A treasure trove of Eastenders nostalgia set to hit BBC iPlayer throughout 2024

In an exciting update for soap opera enthusiasts, BBC iPlayer is gearing up to significantly expand its EastEnders offerings. Starting from the 26th of March 2024, the platform will embark on a nostalgic journey, releasing a year’s worth of vintage EastEnders episodes each month. This move comes as the beloved soap approaches its 40th anniversary, showcasing a commitment to celebrating its storied past.

BBC iPlayer initially began enriching its catalogue with episodes from 2008 during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative allowed fans to revisit key moments from the show’s history. With episodes up to 2012 soon to be fully available, the platform’s next goal is to fast-track the release pace, promising viewers access to over 2,000 episodes by Christmas 2024.

From the 26th of March, fans can dive into the complete collection of 2012 episodes. This marks the beginning of a monthly treat, with each subsequent month unveiling another year’s worth of drama, intrigue, and iconic storylines. By Christmas Day 2024, the entire archive from 2008 to the present will be at viewers’ fingertips, including the years 2023 and 2024, already fully available, alongside the majority of 2022.

The addition of these episodes offers fans an opportunity to relive some of the soap’s most memorable moments and storylines. From the mysterious “Who Killed Lucy Beale?” to the emotional departures of beloved characters, each episode serves as a time capsule of the show’s rich narrative history. Highlights include the controversial final episodes of Ronnie and Roxy Mitchell, Peggy’s heart-wrenching death, Stacey’s battle with post-partum psychosis, and Kathy’s shocking return from the dead.

Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer of EastEnders, expressed excitement over the expansion, emphasizing the chance for viewers to enjoy a look back at some of the soap’s most gripping characters and iconic storylines. Similarly, Dan McGolpin, Director of BBC iPlayer and Channels, highlighted the strong demand from viewers for earlier episodes, promising a significant increase in the collection by the end of the year.

This initiative not only honors the legacy of EastEnders but also provides a comprehensive digital platform for new and long-time fans to explore the evolution of one of television’s most enduring dramas. With more than 2,000 episodes soon available, BBC iPlayer is set to become the ultimate destination for EastEnders nostalgia, offering endless hours of entertainment and a chance to witness the transformation of Walford over the years.

This initiative reflects a significant moment for both BBC iPlayer and EastEnders, showcasing the digital evolution of accessing classic television content. As viewers prepare to embark on this nostalgic journey, the legacy of EastEnders continues to flourish, bringing together generations of fans in celebration of the soap’s rich history and unforgettable characters.