EastEnders has an intriguing meeting in store for Linda Carter as she reunites with someone from her past — and it sounds that fans should brace themselves for some drama in the new year.

The character played by Kellie Bright will be at the centre of a new storyline kicking off in January 2026 alongside EastEnders newcomer Ronni Ancona. As previously announced, Ancona is set to join the BBC soap as a character named Bea.

 

 

Now, the BBC has confirmed when Linda and Bea cross paths in new episodes airing in early January.

In upcoming scenes set to make the air on 7 January, Linda attends her high school reunion, where she meets Bea.

 

 

In an episode airing on 8 January, EastEnders will go to the bottom of Linda’s story with Bea, as Linda hears “some home truths about her past behaviour”. Could the two characters be up for a truce decades after school?

 

 

Meanwhile, Ancona has described her character Bea as “unpredictable” and “complex”, which may just spell trouble for Linda.

“I am honoured to have been invited to join the iconic institution that is EastEnders, and to go on this whirlwind of a journey with such an unpredictable, nuanced and complex character as Bea,” the actor and comedian said.

 

 

“I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life.”

Elsewhere on the Square in January, Phil Mitchell and Julie Bates are set to visit a care home with Nigel, with Phil making “a big decision”.

The full teaser spoilers follow below.

Monday, 5 January 2026 — 7.30pm
Jean’s behaviour causes concern, Phil and Julie visit a care home with Nigel, and Kathy gets badmouthed by a new competitor.

Tuesday, 6 January 2026 — 7.30pm
Nicola has a plan for revenge, Alfie tries to handle a difficult situation, and Phil makes a big decision about the future.

Wednesday, 7 January 2026 — 7.30pm
Ravi is thrown into a dangerous situation, Linda attends her school reunion, and Penny realises Gina knows her secret.

Thursday, 8 January 2026 — 7.30pm
Priya, Vinny and Nugget search for Ravi, Linda hears some home truths about her past behaviour, and Honey’s mistake leads to an opportunity.