Walford is set to witness a stirring resurrection this week as EastEnders prepares for an emotional reopening of the Queen Vic, following the deadly explosion that devastated both the pub and the community. After two months of sorrow, construction, and painful reflection, the Square is finally on the cusp of reclaiming its heart—and it’s an EastEnders legend who leads the way.
The explosion, which occurred during Honey and Billy Mitchell’s wedding celebrations, was one of the most explosive moments in the show’s 40-year history. While fans are still reeling from the loss of beloved market trader Martin Fowler and twisted villain Rice Cowell, the scars left on the community run far deeper. Martin’s death, in particular, sent shockwaves through Walford, with many characters still visibly grappling with their grief.
As rebuilding efforts draw to a close, co-owners Linda Carter, Elaine Peacock, and George Knight finally receive the keys to the newly renovated Queen Vic. It should be a triumphant moment, but the joy is bittersweet. The team plans to announce the pub’s grand reopening, drawing inspiration from a surge of community spirit sparked by Lauren’s sudden labor at Harry’s barn. However, their announcement isn’t welcomed by all. Mo Harris and Zack Hudson, still mourning Martin’s death, aren’t ready to return to the place where so much was lost.
Linda, already fraught with tension, becomes increasingly concerned about the reopening and how Elaine is handling the public’s reaction. Alfie Moon—returning in classic form—attempts to comfort her, but Linda’s mind is elsewhere.
Tensions rise further ahead of a significant anniversary—VE Day, marking 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. Linda initially insists the Vic should remain closed, unwilling to host celebrations while the community still mourns. But everything changes when Jean Slater makes a heartfelt plea on behalf of Nigel Bates, who is struggling with dementia and believes it’s 1995. Jean encourages Linda to throw a last-minute party to lift Nigel’s spirits.
At first, Linda refuses, overwhelmed by grief and pressure. But witnessing the market traders unite in a spontaneous act of remembrance—honoring not only the fallen of the past but also their own Martin—begins to shift something within her. Inspired by the unity and resilience of the community, Linda decides to open the pub’s doors once more.
But questions linger. What will the Vic look like after its transformation? Over the past few months, tensions have flared between Elaine and Linda over the redesign, with Elaine pushing for a trendy overhaul featuring rose gold and modern flair. Actress Harriet Thorpe (Elaine) revealed in a behind-the-scenes interview that she envisioned a more fashionable and contemporary Vic, jokingly suggesting it could become Walford’s version of a jazz bar.
Despite all the proposed changes, it appears the spirit of the Vic will remain intact—though with a fresh twist. Since its last major refurb in 2010, following the infamous fire started by Phil Mitchell, the Queen Vic has only seen modest changes. Mick and Linda’s tenure brought personal touches like Princess Diana memorabilia and musical theatre art. Now, with the pub set to reopen, fans are eager to see which design vision ultimately won out.
As the doors swing open again, it’s not just the pub that’s getting a second chance—but the entire community. The Queen Vic has always been more than a pub—it’s been a symbol of home, history, and the enduring spirit of the Square. And with Alfie Moon, Linda Carter, and the community behind it, the Vic is ready to reclaim its place at the heart of Walford.
