Was it good while it was around?
In a shake-up to its regular schedule, EastEnders didn’t land on BBC iPlayer at 6am yesterday as usual. The change marked Ben Wadey’s debut episode as Executive Producer—and he had a major surprise in store.
Following a weekend filled with speculation, last night’s episode was released on iPlayer at the same time it aired on TV, keeping fans in suspense as a mystery character was seen lying on Stacey Slater’s sofa.
That figure was later revealed to be Zoe Slater, who appeared before Alfie just as the credits began to roll. While not a total shock, fans were on edge all day waiting for the reveal at 7:30pm.
Fans urge EastEnders to ditch 6am iPlayer release
After the episode aired, viewers took to social media to share their reactions. In the wake of Zoe’s dramatic return after twenty years, many fans voiced a strong preference for doing away with the early morning iPlayer drop.
“I love when they don’t upload it early—there’s something special about the whole country watching together,” one fan posted on X.
Another added, “This is so exciting! I’m so glad they didn’t release it on iPlayer early.”
A third wrote, “Get rid of the 6am uploads and bring back the old Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday schedule—8pm on Mondays and Fridays, 7:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I really miss that format.”
A fourth fan chimed in, “I really hope Ben Wadey permanently scraps the daily 6am iPlayer release.”
EastEnders Returns to Regular Schedule After Monday’s Change-Up
Viewers curious about Zoe’s dramatic reappearance didn’t have to wait long for answers, as EastEnders went back to its usual routine this morning—with the 6am iPlayer drop returning at daybreak.
Alongside the fallout from Zoe’s comeback, tonight’s episode also follows Joel as he faces the repercussions of grabbing a young woman on the tube. As he and Vicki push for the truth, Vicki gives Isla her phone number to speak privately later. But seeing how anxious Ross is about Joel’s future makes her hesitate.
Later, Vicki offers Isla money to keep her from going to the police. But will Isla accept?
Meanwhile, Phil starts to notice that Linda may be struggling to manage her growing responsibilities at The Vic. Could she be at risk of slipping into old patterns?
- “ITV Emmerdale announces comeback for actor after five-year absence – and Cain Dingle has reason to be concerned.”
- Emmerdale and Coronation Street taken off air as viewers share identical frustration
- Emmerdale spoilers for next week: A first glimpse as Nate’s funeral begins
- Coronation Street next week: First glimpse as Mick Michaelis breaks out of prison
- “Coronation Street drops new promo as villain Mick breaks out of prison.”
