albert, played by
Huw Parmenter Huw is a Welsh given name, a variant of Hugo or Hugh. Notable people with the name include: *Huw Bennett (born 1983), Welsh rugby player *Huw Bunford (born 1967), guitarist in the Welsh rock band Super Furry Animals * Huw Cadwaladr, Welsh poet * ...
, appears on 18 June. He is a French
curate A curate () is a person who is invested with the ''care'' or ''cure'' (''cura'') ''of souls'' of a parish. In this sense, "curate" means a parish priest; but in English-speaking countries the term ''curate'' is commonly used to describe clergy w ...
who arrives in Walford with
Reverend Stevens The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the UK BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' in 2005, by order of first appearance. Johnny Allen Johnny Allen, played by Billy Murray (actor), Billy Murray, first appears in January 2005, ...
(
Michael Keating Michael, Mike or Mickey Keating may refer to: Politics * Michael Keating (Irish politician) (born 1946), Fine Gael then Progressive Democrats TD from Dublin * Michael Keating (Manitoba politician) * Michael Keating (political scientist) (born 1950) ...
).
Dot Cotton Dorothy "Dot" Branning (also Cotton) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, '' EastEnders'', played by June Brown. In a special episode entitled ''EastEnders: Dot's Story'' (2003) a young Dot was played by Tallulah Pitt-Brown in fl ...
(
June Brown June Muriel Brown (16 February 1927 – 3 April 2022) was an English actress and author. She was best known for her role as Dot Cotton on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' (1985–1993; 1997–2020). In 2005, she won Best Actress at the ''In ...
) asks her step-granddaughter
Abi Branning Abi Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lorna Fitzgerald. She was introduced by executive producer Kate Harwood on 3 July 2006 as an extension to the Branning family, along with father Max (J ...
(
Lorna Fitzgerald Lorna Katie Fitzgerald (born 17 April 1996) is a British actress from Northampton. Her most notable role to date is that of Abi Branning in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. Since leaving ''EastEnders'' in January 2018, Fitzgerald has develope ...
) to show Albert around. Gary Gillatt from ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' wrote of Albert: "We were entirely mystified as to the purpose of Albert (pronounced "Al-bear") the French curate in Walford this week. "Ze poverty! Ze vermin! Ze underworld!" he enthused to Abi—so he's clearly a fan of ''EastEnders''. But what was he for?"


Carl White

Carl White, played by
Daniel Coonan Daniel Coonan is a British actor. Early life Coonan was brought up in Haringey, in north London, moving to Plymouth, Devon in his teens, where he took up acting lessons. He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Career After ...
, is the ex-boyfriend of
Kirsty Branning The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Kierston Wareing Kierston Wareing (born 7 January 1976) is a British actress. Her first film role was the lead in Ken Loach's '' It's a Free World...'', followed by a supporting role in Andrea Arnold's ''Fish Tank'' – which won the BAFTA award for ‘Best Bri ...
). He made his first appearance on 20 June 2013. The character was axed in September 2013, and he made his last appearance on 1 January 2014, when he was murdered by
Ronnie Mitchell Veronica "Ronnie" Branning (also Mitchell) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', played by Samantha Womack. She and her younger sister Roxy Mitchell (played by Rita Simons) were introduced by executive producer Dieder ...
(
Samantha Womack Samantha Zoe Womack (''Birth name, née'' Janus; born 2 November 1972) is an English actress, singer, model and director who has worked in film, television and stage. Womack initially planned a career in singing and she represented the Unite ...
). The character and Coonan's casting were announced on 6 May 2013, when it was revealed that Carl has been in prison, where he had previously shared a cell with
Derek Branning Derek Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Terence Beesley in 1996 and then Jamie Foreman from 2011 to 2012. Derek is the eldest child of Jim Branning (John Bardon) and Reenie Branning (Joy Graham). ...
(
Jamie Foreman Jamie Foreman (born 25 May 1958) is an English actor best known for his roles as Duke in ''Layer Cake'' (2004) and Bill Sikes in Roman Polanski's ''Oliver Twist'' (2005). Career Foreman played opposite Ray Winstone and Kathy Burke in Gary Oldm ...
). Coonan said of his casting: "''EastEnders'' has been a part of my life since I was 12 years old. I even remember talking about the storylines in school playgrounds in Tottenham and I am very happy and proud to now be a small part of its life." Executive producer
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
said: "It's wonderful to have Daniel Coonan joining us in Walford to play Carl White." This is Coonan's second role in ''EastEnders'', as he played
David Priors The following are characters who first appeared, or returned, in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2011 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. The first main character ...
in 2011.


Betty Spragg

Betty Spragg, played by
Tessa Wyatt Tessa Wyatt (born 23 April 1948) is an English actress best known for her role as Vicky Tripp (née Nicholls) on the ITV sitcom '' Robin's Nest''. Early life Wyatt was born in Woking, Surrey in 1948 and attended Elmhurst Ballet School. She was e ...
, first appeared on 5 July 2013. Having previously been asked by
Patrick Trueman Patrick Trueman is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Rudolph Walker. He made his first appearance on 13 September 2001. His storylines include being the possible father of Denise Fox (Diane Parish), to whom ...
(
Rudolph Walker Rudolph Malcolm Walker (born 28 September 1939) is a Trinidadian-British actor, known for his sitcom roles as Bill Reynolds in ''Love Thy Neighbour'' (1972–76) and Constable Frank Gladstone in '' The Thin Blue Line'' (1995–96). Since 2001, ...
) to be his dance partner,
Cora Cross Cora Cross is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Ann Mitchell. Cora is the mother of Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner), Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks) and Ava Hartman ( Claire Perkins) and the grandmother of Lauren (J ...
(
Ann Mitchell Ann Mitchell (born 22 April 1939) is a British stage and television actress. She came to prominence in the 1980s when she starred as Dolly Rawlins in the crime series ''Widows'' as well as the sequels '' Widows 2'' and ''She's Out'', all writte ...
) arrives at his house to discover she is too late as Patrick has found Betty to be his dance partner. Betty further infuriates Cora by baking cakes for Patrick and giving him attention. Cora calls Betty "ridiculous" behind her back. When Patrick and Betty dance together again, he realises he would prefer someone more exciting, but is unable to let Betty down, agreeing to dance again the next day. However Patrick soon ends his friendship with Betty, and resumes his relationship with Cora. Wyatt's casting was announced on 13 June 2013, when it was revealed that Betty is a dance partner and companion of Patrick who will reportedly clash with Cora, forcing Patrick to choose between the two women. Betty, a
Women's Institute The Women's Institute (WI) is a community-based organisation for women in the United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand. The movement was founded in Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada, by Erland and Janet Lee with Adelaide Hoodless being th ...
member, is a guest character, but Wyatt said she would not turn down the opportunity to extend the role.


Ollie Walters

Ollie Walters, played by
Tony O'Callaghan Tony O'Callaghan (born 16 June 1956) is an English television actor. His most notable role is that of Sergeant Matt Boyden on the British television series ''The Bill'' from 1991 to 2003. He had previously appeared as a villain in ''The Bill'' i ...
, is a recurring character who appears in four separate stints, from 11 July to 17 September 2013, 7 August 2014, 6 and 7 July, 17 and 18 December 2015, 19 to 21 January 2016, and finally on 14 April 2016. On 10 June 2018, it was announced that Ollie would return later in the year. He made an appearance in two episodes broadcast on 29 June. Ollie first appears at the local allotments and overhears
Jean Slater Jean Slater (also Walters) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', played by Gillian Wright. Her first appearance is in the episode first broadcast in the United Kingdom on 16 December 2004. Having only been introduced ...
(
Gillian Wright Gillian Wright (born 5 May 1960) is an English actress, best known for portraying the role of Jean Slater on the BBC One, BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2004, for which she has won a number of awards. She was a teacher and theatre directo ...
) talking about what vegetables she hopes to grow. He introduces himself to her and gives her advice, saying he will keep an eye on her. The next time they meet, he upsets her because she is overwhelmed by his constant talking. He apologises via a note on a fork. They meet again at a speed dating event, and she agrees to see him again. They go on a date but she worries when he says he is a police officer, because she has broken the law. He says he does not care about that and they kiss. Later, she worries he will be put off by the fact she has
bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a mental disorder characterized by periods of depression and periods of abnormally elevated mood that last from days to weeks each. If the elevated mood is severe or associated with ...
, so does not tell him. She does tell him eventually because he thinks she is acting strangely, but she walks away before he can speak. He researches the condition and tells Jean he wants to continue to see her. However, when she cleans instead of getting ready to go out, he says they can go out another night and she thinks he is scared of her bipolar and thinks their relationship is over. He returns a few days later and tells Jean's in-law
Kat Slater Kathleen "Kat" Slater (also Moon) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Jessie Wallace. She is also played by Kate Peck in a flashback in 2001 and Sumar-Elise Sandford in a flashback in 2018. Kat is the sec ...
(
Jessie Wallace Karen Jane Wallace (born 25 September 1971), known professionally as Jessie Wallace, is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Kat Slater on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2000. Her role as Kat won her the Nationa ...
) that he made a mistake, but she warns him to stay away. When Jean's friend
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
) prepares to leave, she urges Jean to make up with Ollie. Jean discovers that Ollie has given up his patch at the allotments. She discovers he is retiring to Brighton but is having a party first, so she decides to go, but leaves without seeing Ollie when his friend
Frank Frank or Franks may refer to: People * Frank (given name) * Frank (surname) * Franks (surname) * Franks, a medieval Germanic people * Frank, a term in the Muslim world for all western Europeans, particularly during the Crusades - see Farang Curre ...
(Patrick Driver) makes fun of mental illness. The next day, she misses Ollie and is surprised when he arrives to say goodbye. He admits that he loves her and she agrees to come to Brighton with him, but Kat convinces Jean to stay. However, when Kat realises that Jean loves Ollie, she enlists
Alfie Moon Alfie Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shane Richie. He made his first appearance on 21 November 2002, and left on 25 December 2005. He returned to ''EastEnders'' on 21 September 2010, following the ...
's (
Shane Richie Shane Patrick Paul Roche (born 11 March 1964), known as Shane Richie, is a British actor, comedian, television presenter and singer. Following initial success as a stage and screen performer, he became best known for his portrayal of the charac ...
) help to find him, but they fear they are too late. Ollie finds Jean at the allotments, saying he has cancelled his move so he can stay with her, but she says he cannot stay just for her. They declare their love for one another, and leave for Brighton together with Kat's blessing. When Jean's daughter
Stacey Slater Stacey Slater (also Branning and Fowler) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Lacey Turner. She first appears in episode 2826, originally broadcast on 1 November 2004. The character is introduced as a fe ...
(
Lacey Turner Lacey Amelia Turner (born 28 March 1988) is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Stacey Slater on the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' (2004–2010, 2014–present), for which she has won over thirty awards, including four ...
), confesses to killing
Archie Mitchell Archibald Lionel "Archie" Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Larry Lamb. He first appeared on 8 July 2008 as a newest member of the Mitchell family—who had first appeared on the soap in 1990— ...
(
Larry Lamb Lawrence Douglas Lamb (born 1 October 1947) is an English actor and radio presenter. He played Archie Mitchell in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', Mick Shipman in the BBC comedy series ''Gavin & Stacey'' and Ted Case in the final series of ...
), and is sentenced to five years in prison, her daughter
Lily Slater The following are characters who first appeared, or returned, in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2010 listed by order of first appearance. Executive producer Diederick Santer left ''EastEnders'' on 26 February 2010, handing over to Bry ...
(Aine Garvey) goes to live with Jean and Ollie. Five months later, Jean and Lily arrive at Kat and Alfie's house, and Jean says she and Ollie have split up. Jean attempts suicide, after which Ollie visits her in hospital and says they have not split up and is upset that Jean did not talk to him about her problems. One year later, Jean returns to Walford and reveals to Stacey that Ollie has proposed to her and that they are getting married. Ollie arrives in Walford the next day, but Jean is upset so Ollie immediately takes her back to Brighton. Ollie and Jean then get married. When Jean and Ollie visit Walford in December, Stacey tells Jean she is being followed. Ollie reveals someone visited Jean back in Brighton and when Stacey asks Jean who he is, only then it emerges that Stacey's father, Brian, secretly had another family, and Stacey discovers the man following her is actually her half brother
Kyle Slater The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' in 2015, by order of first appearance. All characters were introduced by the show's executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins. January saw the ar ...
( Riley Carter Millington). Ollie is shocked as to why Jean did not tell him, and Jean says that she wanted to forget it and to start afresh. Jean and Ollie return later to meet Stacey's newborn son
Arthur Fowler Arthur Fowler is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Bill Treacher from 1985 to 1996. The father of the Fowler family, Arthur was essentially a good man but made some foolish choices that he always ended up ...
. Stacey is hospitalised after suffering with
postpartum psychosis Postpartum psychosis, also known as puerperal psychosis, involves the abrupt onset of severe mental illness shortly following childbirth. While symptoms of postpartum psychosis have long been observed in mothers, the phenomenon eventually came t ...
so Jean and Ollie stay in a hotel nearby in case Stacey needs them. They then return to Brighton. In December 2017, Stacey leaves Walford with her children to stay with Jean and Ollie for a few weeks, after admitting to cheating on Martin with
Max Branning Max Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Jake Wood. He made his first appearance on 27 June 2006. Wood took a four-month break from the show in 2011 and the character was absent between August and Nov ...
(
Jake Wood Jake Dylan Wood (born 12 July 1972) is an English actor and podcaster, known for his role as Max Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. He has also made guest appearances in series including ''Only Fools and Horses'' and ''Red Dwarf''. ...
). When Jean returns to Walford in March 2018, Kat asks why Jean is avoiding returning home. Jean admits that Ollie has hurt her. Kat and Stacey invite Ollie to Walford but he denies hitting her. Jean says that Ollie kissed a woman, Elsie, which is why she left, but she still loves Ollie and wants to go home with him, however, Ollie accidentally calls her by Elsie's name so she realises he has been having an affair. Jean then asks Ollie to leave after returning her wedding ring, and she later files for a divorce. The character and O'Callaghan's casting were announced on 13 June 2013, when it was revealed that Ollie is a gardening enthusiast and a love interest for Jean after she gets her own allotment. O'Callaghan said of his casting, "I am very excited to be joining a show with as much prestige as ''EastEnders'' and I'm looking forward to portraying the nice side and humour of Ollie." Since leaving the series in September 2013, O'Callaghan and Wright have returned to the show for three guest stints. Jean returned in August 2014, with Ollie appearing once on 7 August. She returned again in July 2015 when Jean and Ollie married. This saw Ollie appear on 6 and 7 July 2015. Jean returned to the show in December 2015, with Ollie appearing on 17 and 18 December.BBC One – EastEnders, 17/12/2015
/ref>BBC One – EastEnders, 18/12/2015
/ref> Jean returned again in March 2018 and on 10 June 2018 it was confirmed that O'Callaghan would reprise the role once again for a "brief return".


Nora White

Nora White, played
Lynn Farleigh Marilyn J. "Lynn" Farleigh (born 3 May 1942) is an English actress of stage and screen. Early life Farleigh was born in Bath, Somerset on 3 May 1942 to Joseph Sydney Farleigh and his wife Marjorie Norah (née Clark). She attended the Redlan ...
, is the mother of
Carl Carl may refer to: *Carl, Georgia, city in USA *Carl, West Virginia, an unincorporated community * Carl (name), includes info about the name, variations of the name, and a list of people with the name *Carl², a TV series * "Carl", an episode of te ...
(
Daniel Coonan Daniel Coonan is a British actor. Early life Coonan was brought up in Haringey, in north London, moving to Plymouth, Devon in his teens, where he took up acting lessons. He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Career After ...
) and Adam White (Ben Wigzell). She appears on 23 July 2013, when Carl and his ex-girlfriend
Kirsty Branning The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Kierston Wareing Kierston Wareing (born 7 January 1976) is a British actress. Her first film role was the lead in Ken Loach's '' It's a Free World...'', followed by a supporting role in Andrea Arnold's ''Fish Tank'' – which won the BAFTA award for ‘Best Bri ...
) decide to visit her in her nursing home for her birthday. Nora does not know they have split up, and she says she is pleased they are still together. While Carl gets some tea, Nora tells Kirsty she hopes for a grandchild from them, but while Kirsty gets a vase for her flowers, Nora takes Carl's hand and digs her nails in, threatening to kill him if he hurts Kirsty, comparing him to his "pathetic" father. Carl and Kirsty leave, and Kirsty can tell Carl is troubled, but does not see the cuts on his hand. Nora returns to Walford in March 2014. Carl has not been in contact with her for over three months. A meeting with
Roxy Mitchell Roxanne "Roxy" Mitchell (also Slater) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Rita Simons.Rita Simons Rita Joanne Simons (born 10 March 1977) is an English actress and singer from London. She is best known for playing Roxy Mitchell in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2007 to 2017, when her character was killed-off, alongside her on screen ...
), Carl's girlfriend, is arranged but Roxy's sister
Ronnie Ronnie may refer to: *Ronnie (name), a unisex pet name and given name * "Ronnie" (Four Seasons song), a song by Bob Gaudio and Bob Crewe *"Ronnie," a song from the Metallica album ''Load'' *Ronnie Brunswijkstadion, an association football stadium ...
(
Samantha Womack Samantha Zoe Womack (''Birth name, née'' Janus; born 2 November 1972) is an English actress, singer, model and director who has worked in film, television and stage. Womack initially planned a career in singing and she represented the Unite ...
) tricks her into believing that she is Roxy. Carl's brother,
Adam Adam; el, Ἀδάμ, Adám; la, Adam is the name given in Genesis 1-5 to the first human. Beyond its use as the name of the first man, ''adam'' is also used in the Bible as a pronoun, individually as "a human" and in a collective sense as " ...
(Ben Wigzell) joins her in Walford, and shows her a picture of Roxy, making Nora realise that she had been lied to. Adam kidnaps
Lexi Pearce The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
, which Nora is unhappy about. They arrange to meet Ronnie, who brings Lexi's grandfather
Phil Mitchell Phil Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Steve McFadden. He was introduced to the soap opera on 20 February 1990 and was followed by his brother Grant Mitchell (EastEnders), Grant (Ross Kemp), s ...
(
Steve McFadden Steve Robert McFadden (né Reid; born 20 March 1959) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Phil Mitchell in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'', which he has played since 1990. He was also the presenter of the game show, ''Britain's ...
) as back up. Nora demands to know what happened to Carl in return for Lexi but Phil manages to convince Adam to give Lexi back to them. Nora begs the Mitchells for answers causing Ronnie to break down and admit that she killed him, leaving a distraught Nora and Adam shocked. Ronnie later has Adam beaten up by Aleks Shirovs (
Kristian Kiehling Kristian Kiehling (born 17 September 1976) is a Danish-born German television, film and stage actor and filmmaker. In Germany he is known for ' (2004), ''Tsunami'' (2005) and ''Verbotene Liebe'' (2013); and in Britain for '' All the Small Thin ...
) and she and Phil visit Adam in hospital whilst Nora sits by his bedside. Ronnie warns the Whites to leave them alone, threatening them with more violence if they do not. She and Phil then leave. Nora has not been seen since. ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' called Nora "pure, unbridled evil", saying she may be the reason Carl is such a menace. They explained that there is tension between Carl and Nora, and Nora is charming to Carl's ex-girlfriend
Kirsty Branning The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Kierston Wareing Kierston Wareing (born 7 January 1976) is a British actress. Her first film role was the lead in Ken Loach's '' It's a Free World...'', followed by a supporting role in Andrea Arnold's ''Fish Tank'' – which won the BAFTA award for ‘Best Bri ...
) but when Kirsty is out of the room, "Nora shows her true colours", digging her fingernails into Carl's hand while urging Carl not to lose Kirsty, unaware they are no longer a couple. The magazine compared this behaviour to Carl's burning
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
's (
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
) hand, speculating that he "learnt everything from his evil mum". David Brown from ''
Radio Times ''Radio Times'' (currently styled as ''RadioTimes'') is a British weekly listings magazine devoted to television and radio programme schedules, with other features such as interviews, film reviews and lifestyle items. Founded in May 1923 by J ...
'' suggested bringing Nora back, saying she "was ten times more intimidating han Carland she was only in one episode. ..Get Carl and his old ma to join forces—then we'd be getting somewhere." Coonan said that Nora is "dominating and horrible" and shows that Carl has "demons within his own family" and a "troubled background". Nora reappeared on 10 March 2014, along with Adam to find the truth about Carl's death.


Sadie Young

Sadie Young, played by
Kate Magowan Katie Victoria "Kate" Magowan (born 1 June 1975) is an English actress and producer. She has been in film, theatre, television and radio productions. Her best known role is Princess Una in the 2007 feature film '' Stardust''. She is married to ...
, made her first appearance on 5 August 2013. She is the new owner of the beauty salon. She asks
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
(
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
) for food samples, which she hands out to customers, but refuses to place an order from him for the salon opening. However, she offers Ian the job after his partner
Denise Fox Denise Fox (also Wicks and Johnson) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Diane Parish. She made her first appearance on 11 May 2006 and temporarily left ''EastEnders'' in early 2008 to give birth to her s ...
(
Diane Parish Diane Parish (born 1 November 1969) is an English actress, who has been portraying the character Denise Fox on the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2006 Born in Chelsea, London and a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Pari ...
) confronts her. She re-employs
Poppy Meadow Poppy Meadow is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Rachel Bright. She was introduced by executive producer Bryan Kirkwood on 11 January 2011 as the best friend of established character Jodie Gold (Kylie Babbi ...
(
Rachel Bright Rachel Bright is an English actress, known for portraying the role of Poppy Meadow in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Bright was introduced as Poppy Meadow on the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' in two episodes on 11 and 13 January 2 ...
) and
Lola Pearce Lola Pearce is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Danielle Harold. She is introduced as the granddaughter of Billy Mitchell (EastEnders), Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) and Julie Perkins (Cathy Murphy), and a ...
(
Danielle Harold Danielle Amy Louise Harold (born 30 May 1992) is an English actress. She is known for her role as Lola Pearce in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', which she played from 2011 to 2015, and reprised the role from 2019 to 2023. Career Before Har ...
) in the salon, and on their opening night, offers a bonus to whoever sells the most, offering customers a discount of 25%. Poppy tells Lola the wrong discount, but tells Sadie she said the correct discount, so Poppy receives the bonus. When Poppy admits the truth, she leaves the job, but later apologises, saying she wants to be like Sadie, and returns the bonus money, so Sadie offers her job back. She gives
Lauren Branning Lauren Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. The role was originated by Madeline Duggan, who first appeared on 3 July 2006. Duggan played the role for four years until her exit on 23 June 2010. Three months l ...
(
Jacqueline Jossa Jacqueline Mary Osborne (''née'' Jossa) (born 29 October 1992) is an English actress and television presenter. She is known for portraying Lauren Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2010 to 2022, and winning the nineteenth serie ...
) a job at the salon when her father Max (
Jake Wood Jake Dylan Wood (born 12 July 1972) is an English actor and podcaster, known for his role as Max Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. He has also made guest appearances in series including ''Only Fools and Horses'' and ''Red Dwarf''. ...
) agrees to pay her wages in secret. She is forced to let Lauren go when Max is arrested and sent to prison. She clashes with
Kim Fox Kim Fox (also Fox-Hubbard) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Tameka Empson. She is the half-sister of Denise Fox (Diane Parish), and aunt to Chelsea Fox (Tiana Benjamin/Zaraah Abrahams) and Libby Fox (Bel ...
(
Tameka Empson Tameka Empson (born 16 April 1977) is an English actress and comedian. She appeared as one of the three protagonists in the hidden-camera comedy sketch show ''3 Non-Blondes''. In 2009, she began portraying the role of Kim Fox in the BBC soap ...
) when rubbish bags start building up in the Square, and leads a group of residents to get the council to increase their rubbish collections. Sadie finally moves to her new home on
Albert Square Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
, and it is revealed that she is married to
Jake Stone Jake Stone is the name of: *Jake Stone (singer) Bluejuice was an Australian band based in Sydney, active between 2000 and 2014. The group's final line-up consisted of lead vocalist Jake Stone, backing vocalist Stavros Yiannoukas, bassist Jami ...
(
Jamie Lomas James Lomas (born 21 April 1975) is an English actor, known for his soap opera roles as Warren Fox in ''Hollyoaks'' and Jake Stone in ''EastEnders''. Life and career Lomas was born in Manchester. Before joining ''Hollyoaks'' in 2006, he had m ...
). Sadie and Jake had been separated due to Jake's alcoholism, but they have decided to give their marriage a second chance. Sadie and Jake move to Albert Square, but on their first night it is revealed that years before they accidentally hit a girl with their car and killed her while they were arguing. Lauren and Jake resume their affair behind Sadie's back. Sadie learns of the affair and she leaves with their daughter
Bella Bella is a feminine given name. It is a diminutive form of names ending in -bella. ''Bella'' is related to the Italian, Spanish, Greek, Portuguese and Latin words for beautiful, to the name Belle, meaning ''beautiful'' in French. It increased in ...
(Isobelle Molloy), returning briefly the following day to close the salon. Sadie is a "glamorous" businesswoman. The character and Magowan's casting were announced on 12 July 2013, when it was said that Sadie is "bound to bring some class to Albert Square". It was said that the character would be "shrouded in mystery" initially. Magowan said of her casting, "I'm thrilled to be joining ''EastEnders'' and look forward to seeing what the character of Sadie will get up to in
Walford Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
." Executive producer
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
said, "We're delighted to have the stunning Kate Magowan joining the show. Sadie will sprinkle a little glamour over Walford and—with her no-nonsense approach to life—she's a great role model to those around her. She knows what she wants and will aim high. Sadie plays as hard as she works, creating friendships and admirers in her wake. As the autumn unfolds, we'll soon realise that there is far more to Sadie than simply meets the eye." Magowan was only brought in for the storyline with Lauren and Jake, and it was confirmed in October 2013 that she would leave the show permanently . Magowan filmed her final scenes on 12 December 2013. ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' said Sadie was a "welcome addition" to the cast, calling her a "breath of fresh air", "smart", "sexy", "mysterious" and "intriguing".


Jake Stone

Jake Stone is played by
Jamie Lomas James Lomas (born 21 April 1975) is an English actor, known for his soap opera roles as Warren Fox in ''Hollyoaks'' and Jake Stone in ''EastEnders''. Life and career Lomas was born in Manchester. Before joining ''Hollyoaks'' in 2006, he had m ...
and made his first appearance on 15 August 2013, when he meets
Lauren Branning Lauren Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. The role was originated by Madeline Duggan, who first appeared on 3 July 2006. Duggan played the role for four years until her exit on 23 June 2010. Three months l ...
(
Jacqueline Jossa Jacqueline Mary Osborne (''née'' Jossa) (born 29 October 1992) is an English actress and television presenter. She is known for portraying Lauren Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2010 to 2022, and winning the nineteenth serie ...
) who is attending counselling for alcoholism for the first time. She notices his wedding ring. He is angered when she laughs in a group therapy session. Afterwards he tells her that he was a chef and ran two restaurants in Manchester before alcohol ruined his career and marriage, though he and his wife are trying to mend their relationship. The next time they meet, Jake says he has split from his wife,
Sadie Young The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(
Kate Magowan Katie Victoria "Kate" Magowan (born 1 June 1975) is an English actress and producer. She has been in film, theatre, television and radio productions. Her best known role is Princess Una in the 2007 feature film '' Stardust''. She is married to ...
). Lauren starts leaning on Jake for support, because he understands her addiction when her family and friends do not. Jake and Lauren have an affair. Whilst arguing with Sadie, it is revealed that years before he and Sadie accidentally hit a girl with their car and killed her while they were arguing many years before. Jake gets a job at
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
's (
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
) restaurant, ''Scarlett's'', and continues his affair with Lauren behind Sadie's back. When Sadie discovers their affair, she leaves Walford with Bella. Unknown to
Jane Beale Lesley Jane Beale (also Clarke and Collins) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', played by Laurie Brett. She made her first appearance on 22 June 2004. Brett took maternity leave in 2011 and departed on 19 May. Sh ...
(
Laurie Brett Laurie Brett (born 28 March 1969) is a Scottish actress, best known for her roles as Jane Beale in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'' and Christine Mulgrew in the BBC One school-based drama series '' Waterloo Road''. Early and personal life ...
), Jake is later discovered by her in their restaurant. Ian invites him to sleep on his sofa, and asks
Alfie Moon Alfie Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shane Richie. He made his first appearance on 21 November 2002, and left on 25 December 2005. He returned to ''EastEnders'' on 21 September 2010, following the ...
(
Shane Richie Shane Patrick Paul Roche (born 11 March 1964), known as Shane Richie, is a British actor, comedian, television presenter and singer. Following initial success as a stage and screen performer, he became best known for his portrayal of the charac ...
) if he would give Jake a job at his burger van. Alfie agrees, and Jake and Aleks Shirovs (
Kristian Kiehling Kristian Kiehling (born 17 September 1976) is a Danish-born German television, film and stage actor and filmmaker. In Germany he is known for ' (2004), ''Tsunami'' (2005) and ''Verbotene Liebe'' (2013); and in Britain for '' All the Small Thin ...
) rent a flat. The burger van is later taken away, leaving Jake unemployed again. He seeks employment at the café, and also designs
Lucy Beale Lucy Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. The character was played by Eva Brittin-Snell (from 1993 to 1996), Casey Anne Rothery (from 1996 until 2004), Melissa Suffield (from 2004 to 2010), and Hetti Bywater ...
(
Hetti Bywater Harriet Jessica Phoebe “Hetti” Bywater (born 10 September 1994) is an English former actress. She is best known for portraying Lucy Beale in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', taking over the role from Melissa Suffield in January 2012 until ...
) a website for her new business, causing slight upset with her partner, Lauren. It is hinted that both Jake and Lucy are having a fling as both of them are seen constantly checking their phone and having occasional small talk. It is also implied when Lucy is in a rush to meet her mystery man for a date and Jake was preparing a meal whilst looking out his window, but this is disproved when it is revealed, in a conversation with Aleks, that he has actually been getting in contact with Sadie who refused to attend his meal last minute, as she has not forgiven him. He now works in Ian and Jane's new restaurant, where he sees
Lee Carter Lee Carter may refer to: *Lee Carter (baseball), American baseball player *Lee Carter (comics), British fantasy artist * Lee Carter (''EastEnders''), fictional character *Lee J. Carter (born 1987), member of the Virginia House of Delegates *Viper ( ...
(Danny-Boy Hatchard) and Lucy having a heart to heart moment. Jake is constantly seen watching both Lucy and Lauren around the square when they pass him, causing Aleks to jokingly taunt him claiming Jake has an obsession with them. Lucy is later killed in mysterious circumstances and when Lauren investigates her death, she discovers the police have already questioned Jake. It is revealed that Jake, under a different guise, sent an email to LB Lettings asking to meet Lauren, which was later read by Lucy. Lucy met with an intoxicated Jake on Walford Common, with Jake claiming that she sent him home in a taxi and he did not see her again. Lauren does not believe his claims, however, and thinks that he killed Lucy. He tries to convince her he is telling the truth but becomes forceful with her. After their confrontation, Lauren visits the police. Jake is later arrested after Lucy's blood and one of her earrings is found in his flat. Jake is remanded in custody, and a date set for his trial. However, three months later, he is released on bail after new evidence emerges. Jake returns to Tina and Tosh's apartment where Lauren visits him and apologises for accusing of him of murder. He tells her he is leaving for good, so he can be a father to Bella. In February 2015, he returns in a flashback episode of the night Lucy died to rule him out as her murderer. He is described as "sexy, charming and seductive", and is a recovering alcoholic who is unable to resist temptation. He is good looking and charming, but keeps his secrets to himself. The character and casting were announced on 20 June 2013. Lomas said, "I'm over the moon to be joining the cast of ''EastEnders''. I have admired the show for many years and I can't wait to start working with such a strong cast of actors. Jake Stone is a great character to play and I'm really looking forward to getting my teeth stuck into the role." Executive producer
Lorraine Newman Lorraine Newman (born 1978) is a British scriptwriter, television producer, and the executive producer of the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2012 to 2013. Newman, who has worked on ''EastEnders'' for "nearly 20 years", received the role of e ...
said, "We're delighted to welcome Jamie to the world of Walford. I have no doubt he'll make a big impact on screen as Jake Stone. The show's about to enter a really exciting period which Jamie will be a huge part of, with a great storyline allowing him to truly shine." Lomas started filming for his role in June 2013. In March 2014, it was announced Jake was axed and would leave at the end of Lomas's contract in July 2014.


Naomi

Naomi is played by Lisa Maxwell and appears as the girlfriend of
David Wicks David Wicks is a fictional character from the BBC TV soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Michael French. David originally appeared from 23 December 1993 to 21 November 1996. He returned to the show on 1 January 2012 and departed two weeks later ...
(
Michael French Michael French (born Michael Clark, 17 September 1962) is an English actor, known for his roles as David Wicks in ''EastEnders''; Nick Jordan, a consultant and Clinical Lead, Senior Consultant in emergency medicine in ''Casualty'' and former ca ...
) in one episode on 27 September 2013. Naomi appears at
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
's (
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
) door because she has been waiting outside for David. It emerges that Naomi is cheating on her husband
Don Don, don or DON and variants may refer to: Places *County Donegal, Ireland, Chapman code DON *Don (river), a river in European Russia *Don River (disambiguation), several other rivers with the name *Don, Benin, a town in Benin *Don, Dang, a vill ...
(Simon Thorp) with David and they have stolen his money and are planning to go away to Spain. David and Naomi talk in Carol's kitchen, where she discovers that David has taken £20,000 of the money to give to his daughter
Bianca Bianca is a feminine given name. It means "white" and is an Italian cognate of Blanche. Variants * Blanche: French * Bianca: Italian * Bianka (Polish, Hungarian, Slovak, German, English, French, Icelandic, Finnish, Dutch, Norwegian, Co ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
). Naomi dislikes this and the pair argue, with David saying they are just using each other. When David goes upstairs to speak to Carol, Naomi calls Don, who then arrives. Naomi gives Don back his money and tells him that David still has some of it. Don's associates, Leo (Andy Pilgrim) and
Mick Mick is a masculine given name, usually a short form (hypocorism) of Michael. Because of its popularity in Ireland, it is often used in England as a derogatory term for an Irish person or a person of Irish descent. In Australia the meaning broade ...
(James Cox), punch David and take the money. David follows as they leave the house and begs for the money, so they beat him as Carol watches on, and leave. Maxwell's appearance in the show was announced on 2 August 2013, when a statement said, "Viewers won't be surprised to see the lothario with a woman in tow, however things aren't quite what they seem when the past quickly catches up with them." Maxwell said of her casting, "I've had a fantastic time filming at ''EastEnders'' and working with the wonderful Michael
rench The Rench is a right-hand tributary of the Rhine in the Ortenau (Baden (Land), Central Baden, Germany). It rises on the southern edge of the Northern Black Forest at Kniebis near Bad Griesbach im Schwarzwald. The source farthest from the mouth is ...
Lindsey
oulson On 13 January 2014, retired American SWAT commander Curtis J. Reeves Jr. shot and killed retired American Gulf War veteran Chad Oulson in a Cobb Theatres movie theater in Wesley Chapel, Florida, United States. The shooting occurred during the mov ...
and Nitin [Ganatra,
Masood Ahmed Masood Ahmed is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Nitin Ganatra. The character made his first appearance in episode 3452, first broadcast in the United Kingdom on 16 October 2007. Masood was introduced as p ...
] has been an absolute joy. I can honestly say it's one of the happiest jobs I've done. Michael French is an amazing actor and to be part of such an iconic character's return to the Square felt very special." Maxwell revealed in an interview with ''
Radio Times ''Radio Times'' (currently styled as ''RadioTimes'') is a British weekly listings magazine devoted to television and radio programme schedules, with other features such as interviews, film reviews and lifestyle items. Founded in May 1923 by J ...
'' that she filmed her scenes over a period of "about a week", but she lost her voice on her first day of rehearsals, and said by the time she started filming, "I barely had any voice. I don't know if anybody could tell, but I knew, because I had to breathe properly and make sure that my voice was there. It was a concern for me at one point!" She called the character "fun", and explained Naomi's story: "David Wicks has been in Spain, where Naomi lives with her husband, Don. David and Don are what you would loosely term 'business associates'. Her husband's a bit dodgy and he probably had a few bad goings on in the past. Naomi and Don are back and forth between Spain and Essex, having businesses in both places. But David and Naomi are having an affair and they've decided to nick Don's money and do a runner. But on the way he decides he wants to stop off and see Bianca and bung her a few quid, which is how they find themselves in Albert Square." She explained that she thinks Naomi does love David, but called her "quite a manipulative character", adding that "She's tough, she likes the nice things in life and I imagine that she couldn't be happy without money! And in that sense she's been thoroughly spoilt by Don. So I think she does love David, but only the condition that he's got a few quid. As long as David can provide for her then I think she'd stay with him." Maxwell went on to say that Naomi could return to the series, saying, "She's in love with David Wicks and they've been having an affair for quite some time, from what I gather, so there's unfinished business there. ..If the experience working on ''EastEnders'' is anything like the one I had doing that episode, then in a heartbeat I'd go back."


Terry Spraggan

Terry Spraggan is played by comedian
Terry Alderton Terry John Alderton (born 31 October 1970) is an English comedian who had acting and presenting roles in the early 2000s before returning to stand-up comedy a decade later. Personal life Alderton was born on 31 October 1970 in Rochford, Es ...
. His first appearance is in episode 4741, first broadcast on 5 November 2013. In April 2014, it was announced that Terry would be leaving the series. He departs in episode 4924, first broadcast on 12 September 2014, although he makes a guest appearance in episode 5080, first broadcast on 5 June 2015. Terry arrives with
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
), who has returned from Manchester, and meets Bianca's parents
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
(
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
) and
David Wicks David Wicks is a fictional character from the BBC TV soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Michael French. David originally appeared from 23 December 1993 to 21 November 1996. He returned to the show on 1 January 2012 and departed two weeks later ...
(
Michael French Michael French (born Michael Clark, 17 September 1962) is an English actor, known for his roles as David Wicks in ''EastEnders''; Nick Jordan, a consultant and Clinical Lead, Senior Consultant in emergency medicine in ''Casualty'' and former ca ...
). Bianca then announces that Terry is moving in, along with his children, TJ (
George Sargeant George Sargeant (born 30 November 1997) is a British actor. He is best known for playing the role of TJ Spraggan in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Sargeant made his acting debut during a two part episode of the BBC medical drama '' D ...
) and Rosie (Jerzey Swingler), because his landlord has forced him to move out. Bianca's family struggle to accept Terry, as they know nothing about him. Terry's air hostess ex-wife
Nikki Spraggan The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
( Rachel Wilde) visits Terry and his new family with presents for TJ and Rosie. This makes Bianca's children jealous, and Bianca clashes with Nikki as a result. She visits again at Christmas, but over Christmas Dinner she clashes with Bianca when she accidentally spills gravy down her front and Bianca perceives this as being deliberate. She throws Terry and his family out as a result, and, although they reunite, he decides to rent his own place, around the corner, to live in with TJ and Rosie. Bianca helps Terry accept circumstances when Cindy becomes pregnant and reveals TJ is the father, and he clashes with Cindy's guardian,
Ian Beale Ian Beale is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Adam Woodyatt. He is the drama's longest-serving main character and, following the departure of Pauline Fowler ( Wendy Richard) in 2006, became the only one ...
(
Adam Woodyatt Adam Brinley Woodyatt (born 28 June 1968) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Ian Beale in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', which he played between 1985 and 2022. Early life and education Woodyatt was born on 28 June 1968 in W ...
). Carol develops cancer, and it is revealed she has a cancer susceptibility mutation in her BRCA2 gene, meaning that there is a 50% chance of Bianca having the gene and being extremely likely to develop breast cancer like her mother. As a result, Bianca struggles to cope and pushes Terry away. Terry steps up to support Bianca's adopted daughter,
Whitney Dean Whitney Dean (also Carter) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shona McGarty. The character is the ward of long-running character Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and was introduced on 1 April 2008 when Pal ...
(
Shona McGarty Shona McGarty (born 14 October 1991) is an English actress and singer who portrays Whitney Dean in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Career Before joining ''EastEnders'', McGarty had been involved in amateur musical theatre for six years, in ...
), but, in her upset state, Bianca accuses Terry of molesting her, like her ex-partner Tony King (
Chris Coghill Christopher Coghill (born 11 April 1975http://web.researcha.com/iccquery/detail/?did=816979&c=uk) is an English actor, having had roles in '' Shameless'', ''Burn It'', ''Hotel Babylon (BBC series), Hotel Babylon'', ''The Bill'', ''New Tricks'', ...
). As a result, Bianca and Terry split up. Terry supports his friend
Alfie Moon Alfie Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shane Richie. He made his first appearance on 21 November 2002, and left on 25 December 2005. He returned to ''EastEnders'' on 21 September 2010, following the ...
(
Shane Richie Shane Patrick Paul Roche (born 11 March 1964), known as Shane Richie, is a British actor, comedian, television presenter and singer. Following initial success as a stage and screen performer, he became best known for his portrayal of the charac ...
) through his wife Kat's (
Jessie Wallace Karen Jane Wallace (born 25 September 1971), known professionally as Jessie Wallace, is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Kat Slater on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2000. Her role as Kat won her the Nationa ...
) pregnancy. He attracts the attention of new market trader
Donna Yates Donna Yates may refer to: * Donna Yates (EastEnders) The following are characters who first appeared, or returned, in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2014 listed by order of first appearance. All new characters in 2014 were introduce ...
( Lisa Hammond), but it is clear his interests still lie with Bianca. It is later revealed that Terry and Bianca have secretly been seeing each other for two months, not telling anyone for fear of complicating things. Terry wants to tell the truth, but Bianca remains firm about keeping it a secret. TJ tells Bianca that they are moving to
Milton Keynes Milton Keynes ( ) is a city and the largest settlement in Buckinghamshire, England, about north-west of London. At the 2021 Census, the population of its urban area was over . The River Great Ouse forms its northern boundary; a tributary ...
, and she is angry with Terry as he did not tell her. He tells her he needs to move on as she obviously does not have the same feelings as he does. However, Bianca proves her commitment by telling Terry she loves him and agreeing to move to Milton Keynes with him. They take Bianca's children to see the house, and they agree to give living in Milton Keynes a go. Nine months later, Terry appears to collect his granddaughter,
Beth Williams Beth Williams may refer to: * Beth Williams (model) (born 1987), model and Playboy Playmate * Beth Ann Williams Beth Ann Williams (born July 14, 1979) is an American lawyer who has served as a board member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Ov ...
, from Ian and
Jane Beale Lesley Jane Beale (also Clarke and Collins) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders'', played by Laurie Brett. She made her first appearance on 22 June 2004. Brett took maternity leave in 2011 and departed on 19 May. Sh ...
(
Laurie Brett Laurie Brett (born 28 March 1969) is a Scottish actress, best known for her roles as Jane Beale in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'' and Christine Mulgrew in the BBC One school-based drama series '' Waterloo Road''. Early and personal life ...
).


Development

The character and Alderton's casting were announced on 23 August 2013, when it was announced he would be Bianca's new boyfriend, after meeting her off-screen in Manchester. Terry is a cab driver, described as a "typical Cockney" and a "bloke's bloke", who is "never short of an entertaining story to tell about who he's had in his cab the night before". It was announced that Terry would leave the soap later in 2014, as part of Bianca's exit storyline, and it was later confirmed that his children, TJ and Rosie, would leaving alongside him. Alderton filmed his final scenes on 18 July 2014.


TJ Spraggan

TJ Spraggan, played by
George Sargeant George Sargeant (born 30 November 1997) is a British actor. He is best known for playing the role of TJ Spraggan in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Sargeant made his acting debut during a two part episode of the BBC medical drama '' D ...
, is Terry Spraggan's (
Terry Alderton Terry John Alderton (born 31 October 1970) is an English comedian who had acting and presenting roles in the early 2000s before returning to stand-up comedy a decade later. Personal life Alderton was born on 31 October 1970 in Rochford, Es ...
) son. He makes his first appearance on 5 November 2013, and departed on 12 September 2014 after appearing in 28 episodes. Sargeant reprised the role in 2018 and the character appeared on 18 and 19 January. TJ first appears with his sister,
Rosie Spraggan The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Trea ...
(Jerzey Swingler), arriving together when their father moves to
Albert Square Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
with his new girlfriend
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
). TJ asks questions about a crime scene at the house next door, scaring Rosie when he tells her it was a murder. The two clash with Bianca's children, especially
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(James Forde). TJ finds out that Liam was once in a gang,
Whitney Dean Whitney Dean (also Carter) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shona McGarty. The character is the ward of long-running character Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and was introduced on 1 April 2008 when Pal ...
(
Shona McGarty Shona McGarty (born 14 October 1991) is an English actress and singer who portrays Whitney Dean in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Career Before joining ''EastEnders'', McGarty had been involved in amateur musical theatre for six years, in ...
) was sexually exploited and Bianca was imprisoned for assault, and is not happy about living with them, so calls his mother,
Nikki Spraggan The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(Rachel Wilde). She arrives but TJ changes his mind about wanting to go. Eventually, Bianca and Terry agree that Nikki should have Christmas dinner at theirs, because it is what Rosie and TJ want. When a positive pregnancy test is found, TJ meets with
Cindy Williams Cynthia Jane Williams (born August 22, 1947) is an American actress and producer, known for her role as Shirley Feeney on the television sitcom ''Happy Days'' (1975–1979), and '' Laverne & Shirley'' (1976–1982). Early life Williams was b ...
(
Mimi Keene Mimi Keene (born 5 August 1998) is an English actress. She is best known for her roles as Cindy Williams on the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'' (2013–2015) and Ruby Matthews on the Netflix comedy-drama series ''Sex Education'' (2019–presen ...
) and panics what they should do, revealing that she is pregnant with his child. Cindy initially decides to have a termination so they go to the abortion clinic, but after a disagreement, TJ leaves her there. Cindy later informs that TJ that she did not go through with the abortion and is keeping the baby. After talking to his father, TJ then tells Cindy that he is committed to raising their baby together. TJ stays with his gran for while until Cindy, who returns from
Plymouth Plymouth () is a port city and unitary authority in South West England. It is located on the south coast of Devon, approximately south-west of Exeter and south-west of London. It is bordered by Cornwall to the west and south-west. Plymouth ...
suddenly, gives birth to his daughter,
Beth Beth may refer to: Letter and number *Bet (letter), or beth, the second letter of the Semitic abjads (writing systems) *Hebrew word for "house", often used in the name of synagogues and schools (e.g. Beth Israel) Name *Beth (given name) lists p ...
. TJ struggles with the prospect of being a father so young, despite Terry's determination for him to face up to his responsibilities. He reveals to Bianca that Terry is planning to move them to
Milton Keynes Milton Keynes ( ) is a city and the largest settlement in Buckinghamshire, England, about north-west of London. At the 2021 Census, the population of its urban area was over . The River Great Ouse forms its northern boundary; a tributary ...
, and that is part of his reasoning for not wanting to get close to Beth; Bianca is initially furious, but later agrees to move there with them after reuniting with Terry. Liam is furious when he hears TJ saying that he wants nothing to do with Beth. Then before Terry and Bianca move to Milton Keynes, Liam takes TJ to see Beth one last time. TJ leaves with Bianca,
Morgan Butcher The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' which aired in 2008 (by order of first appearance). All characters were introduced by executive producer Diederick Santer. Santer introduced four ch ...
(Devon Higgs),
Tiffany Butcher Tiffany Butcher-Baker (also Dean and Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Maisie Smith. Tiffany is the daughter of established characters Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and Ricky Butcher (Sid Owen), ...
(
Maisie Smith Maisie Louise Collender Smith (born 9 July 2001) is an English actress and singer. She appeared in the feature film ''The Other Boleyn Girl'' (2008) and played the regular role of Tiffany Butcher in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2008 ...
), Rosie and Terry but Whitney and Liam stay. Nine months later, Cindy sends Beth to live with TJ and he takes over custody for her. Over three years after leaving, Tiffany returns to Walford and informs Whitney that Bianca has attempted suicide. When Whitney tries contacting Bianca, TJ tells her that Bianca is on a cruise. TJ and Whitney arrange to meet but TJ fails to provide any answers for Tiffany's behaviour. When Tiffany realises that TJ is in Walford, she disappears; TJ acts casual about her disappearance. When she returns, Tiffany reveals that Bianca and Terry left Tiffany in TJ's care but TJ had sex with random girls in the house and threatened Tiffany so that she would not tell anyone. Whitney orders TJ to leave and keeps Tiffany in her care. In an interview with Laura-Jayne Tyler of ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'', Alderton explained that TJ struggles to deal with the tension between Terry's children and Bianca's children. On 20 July 2014, it was announced that the Spraggan family would be written out of the series following Palmer's decision to quit. The characters departed on 12 September 2014. On 18 January 2018, Sargeant made an unannounced return to the series for two episodes following Tiffany's reintroduction.


Rosie Spraggan

Rosie Spraggan, played by Jerzey Swingler, is Terry Spraggan's (
Terry Alderton Terry John Alderton (born 31 October 1970) is an English comedian who had acting and presenting roles in the early 2000s before returning to stand-up comedy a decade later. Personal life Alderton was born on 31 October 1970 in Rochford, Es ...
) daughter. She first appears on 7 November 2013 with her brother, TJ (
George Sargeant George Sargeant (born 30 November 1997) is a British actor. He is best known for playing the role of TJ Spraggan in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Sargeant made his acting debut during a two part episode of the BBC medical drama '' D ...
), arriving together when their father moves to
Albert Square Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
with his new girlfriend
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
). TJ asks questions about a crime scene at the house next door, scaring Rosie when he tells her it was a murder. The two clash with Bianca's children, especially
Liam Butcher Liam Butcher is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Sonny Bottomley for two months in 1998 and 1999, twins Jack and Tom Godolphin from 1999, Gavin and Mitchell Vaughan in 2002, and Nathaniel Gleed from 2002 to ...
(James Forde). Bianca and Terry agree that Rosie's mother,
Nikki Spraggan The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Tread ...
(Rachel Wilde) should have Christmas dinner at theirs, because it is what Rosie and TJ want. Alderton told ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' that Rosie is "just as gobby as her dad", explaining that "if there's something to be eaten, she'll eat it—something to play with, she'll play with it." Rosie left alongside Terry and TJ on 12 September 2014.


Tina Carter

Tina Carter, played by
Luisa Bradshaw-White Luisa Bradshaw-White (born 9 December 1974) is a former English actress, known for playing Tina Carter in '' EastEnders'' and for her previous roles on '' Bad Girls'', '' Holby City'' and ''This Life''. She has also made appearances in televisi ...
, is the sister of
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
), aunt of
Mick Carter Mick Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' played by Danny Dyer, making his first appearance in the show in the episode originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 25 December 2013. Dyer's casting was announ ...
(
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
) and mother of
Zsa Zsa Carter Zsa Zsa Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' and its internet spin-off '' EastEnders: E20'', played by Emer Kenny. She is the daughter of Tina Carter (Luisa Bradshaw-White). She made her first appearance in ...
(
Emer Kenny Emer Gwynne Morganna Kenny (born 10 October 1989) is a British actress and screenwriter. Career Kenny made her professional debut in the 2007 BBC television drama ''Coming Down the Mountain'', and, in 2009, she made her film debut in Phil Clayd ...
). She first appears on 18 November 2013. Tina was first mentioned in the 2010 spin-off series ''
EastEnders: E20 ''EastEnders: E20'' (sometimes just ''E20'') is a British Internet soap opera, which began airing on 8 January 2010. A spin-off from the established BBC soap ''EastEnders'', it is set in ''EastEnders'' regular setting of Albert Square, a Victori ...
'', in which Zsa Zsa was a main character. The character and Bradshaw-White's casting were announced on 19 September 2013. It was said that Tina is similar to Shirley, and is "loud, brash, cheeky and full of energy". Bradshaw-White said of her casting, "I am so excited to be joining ''EastEnders'' to play Tina as she is such a brilliant character to play. Linda is an amazing person to work with and the energy between Shirley and Tina is explosive!" The character was originally going to be "an overweight 50-year-old who's past it", but was changed for Bradshaw-White.


Nikki Spraggan

Nikki Spraggan, played by Rachel Wilde, is Terry Spraggan's (
Terry Alderton Terry John Alderton (born 31 October 1970) is an English comedian who had acting and presenting roles in the early 2000s before returning to stand-up comedy a decade later. Personal life Alderton was born on 31 October 1970 in Rochford, Es ...
) ex-wife, and the mother of his children TJ (
George Sargeant George Sargeant (born 30 November 1997) is a British actor. He is best known for playing the role of TJ Spraggan in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. Career Sargeant made his acting debut during a two part episode of the BBC medical drama '' D ...
) and
Rosie Spraggan The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' during 2013, listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Lorraine Newman, executive producer until December 2013, when Dominic Trea ...
(Jerzey Swingler). She first appears on 2 December 2013. She visits
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
's (
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
) house after TJ telephones her, and Bianca begrudgingly invites her to lunch. However, Bianca is surprised when they bond, until Nikki reveals that Terry has lived with several women since they divorced. Nikki returns a few weeks later after TJ calls her, unhappy about living at Bianca's house. She insists that her children should live with her but TJ says he is happy to stay. Terry then says the children will stay with him for a family Christmas and Nikki invites herself. She arrives two days before Christmas with presents for TJ and Rosie, and Terry says the children can stay with Nikki for Christmas because she will be alone. On Christmas Day, Bianca tells Nikki that she wants her to let Terry go and she responds by saying that she did that three years before when they had separated. During Christmas dinner, Nikki accidentally spills gravy on Bianca and, believing Nikki did it on purpose, she throws milk over her and a food fight takes place. Bianca asks Terry, Nikki and the children to leave, which they do. However, he makes it clear that he blames her for ruining things with Bianca. In February, Bianca's father
David Wicks David Wicks is a fictional character from the BBC TV soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Michael French. David originally appeared from 23 December 1993 to 21 November 1996. He returned to the show on 1 January 2012 and departed two weeks later ...
(
Michael French Michael French (born Michael Clark, 17 September 1962) is an English actor, known for his roles as David Wicks in ''EastEnders''; Nick Jordan, a consultant and Clinical Lead, Senior Consultant in emergency medicine in ''Casualty'' and former ca ...
) invites Nikki to the square to talk to TJ when she learns that he has got
Cindy Williams Cynthia Jane Williams (born August 22, 1947) is an American actress and producer, known for her role as Shirley Feeney on the television sitcom ''Happy Days'' (1975–1979), and '' Laverne & Shirley'' (1976–1982). Early life Williams was b ...
(
Mimi Keene Mimi Keene (born 5 August 1998) is an English actress. She is best known for her roles as Cindy Williams on the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'' (2013–2015) and Ruby Matthews on the Netflix comedy-drama series ''Sex Education'' (2019–presen ...
) pregnant. After a heart-to-heart with TJ and advice from David, she decides to stay in Walford for her children's sake but continues to interfere in Terry and Bianca's relationship and attempts to seduce David. He initially resists and they are almost caught by Bianca, her half-sister
Sonia Fowler Sonia Fowler (also Jackson) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Natalie Cassidy. Her first appearance was on and she departed on She returned briefly in 2010 along with other members of the Jackson fam ...
(
Natalie Cassidy Natalie Ann Cassidy (born 13 May 1983) is an English actress. She has played Sonia Fowler in ''EastEnders'' since 1993, appeared in the BBC Two sitcom-horror ''Psychoville'' and was a contestant on the seventh series of ''Strictly Come Danci ...
) and her mother
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
(
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
). Nikki learns that Carol has breast cancer but promises not to say anything. David proposes to Carol and tells Nikki to stay away from him. However, he later responds to her advances and kisses Nikki. She later leaves on a flight for
Acapulco Acapulco de Juárez (), commonly called Acapulco ( , also , nah, Acapolco), is a city and major seaport in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, south of Mexico City. Acapulco is located on a deep, semicircular bay and has bee ...
but offers David the chance to come with her but he refuses, wanting to stay loyal to Carol. Nikki returns to the Square at Easter. She is heartbroken when she is transferred to the
check-in Check-in is the process whereby people announce their arrival at an office, hotel, airport, hospital, seaport or event. Office check-in Many offices have a reception or front office area near the entrance to greet or assist visitors arriving to a ...
desk at work and confides in David. She attempts to kiss him again when he comforts her but he rebuffs her advances. She even allows him to see her naked but he still rejects her. When Bianca discovers this, she attacks Nikki in the street, pushing her into a pile of rubbish. David does this too when Nikki again tries to tempt him on his and Carol's wedding day so Nikki goes back to work. In July, she returns and tells Terry that she is homeless, and he allows her to stay with him. Terry and Nikki contemplate getting back together, although new market stallholder
Donna Yates Donna Yates may refer to: * Donna Yates (EastEnders) The following are characters who first appeared, or returned, in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2014 listed by order of first appearance. All new characters in 2014 were introduce ...
( Lisa Hammond) is attracted to Terry. Terry and Nikki arrange to meet in
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house A pub (short for public house) is a kind of drinking establishment which is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term ''public house'' first appeared in the United Kingdom in late 17th century, and was ...
, but Terry does not show up as he is comforting Bianca and tells Nikki that he fell asleep on the sofa. Terry has second thoughts about reconciling with Nikki and when the couple have dinner that evening, Terry tells Nikki how he feels, explaining that whatever feelings they had once had for each other are gone and that they should not settle for each other. When Terry tells Nikki that he knows that she does not love him, she realises that he is right and decides to move out. Nikki packs her bags and after bidding farewell to Terry, she leaves Walford in a taxi to stay with some of her colleagues. It is later revealed that she has returned to work as a stewardess. Alderton described Nikki, a flight attendant, as "a selfish woman" who "thinks it's okay to pop back when she feels like it and pick up where she left off
ith the children The Ith () is a ridge in Germany's Central Uplands which is up to 439 m high. It lies about 40 km southwest of Hanover and, at 22 kilometres, is the longest line of crags in North Germany. Geography Location The Ith is immediatel ...
" ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' said that Nikki is "the picture of immaculate grooming" when she arrives, and that she causes friction between Terry and his new girlfriend
Bianca Butcher Bianca Jackson (also Butcher) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Patsy Palmer. The character was introduced by executive producer Leonard Lewis and appeared initially from 1993 to 1999, when Palmer opted ...
(
Patsy Palmer Julie Anne Merkell (''née'' Harris; born 26 May 1972), known professionally as Patsy Palmer, is an English actress and DJ, known for her roles as Natasha in the children's drama series ''Grange Hill'' (1985–1987), and Bianca Jackson in the BB ...
). The magazine also called her "scheming".


Tramp

Tramp is a stray dog found by
Abi Branning Abi Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lorna Fitzgerald. She was introduced by executive producer Kate Harwood on 3 July 2006 as an extension to the Branning family, along with father Max (J ...
(
Lorna Fitzgerald Lorna Katie Fitzgerald (born 17 April 1996) is a British actress from Northampton. Her most notable role to date is that of Abi Branning in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. Since leaving ''EastEnders'' in January 2018, Fitzgerald has develope ...
). He first appears on 3 December 2013. The dog wakes up several
Albert Square Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
residents in the night by barking, and in the morning, Abi tells her father
Max Branning Max Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Jake Wood. He made his first appearance on 27 June 2006. Wood took a four-month break from the show in 2011 and the character was absent between August and Nov ...
(
Jake Wood Jake Dylan Wood (born 12 July 1972) is an English actor and podcaster, known for his role as Max Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. He has also made guest appearances in series including ''Only Fools and Horses'' and ''Red Dwarf''. ...
) that she will deal with the dog. She immediately takes a liking to him and brings him in the house. Max wants him gone, but Abi says she has named him. Max calls him "Tramp" and when Abi's sister
Lauren Branning Lauren Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. The role was originated by Madeline Duggan, who first appeared on 3 July 2006. Duggan played the role for four years until her exit on 23 June 2010. Three months l ...
(
Jacqueline Jossa Jacqueline Mary Osborne (''née'' Jossa) (born 29 October 1992) is an English actress and television presenter. She is known for portraying Lauren Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' from 2010 to 2022, and winning the nineteenth serie ...
) arrives, she and Abi convince Max to let them keep the dog. He mates with the Carter family's bulldog, Lady Di, who becomes pregnant. Upset over her break-up with
Jay Brown Jay Brown (also Mitchell) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Jamie Borthwick. He made his first appearance on 14 December 2006. Jay's storylines since joining the programme have included being part of a ...
(
Jamie Borthwick Jamie Simon Borthwick (born 23 June 1994) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Jay Brown in the BBC One, BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2006. He is also known for his role in Not Going out as The kid who Kicks Lee Career Borth ...
), a drunken Abi tries to leave Albert Square, and when Max refuses to take her she decides to drive herself, but runs over Tramp, killing him. Tramp is played by a four-year-old rescue dog named Duffie. Duffie's owner, Chris Mancini, from Enfield Town, said: "I am so excited about seeing Duffie on ''EastEnders'' and this is the best moment of his career so far. He is in the programme for the foreseeable future and although he has done adverts in the past, this is the biggest job for him." Duffie was signed to Animal Ambassadors, and his breed is unknown. Jossa said of the new addition to the
Branning family The Branning family, together with the Jackson family are a fictional, extended family in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Introduced in 1993 were the Jackson family, consisting of Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson), her partner and later husban ...
, "Tramp is really cool and very well trained. He's big, scruffy and fluffy—and so cute!" She explained that in the first scene the Brannings filmed with the dog, Wood had to shout at Tramp and tell him to get out, and Tramp was supposed to stare and not move, but said that "Tramp got up and walked out right away. It was very funny!" Tramp's final appearance is on 19 February 2015 during a flashback episode.


Linda Carter

Linda Carter, played by
Kellie Bright Kellie Denise Bright (born 1 July 1976) is an English actress. Her roles include Linda Carter in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', for which she won the 2015 British Soap Award for Best Actress and Best Dramatic Performance, Julie in ''Ali G I ...
, is the partner of
Mick Carter Mick Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' played by Danny Dyer, making his first appearance in the show in the episode originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 25 December 2013. Dyer's casting was announ ...
(
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
). She was introduced by executive producer
Dominic Treadwell-Collins Dominic Treadwell-Collins (born 26 August 1977) is a British television producer, known for his work on the soap operas ''Family Affairs'' and ''EastEnders'', creating the ''EastEnders'' spin-off series ''Kat & Alfie: Redwater'' and Executive Pr ...
. Bright's casting was announced on 1 October 2013. From Boxing Day 2013 onwards, they became the new landlord and landlady of
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house A pub (short for public house) is a kind of drinking establishment which is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term ''public house'' first appeared in the United Kingdom in late 17th century, and was ...
. Mick and Linda, a former
glamour model A model is a person with a role either to promote, display or advertise commercial products (notably fashion clothing in fashion shows) or to serve as a visual aid for people who are creating works of art or to pose for photography. Though mo ...
, have been together since they were children, and she is the love of his life. The BBC said of Linda, "She's the first to admit she wasn't blessed with brains, but her fluffy candyfloss exterior belies an inner steel. A lioness who will fight tooth and nail for her brood, she can be 'more smother than mother'."


Mick Carter

Mick Carter, played by
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
, is the son of
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
), the brother of
Dean Wicks Dean Wicks (known as Deano in his initial stint) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Matt Di Angelo. He made his first appearance on 2 January 2006. It was announced on 18 August 2007 that the characters of ...
(
Matt Di Angelo Mario Angelo S Constantinou (born 1 May 1987), professionally known as Matt Di Angelo, is a British actor and singer, best known for his role as Dean Wicks in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. He also portrayed Sean Kennedy in the BBC drama s ...
) and the nephew of
Tina Carter Tina Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Luisa Bradshaw-White. She first appeared on 18 November 2013, and was introduced as the sister of established character Shirley Carter (Linda Henry). She ...
(
Luisa Bradshaw-White Luisa Bradshaw-White (born 9 December 1974) is a former English actress, known for playing Tina Carter in '' EastEnders'' and for her previous roles on '' Bad Girls'', '' Holby City'' and ''This Life''. She has also made appearances in televisi ...
). On 1 October 2013, it was announced that Dyer had been cast in the role of Shirley and Tina's younger brother, Mick, along with his partner
Linda Carter Linda Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Kellie Bright. She first appeared on 19 December 2013 and her casting was announced alongside her on-screen partner, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer). Linda was in ...
(
Kellie Bright Kellie Denise Bright (born 1 July 1976) is an English actress. Her roles include Linda Carter in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', for which she won the 2015 British Soap Award for Best Actress and Best Dramatic Performance, Julie in ''Ali G I ...
), though it emerged that he is actually Shirley's son. The character became the new landlord of
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house A pub (short for public house) is a kind of drinking establishment which is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term ''public house'' first appeared in the United Kingdom in late 17th century, and was ...
, appearing from Christmas 2013. Executive producer
Dominic Treadwell-Collins Dominic Treadwell-Collins (born 26 August 1977) is a British television producer, known for his work on the soap operas ''Family Affairs'' and ''EastEnders'', creating the ''EastEnders'' spin-off series ''Kat & Alfie: Redwater'' and Executive Pr ...
, who introduced the characters, said: "I'm so excited to have actors of Danny and Kellie's calibre joining what is an already strong and talented company of actors." Dyer said of his casting, "I am so excited about starting a new chapter in my career and cannot wait to become part of the East End family." Mick was described by the BBC as someone who loves his wife, his children, his pet dog, the monarchy, and the song "
Land of Hope and Glory "Land of Hope and Glory" is a British patriotic song, with music by Edward Elgar written in 1901 and lyrics by A. C. Benson later added in 1902. Composition The music to which the words of the refrain 'Land of Hope and Glory, &c' below ar ...
". He was called "a bloke's bloke" and it was said he would "apparently think nothing of throwing on Linda's pink dressing gown and cooking breakfast for the family." Upon the character's announcement, Treadwell-Collins explained that Mick and Linda had been married for over twenty years, and were moving to
Walford Walford is a fictional borough of east London in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. It is the primary setting for the soap. ''EastEnders'' is filmed at Borehamwood in Hertfordshire, towards the north-west of London. Much of the location work i ...
from
Watford Watford () is a town and borough in Hertfordshire, England, 15 miles northwest of Central London, on the River Colne. Initially a small market town, the Grand Junction Canal encouraged the construction of paper-making mills, print works, a ...
. He called it a "good marriage" and said they have "an easy shorthand with each other—but can also still fight like teenagers." He said that the characters would laugh, cry, argue and make up, which would embarrass their children, but would delight their neighbours. It was said that the couple "still love each other, no matter what life throws at them", and that after moving, "life's about to throw them a few curve balls."


Johnny Carter

Johnny Carter, played by
Sam Strike Samuel Harry Strike (born 18 January 1994) is an English actor. Life and career Strike was born in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. He starred in two revival series of CBBC's '' M.I. High'' as Dan Morgan from 2013–2014. In 2014, Strike guest starred ...
from 2013 to 2014 and
Ted Reilly Ted Reilly (born 14 September 1991) is a British actor, who played the role of Johnny Carter in '' EastEnders'' from 2016–2018, because the original actor chose not to return, and the show's producers recast the role. Before that, however, he ...
from 2016 to 2018, is the son of
Mick Carter Mick Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' played by Danny Dyer, making his first appearance in the show in the episode originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 25 December 2013. Dyer's casting was announ ...
(
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
) and
Linda Carter Linda Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Kellie Bright. She first appeared on 19 December 2013 and her casting was announced alongside her on-screen partner, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer). Linda was in ...
(
Kellie Bright Kellie Denise Bright (born 1 July 1976) is an English actress. Her roles include Linda Carter in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', for which she won the 2015 British Soap Award for Best Actress and Best Dramatic Performance, Julie in ''Ali G I ...
). Johnny makes his first appearance on 26 December 2013, moving into
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house A pub (short for public house) is a kind of drinking establishment which is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term ''public house'' first appeared in the United Kingdom in late 17th century, and was ...
with his mother and father. He soon meets
Whitney Dean Whitney Dean (also Carter) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Shona McGarty. The character is the ward of long-running character Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and was introduced on 1 April 2008 when Pal ...
(
Shona McGarty Shona McGarty (born 14 October 1991) is an English actress and singer who portrays Whitney Dean in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Career Before joining ''EastEnders'', McGarty had been involved in amateur musical theatre for six years, in ...
), and his parents tease him about being attractive to women. However, after
Danny Pennant The following are characters who first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' during 2012 listed by order of first appearance. New characters were introduced by Bryan Kirkwood, executive producer. He stepped down from the role in April. ...
(
Gary Lucy Gary Edward Lucy (born 27 November 1981) is an English actor, television personality and model who is best known for playing Will Fletcher in the ITV police drama ''The Bill'', Luke Morgan in ''Hollyoaks'', Kyle Pascoe in ''Footballer's Wives' ...
) compliments Johnny on his looks, Johnny asks if he meant it, leading to them kissing, which his grandmother
Shirley Carter Shirley Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Linda Henry. She first appeared on 7 December 2006, during episodes set in Dorset. This is Henry's second role in ''EastEnders'', as she previously played ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
) witnesses. Johnny lets his parents assume he kissed Whitney, though Shirley advises him against this. When Johnny's sister
Nancy Carter Nancy Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Maddy Hill. Nancy's first appearance is in a combination of the show's 4775th and 4776th episodes, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 1 January 2 ...
(
Maddy Hill Madeleine Kate Hayley Hill (born 19 March 1990) is an English actress, known for her roles as Nancy Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' and Ruby Spark in the BBC medical drama ''Casualty''. Career Hill trained at Rose Bruford College d ...
) arrives in Walford, she reveals Johnny is
gay ''Gay'' is a term that primarily refers to a homosexual person or the trait of being homosexual. The term originally meant 'carefree', 'cheerful', or 'bright and showy'. While scant usage referring to male homosexuality dates to the late 1 ...
to her family during an argument. Eventually, Johnny breaks down and comes out to Mick after denying his sexuality previously. They are unaware, however, that Linda has overheard their conversation. Linda finds it extremely difficult to come to terms with Johnny's sexuality, which leads to numerous arguments with Mick and Shirley. Johnny eventually reveals his sexuality to Whitney, who is hurt as she feels that Johnny has been using her. She soon forgives Johnny and even offers for him to move in with her and her family if his relationship with Linda does not improve. Johnny later threatens to leave The Vic, so Mick forces Linda to sort things out. Linda seems to have finally come round to the idea of Johnny being gay, but she later breaks down over the situation. Johnny realises that Linda is not fully accepting of his sexuality when she invites Whitney (who she thinks is pregnant) over and tries to set them up, Johnny feels hurt and betrayed and a huge argument ensues. Mick then tells Linda to fully accept his sexuality or risk losing him forever. Whitney tells Johnny that he needs to get a boyfriend so that everyone can accept it and move on with their lives. Johnny manages to secure a job as a barman in
Sharon Rickman Sharon Watts (also Rickman, Mitchell and Beale) is a fictional character from the BBC One soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Letitia Dean. Sharon is one of ''EastEnders'' original characters conceptualised by creators Tony Holland and Jul ...
's (
Letitia Dean Letitia Jane Dean (born 14 November 1967) is an English actress. She is known for her portrayal of Sharon Watts in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. An original cast member from 1985 to 1995, she reprised the role from 2001 to 2006, and again ...
) new bar. When Sharon is attacked by two masked intruders, Johnny hides upstairs and later phones for help. His family assumes he scared the intruders away but Johnny is forced to admit he hid upstairs and did nothing. Johnny fails some of his exams and Linda interferes by going to see his tutor behind his back. Furious, Johnny rows with his mother, calling her a "stupid bitch", and decides to leave Walford, ashamed of what he said. Johnny's great-grandfather
Stan Carter Stan Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Timothy West. He first appeared in the show's 4,793rd episode, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 27 January 2014, and was introduced as the fa ...
(
Timothy West Timothy Lancaster West, CBE (born 20 October 1934) is an English actor and presenter. He has appeared frequently on both stage and television, including stints in both ''Coronation Street'' (as Eric Babbage) and ''EastEnders'' (as Stan Carter) ...
) takes Linda and Nancy to see him at Stan's unoccupied flat. Johnny and Linda apologise and Linda gives him her blessing to attend
Pride London Pride in London is an annual LGBT pride festival and Pride parade, parade held each summer in London, England. The event, which was formerly run by Pride London, is sometimes referred to as London Pride. Pride in London celebrates the diversit ...
, where he meets Gianluca Cavallo (Gabriele Lombardo). He tells his siblings he has met someone, and Lee encourages him to invite Gianluca to Linda's birthday party. Johnny loses his virginity to Gianluca, and after the party, Linda tells Johnny she approves of Gianluca and he is welcome to come back. Johnny shows brief interest in Ben Mitchell (
Harry Reid Harry Mason Reid Jr. (; December 2, 1939 – December 28, 2021) was an American lawyer and politician who served as a United States senator from Nevada from 1987 to 2017. He led the Senate Democratic Caucus from 2005 to 2017 and was the Sena ...
) when he comes out of prison. Ben has told his father his homosexuality was a phase, but confuses Johnny by flirting with him at times and rejecting him at others. Johnny realises that Ben is desperate to prove himself and criticises him for dating
Abi Branning Abi Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lorna Fitzgerald. She was introduced by executive producer Kate Harwood on 3 July 2006 as an extension to the Branning family, along with father Max (J ...
(
Lorna Fitzgerald Lorna Katie Fitzgerald (born 17 April 1996) is a British actress from Northampton. Her most notable role to date is that of Abi Branning in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. Since leaving ''EastEnders'' in January 2018, Fitzgerald has develope ...
), but Ben continues to deny he is gay. Ben later tries to kiss Johnny, but he rebukes him. Johnny announces that he is going to go travelling with Gianluca. Initially Linda finds this hard to accept but she soon relents and Johnny leaves with her blessing, after telling Ben to stop denying who he is. Johnny (now played by
Ted Reilly Ted Reilly (born 14 September 1991) is a British actor, who played the role of Johnny Carter in '' EastEnders'' from 2016–2018, because the original actor chose not to return, and the show's producers recast the role. Before that, however, he ...
) returns amid a family crisis in April 2016. He avoids talking about Gianluca and realises Linda is hiding something from him. During a heart-to-heart talk, he admits he and Gianluca have split up, and Linda tells him she was raped by his uncle
Dean Wicks Dean Wicks (known as Deano in his initial stint) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' played by Matt Di Angelo. He made his first appearance on 2 January 2006. It was announced on 18 August 2007 that the characters of ...
(
Matt Di Angelo Mario Angelo S Constantinou (born 1 May 1987), professionally known as Matt Di Angelo, is a British actor and singer, best known for his role as Dean Wicks in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. He also portrayed Sean Kennedy in the BBC drama s ...
). Johnny cannot deal with everything that has happened to the family since he left, and tells Mick he blames him for it all. He apologises the next day and persuades Mick to stop blaming Nancy for the accident that has left their brother
Ollie Carter The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' in 2015, by order of first appearance. All characters were introduced by the show's executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins. January saw the arr ...
with possible brain damage. Johnny decides to not return to Italy and convinces his university tutor to let him take his second year exam. His tutor reluctantly accepts; Johnny takes and passes his exams. When Ben's boyfriend
Paul Coker Paul Coker Jr. (March 5, 1929 – July 23, 2022) was an American illustrator. He worked in many media, including '' Mad'', character design for Rankin-Bass TV specials, greeting cards, and advertising. Career Coker was born in Lawrence, Kansa ...
(
Jonny Labey Jonny Labey (born 15 January 1993) is a British actor, known for portraying the role of Paul Coker on the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. Early life Labey is from Grouville, Jersey. He attended Grouville School and Victoria College. He began da ...
) is murdered in a homophobic attack, Johnny supports Ben and encourages him to tell the police that the crime was motivated by homophobia. Linda worries Johnny is developing feelings for Ben, but he insists he is merely being a good friend. In November Ben, still grieving and feeling rejected by his father, gets drunk and tries to kiss Johnny, but Johnny refuses to take advantage of his vulnerable state. With Lee due to marry Johnny's close friend Whitney, Johnny discovers Lee has got into debt with a payday loan company. He encourages his brother to come clean, but Lee forces himself to go ahead with the wedding. The Carters then later become victims of a burglary. Johnny attempts to fend off the robbers but is injured in the process, after one of them attacks him with a baseball bat. It is later revealed that Lee was responsible for the burglary and a result Johnny becomes hostile towards him. After Ben and
Jay Brown Jay Brown (also Mitchell) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Jamie Borthwick. He made his first appearance on 14 December 2006. Jay's storylines since joining the programme have included being part of a ...
(
Jamie Borthwick Jamie Simon Borthwick (born 23 June 1994) is an English actor who has portrayed the role of Jay Brown in the BBC One, BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' since 2006. He is also known for his role in Not Going out as The kid who Kicks Lee Career Borth ...
) move to their own flat, Johnny attends Ben's their housewarming party, which is also Ben's 21st birthday party. After Abi and Jay both try to set them up, they have a one-night stand after getting drunk. The next day, they both worry that the other wants a relationship but are relieved to realise they just see each other as friends. Johnny's off-screen life involves his university studies, and in 2017 he completes his law degree and receives a 2:1. Soon after this, he forms a friendship with older gay neighbour
Derek Harkinson The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' in 2001, by order of appearance. All characters were introduced by the show's executive producer, John Yorke. The first character to be introduced w ...
(
Ian Lavender Arthur Ian Lavender (born 16 February 1946) is an English stage, film and television actor. He is best known for his role as Private Pike in the BBC sitcom ''Dad's Army'', and is the last surviving major cast member of the series following the ...
), after Derek berates Johnny for standing idly by during a homophobic incident. Johnny learns that Derek has a criminal conviction due to having a 20 year old boyfriend when the gay age of consent was still 21. Johnny encourages Derek not to leave the Square after his past incarceration is discovered. Following a gas explosion in the Square, Johnny tries to check on
Ted Murray The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'' in 2017, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by the show's executive producer Sean O'Connor or, from 27 November, his succ ...
(
Christopher Timothy Christopher is the English version of a Europe-wide name derived from the Greek name Χριστόφορος (''Christophoros'' or '' Christoforos''). The constituent parts are Χριστός (''Christós''), "Christ" or "Anointed", and φέρει ...
) and his wife
Joyce Murray Joyce Murray (born July 11, 1954) is a Canadian politician, businesswoman and environmental advocate. A member of the Liberal Party of Canada, she has represented the riding of Vancouver Quadra in the House of Commons since 2008. She was re-e ...
(
Maggie Steed Maggie is a common short form of the name Magdalena, Magnolia, Margaret. Maggie may refer to: People Women * Maggie Adamson, Scottish musician * Maggie Aderin-Pocock (born 1968), British scientist * Maggie Alderson (born 1959), Aust ...
), but Ted accidentally shoots Johnny after believing him to be a burglar, although Joyce later takes the blame. The ambulance that Linda and Johnny are travelling in is hit by a truck and falls over, killing the paramedic attending to him.
Jack Branning Jack Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Scott Maslen. He made his first appearance on 29 October 2007. He is the youngest child of Jim (John Bardon) and Reenie Branning (Joy Graham) and the brother ...
(
Scott Maslen Scott Alexander Maslen (born 25 June 1971) is an English actor and model, best known for his portrayal as DS Phil Hunter in ITV's ''The Bill'' and Jack Branning on the BBC's flagship soap ''EastEnders'' since 2007. He also took part in the 2010 ...
), who is following in the car behind, manages to get into the ambulance and keep Johnny alive via advice from the ambulance driver until a hospital helicopter arrives. Mick and Linda visit Johnny in hospital where he will make a full recovery. After he is discharged, Johnny writes a letter to the judge in Ted and Joyce's defence, which helps to avoid a conviction. The Carter family are stunned when they discover that they are being evicted from The Queen Vic thanks to
Max Branning Max Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Jake Wood. He made his first appearance on 27 June 2006. Wood took a four-month break from the show in 2011 and the character was absent between August and Nov ...
(
Jake Wood Jake Dylan Wood (born 12 July 1972) is an English actor and podcaster, known for his role as Max Branning in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. He has also made guest appearances in series including ''Only Fools and Horses'' and ''Red Dwarf''. ...
). However, they are later offered a chance to keep the pub when they have to pay £150,000 to retain ownership of the pub. In an attempt to raise the cash, Mick joins
Aidan Maguire The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'' in 2017, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by the show's executive producer Sean O'Connor or, from 27 November, his succe ...
(
Patrick Bergin Patrick Connolly Bergin (born 4 February 1951) is an Irish actor and singer perhaps best known for his leading role opposite Julia Roberts in ''Sleeping with the Enemy'' (1991), the title character in Robin Hood (1991 film), terrorist Kevin O ...
) in a robbery. However, the stolen money goes missing and Mick becomes the prime suspect due to his desperation to save The Queen Vic. Unbeknown to Aidan, the Carters pawn a stolen ring from the robbery and are able to keep The Queen Vic. Johnny is offered a contract with a law firm in Manchester and on the day of his departure, Aidan tries to intimidate him. Johnny lies that the money came from his ancestor's war medals. Using one of Johnny's school history projects, the Carters are able to fool Aidan into thinking that the money is legitimate. Johnny leaves Walford for Manchester in a taxi cab after bidding farewell to Mick and Linda.


Casting

Strike's casting as Johnny was announced on 29 October 2013, on which the actor said: "I'm really excited to be joining ''EastEnders'' and the Carter family. They're all really strong characters and I can't wait to see what ''EastEnders'' has planned for us all. I've grown up watching Danny
yer A yer is either of two letters in Cyrillic alphabets, ъ (ѥръ, ''jerŭ'') and ь (ѥрь, ''jerĭ''). The Glagolitic alphabet used, as respective counterparts, the letters (Ⱏ) and (Ⱐ). They originally represented phonemically the "ult ...
and Kellie
right Rights are law, legal, social, or ethics, ethical principles of Liberty, freedom or entitlement; that is, rights are the fundamental normative rules about what is allowed of people or owed to people according to some legal system, social convent ...
both of whom are lovely, so to be playing their son is kind of surreal." Johnny is described as a 19-year-old "mummy's boy". He is the youngest of three siblings, is a university student and is called "a gentle boy who's happy to let the rest of his family be the centre of attention", though it was said he has a secret that will "place him right at the centre of a family storm". This was the fact that Johnny is gay. On 14 November it was announced that Strike decided to leave the show and made his final appearance on 25 December 2014 via a skype call on Christmas Day. In February 2016, it was announced that the role of Johnny Carter was being recast and would return later in the year, but that the casting process was still ongoing at that point. Later on, it was announced that Ted Reilly would be taking over the role. Reilly's first episode was broadcast on 11 April 2016. It was announced on 19 December 2017 that Reilly had finished filming with the show and would depart "within the next few weeks". A show spokesperson confirmed the news. Reilly later confirmed that it was his choice to leave the serial and said he would miss his on-screen family. On his departure, the actor commenented, "It was a really tough decision to leave, but at this stage in my career it's very important to keep being challenged & experience new things!" Reilly made his last appearance on 29 January 2018.


Lady Di

Lady Di is the Carters' pet
bulldog The Bulldog is a British breed of dog of mastiff type. It may also be known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog. It is of medium size, a muscular, hefty dog with a wrinkled face and a distinctive pushed-in nose.Linda Carter Linda Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Kellie Bright. She first appeared on 19 December 2013 and her casting was announced alongside her on-screen partner, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer). Linda was in ...
(
Kellie Bright Kellie Denise Bright (born 1 July 1976) is an English actress. Her roles include Linda Carter in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', for which she won the 2015 British Soap Award for Best Actress and Best Dramatic Performance, Julie in ''Ali G I ...
) and her husband
Mick Mick is a masculine given name, usually a short form (hypocorism) of Michael. Because of its popularity in Ireland, it is often used in England as a derogatory term for an Irish person or a person of Irish descent. In Australia the meaning broade ...
(
Danny Dyer Danial John Dyer (born 24 July 1977) is an English actor and presenter. Dyer's breakthrough role was as Moff in ''Human Traffic'', with other notable roles as Mick Carter in EastEnders, Billy the Limpet in '' Mean Machine'' and as Tommy Johns ...
) were announced to be joining the series on 1 October 2013. Lady Di has been billed as the first major animal character in ''EastEnders'' since
Wellard Wellard is a Belgian Tervuren dog from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders''. His character first appeared in the series on 18 October 1994, and became ''EastEnders'' longest-serving pet, before being killed off on 15 August 2008. Although the char ...
died in 2008. The ''
Radio Times ''Radio Times'' (currently styled as ''RadioTimes'') is a British weekly listings magazine devoted to television and radio programme schedules, with other features such as interviews, film reviews and lifestyle items. Founded in May 1923 by J ...
'' speculated what breed of dog would be joining the show, but it was finally revealed to be a bulldog when the first promotional photo of the entire Carter family together was released on 29 October. Further details were released on 10 November, when it was said the dog's name would be Lady Di, named after
Diana, Princess of Wales Diana, Princess of Wales (born Diana Frances Spencer; 1 July 1961 – 31 August 1997) was a member of the British royal family. She was the first wife of King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) and mother of Princes William and Harry. Her ac ...
, by Linda. It was said that in the show's narrative, Linda named the dog after the Princess because "bulldogs are kind, gentle dogs and love kids". In reality, writer
Daran Little Daran Little (born 11 May 1966) is a BAFTA-winning and Emmy Award-nominated British television writer. He is the only writer to pen more than 100 episodes of both ''Coronation Street'' (from 2000 until 2010) and ''EastEnders'' (from 2010 onward ...
came up with the name. ''
Inside Soap ''Inside Soap'' is a weekly magazine published in the United Kingdom, released every Tuesday. It covers current and future storylines in soap operas in the United Kingdom, including '' Coronation Street'', ''Doctors'', ''EastEnders'', ''Emmerdal ...
'' said that Lady Di would be "the true queen of the new
Vic Vic (; es, Vic or Pancracio Celdrán (2004). Diccionario de topónimos españoles y sus gentilicios (5ª edición). Madrid: Espasa Calpe. p. 843. ISBN 978-84-670-3054-9. «Vic o Vich (viquense, vigitano, vigatán, ausense, ausetano, ausonense): ...
dynasty", who would "win everybody's hearts from day one". They reported that the dog is "the apple of ..Mick's eye", and would help show a softer side to Mick's character. A source from ''EastEnders'' told the magazine that Lady Di would "make quite an impression" and would be "top dog" in her new home. They added that "Lady Di is at the centre of ''EastEnders'' most exciting new arrivals, and she'll be involved in plenty of drama!" After moving into
The Queen Victoria The Queen Victoria (more often referred to as The Queen Vic or The Vic) is the Victorian public house in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. It has the fictional address of 46 Albert Square, Walford, London E20. Appearance and developmen ...
public house A pub (short for public house) is a kind of drinking establishment which is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises. The term ''public house'' first appeared in the United Kingdom in late 17th century, and was ...
with her owners, Linda plans to make money by breeding Lady Di's pedigree. However, Lady Di becomes pregnant after mating with
Abi Branning Abi Branning is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lorna Fitzgerald. She was introduced by executive producer Kate Harwood on 3 July 2006 as an extension to the Branning family, along with father Max (J ...
's (
Lorna Fitzgerald Lorna Katie Fitzgerald (born 17 April 1996) is a British actress from Northampton. Her most notable role to date is that of Abi Branning in the BBC soap opera, ''EastEnders''. Since leaving ''EastEnders'' in January 2018, Fitzgerald has develope ...
) dog,
Tramp A tramp is a long-term homeless person who travels from place to place as a vagrant, traditionally walking all year round. Etymology Tramp is derived from a Middle English verb meaning to "walk with heavy footsteps" (''cf.'' modern English ''t ...
(Duffie), to Linda's annoyance. Lady Di gives birth to five puppies, although the youngest almost does not survive until
Phil Mitchell Phil Mitchell is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Steve McFadden. He was introduced to the soap opera on 20 February 1990 and was followed by his brother Grant Mitchell (EastEnders), Grant (Ross Kemp), s ...
(
Steve McFadden Steve Robert McFadden (né Reid; born 20 March 1959) is an English actor. He is known for his role as Phil Mitchell in the BBC One soap opera ''EastEnders'', which he has played since 1990. He was also the presenter of the game show, ''Britain's ...
) saves her. Lady Di stays with
Babe Smith Babe Smith (also known as Aunt Babe) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Annette Badland. She first appeared in episode 4796 of the show, originally broadcast in the United Kingdom on 31 January 2014, a ...
(
Annette Badland Annette Badland (born 26 August 1950) is an English actress known for a wide range of roles on television, radio, stage, and film. She is best known for her roles as Margaret Blaine in the BBC science fiction series ''Doctor Who'', Mrs. Glen ...
) until she sells the puppies before returning home a couple of months later. After the birth of Mick and Linda's son,
Ollie Ollie is a given name and a nickname, often as a shortened form of Oliver, Olive, Olympia, Olga or Olivia. Variants include Olie, Oli, Oly and Olly. People Given name * Ollie Marie Adams (1925–1998), American gospel and R&B singer * Ollie B ...
, Lady Di starts behaving in a way that Mick struggles with, and Lady Di is sent to live with Mick's aunt,
Tina Carter Tina Carter is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', portrayed by Luisa Bradshaw-White. She first appeared on 18 November 2013, and was introduced as the sister of established character Shirley Carter (Linda Henry). She ...
(
Luisa Bradshaw-White Luisa Bradshaw-White (born 9 December 1974) is a former English actress, known for playing Tina Carter in '' EastEnders'' and for her previous roles on '' Bad Girls'', '' Holby City'' and ''This Life''. She has also made appearances in televisi ...
), at
Carol Jackson Carol Jackson is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders'', played by Lindsey Coulson. The character was introduced in 1993 as the mother of the Jackson family. Coulson decided to quit the role in 1997, but she returned te ...
's (
Lindsey Coulson Lindsey Coulson (born 13 April 1960) is an English actress, known for her role as Carol Jackson in the BBC soap opera '' EastEnders''. For this role, she won the 2000 British Soap Award for Best Dramatic Performance. Coulson is also well known ...
) house. Lady Di takes a dislike to Tina's girlfriend,
Sonia Fowler Sonia Fowler (also Jackson) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', played by Natalie Cassidy. Her first appearance was on and she departed on She returned briefly in 2010 along with other members of the Jackson fam ...
(
Natalie Cassidy Natalie Ann Cassidy (born 13 May 1983) is an English actress. She has played Sonia Fowler in ''EastEnders'' since 1993, appeared in the BBC Two sitcom-horror ''Psychoville'' and was a contestant on the seventh series of ''Strictly Come Danci ...
), and is sent to live with Mick's mother,
Shirley Shirley may refer to: Arts and entertainment * ''Shirley'' (novel), an 1849 novel by Charlotte Brontë * ''Shirley'' (1922 film), a British silent film * ''Shirley'' (2020 film), an American film * ''Shirley'' (album), a 1961 album by Shirley Bas ...
(
Linda Henry Linda Varilis (''née'' Henry; born 24 August 1959) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Yvonne Atkins in the ITV drama '' Bad Girls'' and Shirley Carter in the BBC soap opera ''EastEnders'', a role she has played since 2006. S ...
), without Mick's permission. When Mick finds out, he furiously takes Lady Di back to The Queen Vic, where she is welcomed by Linda, who has missed her. Mick later uses taking Lady Di for walks as way of meeting Shirley in secret. Lady Di alerts Linda that something is wrong with Ollie following a fall from his highchair and she also alerts them when Ollie is suffering a seizure. Following months of roof leaks, the kitchen ceiling collapses on top of Lady Di, who is in her cage at the time. Though Lady Di is not harmed, tests show that she has
pneumonia Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lung primarily affecting the small air sacs known as alveoli. Symptoms typically include some combination of productive or dry cough, chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. The severity ...
and her insurance does not cover treatment as it is a pre-existing condition, despite that Carters not knowing about it before. Shirley and Linda sell the freehold of The Queen Vic to pay for Lady Di's operation, which is successful.


Others


References


External links

* * * * * * * * {{DEFAULTSORT:List Of Eastenders Characters (2013)
2013 File:2013 Events Collage V2.png, From left, clockwise: Edward Snowden becomes internationally famous for leaking classified NSA wiretapping information; Typhoon Haiyan kills over 6,000 in the Philippines and Southeast Asia; The Dhaka garment fact ...
*, EastEnders
EastEnders ''EastEnders'' is a Television in the United Kingdom, British soap opera created by Julia Smith (producer), Julia Smith and Tony Holland which has been broadcast on BBC One since February 1985. Set in the fictional borough of Walford in the Ea ...