40. Sean Slater
Stacey’s enigmatic older brother, Sean Slater, was a character who exuded a genuinely unsettling aura of unpredictability, making him one of EastEnders’ most formidable bad boys. A chaotic blend of emotional turmoil and aggression, Sean was deeply affected by the tragic passing of his father, leading him to harbor feelings of guilt and self-blame. Beneath his tough exterior, however, lay a vulnerable soul yearning for love—a narrative thread common among many soap antiheroes. His marriage to Roxy was marred by betrayal, and when he discovered her infidelity with Jack Branning, Sean’s instability spiraled further.
39. Nick Cotton
Known as “Nasty Nick,” the son of the devout Dot Branning was the archetypal villain of EastEnders. His nefarious activities included murder, blackmail, and drug dealing, making him a true scourge of Walford. Nick’s malevolence stood in stark contrast to his mother’s virtue, establishing him as the benchmark against which all other villains were measured. His storyline came full circle in 2015 when he met his demise in the same spot where he had committed his first murder, a fitting twist of fate that screamed karma.
38. Mary Smith
Aka “Mary the Punk,” Mary was a distinctive presence in the early episodes of the show, not only due to her Siouxsie Sioux-inspired appearance but also as the sole Northerner in Walford. Struggling to raise her daughter Annie, she often found herself in dire situations, including a near-fatal overdose incident. After a tumultuous journey through drug abuse and prostitution, Mary left Walford but returned over three decades later, having turned her life around. Her appearances are now often linked to the funerals of beloved characters like Dot and Dr. Legg.
37. Lofty Holloway
The loveable underdog George “Lofty” Holloway was a character who captured audiences’ hearts. His tall frame and trusty inhaler made him an unforgettable figure, particularly when he gallantly offered to marry Michelle Fowler to provide her and her baby Vicki with stability. Unfortunately, that marriage never materialized as Michelle did not reciprocate his feelings. Yet, Lofty’s unrequited love inspired his friend Wicksy to pen the hit “Every Loser Wins,” a poignant ballad that could very well represent Lofty’s journey.
36. Joe Wicks
Not to be confused with the modern fitness guru, this Joe Wicks was a floppy-haired Northerner whose battle with schizophrenia brought much-needed attention to mental health issues in the 90s. Traumatized by a car crash that claimed his sister’s life, Joe’s condition deteriorated to the point where he covered his room in tin foil and hid the neighbor’s cat. However, a video call with his estranged father in 2024 hinted at a hopeful resolution; Joe is now a proud father of a university graduate.
35. Ethel Skinner
Known for her quirky charm and her beloved dog Willy (not that you should snicker, as he was her pet!), Ethel Skinner was a staple of the early days of EastEnders. Alongside her close friends Lou Beale and Dot Cotton, Ethel’s experiences during the Blitz shaped her view of life, leading her to embrace joy despite its brevity. Her story took a somber turn in 2000 when she faced terminal cancer, prompting her to seek Dot’s help in ending her life with dignity.
34. Tiffany Mitchell
Initially introduced as Bianca’s loud-mouthed friend, Tiffany Mitchell, played by Martine McCutcheon, quickly became a fan favorite. Marrying into the notorious Mitchell clan, she embodied the classic EastEnders leading lady, complete with a tumultuous family background and a barmaid job in the Queen Vic. Tragically, her life ended on a dramatic New Year’s Eve when she was struck by Frank Butcher’s car while trying to save her daughter from being taken. Tiffany’s legacy lives on through Bianca’s daughter, who bears her name.
33. Mick Carter
When Danny Dyer joined EastEnders in 2013, he surprised fans by portraying Mick Carter, a warm-hearted family man rather than a typical tough guy. Mick’s relatable nature and his struggles as a pub landlord trying to maintain order in his chaotic family resonated with viewers. He was a true gentleman at heart, effortlessly rocking a fluffy pink dressing gown, and his character brought a refreshing softness to the often gritty landscape of Walford.
32. Steve Owen
Martin Kemp made a dramatic career shift from pop star to soap star when he took on the role of the charming yet dangerous Steve Owen. With a history steeped in crime, Steve’s most memorable act was the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, making him one of the show’s most riveting characters. His magnetic presence combined with his dark deeds added layers of complexity to his character, proving that Kemp was more than just a pretty face.
31. Little Mo Mitchell
At first glance, Little Mo Mitchell appeared to be the least confrontational of the Slater sisters, overshadowed by the larger-than-life personalities around her. Yet beneath her timid demeanor lay a formidable survivor of domestic abuse. Her harrowing storyline involving her abusive husband Trevor shed light on a critical issue, transforming Little Mo into a heroine for many who faced similar struggles, particularly when she found the courage to defend herself.
30. Suki Panesar-Unwin
The matriarch of the Panesar family, Suki has evolved from a manipulative figure into one of Walford’s most empowering characters. Her narrative deepened as viewers learned about her toxic marriage to Nish, revealing her complexities and struggles. Now in a loving relationship with Eve, Suki’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment reflects the shifts in societal attitudes toward gender and identity.
29. Linda Carter
Linda Carter arrived in Walford as Mick’s partner, quickly becoming a beloved figure reminiscent of past Queen Vic landladies. Her journey has not been without challenges, battling alcoholism and surviving a horrific assault. Described as “Barbie with a core of steel,” Linda’s resilience and stylish persona have made her a symbol of strength and perseverance amid adversity.
28. Chrissie Watts
Chrissie Watts made waves when she killed her philandering husband, Dirty Den, marking a significant turning point in EastEnders history. Her character was a refreshing take on the femme fatale archetype, demonstrating the lengths a woman would go to reclaim her power. The recent storyline with her in prison next to Sharon harkens back to their intertwined past, reminding fans of the show’s rich legacy.
27. Janine Butcher
Janine’s character arc is a compelling tale of tragedy and transformation, shaped by her tumultuous upbringing and deep-seated psychological issues. Despite her ruthless demeanor and a trail of dead husbands, viewers couldn’t help but feel a sliver of sympathy for her. Her journey illustrates the complex nature of human relationships and the impact of a troubled childhood.
26. Denise Fox
A quintessential EastEnders character, Denise Fox embodies the chaos that often characterizes life in Walford. From her complicated relationship with Phil Mitchell to the traumatic experiences of her past, Denise has faced it all. Her resilience in the face of adversity makes her a relatable and enduring character, and the upcoming storyline involving her love life has fans buzzing with excitement.
25. Jean Slater
Stacey’s mother, Jean Slater, has brought vital representation of mental health to EastEnders with her bipolar disorder storyline. Beyond her struggles, Jean is also known for her culinary skills, particularly her infamous sausage surprise. Gillian Wright’s portrayal of Jean captures her warmth, eccentricity, and fierce loyalty to her family, making her a beloved part of the Slater clan.
24. Frank Butcher
Mike Reid’s portrayal of Frank Butcher brought a unique charm to EastEnders, combining humor with a deeply flawed character. Frank’s dream of success often clashed with his inability to commit to those he loved, making him a compelling figure. His romantic relationship with Pat Evans is one of the show’s classic love stories, illustrating the complexities of love and loyalty.
23. Arthur Fowler
Arthur Fowler was the heart of the Fowler family, with his affable nature and dedication to his loved ones. His struggles with mental health and the fallout from his fraudulent actions provided some of the show’s most poignant moments, marking him as a beloved and relatable character. His legacy lives on in the memories of fans who cherish the Fowlers’ foundational role in EastEnders.
22. Max Branning
The enigmatic Max Branning is a quintessential EastEnders character, known for his charm and self-destructive tendencies. His tumultuous relationships and affair with Stacey Slater created unforgettable drama, showcasing the emotional complexity that made him a fan favorite. Max’s story is a testament to the show’s ability to weave intricate narratives around flawed yet captivating characters.
21. Ronnie Mitchell
Ronnie Mitchell was a powerful presence in Walford, known for her icy demeanor and fierce loyalty to her family. Her character’s journey explored themes of love, loss, and redemption, particularly in her relationships with her sister Roxy and cousin Phil. Ronnie’s tragic end left an indelible mark on the show, highlighting the emotional depth and complexity that characterizes EastEnders.
20. Bianca Jackson
With her iconic silver puffa jacket and unforgettable catchphrases, Bianca Jackson is a force to be reckoned with. Her tumultuous love life and fierce loyalty to her friends have made her an enduring character. In recent storylines, Bianca has taken on a protective role, showcasing her development into a strong matriarch while retaining her signature sass.
19. Carol Jackson
As a pioneering matriarch in the 90s, Carol Jackson broke the mold with her unconventional family dynamics. Her fierce love for her children, despite the challenges they faced, made her a relatable figure. Carol’s character laid the groundwork for future strong female leads in EastEnders, whose complexity continues to resonate with audiences.
18. Mark Fowler
Mark Fowler’s groundbreaking storyline about living with HIV was a monumental moment in soap history. His character’s journey of acceptance and resilience helped educate the public about a stigmatized condition during a time of misunderstanding. Mark’s legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing awareness to important social issues.
17. Pauline Fowler
Wendy Richard’s iconic portrayal of Pauline Fowler established her as one of the show’s foundational characters. Initially seen as dowdy and subservient, Pauline blossomed into a strong matriarch after her mother’s death, becoming a compelling figure who fought for her family’s honor. Her legacy is woven into the fabric of EastEnders as a blueprint for future matriarchs.
16. Den Watts
Den Watts, one of the original antiheroes of EastEnders, captivated audiences with his charm and deceit. His tumultuous marriage to Angie and infamous affairs made him a notorious figure. His dramatic exit and subsequent return solidified his status as a soap legend, showcasing the enduring power of captivating villainy in storytelling.
15. Kat Slater
Kat Slater’s unforgettable declaration to Zoe—”Yes I am!”—is just one example of her complex character. A bold and brash survivor, Kat embodies the strength of EastEnders’ female characters. Her resilience and quick wit make her a fan favorite, and her journey resonates with viewers who appreciate her tenacity in the face of adversity.
14. David Wicks
Flawed yet charismatic, David Wicks is a character who embodies the complexities of love and relationships in EastEnders. His careless pursuit of unattainable women often led to heartbreak, yet his charm won over audiences. His recent return added another layer to his already complicated narrative, reminding viewers of the tangled web of relationships in Walford.
13. Cindy Beale
Cindy Beale is synonymous with scandal in EastEnders, and her tumultuous relationships have kept audiences enthralled. Her unyielding quest for love often led to betrayal and heartbreak, making her a character of contrasting emotions. Even in her absence, Cindy’s shadow looms large, leaving fans wondering about her next move.
12. Lisa Fowler
Lisa Fowler’s character has served as a catalyst for significant plot developments in EastEnders. Her tumultuous relationship with Phil Mitchell led to the iconic “Who Shot Phil?” storyline, which remains etched in soap history. Lisa’s journey is a reminder of how intertwined relationships can shape the course of a narrative.
11. Grant Mitchell
Grant Mitchell epitomizes the tough-guy archetype of EastEnders, with his gruff exterior masking a complicated emotional landscape. His tumultuous relationships and struggles with PTSD added depth to his character, making him a compelling figure in the Mitchell family saga. Grant’s journey showcases the internal and external battles faced by many characters in the show.
10. Angie Watts
As one half of Walford’s original power couple, Angie Watts was a character full of contradictions. Her struggles with alcoholism and insecurity highlighted her vulnerability, while her fierce spirit made her unforgettable. The iconic Christmas Day showdown with Den remains a defining moment in soap history, proving Angie’s impact on EastEnders.
9. Kathy Cotton
Kathy Cotton embodies the resilient spirit of EastEnders. A character who has weathered numerous storms, her journey has been marked by tragedy and triumph. Kathy’s warmth and compassion shine through, making her a relatable figure for audiences who have followed her through decades of drama.
8. Ian Beale
As the longest-serving character in EastEnders, Ian Beale has become synonymous with the show itself. His journey has been marked by arrogance and ambition, yet there remains a depth to his character that keeps viewers invested. Ian’s ability to endure and adapt makes him an enduring symbol of the show’s legacy.
7. Michelle Fowler
Michelle Fowler’s teenage pregnancy storyline was a groundbreaking moment for EastEnders, resonating with audiences and sparking conversations about societal issues. Her character’s emotional depth and struggles made her a relatable figure, and her journey continues to be remembered as a pivotal aspect of the show’s history.
6. Peggy Mitchell
Peggy Mitchell is the quintessential landlady of EastEnders, embodying the heart and soul of the show. Her fierce loyalty to family and her iconic catchphrases have left an indelible mark on the series. Peggy’s journey through love, loss, and resilience reflects the essence of what makes EastEnders a beloved institution.
5. Pat Evans
Pat Evans transitioned from antagonist to beloved character, becoming a symbol of strength and resilience in EastEnders. Her relationship with Frank Butcher captured the complexities of love and loyalty, and her enduring presence remains a cherished part of the show’s legacy.
4. Stacey Slater
Flawed yet fierce, Stacey Slater stands out as one of EastEnders’ most compelling characters. Her struggles with mental health and tumultuous relationships have made her a relatable figure for many viewers. Lacey Turner’s portrayal has garnered critical acclaim, solidifying Stacey’s place as a leading lady in the world of soap operas.
3. Phil Mitchell
Phil Mitchell is the embodiment of strength and complexity in EastEnders. His journey through addiction, violence, and redemption has captivated audiences for decades. As a character who straddles the line between hero and antihero, Phil’s struggles resonate deeply with viewers, marking him as a true icon of the show.
2. Sharon Watts
Sharon Watts’ tumultuous life story is a microcosm of the dramatic narratives that define EastEnders. From her complicated relationships to her struggles for independence, Sharon’s character has evolved significantly over the years. Her iconic moments, particularly the infamous “Sharongate,” continue to be discussed among fans, highlighting her lasting impact on the series.
1. Dot Branning
Dot Branning remains the beating heart of EastEnders, representing the show’s soul and moral center. Her journey from a nosy neighbor to a beloved matriarch showcases the depth of her character. The late June Brown’s portrayal of Dot imbued the character with warmth, humor, and wisdom, making her an unforgettable icon in British television history.
