Trouble Already Brewing at The Vic
Kat’s first few days as landlady have already been far from smooth. Newcomer Joel, the troubled son of Ross Marshall, has stirred chaos inside the pub. Joel’s reckless behavior, including an alleged theft and violent outburst, puts Kat in a vulnerable position — both legally and emotionally.

Fans are praising the show’s bold writing in putting Kat in the crossfire of Walford’s current criminal elements while establishing her as a no-nonsense leader. She’s stepping into a Peggy Mitchell-type role, but with her own signature fire and flair.

However, questions remain. Will Kat maintain control over the pub and her personal life? Or is she in over her head?

A Divided Audience Reaction
Social media has lit up in the days following Kat’s takeover of The Vic. While many viewers are thrilled to see the Queen Slater back where she belongs, others are skeptical.

“Kat is the best thing to happen to The Vic in years,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“But what happens when Zoe shows up and blows it all up again?” another asked.
“I love Kat, but this feels rushed,” a Reddit user added. “Where’s Alfie in all this? Why isn’t he by her side?”

There’s also backlash brewing over rumors that long-time barmaid Tracey could be axed under Kat’s management — a move that’s sparked concern among legacy viewers who see Tracey as a symbol of the show’s continuity.

Looking Ahead: Kat’s Kingdom or Recipe for Ruin?
Executive producer Chris Clenshaw recently teased “a seismic shift in EastEnders storytelling,” and Kat’s return to The Vic is clearly a centerpiece in that vision. With the Mitchells stepping back, the Panesars embroiled in their own mess, and the Carters gone, the Queen Vic is under new — and unpredictable — management.

Upcoming episodes will explore Kat’s efforts to restore the pub’s reputation, Zoe’s long-awaited confrontation, and whether Kat can truly lead without letting her past consume her.

One thing’s certain: The Queen Vic is no longer just a pub — it’s a battlefield, and Kat Slater is standing at the front lines.

As EastEnders enters this bold new era, fans can expect more than just fresh storylines. They can expect history to collide with the present, loyalty to be tested, and secrets to spill — pint by pint.