The doors of The Queen Vic have closed behind Linda Carter – for now. In an episode packed with heartache, nostalgia, and a twist of secrecy, EastEnders viewers watched one of Walford’s most iconic landladies take a final glance at her kingdom and slip quietly into the back of a taxi. But is this truly the end for Kellie Bright’s beloved character?

The Queen Bids Farewell – But Not Without Tears

Since 2013, Linda has been the beating heart behind the bar of The Queen Vic, a pillar of resilience through trauma, loss, addiction, and love. But in tonight’s emotionally-charged episode, Linda handed the keys – and a slice of her legacy – to Kat Moon. The decision didn’t come lightly, but with too many ghosts haunting the pub’s smoky corners, it was time for a fresh start.

The moment Linda stood at the bar, lost in memories of her first New Year’s Eve, her eyes locked on Mick’s West Ham shirt… every viewer felt the weight of that goodbye.

And yet, even in the quietest scenes, EastEnders knows how to stir up suspense.

What Triggered Linda’s Exit? A Cruise… and a Secret

Thanks to her mum Elaine, Linda was gifted a one-way ticket to peace and clarity – literally. A cruise, a getaway, a clean break. Elaine’s deal with Kat to switch homes seemed to tie up loose ends, suggesting that Linda would return someday… just not yet.

But while she packed her bags, another storm brewed beneath the surface: the secret of Annie’s true parentage. Max Branning is Annie’s father, and only a handful of people know. When Oscar Branning promised Linda that he wouldn’t tell his dad the truth, it was a temporary relief – but EastEnders fans know nothing stays buried for long in Walford.

Is Kellie Bright Leaving For Good? Here’s What We Know

All signs point to a temporary break for actress Kellie Bright. The storyline feels more like a pause than a full stop. The cruise getaway, the housing arrangement, and the open-ended goodbye suggest that Linda could be back — especially with Max Branning’s return on the horizon.

Let’s be real: you don’t dangle that kind of paternity bombshell unless you’re planning a future explosion.

Max Is Back – And Trouble Is Brewing

Oscar’s words to Lauren say it all: he wants his dad to find out about Annie. Whether out of spite, chaos, or curiosity, this thread isn’t finished — it’s only just been pulled.

With Max (Jake Wood) confirmed to return, the question isn’t if he finds out about Annie… but how. And when he does, all hell could break loose. Linda’s absence might only be temporary — and her return could spark one of the biggest showdowns in EastEnders history.

So, What’s Next?

• Will Oscar stay quiet – or spill the truth just to watch the world burn?

• Can Kat truly fill Linda’s shoes behind the bar, or will the Queen Vic never feel the same?

• And most importantly: how long can EastEnders survive without its emotional anchor?

One Thing’s For Sure…

Linda Carter’s exit has shaken Walford — but this isn’t goodbye. This is the calm before the storm. And when she returns (because we know she will), she’ll be walking straight into a firestorm of secrets, betrayal, and family drama.