This week in EastEnders, the beating heart of Walford stirs back to life, as the Queen Vic reopens its doors for the first time since the explosion that rocked the Square and left lives shattered in its wake. It’s been over two months since the disaster struck during Honey and Billy’s wedding celebrations, and for many, the emotional fallout has only just begun to settle.

The blast, part of the show’s massive 40th anniversary week, was one of the most memorable and devastating events in EastEnders history. Though villainous Rice Cowell met a deserved end in the wreckage, the community is still mourning the loss of kind-hearted Martin Fowler. Martin’s death sent ripples of sorrow across the Square, leaving friends and family reeling.

Now, co-owners Linda Carter, her mother Elaine Peacock, and George Knight are preparing to bring the Vic back to life. After weeks of repairs and reconstruction, they are finally handed the keys to the refurbished pub. Spurred on by Lauren’s surprise labor at Harry’s barn, Linda and George decide it’s time to celebrate a fresh start—but not everyone agrees.

Mo Harris and Zack Hudson, still grieving, make it clear that returning to the Vic is too much, too soon. Linda, sensitive to the mood of the Square, begins to doubt whether reopening the pub is the right decision. Her concerns deepen as Elaine, ever the force of personality, seems determined to press ahead regardless of public sentiment.

Alfie Moon steps in to support Linda, sensing her inner turmoil. Though known for his light-hearted charm, Alfie provides a much-needed grounding presence as Linda begins to feel the burden of trying to keep the Vic alive amid so much sorrow.

Things come to a head on VE Day, a poignant reminder of resilience and remembrance. Linda insists on keeping the pub shut to honor Martin and avoid celebrating in the face of so much grief. But then Jean Slater arrives with a heartfelt plea. She reveals that Nigel Bates is struggling—his dementia worsening to the point where he believes it’s 1995. Jean begs Linda to throw an impromptu party to lift Nigel’s spirits.

Initially, Linda refuses, emotionally drained and overwhelmed by the tension. But then something beautiful happens. The market traders come together on their own to honor Martin and the many others who’ve passed. The display of unity, love, and remembrance melts Linda’s resolve. She decides that, maybe, the Vic should reopen—not just for Nigel, but for everyone who needs a place to gather and heal.

Of course, the big question remains: what does the new Vic look like? Fans have long speculated whether Elaine’s vision—a glamorous, rose gold, jazz-inspired overhaul—will come to fruition. In interviews, actress Harriet Thorpe hinted at a stylish redesign, joking about turning the Vic into “Ronnie Scott’s.” Still, she conceded that the beloved pub would ultimately stay true to its roots.

The Queen Vic, after all, has stood as a symbol of Walford’s identity for decades. Last fully refurbished in 2010 following Phil Mitchell’s devastating fire, the pub has seen many changes in ownership and style—from Peggy to Mick and Linda—but it’s always retained its role as the Square’s cornerstone.

Now, with Linda and Alfie stepping up, the reopening becomes more than just a business decision—it’s a moment of healing, of tribute, and of rediscovering what binds the community together. As Linda prepares to pull the first pint, she’s not just reopening a pub—she’s opening a space for hope, recovery, and new beginnings.

Whether the new design stuns or surprises, one thing is certain: the Queen Vic is back. And so is EastEnders, proving once again why it remains the heart and soul of British television.