EastEnders: 40th Anniversary Week | Preview (BBC One)

EastEnders is going live on 20th February as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations which will include the result of a first-of-its kind interactive twist which is giving the viewers the power to decide the outcome of Denise Fox’s love story. 

To officially mark 40 years since EastEnders first aired on BBC One, the whole week of episodes will take place over one day, with a special hour-long episode transmitting on Wednesday 19th February, followed by a full live episode on Thursday 20th February which is set to change Walford, and the lives of those who live in it forever.

Following it’s hour long episode that transmits on the actual anniversary (19th February), for the first time in the shows history, the EastEnders viewers will be able to cast their vote on Denise’s potential suiter. Denise’s decision. You choose. Should her future be with Jack, or Ravi?

40 Years On The Square

Monday 17th February, 8pm, BBC One

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of EastEnders, Ross Kemp - one of the show’s most iconic stars and best known to viewers as the infamous Grant Mitchell - returns to BBC Elstree Centre. In this special documentary, Ross takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through Albert Square’s rich 40-year history, reconnecting with cast to reflect on the enduring impact of the show.

Ross sits down with legendary cast members, including Adam Woodyatt, Gillian Taylforth, Letitia Dean and Jessie Wallace, sharing their memories of portraying some of the series’s most-beloved characters and how their storylines have impacted British culture. The film also features interviews with Anita Dobson and Pam St Clement, whose unforgettable performances as two of the square's most iconic matriarchs helped shape the legacy of EastEnders.

EastEnders has been more than just a soap opera; it has served as a cultural touchstone and tackled groundbreaking social issues that had never before been portrayed on British primetime television. Ross explores the bold storytelling choices, from addressing HIV stigma and domestic violence to LGBTQ+ representation and race relations.

Featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, candid interviews and heartfelt memories, the film offers an intimate look at how EastEnders became a national institution. From its start in 1985 to its current place as a staple of British television, Ross celebrates the characters, storylines, and moments that have kept viewers hooked for four decades.

Live Episode

Thursday 20th February, 7:30pm, BBC One

EastEnders goes live as part of the show’s 40th anniversary week. Walford's residents fight to save their friends and neighbours inside The Vic. Denise takes a big step.

EastEnders Revealed: The Lock-In

Tuesday 18th February, 8pm, BBC Three

The special – EastEnders Revealed: The Lock In - will be hosted by actor and presenter, Joe Swash, who is best known to the EastEnders viewers as Mickey Miller. Viewers will be given behind the scenes insights into Cindy Beale’s attacker reveal, Denise, Jack and Ravi’s interactive love triangle, and will also reveal exclusive details relating to the live episode by talking to some of the actors directly involved including Jacqueline Jossa, Natalie Cassidy and Patsy Palmer.

Whilst re-watching their alter egos, some of the actors who find themselves at the heart of the drama will share their possible theories on the outcomes of their storylines, whilst offering their thoughts on taking part in the live episode, and how it feels to be involved as the show reaches its monumental milestone. The 45-minute special will air during the show’s anniversary week, and will also include a special musical performance from a well-known EastEnders superfan.

EastEnders airs on BBC One and iPlayer.