EastEnders Return to Walford ‘Sealed’ for Legend Seven Years After BBC Soap Exit
A Surprise Mention Sparks Comeback Speculation
EastEnders fans believe that one of Walford’s most iconic matriarchs could soon be making a sensational return. During Wednesday’s (October 15) episode, a passing remark from Oscar Branning left viewers buzzing with excitement.
While helping Nigel Bates plan a surprise holiday for wife Julie, Oscar fondly mentioned his grandmother, Cora Cross — a name that hasn’t been spoken on the Square in years. He joked, “Me and my nana Cora loved going down the bingo, until she got barred.”
The casual reference was enough to send social media into overdrive, with fans convinced it’s a deliberate hint that Cora is on her way back to Walford.
Fans React: “It Has to Be a Sign!”
On X (formerly Twitter), EastEnders enthusiasts wasted no time sharing their theories. One viewer wrote: “Is that a hint at the return of Cora? Barred from the bingo, indeed.” Another added: “Another Cora mention! Does she loom?”
Others were even more direct, urging the show’s bosses to make it happen. “Wadey, it’s time to bring back my fave granny!” one fan demanded, while another joked, “Oh, to watch Cora be thrown out of the bingo hall again!”
Who Is Cora Cross?
Cora Cross, played by Ann Mitchell, first burst onto EastEnders in 2011 as Tanya Branning’s outspoken mother. Fierce, fiery, and utterly fearless, Cora was known for her sharp wit and zero tolerance for nonsense.
She quickly became a standout character, forming connections across Walford—from her relationship with Patrick Truman to her bond with the Carter family. But she also found herself in trouble more than once, including stealing from the launderette and clashing with Tanya over family secrets.
Following her partner Stan Carter’s heartbreaking death from prostate cancer, Cora left Walford for Exeter. Months later, she was discovered living on the streets, leading to an emotional return where she briefly found stability again.
Her last appearance came in November 2018, when she gained temporary custody of her granddaughters after the tragic accident that claimed Abi Branning’s life. Since then, she’s been missing from the Square—but never forgotten.
Could Cora Be Coming Back?
With Oscar Branning now a growing presence on the show, Cora’s return would make perfect sense. As Lauren continues to rebuild her life and Max remains off-screen, the Branning family could use their no-nonsense matriarch more than ever.
Given recent patterns of surprise comebacks, from Cindy Beale to Bianca Jackson, a Cora revival would fit perfectly into EastEnders’ current run of nostalgia-fuelled storylines. And with actress Ann Mitchell still held in high regard by fans and the production team, the door to Walford might just be open once again.