EastEnders entered 2026 with a message that couldn’t be clearer: Walford can’t continue operating on its old habits. The flash-forward at the beginning of the year indicated major changes awaiting the Branning family, but behind those surface twists lies a much deeper issue. EastEnders possesses a host of characters with great potential who have never been given the right roles, and 2026 may be the last chance for that to change.

This isn’t just about who gets more screen time. It’s a question of storytelling power, about who has the strength to carry the long-running drama and become the emotional pillar for an increasingly dark and mature EastEnders.

Chelsea Fox – The heir who was never granted power.

Chelsea Fox should have been a central character long ago. After Gray Atkins, after Ravi Gulati, after a series of personal traumas, Chelsea has all the material to become a leading female character. Yet she is constantly relegated to the role of reacting to other people’s stories. Given Zaraah Abrahams’ history, family background, and acting abilities, Chelsea’s continued confinement in 2026 would be an inexcusable waste.

Penny Branning – A sharp card that’s being overlooked.

Penny Branning possesses intelligence, wit, and a criminal past that has yet to be fully explored. Penny is not just Jack’s daughter or Lauren’s best friend. She is a true Branning, capable of sowing discord and shaking the family structure. If her connection with Vinny Panesar is pushed further, Penny could very well become a new focal point of conflict.

Denise Fox – A legend whose image is fading.

No one denies Denise Fox is an icon of EastEnders. But after the decision to reunite with Jack Branning, Denise has almost disappeared from the major storylines. Diane Parish is the type of actress who only truly shines when placed in intense moral conflicts, and keeping Denise on the periphery for too long is weakening the very DNA of the film.

Oscar Branning – The future of Walford

Oscar Branning quickly proved this wasn’t just a childish, decorative role. He brought a rare freshness, naturalness, and emotion. The biggest risk for Oscar wasn’t a lack of ability, but rather the screenwriter’s overly cautious approach. 2026 needed to take Oscar out of his comfort zone and place him at the heart of the Walford community.

Priya Nandra-Hart – The woman trapped in a man’s orbit.

Priya Nandra-Hart is charismatic, intelligent, and strong-willed, but often exists only as an extension of Ravi. Sophie Khan Levy has proven her ability to carry emotions, and Priya needs a story where she creates conflict, rather than just enduring it. If 2026 continues to ignore this, it will be a lost opportunity.

Linda Carter – A soul that cannot be pushed to the margins

After The Six and her journey through rehab, Linda Carter is at risk of being overshadowed by more boisterous characters. But EastEnders is always strongest when Linda holds a morally central role. Kellie Bright remains one of the mainstays, and 2026 needs to restore Linda’s sharp wit and emotional power.

Vinny Panesar – The Last Survivor of a Dynasty

Following Nish’s death, Vinny Panesar is left adrift. This void provides the perfect foundation for a coming-of-age storyline, where Vinny is forced to define himself outside the shadow of his family. If EastEnders hadn’t capitalized on this moment, Vinny would have remained a character in limbo.

Vicki Fowler – A legacy properly revived

Vicki Fowler is a rare example of an absolutely successful remake. She carries history, but isn’t weighed down by it. The legal, emotional, and family storylines surrounding Vicki are strong enough to put her at the forefront if the writers dare to go further.

Kojo Asare – A humane character who deserves proper protection.

Kojo Asare represents not only neurotic diversity but also a character with great depth. After his drug-exploitation storyline, Kojo shouldn’t be relegated to a safe, supporting role. 2026 needs to continue giving Kojo his autonomy and his own conflicts.

Sam Mitchell – The fire should not be extinguished

Despite his brief appearance, Sam Mitchell still showed overwhelming appeal. Kim Medcalf brought to life a Sam who was both fragile and strong, capable of standing on equal footing with Phil in the Mitchell family. EastEnders would be the loser if Sam left too soon.

Walford faces a pivotal year where not everyone can remain on the fringes of the story, and the biggest question hanging in the air is: Will EastEnders dare to empower truly promising individuals in 2026, or will they continue to be left behind as the game has completely shifted?