EastEnders fans are still reeling from the emotional rollercoaster of Kat and Alfie Moon’s wedding, but that’s not the only bombshell to shake up Walford this week. After a whirlwind few weeks, the couple finally tied the knot—despite the chaos and near-breakdown leading up to their big day. The couple, who have had their fair share of struggles, from infidelity to family drama, had one of the most unpredictable weddings in soap history.

Kat called off their wedding after an emotional confrontation, but with some heartfelt advice from Jean Slater and a little help from Phil Mitchell, Alfie and Kat found their way back to each other. Their vows, exchanged on the top deck of a bus, were a testament to their love and the power of second chances. But even as these two declared their commitment to each other, a much bigger shift was happening behind the scenes in Walford.

Fans were also left in awe as Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders’ beloved executive producer, bid farewell to his tenure on the show. Under Chris’ leadership, the show reached new heights, winning multiple awards and crafting some of the most intense and captivating storylines. His final episode on June 13 was a heartfelt tribute to his time on the show, and fans flooded social media to express their gratitude for his contributions.

One fan tweeted: “And so this era comes to an end. Every single viewer voted award at the BSAs. An NTA. A BAFTA. And a return to the character-led EastEnders that is full of history, tragedy, joy, and fun that only the fans understand. Thank you for a truly golden era, Chris.” Another added, “The Chris Clenshaw era of EastEnders is over, and I’m just expected to carry on like normal?” The outpouring of love and respect for Chris’ work on the show has been overwhelming, but fans are now turning their attention to the future.

Enter Ben Wadey, the new executive producer who will take the reins starting next week. Ben is already promising big changes, teasing “twists, shocks, and plenty of drama” in the months to come. His first episode airs on June 16, and it will mark the beginning of a new chapter for the show. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Ben will shape the next era of EastEnders, with promises of fresh storylines and more thrilling drama for the residents of Walford.

One of the most highly anticipated changes comes with the return of Lexi Pearce, Kat and Alfie’s daughter, who has had a tough few years following the death of her mother, Lola Pearce. Lexi’s return is set to bring a fresh energy to Walford, and she’ll be joining a new crew of young faces, including Tommy Moon, Ricky Jr., Denzel Danes, Nugget Gulati, Amy Mitchell, Lily Slater, and Will Mitchell. This group of teenagers is poised to stir up drama, challenge the status quo, and explore what it really means to grow up in Walford.

Early spoilers suggest that Lexi’s return won’t be without its challenges. She’ll find herself at odds with some of the other characters, particularly as she navigates her complicated relationship with her father, Ben. There’s also talk of romance, rivalry, and secrets that are bound to come to light as this new group of teens takes center stage.

But Lexi’s return is not the only story to keep an eye on. Fans can also look forward to more fireworks from the adult characters in Walford, with Kat and Alfie’s new chapter bringing fresh opportunities for drama. Meanwhile, Ben Mitchell’s ongoing struggles with his mental health and his relationship with Lexi will continue to impact the family dynamic.