To mark the 40th anniversary of EastEnders, BBC One will air a special hour-long documentary hosted by Ross Kemp (Grant Mitchell) celebrating the show’s bold storytelling and offering viewers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at its most significant storylines over the past four decades.
The landmark documentary explores the rich history of EastEnders and examines how its portrayal of working-class life in London has transcended television, influencing society and shaping audience perspectives on critical issues throughout the years.
Titled EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square, the special revisits some of the show’s most powerful and groundbreaking moments, such as the first televised kiss between two gay men in Britain, Kat’s harrowing abuse storyline, and the HIV diagnoses of Mark Fowler and Zack, among others. Ross will go behind the scenes, speaking to actors who were integral to these narratives—many of which tackled topics previously unseen on primetime British TV or in soap operas.
In addition to reflecting on the show’s lasting impact, Ross sits down with original cast members and longtime staples of the series, including Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Cotton), and Letitia Dean (Sharon Watts). They reminisce about their early days in Walford and share their thoughts on memorable storylines that have defined EastEnders over the years.
The documentary will also feature appearances from EastEnders legends Anita Dobson and Pam St Clement, with Dobson taking a nostalgic journey alongside her on-screen daughter.
Ross Kemp’s return to Albert Square is just the beginning, as he has officially reprised his iconic role as Grant Mitchell, set to reappear as the show approaches its milestone anniversary in February.
EastEnders: 40 Years on The Square is a BBC One documentary special produced by Pulse Films and commissioned by BBC iPlayer and Channels editor Yasemin Rashit.
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