EastEnders scooped the Best Soap and Continuing Drama trophy at the 2025 BAFTA TV Awards, taking the award back to Albert Square for the first time since 2019.

This is the 10th win EastEnders has had in this category, and while sharing her excitement over the achievement, BBC’s Head of Continuing Drama Kate Oates hinted we can expect an exciting character return in the near future.

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EastEnders boss confirms huge return is in the works | Soaps | Metro News

While she didn’t give too much away, she did say: ‘If you like a return, I don’t think you’re going to be disappointed, because there’s potentially one on the cards.’

She went on to tease: ‘There are some really big stories coming up, and if it’s a return you’re after, then you might be interested in what’s on the horizon.’

This announcement has sparked speculation among fans about which character we could expect to see back on our screens.

As of late, the show has already seen some iconic cast members return to Albert Square as the show celebrates its 40th anniversary, including the likes of Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), who made a dramatic reappearance after being presumed d.e.a.d for the past 25 years.

EastEnders boss teases major return as BBC soap wins big at BAFTA Awards -  The Mirror

Other returns we have seen in recent times include Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), Peter Beale (Thomas Law), Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) and Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters).

As the anniversary celebrations continue, it seems the show is pulling out all the stops, and one more surprise could be just around the corner.

One thing is for sure, as we have seen with Cindy Beale’s return, death isn’t final in Walford, so it really could be anyone!