List of EastEnders characters (2022)

The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the British soap opera EastEnders in 2022, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by the show's senior executive producer, Kate Oates, executive producer, Jon Sen, or his successor, Chris Clenshaw. The first character to be introduced is Nina Gupta (Hersha Verity) in February, who was introduced as the new GP. Lewis Butler (Aidan O'Callaghan), a man that Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) hires as the manager of her bar, was introduced in April, and Omar Lye-Fook debuted in July as Avery Baker, the brother of established character Mitch Baker (Roger Griffiths). He was followed by his sons, Finley (Ashley Byam) and Felix (Matthew James Morrison). Nina's stepson, Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara), was also introduced in July. Suki Panesar's (Balvinder Sopal) husband and the father of the Panesar children, Nish (Navin Chowdhry) made his debut in September. Additionally, multiple other characters have appeared throughout the year.

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Nina Gupta

Nina Gupta
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Hersha Verity
First appearance	Episode 6432 10 February 2022 (2022-02-10)
Last appearance	Episode 6588 9 November 2022 (2022-11-09)
Classification	Former; recurring
Introduced by	Jon Sen
In-universe information Occupation General practitioner Husband Ranveer Gulati (2022) Stepsons Ravi Gulati (adoptive)

Nina Gupta, played by Hersha Verity, made her first appearance on 10 February and departed on 9 November. She is a doctor who tends to Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol) when he suffers food poisoning after eating a sandwich that he bought from Stacey's Baps. She reappears when Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) brings her mother Jean (Gillian Wright) to a doctors appointment when she is convinced that Jean is having a manic episode. After Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) buys a doctor's surgery, she hires Nina to run it alongside daughter Ash Panesar (Gurlaine Kaur Garcha).

Verity was keen to portray Nina since she liked her characterisation, specifically noting her "complete confidence, no fear of failure, goes after what she wants." Hinting at the future of her character, Verity told Digital Spy: "There is a lot more to her that is slowly starting to unfold. She has a few wants and goals of her own that go far beyond the surgery. So I am excited for that to unfold!" She was also intrigued by Nina's connection to the Panesar family. She opined that Ash is a great character due to being emotional and reactive while also being feisty and speaking her mind. Verity hoped that Nina would form a long-term friendship with Ash.

On being cast on the soap, she said: "There is nothing like this kind of experience, it's so iconic. Just a part of British culture, so it's exciting, but that can be quite nerve-wracking! When I was walking through the corridors and saw the pictures on the wall, I felt a real sense of history. It just felt like I was part of something very special. You are stepping into history. It is a really nice place to experience being an actor." Verity's father would not allow her to watch EastEnders as a child so she found it amusing to be cast on the soap. Walking onto the set for the first time was an exciting experience for her due to being early in her acting career; it led her to "just take a moment and [be] so grateful to have this experience".

Ranveer Gulati

Ranveer Gulati
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Anil Goutam
First appearance	Episode 6446 7 March 2022 (2022-03-07)
Last appearance	Episode 6536 10 August 2022 (2022-08-10)
Classification	Former; recurring
Introduced by	Jon Sen
In-universe information Wife Haspira Gulati (backstory) Nina Gupta (2022) Sons Ravi Gulati (adoptive) Grandsons Davinder "Nugget" Gulati (adoptive) Granddaughters Avani Nandra-Hart (adoptive)

Ranveer Gulati is the adoptive father of Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and husband of Nina Gupta (Hersha Verity) who first appears in Episode 6446 on 7 March. He was played by Anil Goutam. He was also a family friend of the Panesars who has entrusts Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol) to build him a house in Mumbai. When he attacks Kheerat's mother Suki (Balvinder Sopal) and tries to rape her in exchange for a business contract, she strikes him over the head with a clock. Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) walks in and begins covering up the crime but Ranveer wakes up and begins attacking him. Ravi delivers the final blow to Ranveer's head, killing him, and later disposes of his body. He last appeared on 10 August when he was killed. It was later revealed that he also attempted to rape Ravi's ex-girlfriend Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophia Khan Levy) and later paid her to leave him and their son Davinder "Nugget" Gulati (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) and threatening to have her killed if she returned. It was also revealed that he raped his PA Priti, who had told Ravi about it.

Roland Highway

Roland Highway
EastEnders character
First appearance	Episode 6460 30 March 2022 (2022-03-30)
Last appearance	Episode 6544 25 August 2022 (2022-08-25)
Classification	Former; recurring
Introduced by	Kate Oates
In-universe information Other names Roly Highway Father Stuart Highway Mother Bernadette Taylor Adoptive mother Rainie Highway Half-sisters Zara Highway Grandfathers Jonno Highway Grandmothers Karen Taylor Uncles Callum Highway Keanu Taylor Keegan Baker Chatham Taylor Riley Taylor Aunts Chantelle Atkins First cousins Peggy Taylor Mia Atkins Mackenzie Atkins Other relatives Vi Highway

Roland Highway is the son of Stuart (Ricky Champ) and Rainie Highway (Tanya Franks) born on-screen via surrogate Bernadette Taylor (Clair Norris) in episode 6460 first originally broadcast on 30 March 2022. The character left along with Stuart and Rainie in episode 6513, originally broadcast on 25 August 2022.

Stuart and Rainie first look for a surrogate after given the idea that this may work and potentially create a future for the both of them – Bernadette hears this and offers to be their surrogate after her family are struggling financially. Bernadette's mother Karen Taylor (Lorraine Stanley) and half-brother Keegan Baker (Zack Morris) are initially against the idea but are later convinced to accept the decision. Stuart and Rainie eventually accept Bernadette after much consideration but struggle to conceive anyhow: Bernadette is overweight and can not carry a pregnancy to full-term. Regardless of this, they still proceed with the surrogacy and are delighted when Bernadette finally is pregnant. Bernadette gives birth to Roland and initially decides to keep him; though eventually gives him to Rainie and Stuart after realising that she would never be Roland's true parent and he is loved by the two.

Lewis Butler

Lewis Butler
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Aidan O'Callaghan
First appearance	Episode 6466 11 April 2022 (2022-04-11)
Last appearance	Episode 6540 17 August 2022 (2022-08-17)
Classification	Former; recurring
Introduced by	Kate Oates
In-universe information Occupation Bar manager

Lewis Butler, played by Aidan O'Callaghan, made his first appearance on 11 April 2022. He was introduced as the new bar manager of the gay bar, the Prince Albert, after being hired by Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth). He chats up Callum Highway (Tony Clay), much to the annoyance of his husband Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden). The character and O'Callaghan's casting was announced on 6 April 2022 and it was confirmed that Lewis would appear in a storyline involving Callum and Ben, when he approves of Callum's new LGBTQ+ campaign at work despite Ben's objections. Lewis and Ben go on a night out, but Lewis is faced with homophobic abuse. On 23 April 2022, it was announced that Lewis would be involved in a male rape storyline in which the character rapes Ben. It was also revealed that EastEnders would be working with charities including Survivors UK, Survivors Manchester, and the Male Survivors Partnership to make sure that the storyline is covered as sensitively and accurately. It was confirmed on 17 August 2022 that O'Callaghan has left the soap with his final scenes airing that episode.

Avery Baker

Avery Baker
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Omar Lye-Fook
First appearance	Episode 6515 4 July 2022 (2022-07-04)
Last appearance	Episode 6522 18 July 2022
Classification	Former; guest
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Father Tony Baker Brothers Mitch Baker Wife Celia Baker (backstory) Sons Felix Baker Nephews Keegan Baker Nieces Chantelle Atkins Bailey Baker Other relatives Mia Atkins Mackenzie Atkins

Avery Baker, played by Omar Lye-Fook, made his first appearance on 4 July 2022. Avery is the estranged brother of Mitch Baker (Roger Griffiths) and will arrive with his sons Felix (Matthew James Morrison) and Finlay (Ashley Byam). Lye-Fook's casting and character were announced on 6 June 2022. Avery was described by Digital Spy's Justin Harp as having "a much different personality than his humble and caring brother". Avery is revealed to have a tense relationship with Mitch and Harp teased that it would potentially problems for him.

On joining EastEnders, Lye-Fook said: "I've been watching EastEnders since I was at school so it's such a surreal experience to now be part of the show". He also added: "I'm having so much fun and it's an honour to be working alongside this incredible cast". Executive producer Chris Clenshaw added: "The Baker Family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square. Felix and Finlay are two very different firecrackers and, yes, these brothers fall out, take the mick and challenge each other, but none of that compares to their unswerving love and loyalty they have for one another. They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving. Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we're excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life. The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year – so watch this space…" Shortly after his introduction, his sons revealed to Mitch that Avery has terminal cancer; Metro confirmed that the storyline would result in his death.

Ravi Gulati

Main article: Ravi Gulati (EastEnders)

Ravi Gulati, played by Aaron Thiara, made his first appearance on 4 July 2022. Ravi was introduced as a cellmate of Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and a former associate of Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol). Thiara's casting and character were also announced on the same day.

Finlay Baker

Finlay Baker
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Ashley Byam
Duration	2022–2023
First appearance	Episode 6517 7 July 2022 (2022-07-07)
Last appearance	Episode 6693 28 June 2023 (2023-06-28)
Classification	Former; regular
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Mother Celia Baker Half-brothers Felix Baker Aunts Rosina

Finlay Baker, played by Ashley Byam, made his first appearance on 7 July 2022. Finlay is the adopted son of Avery Baker (Omar Lye-Fook) and half-brother of Felix Baker (Matthew James Morrison). The character and Byam's casting was announced on 6 June 2022. On his casting on the soap, Byam said: "I'm very excited to be joining the Square. Like many people I grew up with EastEnders; it was almost like an unspoken family tradition. My mum and I sat there together watching so many incredible and iconic storylines. So to now be joining this classic British TV drama is an honour, and I'm truly grateful. I can't wait for everyone to meet Finlay and see what lies ahead for him". Of Finlay, Harp (Digital Spy) said that Finlay will "discover his charm will only get him so far in the square" and described Finlay and Felix as "brothers who always have each other's backs in difficult times.

Executive producer Chris Clenshaw said of the family: "The Baker family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square. Felix and Finlay are two very different firecrackers and, yes, these brothers fall out, take the mick and challenge each other, but none of that compares to their unswerving love and loyalty they have for one another. They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving. Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we're excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life. The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year – so watch this space…"

Byam was axed from the show less than a year after his introduction. He made a previously unannounced departure from EastEnders on 28 June 2023, with Finlay's exit storyline involving being threatened to leave Walford by Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) after igniting a feud with Vinny Panesar (Shiv Jalota).

Felix Baker

Felix Baker
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Matthew James Morrison
Duration	2022–present
First appearance	Episode 6517 7 July 2022 (2022-07-07)
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Other names Tara Misu Occupation Drag queen Barman Father Avery Baker Mother Celia Baker Half-brothers Finlay Baker Grandfathers Tony Baker Uncles Mitch Baker Aunts Rosina First cousins Chantelle Atkins Keegan Baker Bailey Baker Other relatives Mackenzie Atkins Mia Atkins

Felix Baker, played by Matthew James Morrison, made his first appearance on 7 July 2022. He is the son of Avery Baker (Omar Lye-Fook) and the half-brother of Finlay Baker (Ashley Byam). The character and Morrison's casting were announced on 6 June 2022. Felix is described as "quick with a witty retort" and will throw himself into life in Walford, but his quick-wit and frank honesty could get him into trouble. Of his relationship with his brother, the BBC said that "despite being the complete opposite of each other, Felix and Finlay present a united front and always have each other's backs". Executive producer Chris Clenshaw said of the family: "The Baker Family bring a fresh, fierce, fun and exciting energy to the Square. Felix and Finlay are two very different firecrackers and, yes, these brothers fall out, take the mick and challenge each other, but none of that compares to their unswerving love and loyalty they have for one another. They may be charming young men, full of sass, swagger and strength but these brothers are Bakers and, like their father, Avery, have their own unique way of surviving. Omar, Matthew and Ashley all bring star quality to EastEnders and we're excited to see them bring Avery, Felix and Finlay to life. The Baker family are the just the start of some new faces landing in Walford later this year – so watch this space…" Of his casting, Morrison said, "It's an honour to be a part of such a legendary show that I grew up watching. It hasn't quite sunk in yet, and I don't think it ever will. I'm having a ball getting to grips with Felix and cannot wait for you all to meet him!"

In June 2022, during Pride Month, it was revealed by the BBC that Felix is a drag queen whose alias is "Tara Masu". Morrison felt privileged to showcase drag to EastEnders viewers, as well as representing the LGBTQIA+ community, and he felt that it is "important for people to feel reflected on screen". Morrison had not done drag prior to the role and received mentoring from drag queen Vinegar Strokes. The decision to write Felix as a drag queen received praise from Lucas Young, a drag queen who goes by the name of Ms Classpergers. They felt that it was a significant move from the soap and wished that they had that representation on-screen during their youth.

Denzel Danes

Denzel Danes
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Jaden Ladega
Duration	2022–present
First appearance	Episode 6531 2 August 2022
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Occupation Student Father Howie Danes Mother Delilah

Denzel Danes, played by Jaden Ladega, is the son of Howie Danes (Delroy Atkinson) and makes his first appearance in episode 6531, originally broadcast on 2 August 2022. Denzel befriends Davinder "Nugget" Gulati (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury), and they bullying Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd) after Denzel takes a picture of Amy's legs and posts it all over social media. Amy's stepsister Chelsea Fox (Zaraah Abrahams) forces Denzel to delete the pictures. Denzel soon moves in with Howie and Chelsea's aunt Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) whilst his mother decides to stay in Ibiza. He soon begins a relationship with Amy much to the opposition of her father Jack Branning (Scott Maslen). In April 2023, Denzel and Kim are involved in a car accident when Kim crashes into the Argee Bhajee after being distracted by a text revealing her sister Denise's (Diane Parish) affair with Nugget's father Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara). In January 2024, Denzel is attacked by Walford High student Logan (Liam Hatch) and his friends, after Denzel stands up to him. Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter) attempts to help Denzel but trips over and is videoed by everyone. Denzel is embarrassed and fights with Nugget after his sister, Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James), teases him about the incident. Because of this, Denzel decides to take up boxing and is mentored by George Knight (Colin Salmon). Denzel develops muscle dysmorphia and purchases steroids.

Davinder "Nugget" Gulati

Davinder "Nugget" Gulati
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Juhaim Rasul Choudhury
Duration	2022–present
First appearance	Episode 6535 9 August 2022
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Other names Davinder Panesar Occupation Student Father Ravi Gulati Mother Priya Nandra-Hart Sisters Avani Nandra-Hart Grandfathers Nish Panesar Ranveer Gulati (adoptive) Uncles Kheerat Panesar Jags Panesar Vinny Panesar Aunts Ash Panesar First cousins Tyrion Ahmed

Davinder "Nugget" Gulati, played by Juhaim Rasul Choudhury, is the son of Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy), as well as being the adoptive grandson of Ranveer Gulati (Anil Goutam), who befriends Denzel Danes (Jaden Ladega). He joins in with Denzel when he begins bullying Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd), and continues to do so when Denzel begins a relationship with her.

After Ravi has Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Singh Deol) attacked in prison, Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) reveals the truth about Ravi killing his adoptive grandfather Ranveer (Anil Goutam). Nugget later goes missing and is reported to the police by the family, to which they search hours for until he calls Suki for money and to reveal that he’s safe, unbeknownst that he is staying with his mother Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophia Khan Levy) and sister Avani (Aaliyah James). They later find Nugget and Priya introduces herself to the family and later reveals the true paternity of Avani, to which they eventually move in. Nugget later shows acceptance of Suki after she comes out as a lesbian and reveals her affair with Eve Unwin (Heather Peace).

Development

In September 2023, it was announced by EastEnders via Instagram that character Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) would go through a storyline that introduces along Nugget’s mother and a secret sister neither Nugget or Ravi had an idea about.

Eric Mitchell

Eric Mitchell
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	George Russo
Appears in	Episode 6550 5 September 2022
Classification	Former; guest
In-universe information Occupation Career criminal Family Mitchell Father Phil Mitchell Mother Sandra Mitchell Brothers Archie Mitchell Clive Mitchell Wife Peggy Mitchell Sons Phil Mitchell Grant Mitchell Daughters Sam Mitchell First cousins Ted Mitchell Stevie Mitchell Other relatives Billy Mitchell Charlie Mitchell

Eric Mitchell, portrayed by George Russo, first appears in a flashback episode set in February 1979. Eric is the deceased husband of Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor/Jaime Winstone) and father of Phil (Steve McFadden/Daniel Delaney), Grant (Ross Kemp/Teddy Jay) and Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf/Laila Murphy). In the episode, Eric learns that Phil has gotten a job at a garage and is furious. He leaves Peggy at home with Sam and forces Phil and Grant to join him in an armed robbery at a warehouse alongside his cousin Stevie Mitchell (Dean Roberts) and Stephen's sons: Charlie Mitchell (Charlie Heptinstall) and Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick/George Greenland). Peggy objects to this but Eric assaults her. They are later caught by a Security Guard, Malcolm Keeble (Christopher Pizzey), who is the father of DCI Samantha Keeble (Alison Newman). Billy falls from a ladder whilst trying to steal a VHS package and Eric orders everyone to leave and desert him. However, Phil and Grant decide to remain to save Billy, and Phil holds the policeman at gunpoint. Eric intervenes and takes the gun from Phil, shooting the policeman to death. When Phil confronts him over this, he plans to beat him. Peggy tries to stop Eric from attacking Phil and threatens him with a knife. Eric later hits Phil who eventually overpowers him and beats him. This spells the end of Eric's abuse of Phil, though he continues abusing Peggy until she calls the police on Eric for his abuse and he is arrested. Eric later developed prostate cancer and died from the disease in 1985. Eric has been mentioned several times in the show before appearing in the flashback episode.

Backstory

Peggy (Jo Warne; later Barbara Windsor) married Eric because she was pregnant with their son Phil (Steve McFadden). Eric grew to be a keen boxer and he soon ended up working for his gangland boss, Johnny Allen (Billy Murray). This impacted the marriage as Johnny constantly taunted Eric, making him do demeaning jobs because Eric was a better boxer than him. Eric fell in love with a glamorous woman called Maureen Loftus and planned to elope with her, but he changed his mind at the last minute – unable to desert his family, who he grew to resent. Eric took his anger out on Peggy and was often violent towards her and Phil. The abuse eventually ended when Peggy told the police that Eric was involved in a Post office robbery and he was sent to prison. Peggy considered leaving when her sons, Phil and Grant (Ross Kemp) were teenagers, and once even tried to seduce Johnny, but he turned her down. It was then Eric had cheated on Peggy with Claudette Hubbard (Ellen Thomas), who he also intended to run away with, but he changed his mind again – leading to Claudette hating the entire family. Soon afterwards, Peggy turned to Eric's older brother Archie (Larry Lamb) for comfort because he was there for Peggy when Eric began to abuse her. She tried to save her marriage by having another child in 1975 – her only daughter Samantha (Danniella Westbrook; Kim Medcalf). Her relationship with Eric improved, but only temporarily, and when Kevin Masters (Colin McCormack) employed Peggy to work at his minicab firm, they ended up having a secret affair. When Eric developed prostate cancer, Peggy gave up work to care for him until he eventually died in 1985. Following Eric's death, Kevin acquainted himself with Peggy once more and her children grew to harbour resentment towards him.

Stevie Mitchell

Stevie Mitchell
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Dean Roberts (2022) Alan Ford (2024–present)
Duration	2022, 2024–present
First appearance	Episode 6550 5 September 2022
Classification	Present; guest
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Family Mitchell Father Kenneth Mitchell Mother Barbara Mitchell Brothers Ted Mitchell Wife Janet Mitchell Sons Charlie Mitchell Billy Mitchell Grandsons Dan Pearce Jamie Mitchell Will Mitchell Granddaughters Janet Mitchell First cousins Eric Mitchell Archie Mitchell Clive Mitchell Other relatives Lola Pearce Lexi Pearce Phil Mitchell Grant Mitchell Sam Mitchell Ben Mitchell Louise Mitchell

Stephen "Stevie" Mitchell is the father of Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick/George Greenland) and Charlie Mitchell (Charlie Heptinstall) and cousin of Eric Mitchell (George Russo), who appeared in Episode 6550, in which he was played by Dean Roberts through flashbacks. He and his wife, Janet, put their children into a home when they were very young, but regained contact with them by 1979 when the flashback episode is set.

Ahead of playing Stevie, Roberts said: "I didn’t really know too much about Stephen, I had to learn a lot about his character based on other people’s opinions and I had done a lot of research on Billy when he first entered the show. It’s interesting what Peggy says about him – that she’s not too fond of that branch of the family. He seems to have a better relationship with his cousin Eric, they are like partners in crime. I see him as a very selfish character, a product of his era.". He added: "He’s not a good father, we know that he put both his kids in a home. I don’t know if he carries any guilt about that, I did try to bear that in mind. I put a lot of thought into him. I thought the back story was very interesting – I think Stephen is quite envious of Eric and Peggy’s family dynamic."

It was announced on 28 December 2023 that Stephen would be reintroduced in the present day and would be portrayed by Alan Ford, though Ford's casting was initially revealed on 18 November 2023. In January 2024, Stephen now Stevie, is seen at Aunt Sal's (Anna Karen) funeral where he meets his relative Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden). Phil bans Stevie from attending the wake, and threatens him to stay away from the Mitchell's because of his poor treatment to Billy.

Charlie Mitchell

Charlie Mitchell
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Charlie Heptinstall
Appears in	Episode 6550 5 September 2022
Classification	Former; guest
In-universe information Family Mitchell Father Stevie Mitchell Mother Janet Mitchell Brothers Billy Mitchell Wife Lynne Mitchell Sons Jamie Mitchell Other relatives Eric Mitchell Phil Mitchell Grant Mitchell

Charlie Mitchell is the deceased brother of Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick/George Greenland) and father of Jamie Mitchell (Jack Ryder), who appears in Episode 6550 and is played by Charlie Heptinstall. Apart from the flashback epiosde set in 1979, Charlie has never been seen. It has been revealed that he met Lynne in 1979 and married her in 1982 when he had Jamie with her before she died four years later. Charlie died from a heart condition in 1998 leaving Billy as Jamie's legal guardian, shortly before Billy's arrival in Walford. However, due to Billy's abuse towards Jamie, Charlie’s friend and cousin Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) becomes Jamie's guardian as he is godfather.

Nish Panesar

Main article: Nish Panesar

Nish Panesar, played by Navin Chowdhry, is the estranged husband of Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) and the father of Kheerat (Jaz Deol), Jags (Amar Adatia), Vinny (Shiv Jalota) and Ash (Gurlaine Kaur Garcha). Chowdhry's casting as Nish was announced on 28 August 2022 and it was confirmed that he had already begun filming at the time. He arrives in Walford following a 20-year stretch in prison for murder. Prior to their time on EastEnders, Nish mentally abused and controlled Suki throughout their marriage. Nish arrives determined to repair his family relationships, including his marriage to Suki. Nish was described as a charming and charasmatic character, but they confirmed that viewers would quickly notice that he is "ice-cold, manipulative and driven by a need for power and respect".

On his casting, Chowdhry said that since he had never worked on a soap prior to EastEnders, the experience was all new for him. However, he loved the storylines given to him upon his debut. He particularly vented an interest in his onscreen family and liked that "there's so much happening at all times" in the Panesar unit. He found Nish to be an interesting and unconventional character, which he said would bring drama and mayhem". He opined that under his bad persona, there is a good man, but confirmed that Nish would cause "turmoil" for the Panesars. Executive producer Chris Clenshaw echoed Chowdhry's excitement the character, since Nish had been referenced numerous times prior to his arrival on the series. Clenshaw continued: "The spectre of Nish Panesar is finally here, and it's been a pleasure welcoming Navin to the cast, and take to the role so effortlessly. He brings something to the character that none of us could've predicted – his dynamic on and off-screen, and we're excited to see where his character develops as the story grows."

Don

Donovan "Don", played by Nick Nevern, is the ex-boyfriend of Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) who first appears on 8 November to try and win her back, however Zack Hudson (James Farrar) scares him off and he leaves on 9 November. He was first mentioned on 9 May when he dropped Sam's stuff off. Nevern's casting was announced on 1 November.

Reiss Colwell

Reiss Colwell
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Jonny Freeman
Duration	2022–present
First appearance	Episode 6606 12 December 2022 (2022-12-12)
Classification	Present; regular
Introduced by	Chris Clenshaw
In-universe information Occupation Accountant Wife Debbie Grandfathers Gerry Colwell Other relatives Dot Cotton Dotty Cotton

Reiss Colwell, played by Jonny Freeman, is the great-nephew of Dot Branning (June Brown) and a love interest for Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy). He made his first appearance on the episode broadcast on 12 December 2022. Freeman's casting was announced on 22 November 2022. Of his casting, Freeman said, "I am delighted to be joining the cast of EastEnders, especially as part of the iconic Dot Branning's extended family. Everybody has been so welcoming and I'm very lucky to have been working so closely with the lovely Natalie Cassidy who is not only a fantastic actress but a delightful person; she has very kindly helped me navigate my first few weeks. I hope I can do Reiss justice. He is kind but socially awkward and seeing how he manages, or doesn't manage, his early exchanges with Sonia and her nearest and dearest has been quite interesting! I'm looking forward to seeing how both audiences and the residents of Walford respond to him."

Reiss arrives in Walford for Dot's funeral. He meets Dot's step-granddaughter, Sonia, and reveals that his family became estranged from Dot because of her marriage to Charlie Cotton (Christopher Hancock). He later has sex with Sonia after the wake. Reiss and Sonia begin a relationship and it later transpires that Reiss is still married to his wife Debbie, who has been in an irreversible coma for many years. Sonia forgives him and they decide to try for a baby via IVF since Reiss cannot conceive naturally. Sonia is unaware that Reiss is using Debbie's life savings to fund the treatment and he keeps this a secret.

Other characters

Character	Episode date(s)	Actor	Circumstances
DI Marshall	14 January–3 March 2022 (2 episodes)	Karis Pentecost	A police officer who arrests Aaron Monroe (Charlie Wernham) after his father, Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman), calls the police to stop Aaron going to Manchester to bomb a mosque.
Claire Reid	20 January–5 May 2022 (4 episodes)	Louise Rhian Poole	Scarlett Butcher's (Tabitha Byron) social worker. She speaks to Jay Brown (Jamie Borthwick) about Scarlett's mother Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) as Janine still has Jay down as her employer, despite not working for him anymore. Jay tells Claire the truth about Janine's past, hoping to ruin her chances at custody. Claire interviews Janine and Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) about their relationship but Janine is forced to admit that she has lied about the relationship and Claire says she must include this in her report. She later visits Scarlett and her carer Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) about Scarlett's hearing date and is present when Janine is granted custody of Scarlett.
Hassan	24 January 2022	Joe Ferrera	A man who Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) does a business negotiation with. He is interested in buying Phil's chicken shops, which are fronts for money laundering, but he offers £80,000 less than Phil is asking. Hassan calls off the deal when Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) interrupts, confronting Phil about a separate issue.
Henry	25–27 January 2022 (2 episodes)	Tim Fellingham	A courier who delivers parcels to Karen Taylor (Lorraine Stanley) at the laundrette. Karen and Henry flirt every time they meet and Karen thinks Henry is serious. He is later replaced by Nathan (Frankie Wade)
Ray	31 January 2022	Uncredited	A man who supplies goods to Billy Mitchell's (Perry Fenwick) market stall.
Sid Bello	3 February–28 March 2022 (7 episodes)	Buddy Skelton	Two students at the same school as Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall). They see Tommy holding a rainbow cup during a gay pride party and make fun of him but he defends himself so Sid says he will see him at school the next day. Tommy is confident that Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) will defend him because he is practically his step-father. They later chase Tommy into the closed Indian restaurant but are scared off by Phil. After weeks of bullying, Tommy threatens them with a knife. When he tries to leave, Sid pushes him and Tommy hits him with his bag, accidentally stabbing him, which is recorded by Matty. Matty and Tommy run off leaving Sid to bleed on the ground.
Matty		Ryan Masher
PC Cooper	3 February 2022	Du'aine A Samuels	A police officer who detains Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) and Eve Unwin (Heather Peace) in the back of his police van after they have an argument so they can calm down.
Chris	4 February 2022	Nick Hooton	A repairman who fixes a leak at Karen Taylor's (Lorraine Stanley) house. Karen flirts with Chris.
Scott	7–8 February 2022 (2 episodes)	Darren Kent	A builder who inspects a derelict building, the Argee Bhajee, after a gas leak caused an explosion. Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith), who murdered Tina Carter (Luisa Bradshaw-White) and placed her body under the floor, impersonates an insurance broker to enquire about what will happen to the building, and Scott confirms that the floors need to be removed. He tells Gray the next day that his company have run out of money and cannot carry out the work.
Nurse Shauna Bell	7 February–8 March 2022 (3 episodes)	Aurora Fearnley	A nurse who encourages Chelsea Atkins (Zaraah Abrahams) to hold her premature son, Jordan Atkins, for the first time instead of waiting for her husband, Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith) to arrive. She encourages his mother to bond with him.
Nathan	7–21 February 2022 (3 episodes)	Frankie Wade	A courier replacing Henry (Tim Fellingham). Karen Taylor (Lorraine Stanley) flirts with him and gives him her phone number but he finds it awkward. Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) flirts with him to make her partner, Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), jealous. Phil overhears him calling Kat ugly and threatens to hurt him if he comes back. He later returns to flirt with Kat but Phil throws him out of the launderette.
Dr Archer	11 February 2022	Maya Barcot	A doctor who follows up with Jean Slater's (Gillian Wright) bipolar disorder. She points out that Jean missed her last appointment and tries to get her to talk about her ovarian cancer but Jean refuses, saying she no longer has it. Dr Archer then becomes concerned about Jean's behaviour. However, they run out of time and she tells Jean to rebook an appointment, having issued a prescription.
Dr Forde	15 February 2022	Harry Ter Haar	A doctor who treats Dotty Cotton (Milly Zero) in hospital after she passed out from drinking heavily. He warns her that her alcohol poisoning could have been fatal and gives her a leaflet.
Melody Wiles	15 February–22 March 2022 (5 episodes)	Niamh Longford	Friends of Jada Lennox (Kelsey Calladine-Smith), who she bumps into in the café. They go to the park with Jada and Will Mitchell (Freddie Phillips), where Melody films Jada dancing. They organise a party at Sharon Watts' (Letitia Dean) house without Jada's permission, however Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) ends the party when she discovers Will has been smoking.
Chess Newland		Liani Samuel
Trevor Barnes	17 February 2022	Gordon Peaston	A friend of Tom "Rocky" Cotton (Brian Conley) who gives Dotty Cotton (Milly Zero) a card for his addiction counselling.
Miss Miles		Joan Hodges	A customer at Fox & Hair who dislikes Jada Lennox (Kelsey Calladine-Smith). As revenge, Jada steals her money and hides them under towels.
Amanda		Uncredited	A customer at Fox & Hair who is acquainted with Kim Fox (Tameka Empson).
Verity Ramsay	21 February–31 March 2022 (2 episodes)	Lesley Vickerage	Verity (often referred to as Mrs. Ramsay) is the headteacher at Walford Preparatory School. Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) tells her that she can not afford to pay her daughter Pearl's (Arayah Harris-Buckle) school fees, so Verity suggests that she should apply for scholarship funding. Pearl later wins the scholarship.
Dr Brompton	24 February 2022	Sarah Goddard	A doctor who is treating Jordan Atkins. She reveals that he is not making progress.
Teddy Graves	3–4 March 2022 (2 episodes)	Lary Olubamiwo	Teddy is a man who boxes Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) for charity. Mick's mother Shirley (Linda Henry) flirts with him and asks him to go easy on Mick. Mick wins the fight and offers him free drinks for a week.
Rita	4 March 2022	Lucy Porter	A woman who Mitch Baker (Roger Griffiths) picks up from her house. She later asks Mitch on a date.
DI Walken	9 March 2022	Tina Harris	A police officer who questions Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol) after he strikes Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith) over the head with a glass bottle in self-defence.
Tej Bansal	16–22 March 2022 (2 episodes)	Aishah Afzal	Tej is a solicitor who is representing Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol) after he strikes Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith) over the head with a glass bottle in self-defence. Dotty Cotton (Milly Zero) finds out that she works for the Panesars rivals, the Sharmas, and was deliberately giving Kheerat bad advice so that he remain in prison.
Gary	21 March 2022	Guy Samuels	A man who delivers a bouncy castle to Jean Slater (Gillian Wright). She tells him to put it in Albert Square in front of The Queen Victoria public house.
Warren	28–31 March 2022 (2 episodes)	Ben Cutler	A man who sells Stuart Highway (Ricky Champ) alternative remedies for his breast cancer. Stuart goes to buy more remedies but stops when Warren calls his grandmother Vi Highway (Gwen Taylor) dirt when she exposes him as a fraud.
Lesley	28 March 2022	Andrea Gordon	A woman who Chelsea Fox (Zaraah Abrahams) talks to when she wants to put her son Jordan Atkins up for adoption.
DI Bethany Crowe	29 March 2022	Lynsey Murrell	The police officer who interviews Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) after he accidentally stabs Sid Bello (Buddy Skelton).
Bungalow	11 April 2022	Ben Keenan	A man who Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) attends his stag do. Jean sees him getting married in Albert Square and when his bride throws the wedding bouquet, Jean catches it.
Steve Masters	13–18 April 2022 (3 episodes)	Reece Walters	Steve and his friends shout homophobic slurs at Lewis Butler (Aidan O'Callaghan) outside of The Prince Albert. Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) witnesses this. The next day Ben follows Steve into an alleyway and hits him on the head with a copper pipe repeatedly until Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) stops him. Steve is taken to hospital and Ben goes there to see how he is doing. Ben meets his mother, Kelly (Cathy Owen), and lies that he is an online friend of Steve's.
Martine	13–20 April 2022 (2 episodes)	Julie Barclay	A woman who works in a jewellers at Walford High Street, where Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman) and Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) visit to look at engagement rings. Martine reveals that she has been divorced twice. She tries to sell Jean a ring from the cheap section but Harvey lies that he is a football manager for a Premier League team. Martine suggests that they look at the expensive rings and Jean secretly steals one of the rings before leaving. Jean returns to the High Street with her friend Shirley Carter (Linda Henry) and Martine sees Jean, telling her colleague, Lloyd, to call the police. Jean insists the ring is hers and pretends to have a mental breakdown, so Martine tells Shirley to get Jean out and keep the ring as their insurance will cover it.
Kelly	18 April 2022	Cathy Owen	The mother of Steve Masters (Reece Walters). She meets Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) when Steve is in hospital after Ben attacks him, but Ben says he is a friend of Steve's. Kelly tells the police that only one friend has visited Steve but she had not met him before, leading to the police thinking this person could be a suspect in the attack.
Lloyd	20 April 2022	Uncredited	Martine's (Julie Barclay) colleague at the jewellery shop. When Martine accuses Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) of stealing a ring, Lloyd takes her inside the shop.
Gareth	2 May 2022	Nick Jacobsen	Gareth and Kevin are boys who play chess at Walford Community Centre, and are friends with Bernadette Taylor (Clair Norris). One of the boys flirts with Dotty Cotton (Milly Zero) and teaches her the rules of chess. She ends up winning the match.
Kevin		Kieran Dooner
Dr Johnson	2 May 2022	Zara Tomkinson	The doctor who looks after Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) at a mental health facility.
Collin	4 May 2022	Dimeji Ewuoso	The scout for Walford Town FC. He decides to sign up Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) after he is impressed with his football skills. He later overhears Martin Fowler (James Bye) talking with Zack Hudson (James Farrar), Nancy Carter (Maddy Hill) and Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) about Tommy stabbing Sid Bello (Buddy Skelton), and decides to withdraw the offer.
Clara	5–23 May 2022 (3 episodes)	Emily Eaton-Plowright	An old friend of Frankie Lewis (Rose Ayling-Ellis) who she met in a fashion course at university.
Dave	7–8 June 2022 (2 episodes)	Richard Summers-Calvert	A mechanic hired by Kheerat Panesar (Jaz Deol) who is a friend of Jay Brown (Jamie Borthwick).
Delilah	1–4 August 2022 (2 episodes)	Chereen Buckley	The ex-partner of Howie Danes (Delroy Atkinson). She arrives with their teenage son Denzel (Jaden Ladega) and arranges for him to live with Howie and his girlfriend Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) while she is away in Ibiza. She argues with Kim and Howie then leaves. Howie later learns that Delilah will be staying in Ibiza longer than two weeks.
Malcolm Keeble	5 September 2022	Christopher Pizzey	The deceased father of Samantha Keeble (Alison Newman), seen in a flashback to 1979. He is shot dead by Eric Mitchell (George Russo) during a raid on a VCR warehouse.
Mrs Keeble	5 September 2022	Lizzie Grace	The mother of Samantha Keeble (Alison Newman), seen in a flashback to 1979. She appears when a policeman arrives to break the news of her husband Malcolm's (Christopher Pizzey) death.