Its been a huge year in EastEnders but things are set to get even bigger with new boss Kate Oates at the helm promising some exciting things for our Walford favourites.
Kates storylines start coming to screen from February and shes promised a whole load of twists and turns for everyone on the Square, with some secret returns that are set to delight fans of the show.
While we know the likes of Lola is set to make a comeback, someone else will be arriving back in the Square in spring and their presence will make a huge impact.
Speaking during a Twitter Q&A, Kate revealed: Weve got some great returnees planned, you may know that Lola is coming back so Im looking forward to seeing her. Weve got a couple more secret returnees, theres one coming back in spring that Im really super excited about. Its going to be for a fairly short stint but I think its going to have a huge impact.
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Elsewhere, our Walford favourites will be in for a big year.
Ive got so much planned, Kate teased. 2019 is going to be a really big year. Weve got some fantastic long-term arcs for you guys.
Adding that many of the characters will be involved, she said: The storylines will be really rich and diverse.
She then went into specifics, and two big storylines she spoke of involve the Sheanu plotline coming to a head with Phil being hit with a deeper betrayal, and Jeans mental health coming under the microscope.
Weve got a long running saga with the Mitchell family, it all comes from the Sheanu story. Theres loads of twists and turns, Kate said.
Phil is going to find himself where hes pretty complacent, things seem to be falling into place, and he becomes increasingly close to Keanu. Keanu is in his heart is a really good guy.
As the storyline gets more complicated it will be seeing how far Phil is building up this affection for the guy working for him.
Speaking of Jean, she added: Shes going to have a challenge coming her way where we look at her mental health through her physical health. So Im excited about that one too.
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There will also be a brand new gay bar for the characters to hang out at, and lots and lots of romance.
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Weve mixed up the character groupings a bit to give some refreshing combinations, she said of the new pairings. I think theyre all really rooted in truth, and it will refresh the Square a bit.
Kate also teased there will be more male characters joining the cast, to be announced soon.
Ruby Allens consent storyline will also be continuing and creating fresh twists and turns, with Kate teasing her dad Johnny might be involved.
Itll be colliding with another story in springtime, looking at the truth of her journey and what happens to her, Kate teased. Were not forgetting she is Johnny Allens daughter and that will lead to some drama.
Sounds like 2019 in Albert Square will be kicking off in style!
MORE: Coronation Street spoilers: Cast gather for Lewis Archers funeral after shock death
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