A shocking blaze, unexpected allies, and a Queen Vic reunion set the stage for a holiday of heartbreak in Albert Square

Linda’s Homecoming Brings More Than She Bargained For

EastEnders fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief—Linda Carter is returning to Walford just in time for Christmas. After months away at sea trying to recover her emotional footing, the former Queen Vic landlady is heading back to a community that has changed dramatically in her absence.

Last seen in July, Linda left after selling the pub she loved to protect her sobriety. Though she narrowly saved it from developers, selling to Kat Moon was still a painful goodbye. A cruise offered her the space to heal—but now, the time has come to return.

According to early BBC spoilers, Linda’s comeback will be anything but smooth. She’s promised a “shock” upon her arrival—and shortly after, she finds herself confiding in an unexpected person. Who’s waiting for her when she steps off that cruise ship—and what secrets will she uncover?

Trouble Brewing for Kat and Lauren

While Linda attempts to reacclimate, Kat Moon is barely holding her household together. With Zoe intensifying her search for her son, tensions inside the Slater home are set to explode. Kat, now the new matriarch of the Queen Vic, may find herself at a breaking point as Christmas approaches.

Meanwhile, Lauren Branning finds herself drawn into an uneasy alliance with Ian Beale, of all people. Their connection appears to emerge from chaos at Jimmy’s christening, which promises to be a major holiday flashpoint. Later that same week, Lauren is forced to confront the consequences of her actions—suggesting that the Branning family drama is about to ignite.

The Fire That Could Change Everything

But the biggest shock of the Christmas spoilers? A mysterious fire rips through Albert Square early in the week. The BBC hasn’t revealed where the fire begins—or who might be caught in the blaze—but they’ve confirmed that the aftermath will be felt by everyone come Wednesday, December 17.

Could the fire strike the Queen Vic? Is someone targeting residents during the holiday season? Or will this become yet another tragedy that pulls Linda, Kat, and the Brannings deeper into conflict?

As the Square braces for an explosive end to 2025, one thing is certain: not everyone will make it through the fire unscathed.