EastEnders is embarking on its 40th anniversary celebrations, commemorated by special episodes dedicated to its rich legacy and the iconic actors who have graced Albert Square. The beloved BBC soap, which first hit screens on February 19, 1985, has been praised for its bold storylines and vivid representation of working-class life, which continues to resonate with audiences today.
To mark the occasion, several of the show's prominent female actors, including Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts), Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Beale), Michelle Collins (Cindy Beale), Jessie Wallace (Kat Slater), Diane Parish (Denise Fox), Kellie Bright (Linda Carter) and Balvinder Sopal (Suki Panesar), participated in an exclusive shoot with Radio Times magazine. The actresses showcased their glamour and strength as they reflected on their characters' journeys and the meaning of soap operas.
Letitia Dean remarked, "I didn’t expect EastEnders to last 40 years when I first appeared." Her surprise is shared by many on the show, particularly as it has become not just a staple of British television, but also a platform for discussing significant social issues.
Actor Diane Parish shared her frustrations about the industry’s perception of soap stars, saying, "It irritates me. I watched them all, so I always had admiration for them." She emphasized the hard work and dedication involved, mentioning, "We produce dozens of scenes a day to a high standard—up to two or three scenes elsewhere on different formats. Our dramas speak directly to working classes, making them feel seen and valued."
Michelle Collins complimented EastEnders for offering women of all ages roles often overlooked elsewhere, asserting, "TV isn’t great for women of a certain age, but soaps are. What EastEnders and characters like Cindy show is we have voices and stories—and they should be heard."
The upcoming episodes promise to be thrilling, with plotlines set to capture audiences' attention. Notably, the anniversary episode will see major storylines being resolved, including the reveal of the mysterious assailant who attacked Cindy Beale. The format also introduces audience interaction; viewers will be able to vote on the fate of Denise Fox’s love life, determining whether she ends up with ex Jack Branning or hunky Ravi Gulati.
Bringing awareness to the portrayal of women, Balvinder Sopal underscored the nuances offered to female characters, saying, "Soaps allow nuance... We see the reasons behind the decisions women make. There's vulnerability paired with strength, captured beautifully. Our characters are not just villains or victims; they have depth and complexity."
Making her own mark over the years, Gillian Taylforth noted the psychological toll of high-stakes storylines, recalling her character Kathy's emotional arcs. "Learning those lines was challenging, especially during darker storylines," she revealed, illustrating how soap operas often demand emotional performances from actors. Gillian remembered advice from producer Julia Smith who said, "When this goes out, you’re going to become household names," and reflected on how accurate this prediction turned out to be.
Ahead of the highly anticipated anniversary week, two documentaries are slated to air on BBC One. Hosted by Ross Kemp, “EastEnders: 40 Years on the Square” will explore cherished moments and influential story arcs, overall shaping the show's legacy. Another documentary “EastEnders Revealed: The Lock-In” will take audiences behind the scenes of character developments.
Both documentaries aim to add depth to viewers’ appreciation for the show's history and its impact on societal topics over four decades. The actresses' interviews add personal touches to the milestones, with reflections on their character growth and the overall community aspect of working on EastEnders.
The show's 40th-anniversary episode will air on February 19, followed by the live episode on February 20. Shocking trailers hint at explosive events, including fire engulfing the iconic Queen Vic pub, potentially altering characters' fates forever.
With its established dedication to authentic storytelling and character-driven narratives, EastEnders continues to thrive, demonstrating its relevance to multiple generations. The combination of nostalgia and dramatic storytelling ensures audiences remain engaged, solidifying its place as one of Britain's most cherished television institutions.
Like the resilient characters they portray, the women of EastEnders have become symbols of strength and determination, depicting realistic and relatable life challenges. Their celebration exemplifies the enduring spirit of the series, uniting viewers through tales of love, loss, and the everyday struggles of life on Albert Square.