Watch: Londoners recall their favourite EastEnders moments of all time

Since its debut in 1985, EastEnders has been a cornerstone of British television, weaving together gritty realism, unforgettable characters, and shocking storylines. Set in the fictional borough of Walford, the BBC soap opera quickly became a cultural phenomenon, reflecting the highs and lows of working-class life in the east end of London.

At the heart of EastEnders is its ability to tackle difficult and often taboo subjects. From the ground-breaking 1989 storyline of Mark Fowler’s HIV diagnosis - one of the first portrayals of the virus on British television - to the harrowing domestic abuse suffered by Little Mo Slater, the show has never shied away from social issues.

These storylines have sparked national conversations, demonstrating the soap’s power beyond entertainment.

No discussion of EastEnders is complete without its most shocking moments. Who can forget the infamous 1986 Christmas episode, where Den Watts handed his wife Angie divorce papers, cementing EastEnders as the master of dramatic ‘cliffhangers (or doof doofs.)

Or the 2001 "You Ain’t My Mother!" scene when Kat Slater revealed she was actually Zoe’s mum? More recently, the tragic deaths of Bradley Branning, Lucy Beale, and Abi Branning have kept viewers gripped, proving that EastEnders still knows how to deliver high-stakes drama.

Beyond the drama, the show has introduced some of Britain’s most iconic soap characters, from the tough-as-nails Peggy Mitchell and her "Get outta my pub!" catchphrase to the long-suffering Ian Beale, Walford’s ultimate survivor.

Nearly four decades on, EastEnders remains a staple of British culture, adapting to modern times while staying true to its roots. Whether through hard-hitting realism or shocking twists, its impact on British television is undeniable - forever changing the landscape of TV drama.

To celebrate 40 years of this iconic soap, we asked Londoners to tell us what EastEnders means to them and to recall their favourite moments of all time.

Watch our video above or click here to see what they said.