EastEnders Icon Set for Christmas Comeback as Fans ‘Spot Her Return to Filming’
Fans Think They’ve Caught a Christmas Secret
EastEnders viewers believe they’ve uncovered one of the BBC soap’s biggest festive surprises — and all thanks to a drone. Aerial footage taken over the show’s Elstree set has sparked intense fan speculation after capturing what appears to be a familiar blonde figure filming outside the café on Albert Square.
Eagle-eyed fans are convinced the woman is none other than Kim Medcalf, returning as Sam Mitchell, one of the show’s most iconic and fiery characters. If true, the comeback would mark Sam’s first appearance since January 2024, when she left Walford to chase business opportunities abroad after falling out with her brother Phil.
“That’s Sam — No Doubt About It!”
In the short clip circulating online, a blonde woman in a cream coat can be seen surrounded by cast and crew during filming. While some suggested the figure could be Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) or Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth), others insisted the silhouette and styling perfectly match Kim Medcalf’s Sam.
One fan posted: “This is AMAZING if it’s true! I want her to stay long-term, not just a Christmas stint. The Mitchells need that strong female energy again.”
Another viewer added: “It’s definitely Sam. Same coat, same walk — she’s back!”
Even without confirmation, the sighting has sent excitement surging through social media. The idea of Sam Mitchell returning for Christmas, potentially facing off against old rival Zoe Slater, has fans counting down the weeks to the soap’s explosive festive episodes.
A Long-Awaited Mitchell Reunion
A source close to the production reportedly teased:
“It would be a dream come true to get Kim back as Sam after Zoe’s return. The pair have a lot of history together worth exploring, and the show has really been missing that classic Mitchell female power.”
Sam’s presence at Christmas could set the stage for a family showdown unlike any other — especially as tensions in Walford continue to rise between Phil, Kat, and the Slaters. The timing of her return, if confirmed, couldn’t be more dramatic.
BBC Keeps Quiet
As speculation grows, the BBC has refused to confirm or deny the rumours. An EastEnders spokesperson simply stated that the show “does not comment on future storylines.”
Still, with production leaks rare and Christmas episodes traditionally packed with shock returns, fans believe the evidence speaks for itself. The mystery blonde’s appearance during high-profile holiday filming only adds fuel to the fire.
A Big Win for Fans After Awards Disappointment
The buzz around Sam’s suspected return comes after EastEnders narrowly missed out on winning Best Soap at this year’s Inside Soap Awards, where Coronation Street reclaimed the top spot. However, the BBC drama did triumph at the National Television Awards, proving its continued dominance with audiences.
A festive comeback for Kim Medcalf could be exactly what the show needs to keep its momentum heading into 2026.