EastEnders in huge schedule shake-up as soap undergoes major change from next week
EastEnders won't be in it's usual Monday - Friday slot next week due to schedule changes on the BBC, but it's not the only major change the soap will see
EastEnders undergoes a huge change on the week of Kat and Alfie’s wedding(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
If you’re planning to sit down for your daily dose of EastEnders next Monday (June 9), you may have to think again. The soap will be undergoing a schedule shake up next week.
The BBC soap usually airs from Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm. Eager fans who can’t wait until the evening have the option to watch the drama unfold from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
However, next week the show will be airing on Tuesday – Friday due to the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Belgium and Wales, live from Brussels.
Coverage will begin at 7:30 straight after The One Show, and will finish at 10pm just in time for the BBC News at 10. The first trip to Albert Square next week will be available to watch on iPlayer from 6am on Tuesday June 10.
It’s not the only huge change for the soap. Next Friday (June 13) will be executive producer Chris Clenshaw’s last episode before Ben Wadey takes over.
Chris Clenshaw’s last episode will air next Friday(Image: PA)
Last October, it was announced that Chris Clenshaw had made the decision to step down as Executive Producer in February 2025 once the soap has celebrated its 40th anniversary.
It will be a memorable final episode for Chris, as Kat and Alfie prepare the knot once again. But will third time really be the charm for one of Walford’s favourite couples?
Chris returned to EastEnders taking on the role as Executive Producer in January 2022. During his time as producer, Chris created many bold and storylines that will go down in the show’s history, including The Six flashforward whodunit, and the return of Cindy Beale.
Chris created a number of memorable storylines during his time in charge including The Six last Christmas (Image: BBC)
He also brought back favourites including Jacqueline Jossa, Shane Richie, Angela Wynter and Patsy Palmer. Speaking of his decision to leave, Chris Clenshaw said: “As a proud EastEnders fan, it has been the honour of my life to be its custodian.
It has meant everything to me, and I’ve given Walford my all. I made the tough decision that I would step down after the 40th anniversary many months ago – to keep EastEnders creatively refreshed as it’s a show that needs to constantly evolve. After what will be three years at the helm and leading the team through its milestone celebrations, the time feels right that I hand over the keys to The Queen Vic.
“Elstree holds a special place in my heart, and I know when the day comes, it’ll be hard to tear myself away. My special thanks go to the sensational EastEnders cast and crew that I’m incredibly proud to have led over the past few years, and who have provided me with unwavering support. Their commitment, passion and talent has inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them and proud of everything that we’ve achieved together.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
