Christmas is just around the corner, with EastEnders already confirming big scenes to bow out of 2020 – including death drama and shocking returns.
While official Christmas spoilers have finally been unveiled by the BBC soap, bosses often keep things back.
What we do know is Ian Beale is in grave danger after his attack, but he might not be the only one.
Christmas Eve is said to end with a shock for Walford residents, while someone is out to kill Ian.
EastEnders often goes all out with their Christmas Day episodes, featuring huge reveals, twists and even deaths.
But what will this Christmas bring to Albert Square? Here’s what we know so far…
(Image: BBC/JackBarnes)
Ian Beale whodunnit
(Image: BBC / Jack Barnes)
Ian Beale was recently attacked and left for dead by a mystery suspect.
But this Christmas will see the attacker strike again, vowing to get rid of him for once and for all.
In the lead-up to Christmas Day, a series of terrifying incidents will rattle Ian as he is tormented.
The identity of his attacker looks set to be revealed on Christmas Day, as spoilers tease a deadly showdown between them and Ian – as someone makes a lethal move.
But will he make it to 2021, and who is after him?
A major return
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Earlier this year, boss Kate Oates revealed there was an exciting return this Christmas.
While the identity of the character remains under wraps, Kate told press: “We are in the second draft of script stage for this Christmas, which is exciting.
“We have an exciting return planned. It’s going to also be a part of a huge other story that will have been long-running.”
There are a couple of comebacks being lined up, including Lucas Johnson and Chelsea Fox, but it’s unclear if the return is someone yet to be announced.
Tina Carter goes on the run?
(Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
Tina Carter finds herself becoming the prime suspect in Ian Beale’s attack ahead of Christmas.
Despite pleading with people to realise she is innocent, she’s topping the list as far as the police are concerned.
In upcoming scenes, Tina will consider fleeing Walford while she still can as the police close in on her.
With the character leaving the show, will she manage to get away or is she facing time behind bars?
Lucas Johnson and Chelsea Fox comebacks spell horror for Denise
(Image: BBC)
Serial killer Lucas Johnson, the ex of Denise Fox, is making a shocking comeback it has been revealed.
He leaves ex Denise horrified on Christmas Day when she comes face-to-face with him – but also their daughter Chelsea.
What has brought the pair back to the Square, and why are they together?
“Four years after he left The Square his comeback is set to cause shockwaves amongst the residents. Has his time inside done him any good?” the soap recently revealed on Twitter.
(Image: BBC)
Bosses have teased: “Across the Square, Denise is preparing for her first Christmas with Raymond but the Christmas joy is short-lived as an unexpected face from the past rattles her to her core.”
Denise will be eager to warn her daughter that her dad is dangerous, with more set to be revealed.
Mick Carter’s turmoil as Linda torn between him and Max
(Image: BBC / Jack Barnes)
Mick is at the centre of a huge new storyline on the show, with him confirmed to be the victim of childhood sexual abuse.
The character was abused by his care worker Katy Lewis, and it’s something he never really accepted had happened.
It was only when Frankie Lewis claimed to be his daughter, that he realised her mum was Katy – before Frankie uncovered the truth about what her mum did.
(Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
Frankie realised the age difference between her parents, but Mick denied it was abuse.
With Katy now in Walford, scenes have shown her attempt to manipulate Mick to hide her horrific crime – while she’s also meddling with his marriage, trying to stop him confiding in wife Linda.
It’s been teased: “As Mick continues to battle with demons from his past, he fails to notice Linda, feeling more alone than ever, falling victim to temptation and turning elsewhere for comfort – will Linda’s dirty laundry be laid out for everyone to see?
(Image: BBC / Jack Barnes)
“Or will Mick find the strength to open up before it’s too late?”
Linda will find herself torn between him and Max after their recent kiss, but is it the end for the couple?
Jay and Honey kiss
(Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
After months of speculation from fans, Honey and Jay give into temptation this Christmas.
After growing closer recently, the pair get giddy with Christmas spirit, and share a kiss.
Billy walks in though at that moment, causing him to storm out.
Splits and new romance
As well as Mick and Linda possibly facing heartache, it’s said another couple might be at odds.
Meanwhile another two residents unexpectedly find romance, and old flames are tipped to reconnect.
The show teased: “Elsewhere, new love blooms for an unlikely pairing while another couple faces new challenges as the festive season stirs up old feelings.”
EastEnders airs Mondays at 8.05pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.35pm and Fridays at 8.35pm on BBC One.