In a surprising twist for one of Britain's most beloved soaps, iconic EastEnders characters Phil Mitchell and Kat Slater are set to be temporarily re-cast for a special Children in Need sketch airing tonight.
A Legendary Shake-Up for a Good Cause
The characters, famously portrayed by Steve McFadden and Jessie Wallace, will be played by a new set of actors as part of a unique segment orchestrated by 16-year-old Children in Need presenter Lenny Rush. In the special storyline, Lenny and Pudsey Bear are given the power to place children at the heart of BBC programming, with EastEnders being one of the shows selected for their imaginative treatment.
Steve McFadden, who has embodied the hardman Phil Mitchell since 1990 and recently won his first National Television Award for Best Serial Drama Performance, will see his role taken on by a child actor. Similarly, Jessie Wallace, who debuted as Kat Slater in 2000 and delivered the legendary 'You're my mother' revelation to Zoe Slater, will also be temporarily re-cast.
Queen Vic Tensions and Familiar Faces
The sketch promises classic Albert Square drama, with tensions running high inside the Queen Vic. The plot will revolve around accusations of misplaced property being thrown around, ensuring the special retains the show's trademark conflict.
They won't be entirely alone in Walford, however. The special will also feature appearances from established EastEnders stars Shane Richie as Alfie Moon and Jacqueline Jossa as Lauren Branning, who will interact with the newly cast younger versions of their co-stars. The character of Billy Mitchell, normally played by Perry Fenwick, will also be portrayed by a child actor.
A Tradition of Memorable Charity Sketches
This year's event continues EastEnders' long-standing tradition of creating unique and entertaining content for the annual charity fundraiser. Over the years, the show has produced everything from musical and Disney medleys to a memorable crossover with ITV rival Coronation Street.
Fans will remember that Kat was a central figure in that very crossover, famously ejecting Michelle Connor from the Vic for flirting with Alfie. While these sketches are fun diversions that don't affect the main show's storyline, they remain a cherished part of the Children in Need broadcast.
Tonight's Children in Need extravaganza, airing on November 14, 2025, is set to be packed with more emotional performances, special moments, and sketches alongside the unmissable EastEnders segment.
