A New Chapter Fans Refuse to Wait For

The countdown to 2026 has already started for EastEnders fans, and the excitement is building fast. Many viewers feel the BBC soap is standing at a turning point. They want deeper stories, stronger character arcs, and returns that shake the entire Square. The discussion is loud: Walford needs its next big era.

Fans say several characters deserve another chance to shine. Some feel this year focused heavily on a small circle of residents, leaving others in the shadows. Now, the request is clear. It is time to use the potential of those who never got enough screen time.

Priya, Lily, Ricky & the Stories Viewers Want Told

One name appears again and again: Priya Nandra-Hart. Viewers want her to lead more major plots. They believe she has the complexity and fire to carry powerful storylines without being overshadowed by others.

Fans are also looking at Lily and Ricky, who now share responsibility for baby Charli. They want the soap to show parenting as it truly is. They call for a story that shows the emotional pressure of raising a child while still being young themselves. Real co-parenting, not a softened version of it.

Several long-running favourites, like Linda and Ian, are also being mentioned. Fans want new romance, new conflict, and new layers for them. And above all, they want Kat Moon back at the beating heart of The Vic, hitting the bar with the fierce spirit she is known for.

New Focus: Max, Chelsea, Zack, Barney & the Mitchell Legacy

Max Branning is another big talking point. Viewers want him back, but with more maturity. They hope he returns as a grounded father, not a man chasing chaos.

There are more characters on fan wishlists. They want Chelsea to step into the spotlight. They want Zack and Barney’s father-son relationship to evolve. They want Will Mitchell to get meaningful plots. And they want a guiding matriarch—maybe April or Suzy—to lead the next Mitchell generation.

Returns, New Families & Stories Fans Beg the Show to Explore

The requests do not stop there. Some want Chrissie Watts back. Others want a brand-new family to arrive with no ties to existing groups, shaking up alliances overnight. One viewer wrote, “No more pregnancy plots. It’s time for something fresh.”

Fans also want realistic challenges. They want Zoe to grow, not just react. They see potential chemistry in Harry and Gina and want a full storyline, not background moments.

In short, the message is united and fierce: 2026 must deliver growth, courage, and unforgettable Walford drama.