Overview
- EastEnders shifts its broadcast pattern from December 22–26, including two episodes on Christmas Day and continued specials into New Year.
- Official advance teasers trail an incident that escalates on Christmas Day, with a heavy police presence in Albert Square on Boxing Day.
- Pat Evans makes a confirmed special return alongside Barry in a Nigel Bates-focused festive episode.
- Press spoiler reports highlight a major house-fire storyline in the run-up to Christmas and the returns of Max Branning and Linda Carter.
- The BBC confirms a New Year’s Day episode that jumps one year ahead to reveal future developments for key characters.