Fans of EastEnders have reason to celebrate this week as beloved star Lacey Turner has officially confirmed her return to Albert Square —

and it’s happening sooner than anyone expected. After months away from Walford, the award-winning actress, best known for her role as

Stacey Slater, has finally revealed that her comeback is imminent, promising fans that “it won’t be long” before Stacey is back causing chaos, heartbreak, and drama in true EastEnders fashion.

 

 

Lacey’s absence has been deeply felt since Stacey’s dramatic exit earlier this year. Her departure followed an intense storyline that saw Stacey’s mental health unravel after a traumatic series of events involving her relationship with Jack Branning and her family’s growing troubles. Viewers watched as Stacey, struggling under the weight of guilt, anxiety, and family pressure, decided to leave Walford to “get her head straight.”

 

 

Since then, speculation about Lacey’s return has been constant. Social media has been filled with fan theories, from Stacey’s possible reunion with Martin Fowler to rumors of a darker comeback involving old enemy Theo Hawthorne. Now, Lacey has finally put the rumors to rest — she’s on her way back.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Turner teased fans with a knowing smile: “I can’t say too much, but Stacey hasn’t gone forever. Let’s just say she’s got unfinished business — and it won’t be long before she’s back on the Square.”

 

 

That short statement has sent the EastEnders fandom into overdrive. Viewers are already buzzing with excitement about what Stacey’s return could mean for the show, especially with so many of her family members — including Jean, Eve, and Lily — currently facing personal challenges. Stacey’s absence has left a void in the Slater household, one that has been keenly felt both on-screen and off.

Behind the scenes, EastEnders producers are said to be thrilled about Lacey’s comeback. Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw reportedly confirmed that the writing team has been planning Stacey’s reintroduction “for months,” ensuring her return ties into several ongoing storylines. “When Lacey’s ready to step back in, we want it to feel explosive and meaningful,” Clenshaw said. “Stacey is one of EastEnders’ most iconic characters — her return will shake up the Square in a big way.”

Fans might remember that Lacey Turner has taken short breaks from the soap before, often for personal reasons or to pursue other acting opportunities. Each time she’s returned, however, her comebacks have delivered unforgettable drama. From her infamous rooftop confrontation with Janine Butcher to her emotional confession about killing Archie Mitchell, Stacey’s storylines have consistently ranked among EastEnders’ most powerful and talked-about moments.

This time, her return may be just as explosive. According to early EastEnders spoilers, Stacey’s comeback will coincide with a major fallout in the Branning family, suggesting that her ties to Jack and Denise may once again play a role. Insiders have hinted that Stacey could find herself caught between loyalty to her loved ones and a shocking secret that threatens to tear her family apart.

But it’s not just drama waiting for Stacey — there’s also redemption on the horizon. Fans who’ve followed her journey since 2004 know that Stacey’s life has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and tragedies: bipolar struggles, motherhood challenges, failed relationships, and moral dilemmas that test her resilience. Her next chapter could see her reclaiming control of her life — and perhaps finding love again.