Warning: Major spoilers ahead for the EastEnders episode on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025.

Fans of EastEnders were in for a massive shake-up this week as four major characters made their exit following the dramatic auction of The Queen Vic pub. Linda Carter (played by Kellie Bright), a central figure in Walford for years, has officially bid farewell to her beloved pub and possibly to Walford itself — but is this truly the end of her story?

🏠 The Sale of The Queen Vic: A New Era Begins

This week, Linda kicked off the auction for The Queen Vic, and although it seemed the pub was going to a developer, a sudden turn of events led to the Slaters becoming the new owners. Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) confronted Linda, and after an emotional conversation, Linda revealed that all she ever wanted was for The Vic to stay in the hands of a family with kids, something the Slaters could provide in abundance. In a heartwarming moment, Linda told Kat and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) that the pub was now theirs.

This marked a major turning point for Linda, as her long-standing connection to the iconic pub was severed. Heartbroken about leaving her home, Linda’s future in Walford seemed uncertain as she prepared for a new chapter.

🛳️ Linda’s Emotional Farewell

Before leaving Walford, Linda had one final moment of closure, confiding in Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) that Annie was Max Branning’s (Jake Wood) daughter — and thus, his sister. With this weighty revelation hanging in the air, Linda began packing up her life, ready to leave Walford with Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff) and her children, Annie and Ollie.

Elaine Knight (Harriet Thorpe) suggested that Linda and Johnny take a cruise that had been originally bought for Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy), a final escape from the emotional turmoil surrounding her departure.

❓ Is This Linda’s Final Exit?

Linda’s exit from Walford has left viewers questioning whether this marks the end of her journey on the show. Though her departure has been confirmed, no definitive details about her return have been released. However, with Max Branning’s return to the show later this year, drama may follow once Linda comes back to Walford, potentially bringing unresolved storylines — including her secret daughter with Max — into the spotlight.

🔥 What’s Next for Max Branning’s Return?

Max’s return has been teased for the autumn, with a permanent return planned for later in the year. Fans are eagerly awaiting Max’s reappearance, as he will return to a very different Walford. With his teenage son, Oscar, back in Walford, Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) preparing for her marriage to the Beale family, and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) a widow, Max will find that a lot has changed since his departure in 2021. And as if that wasn’t enough drama, Max will be in for a shock when he discovers he has a secret daughter with ex-lover Linda Carter.

💬 So much more still hidden…

Linda may have left Walford for now, but with the return of Max and the many secrets surrounding their past, drama is bound to follow. Will Linda return to confront the Brannings? Stay tuned for more twists and turns as EastEnders continues to deliver shocking storylines that keep fans on the edge of their seats!