Autumn in Walford is about to be explosive. Executive producer Ben Wadey has promised major drama for nearly every family, with shocking returns, explosive secrets, and a wedding that could tear the Square apart.

Here’s everything fans can expect in the coming months.

Joel Marshall Spirals Out of Control

Teen Joel Marshall (Max Murray) has already shocked viewers with his extremist misogyny and violent behavior. Despite warnings, his father Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) has failed to control him. Joel now exerts dangerous influence over Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall).

Wadey confirmed the disturbing storyline will reach a breaking point this autumn: “Joel’s story…is going to really come to a head.” Expect dark consequences and lasting fallout across Walford.

Lauren and Peter’s Wedding Chaos

Childhood sweethearts Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) and Peter Beale (Thomas Law) prepare for their big day. But with baby Jimmy’s health struggles, Oscar Branning’s wild behavior, and endless Beale-Branning baggage, nothing will go smoothly.

Jacqueline Jossa teased fans: “It’s a Walford wedding… don’t fork out for a nice hat!” The question remains: will Lauren really become the next Mrs. Beale?

Zoe Slater’s Turbulent Return

Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) is back in Walford after 20 years — and she brings chaos with her. Still recovering from a gunshot wound, hiding an affair with Max Branning, and desperate to track down the baby she gave up, Zoe’s secrets will turn the Slaters’ lives upside down.

Wadey explained: “Kat and Zoe have 20 years to unpack… Zoe has a lot of secrets she’s bringing with her.” Fans should prepare for explosive mother-daughter clashes.

Sharon Watts Brings the Storm

Letitia Dean has officially returned as Sharon Watts, and her comeback will stir drama everywhere. Sharon’s arrival puts her directly at odds with Zoe Slater, while also reigniting sparks with ex-husband Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden).

As Wadey teased: “Just wait until Sharon sees that Zoe is back…” Walford’s original princess is ready to reclaim her crown.

Max Branning Returns With Fireworks

Jake Wood’s Max Branning will be back on the Square before a full-time return later this year. His comeback forces confrontations with estranged children, Zoe, and especially Cindy Beale — who still blames Max for her son Steven’s death.

Wadey teased their inevitable clash: “Should Cindy and Max meet, you’d want popcorn.” The Branning-Beale rivalry is about to ignite once again.

Linda Carter Faces the Truth

Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) is still away, but when she returns she’ll face Max Branning — and the secret of their daughter, Annie. Max has no idea he has another child, and when the truth comes out, it could shatter both families.

Jack Branning vs. Ravi Gulati

Jack (Scott Maslen) and Ravi (Aaron Thiara) are forced back together as they cover up their involvement in Zoe’s shooting. The actors teased an ongoing story of bitter rivalry, saying their feud “goes everywhere.”

Callum Highway’s Family Drama

Callum Highway (Tony Clay) will lose his estranged father, bringing his brother Stuart (Ricky Champ) and jailed husband Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) back into the fold. But Callum’s secret kiss with Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff) threatens to explode at the worst possible time.

Stacey Slater’s Exit Looms

Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) will leave Walford this autumn. Her exit could reconnect her with Max Branning, as Jake Wood teased “unfinished business” between the two. After so much tragedy, can Stacey finally find peace — or will she leave the Square in chaos?

Walford on the Brink

With Joel’s disturbing crimes, Zoe and Sharon’s clashes, Lauren and Peter’s chaotic wedding, and Max Branning’s return shaking up half the Square, EastEnders fans can expect a gripping autumn full of secrets, rivalries, and heartbreak.