The world of Walford is set for a major new arrival in the New Year, as award-winning television star Ronni Ancona joins the cast of BBC One's EastEnders.
A Blast from Linda's Past
Ancona will play the character of Bea, an old acquaintance of Linda Carter (Kellie Bright). The pair are set to come face-to-face at a high school reunion early in 2026. However, it quickly becomes clear that Linda and Bea have very different memories of their shared history.
Following the reunion, Bea settles in Walford and soon finds herself at the centre of the Square's drama. While details of her backstory are being kept under wraps, show insiders describe Bea as "a force to be reckoned with" who leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
A Stellar Career Comes to Albert Square
This marks Ronni Ancona's first acting role in Albert Square, though she is familiar to EastEnders fans for her spot-on impersonations of icons like Peggy Mitchell, Kat Slater, and Sharon Watts on the BAFTA-winning show The Big Impression. Her extensive career also includes acclaimed roles in series such as Last Tango In Halifax and Skins.
Speaking about her new role, Ancona said: "I am honoured to have been invited to join the iconic institution that is EastEnders, and to go on this whirlwind of a journey with such an unpredictable, nuanced and complex character as Bea. I hope audiences have as much fun watching her as I have had bringing her to life."
EastEnders Executive Producer Ben Wadey added: "I'm delighted to welcome the immensely talented Ronni Ancona to EastEnders playing the character of Bea. Bea's character is mysterious, and we're thrilled to have an esteemed actress and comedian like Ronni playing her."
Linda's Tumultuous Return to the Square
Bea's arrival will follow an eventful festive period for Linda Carter, who is due to return to Walford the week after next. Linda has been on a cruise with her children, Ollie and Annie, following several traumatic years.
Her recent history includes:
- The tragic loss of her husband, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer).
- Killing Keanu Taylor to protect her best friend.
- Relapsing while trying to cover up the crime.
- Selling The Queen Vic earlier this year to make a fresh start.
Her return is complicated by the comeback of her ex-lover, Max Branning (Jake Wood), after a four-year absence. Linda had a brief affair with Max in 2021, which led to the birth of her daughter, Annie—a fact Max still does not know, leaving Linda anxious the truth could explode at any moment.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and is available to stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
