It’s goodbye 2025 and hello to 2026 in EastEnders, but with the chaos of Christmas still a stench in the air, it’s not a Happy New Year for everyone in Walford.
Grief-stricken and frustrated, Patrick Trueman heads to the police station to demand answers regarding the investigation into Anthony’s murder. When the authorities fail to provide the clarity he seeks, a determined Patrick takes matters into his own hands and heads to No. 31 to confront Kat.
Despite Kojo’s pleas to move on and forget the past, Harry remains consumed by a need for vengeance against Ravi. After misinterpreting advice from Phil as a green light for violence, Harry prepares to strike. The situation reaches dangerous levels when Nicola catches Harry attempting to ambush Ravi from behind.
As the pressure of Zoe’s upcoming trial mounts, Jasmine finds herself at a breaking point after a misunderstanding with Kat. Seeking a confidant, Jasmine finally reveals her true identity to Oscar. While Oscar encourages her to be honest with Patrick, the confession doesn’t go exactly as planned.
As Phil and Julie begin the difficult process of scouting prospective care homes, Honey and Billy step in to look after Nigel. The reality of Nigel’s condition hits home when he confuses Honey for Julie and begins flirting with her, leaving a bemused Billy to watch the uncomfortable scene unfold.
Amidst the drama elsewhere in the Square, Gina is looking toward the future. Following Harry’s decision to put their relationship on hold, Gina finds a new living situation when Penny agrees to let her move into her flat.
As the clock strikes midnight and 2026 begins, the residents of Walford, and the viewers, are transported exactly one year into the future. In a special flashforward episode set on New Year’s Day 2027, tantalising clues are revealed about the new drama involving the Branning family that will take the next 12 months to fully unfold.
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday on BBC One with catchup via iPlayer, Classic EastEnders airs on Drama with catchup on U.