Walford Web-Walford Web’s EE40 All-Time Character Rate: The Results! (2025)

52. Jim Branning
Average score: 6.712
Highest score: 11 x 1 (Dan S); 10 x 3 (Dennys Biscuit, kasjacs1673 & Matt0891)
Lowest score: 1.5 x 1 (Watts your Butchers name)

Shamelessness: A great comedic character whose partnerships with both Dot and Patrick are memorable. Some really touching performances after John Bardon had his stroke, too.
*Betty*: Jim's development was subtle; we seen him try to move on from who he was and grew into the heart warming grandfather role. Bardon was a talent.
BrightEyes: Haven't seen much of his tenure. However, him and Dot seemed like a great coupling in their major moments and just his mere existence has given us great drama with Carol and Max.
Roastmyownbeans: Never got past him being a big ol’ racist. Nice that Dot got a husband and new family, but I didn’t like him much in himself or find him interesting. He’s getting 3 for providing storylines for Dot and bringing in other characters, he served a purpose.
Zachary: Didn't accept Abi when she first debuted so I don't accept him. Don't play with my queen like that.
Jedi Pat: I think we basically got two completely different Jim Brannings, played by the same actor, but both of them were solid characters in their own way, deserving an 8. The first was a vile racist bully, portrayed with infuriating accuracy in 1996. The second was a funny, lovable old rogue, who gave Dot some of the happiest moments of her life, and whose best mate was a black, rum-sipping gentleman of Caribbean descent. I don't recall whether the show addressed Jim's racist past in great detail upon him becoming a full-time character in 1999, but I do recall the powerful scene of Carol lashing out at him in 2010 (at which point his stroke had already severely limited his speech) after Billy's death, pointing out that there was not a single photo of Billy on his mantlepiece. The fact John Bardon was willing to return to the show, practically immobilised and unable to speak, is a testament to the wonderful, skilful actor he was. His real-life tragedy brought a poignancy to Jim's final appearances that made the character all the more memorable. Oh, and I'm grateful to him for (accidentally) killing the abysmal Joe Macer.
TheTrueMitchell: Jim was a good character to have around and John Bardon did a great job. In my eyes never a leading man, but had interesting relationships within his family, particularly with Jack, Max, Carol and Dot
VinegarLips: This might sound like a hot take but for me, the best of Jim as a character for me was perhaps after John Bardon's stroke and he was made a recurring/ semi regular character - and in that I mean no disrespect to John's ordeal. I think Jim was always a nice enough character but was very much carried by his dynamics with Dot and Sonia - on his own he made me cringe a little. But the poignancy and pathos of his post-2007 appearances always makes me well up, and John did far more fantastic a job than he ever needed to. His scene where Carol breaks down while shaving him is one of my most rewatched scenes ever because it reduces me to a wreck.
Ross: Jim is a real underrated gem. A character full of heart but you always felt there was an edge to him, which was exemplified when we learned more about his relationships with his children. I will always love the friendship he shared with Patrick, which was made all the more special by the fact he was introduced as such a bigot.
Lyntje: he looked very likeable, but I will not forget what he put Jack and Max through when they were young.
WearyHippo: I fell out of the habit of watching the show regularly during my 20s and managed to miss quite a lot of Jim’s tenure, so I can’t judge him fairly. He seemed like a character who would be easy to love though.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: It was genius pairing him with Dot. Jim was a character of a time long gone now, a man with old outdated beliefs trying to swim in a changing world. Was interesting to watch him grow and change into the man he became in his elder years. His friendship with Patrick and relationship with Dot brought a comedy that never felt forced, and it has to be said that John Barden's work despite having a stroke has to be nothing but admired.
easstenders: Similar to Dot, it was nice to watch Jim mellow out and change his ways over the years. His comedic moments were my favourite. I always loved his relationships with Carol and Bradley in particular. John Bardon was an absolute gem also.
Ooh, I Say: Nice enough after he mellowed, loved him with Dot. I was very young when he was in it and haven’t really rewatched that era much so can’t recall him too much, I just remember calling him ‘Grandad’.
SeeThemFlying: I never saw Jim during the 90s, so I only remember him as the character he became as Dot's husband in the later years. He had some great comedic moments and they took the time to build up interesting relationships with his children, but often he was just reduced to playing support.
TellyAddict: John Bardon had such amazing comic timing but he was also another who always stepped up to the plate when the drama called for it. Pairing him with Dot was such an inspired move.
Shrimpy: Always found him a meh character who was paired with Dot because they were old. Love his scenes with Patrick more.
Daniel68: A long time since I watched anything Jim-related but I remember finding him an engaging character
Monokuma: I'm fond of Jim but again I just find everyone he shared the screen with to be the ones to watch instead of him. He was a great supporting character.
GETAHHHT!!!: Having watched most of Classic EastEnders now, Jim was a great comic character, his friendship with Patrick is a great watch and his marriage to Dot, without a doubt the most successful and enduring relationship in the show’s history. It’s just a shame tragedy struck with a stroke otherwise I suspect he would still be around now, keeping Patrick company.
PintOfChurchills: Being with Dot and establishing a friendship with Patrick gave the character of Jim a longevity that he probably wouldn’t have had if he’d remained the unlikeable, bigoted man he was when he was first introduced.
Startedin2014: A fantastic character in his time who’s associated with one wonderful relationship and a good patriarch to the Branning family. I honestly wish we saw more between him and his kids, but his relationship with Sonia for example was really good. Great acting time.
Macjay: From what we learned about his past, Jim was a horrible cruel man and deserved to be disowned by his family, but redeemed himself as a family man once he settled down with Dot. I thought his understated funeral was one of the best ever done
Tomski12: I always loved Jim, maybe because he reminded me of my own grandad. I loved his relationship with Dot, his friendship with Patrick, and the ever-complicated relationships he had with his kids.
Seamus2008: someone who changed and grew into a loving friend and grandpa. Was sad to lose John Bardon in 2014 because he made quite the double act with June Brown and also with Rudolph Walker.

51. Archie Mitchell
Average score: 6.73
Highest score: 10 x 5 (KimTate, Monokuma, SeeThemFlying, Stinj & Watts your Butchers name)
Lowest score: 1 x 2 (Loki & Roastmyownbeans); 0 x 3 (Gardenshed, Getting Phil Mitchelled & Shut It Tariq)

Shamelessness: Second best villain ever (after Trevor). A fantastic performance from Larry Lamb.
*Betty*: One of the shows best villains played impeccably by Larry Lamb.
BrightEyes: Only seen clips of his time on the show. A complete evil bastard is being too nice. It's hard to rate villains like him, because I certainly don't love him anywhere near as much as my favourites, but he delivered exactly what he was supposed to deliver. It'll be interesting to see where he places.
Roastmyownbeans: A horrible character and somehow I found the performance very smug. Just didn’t buy this character for who he was meant to be.
Zachary: Fab villain, evil evil man.
Jedi Pat: My issue with Archie is not that he was an obvious villain, but that they overegged the pudding, making him "evil for evil's sake" to the point where his character became more of a farce. By the time Stacey got rid of him, I felt the character was indeed on his last legs despite only having been on our screens for less than 18 months. Still, he did give us some chilling, menacing scenes along the way, as well as some shockingly prudish outfits for Barbara Windsor to wear.
TheTrueMitchell: A brilliant villain. Charming and suave with an evil twisted background, we watch him manipulate Peggy, a character dear to our hearts. Central to one of the shows biggest storylines. Genius.
VinegarLips: Archie is the cream of the crop when it comes to soap villains. Larry Lamb created a character that is believably malevolent but believably charismatic and manipulative of others at the same time. You could see why he had people wrapped around his finger because he was honestly so damn likeable, scarily so. The way his evil unravelled over the course of his stint is something the likes of Nish and Gray could only dream of. His impact was felt long after his murder, and that's how you know you've got a good one. Even as recently as Sixmas, you saw how his despicable actions impacted Stacey and how she's haunted by what she did to him despite his actions. Memorable to say the least.
eastenders190285: Bastard but very well-written
WearyHippo: I’d give Trevor the crown of EE’s best villain but Archie is his closest competitor. He didn’t work his way into my heart the way most of the names on this list did, which is to be expected given the nature of the character I suppose, but he was a huge asset for as long as he lasted.
Shut It Tariq: Dreadful villain, there is nothing I liked at all about his time on the show.
easstenders: Possibly the best villain we’ve ever seen. I found it quite hard to rate him, as I hated the character so much, and isn’t someone I’m ‘fond’ of but can’t fault how well Larry Lamb portrayed him. He made you feel rage, he was just so despicable. My favourite whodunnit was his death so I have to thank him for that!
Ooh, I Say: If this rate was which character would I like to be bezzie mates with, Archibald would be at the bottom. But it isn’t. And Archie – while vile – was a brilliant character in a brilliant era. His story had be GRIPPED, and he really helped shape Ronnie and Roxy into brilliant characters. His death was my first ever experience of a soap whodunnit, and it changed my life. (I was 8, leave me alone) Larry Lamb was amazing – but of course, he looks like a care bear next to Gav Sullivan…
LostandFound16: A really chilling villain
SeeThemFlying: Probably one of the best villains the show has produced. Archie was mild-mannered and relatively soft spoken, but hid a violent, manipulative, and hateful streak. Larry Lamb played him *brilliantly* and Archie's comeuppance was well deserved.
MrJames: One of those characters who I associate very heavily with my own personal favourite era of the show. Unquestionably one of the greatest villains we have ever had.
TellyAddict: Such a great villain, and such a great performance from Larry Lamb. I do think I preferred the stuff from his arrival up until Danielle's death though - that was near-flawless for me.
VanGoghed: Great Villain
Shrimpy: For a character that was on the canvas for a short period of time, he really packed a punch and is part of one of the most iconic storylines.
BlakeButcher123: Archie was a great character, though he feels to me like a Den retread, except more villainous. Larry Lamb gives a fantastic performance, and he has great chemistry with the other Mitchells, but I feel that the reveal that he'd been assaulting Ronnie was incongruous with his character, and hurts his score for me.
Daniel68: Fucked up character but wow Larry Lamb played him so well. Who Killed Archie is one of my favourite ever storylines even now
Monokuma: Easily the best villain in the show in my mind. Yeah we've had gangsters and hard men and serial killers but what's more monsterous than an incestuous nonce rapist? One that lies about babies being dead of course. Played to perfection by Larry, I've never felt more terrified for Ronnie than his first scenes with her. Seeing this strong women I love completely crumble against this man is a pretty core memory of EastEnders for me.
Watts your Butchers name: The greatest villain EastEnders ever had. Archie was truly despicable and Larry played him to a tee. A perfect blend of feeling real but also caricature in the same sense that legends like Pat, Dot or Frank felt, over the top but in a way that just enhanced the character and the villainy. Who killed Archie and ‘the secret Mitchell’ are some of my favourite storylines and the repercussions were felt for such a long time in the show. The Mitchells and the Queen Vic were just so exciting in this period and that was largely down to Archie’s tenure. The show felt like event viewing in a way its mostly struggled to since.
No Ice: Not one of the show’s best characters by all means but by far one of the show’s best villains. And absolutely fantastically acted by Larry Lamb, too.
GETAHHHT!!!: Larry Lamb, what an actor! When you compare his portrayal of gentle and amiable Mick in Gavin and Stacey to the callous and evil Archie Mitchell, it’s like night and day. And what a great job he did too!
PintOfChurchills: A character that made a huge impact in a very short space of time. I don’t think there’s been a villain as good as Archie since.
Startedin2014: One of the best villains the show has ever had. An irredeemable, unlikeable asshole who got what he deserved and made everyone utterly despise him. An evil, evil man played magnificently by Larry Lamb. Obviously good for short-term conflict. Didn’t overstay his welcome either. Imagine if he was around as long as Gray - yes him being played by a stronger actor would help, but still wouldn’t make the stories any good. Overall though, fantastic character and threatening and intimidating presence. I truly don’t think we’ll ever have a villain like him again.
Macjay: Evil bastard, deserved what he got
Tomski12: I don’t know if we’ve ever had a villain as twisted as Archie. Larry Lamb was so so good at playing that charming exterior with a rod of pure evil running through his core. I’m still not a fan of the posthumous reveal that he raped Ronnie as the characters strength was always the psychological abuse aspect but it doesn’t take away the impact of the character.
Seamus2008: evil personified but played incredibly well by lovely Larry Lamb.
EastEnders2021: The best villain the show’s ever had in my opinion. The darkest a Mitchell can be and Larry Lamb played him spectacularly.

50. Shabnam Kazemi
Average score: 6.77
Highest score: 10 x 3 (MrSunshine, Ooh, I Say & Stan)
Lowest score: 1 x 2 (EthelMaySkinner & Loki)

*Betty*: She felt like a character who had escaped the 80's to land in DTC's era. A beautiful arc played beautifully.
BrightEyes: I'm not a big fan of recasts normally, but I never saw the first actress in the role. The second stint started out slow. They took their time with her and ultimately it paid off because once Shabnam was given focus all my focus was on her and now I, and most others, yearn for her return or at least, what could have been if her stint hadn't been so short. Again, it's probably better she went out on a high, but what a roller coaster of emotions she took us on before she did.
Roastmyownbeans: I really liked her, probably mostly because of the actor and the unusual storylines she got.
Zachary: Queen.
Jedi Pat: The first Shabnam was hardly a character at all… we saw so little of her. But her recast and return were a triumph - a fierce, feisty, outspoken, opinionated young Muslim woman, unafraid to call the men in the Masood household to task: it was all very refreshing. Shabnam shone in the heartbreaking story that saw her and Kush lose Zaair, but I still find it strange that she and the odious Dean Wicks have a retconned daughter together… that still feels a bit "off' to me. Shabnam is one of those characters I would like to see again someday, hopefully having found happiness again after the collapse of her marriage to Kush.
TheTrueMitchell: When I think of Shabnam, I don’t think of her as memorable, but I’m wrong, when you dig deeper and have a proper trip down memory lane, you realise she was a very strong character. The issue is, in both stints, is that they didn’t last very long which doesn’t give the show chance to properly flesh out the character. It’s the 2nd stint that was more successful of the two, with Zaair’s still birth, the involvement with Stacey’s Psychosis and the paternity of Arthur being highlights.
VinegarLips: Two actresses, two very different incarnations, one superb character. I loved Shabnam's first stint, a confused but light-hearted young woman trying to find herself and I think Zahra Ahmadi did an excellent job with the little material she was given. I loved her rapport with her mum Zainab in particular, and I think she's extremely underrated. But of course it was with Rakhee that the character really got her chance to shine. We got drip fed the pain and vulnerability in amidst the snarkiness and the judgement over that first year back before 2015 really turned her into a force to be reckoned with. The decision to give Shabs a baby with Dean was a questionable one (and hasn't particularly given us anything good long-term) but the character shone throughout and I adore the material it gave her with Stacey and Kush, two amazing dynamics that the writers stupidly threw away for the sake of cheap drama (and likely Rakhee's decision to leave). She was a tremendous loss, especially after the excellent stillbirth storyline, as it felt like she was turning into a legend but I'm equally glad for what we got with her and Rakhee deserves a world of success. Shabnam was a character that would have thrived in classic EastEnders and might well have suffered from the terrible years that were about to befall the show so every cloud.
WearyHippo: I so wish we’d had more of Shabnam. Her second stint was such a well-drawn character study, she was my favourite for that period. Her first incarnation was unremarkable though, and even the second suffers from a rushed wrap-up to her arc. What a gem though.
easstenders: I like Shabnam, Rakhee Tharkrar was a fantastic recast, although I did enjoy Zahra Ahmadi’s version too. The Zaair storyline was obviously a highlight, just so devastating to watch, and I like that it’s still referenced from time to time. I loved Shabnam’s feisty side, and it’s quite a shame we never got to see Shabs 2.0 with Zainab.
Ooh, I Say: Rating her purely on her second stint… loved her. Rakhee Thakrar is up there as one of the best recasts in the show’s 40 years, and it’s such a crying shame we never got to see her version interact with Zainab.
LostandFound16: The stillbirth storyline always stands out
SeeThemFlying: Rakhee Thakrar shone so bright as Shabnam that it's easy to forget she was a recast. On her return, the character was a real breath of fresh air, constantly trying to find herself as she was pulled between her different goals. The stillbirth story was brilliant, and her pairing with Kush strong. The only reason I haven't ranked her higher is because she had such a short stint and could have done so much more.
TellyAddict: The journey they took Shabnam on when she returned in 2014 will go down as one of DTC's biggest success stories for me. I always remember her feeling a bit cold at first but things started slotting into place and she soon became one of my favourites of that era. It's a real shame that we never got the chance to see Rakhee Thakrar and Nina Wadia on-screen together because that would have been electric.
Shrimpy: Would not be in my top 75. And a return prob not needed anytime soon.
Daniel68: For some reason I can’t remember that much about her but I did like all of that family
Monokuma: the first stint was pretty lackluster but the second stint was absolutely fantastic. I only wish we had her for longer, hoping we see her again in the future.
PintOfChurchills: I know she’s really popular here and I like what I’ve seen, but I don’t recall her making that much of an impact on me when I was a more occasional viewer.
Startedin2014: An average character in her original stint turned basically leading lady who had great performances and stories for what was basically her year. Her stories were one of best parts of 2015 for sure. Sometimes I really do wish Rakhee stayed longer, but honestly she had a great exit and it was a decent end for her arc. Still, I would like a return. Make it happen, Wadey!
Tomski12: Shabnam was such a fantastic character because she felt real. She had opinions like a real person and it made her incredibly watchable and yet incredibly frustrating. She felt like a character that Julia Smith would have created and I wish we’d had her around for a lot longer than we did. I still hope we get to see Rakhee and Nina Wadia share the screen some day.
Seamus2008: preferred Shabbat Mark 1 but that’s because I really championed Zahra Ahmadi. Rakhee Thakrar definitely had more to do though.

49. Mark Fowler
Average score: 6.82
Highest score: 10 x 5 (KathysCaff, Michelle Fowler, SlaterTowers, smere & Startedin2014)
Lowest score: 2 x 2 (danijaydex & Matt0891)

Shamelessness: A storyline that actually changed society and made the world a better place, which should always be commended. Mark became a bit dull later on, and I’ll always be disappointed that Todd Carty wouldn’t see the storylines through to the end and portray the harsh reality of a death from AIDS.
*Betty*: Sometimes frustrating but honest character.
BrightEyes: A solid character anyway you slice it. The runaway who became a stalwart of the Square. The times his self-depreciation crept up to tear him down, only for him to pull himself back together again were relatable and real. I love Mark Fowler, and the ultimate tragedy that if he just had a little more time, he probably could have been saved haunts me.
Roastmyownbeans: An odd trajectory. Started off so cool, like Carty’s previous character Tucker Jenkins, but by the end was quite a boring and dull man. A bit like Carty himself, I’m afraid. However, the fantastic impact of the HIV storyline alone means he deserves his place. I wish they’d managed to leave him a legacy kid.
Zachary: before me time
Jedi Pat: Without wanting to take anything away from the importance of him portraying a straight man with Aids in a primetime soap in the early 1990s, I can't escape the feeling that Mark as a characters was… kind of bland. Sure, he had his moments, like when he feuded with Nick Cotton, but apart from that, all I remember is him selling fruit and veg, while being nagged alternately by Pauline or by that beige Scottish wife of his.
TheTrueMitchell: I like everything I’ve seen of Mark, particularly under Todd Carty’s tenure. The HIV storyline is still powerful and beautifully portrayed. Mark is one of those everyman characters that you absolutely root for.
VinegarLips: Watching back old episodes has shown me that I love Mark more for what he stands for than what he actually is as a character, which is by no means bad but he often fails to set the screen alight. The HIV story that ran for over a decade is a masterclass in long term soap storytelling, and Todd Carty carried it beautifully. Mark felt like a pillar of the Square who hasn't always been as recognised as he should be. I also must give kudos to David Scarboro's incarnation, who was a haunted and vulnerable soul - David did his best with the short time he had in the role, and I enjoy his scenes.
WearyHippo: I consider Mark’s HIV story to be EE’s greatest achievement. Other stories have been more exciting, more entertaining, maybe even better written and acted, but this one transformed the public’s perception of an incredibly important issue. Mark probably wasn’t the most compelling of characters otherwise, but as the vehicle for that story, he’ll always have a special place in EE history.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: Mark was always a character that was quite marmite for me. Sometimes I really rooted for him, and other times I found him infuriating.
easstenders: I don’t have the strongest feelings on Mark, I enjoyed him, his HIV storyline was groundbreaking. I liked that it was always at the back of his storylines, and it was portrayed very well by Todd Carty. However that’s about all I can say for him. I did like his pairings with Ruth and Lisa.
Ooh, I Say: Again, not seen much of him, but I like what I have seen. I’ve seen his HIV story and I know how groundbreaking it was, so he gets points for that.
LostandFound16: Many great moments but the HIV confession was so subtle and sad
SeeThemFlying: Again, I was too young to see Mark's era, but the clips I have seen are really compelling, and I remember his departure being good, so I'm going to give him a solid 7.
TellyAddict: He might not have been the most exciting of characters overall but I always thought Mark was a very reliable character just like his dad. I wasn't really a fan of the times they tried giving him a darker edge as a means of making him more exciting - he worked best as the everyman type.
Shrimpy: A character I enjoyed watching clips on, and such an important and brave character for its time.
Daniel68: Not a character I have ever watched other than in old clips. Whenever I’m writing player ratings articles after football games I start with everyone on a 6/10 as an average so I’ve gone with that 6
Monokuma: until the hiv story I thought he was just a pretty good supporting character, but that story made me realise how much I've underrated him. A fantastic character, I only wish we had an onscreen slow end to his character instead of another offscreen death.
GETAHHHT!!!: Another great character. Portrayed the HIV storyline well. Such a shame he’s not around now.
PintOfChurchills: Obviously Mark’s first years were scant, and so most of this score is being based on what happened from 1990 onwards. I always felt it was brave of EastEnders to tell the HIV story over so many years and to show Mark involved in other storylines, but always with his condition in the background. My only regret is they never properly completed the storyline. Having Mark leave the square to die off screen felt like a massive cop out and cheated an audience that had invested in the character for years and years.
Startedin2014: A nice, interesting and different character who had a great arc from beginning to end. His relationships, stories, rivalries, all were fantastic whenever I watch old episodes and clips. Todd Carty was also a fantastic actor when he was at his best.
Seamus2008: good character, involved in a groundbreaking HIV storyline which dealt with prejudices and stigma.

48. Chelsea Fox
Average score: 6.84
Highest score: 10 x 2 (MrSunshine & Stinj)
Lowest score: 1 x 1 (EthelMaySkinner)

Shamelessness: Wasn’t a huge fan of Tiana’s version but Zaraah has elevated the character to one of my favourites.
*Betty*: Adored both versions of this character.
BrightEyes: Likable, but has never really been granted the opportunities she deserved in story.
Roastmyownbeans: A frustrating one, similar to Sam for me but better. I didn’t enjoy her with the first actor, who I thought was rubbish, I really like Zaraah Abrahams though, and the character has been very inconsistently portrayed aside from the actor change. I do think there is great potential and when they’ve given her something – even the weird choice of putting her with Gray – it’s worked. I do want more of her.
Zachary: Desperately needs a proper storyline, Zaraah has been superb so far.
Jedi Pat: Despite initially being played by a watchable, competent actress, later getting recast by a truly great one, this is a character rating… and as a character, the writers rarely push Chelsea to the forefront where she should rightfully thrive. Daughter of an iconic mother and an interesting, complex father, yet struggling to make her mark. Looking back at her initial stint, nothing sticks out as particularly memorable, and that's saying something for a character that dated Grant Mitchell, Jack Branning AND Sean Slater at one point. Her second stint was unfortunately off to a shaky start when, within six months of returning, Chelsea got saddled with Gray Atkins. At least it got a few strong performances out of her… Let's hope 2025 is the year Chelsea finally finds her place, slap-bang in the centre of the action.
TheTrueMitchell: Chelsea is a character of two halfs, the original incarnation from Tiana was a fine character but nothing to write home about whereas under Zaarah, she is brilliant but what really lets Chelsea down is the lack of focus. The show has a character played by a great actress but we never see her lead a storyline and she spends most of her time in the background of scenes in the club. I hope that she will finally get her leading lady moment soon.
VinegarLips: For me, two pretty fantastic versions of the character played by two actresses who were perfect for those versions. Tiana's Chelsea was a complete diva, fantastic for a catfight and brought unparalleled sass and charisma to every scene she was in. Whereas Zaraah brings the star power and the gravitas to match Diane Parish that cannot be denied, and boosts Chelsea's agency and fire by being one of the show's best ever actresses/ recasts. Unfortunately, neither Tiana nor yet Zaraah have gotten much of the storylines or screentime they deserved/ deserve. It's almost as if Tiana (being a more average actress) was destined for C-plots but they haven't adjusted Chelsea's prominence beyond the Gray storyline to fit the enormous talents of Zaraah? Equally we don't know why Zaraah might be used to an unsatisfying level but I have enjoyed everything we've had of NuChelsea - she's had some decent stuff with the Ravi romance and the club crush, but I think this character needs a slice of the prominence that others her age have been afforded over the years. If there's one thing that needs to be nipped in the bud, it's Chelsea being at the mercy of bad men in her life - she doesn't need to be the next Whitney!
WearyHippo: I’d like to rate Chelsea higher just because I rate Zaraah so highly, but as a character Chelsea really isn’t what she should be and probably never has been. The two versions feel like distinctly different people, and neither are a complete success. There’s something special in Chelsea but the show has never figured out how to unlock her potential.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: Really needs more to do, hopefully 2025 is Chelsea's year.
easstenders: Chelsea has always been a favourite of mine, I loved her back in the 00s, her party girl lifestyle was fun to see, and I enjoyed how out of touch she became around the time of her cocaine storyline. She was just iconic! I was overjoyed when they decided to bring her back, and Zaraah is amazing as Chelsea, I just wish we’d get to see her more. I wasn’t a fan of making her a mother, it’s added nothing to her character, and having her forever tied to Gray is quite annoying, but I digress. I want more more more from Chelsea, she has bags of potential - make her a leading lady NOW!
Ooh, I Say: Loved Tiana. Love Zaraah. Zaraah is the better actress, but Tiana has a place in my heart. GIVE HER MORE TO DO, Ben Wadey!
SeeThemFlying: Chelsea is a great supporting character, but I don't think she's ever really been allowed to become the leading lady she could be. She's had moments of brilliance under both Tiana Benjamin and Zaraah Abrahams, but I don't think she's ever really properly emerged from Denise's shadow.
MrJames: I’ve loved both iterations of Chelsea. Tiana was our unbothered queen who was always just so over-it whereas Zaraah has given Chelsea more depth.
TellyAddict: I really like Zaraah Abrahams' version of Chelsea but I do have a soft spot for Tiana Benjamin's portrayal, especially with the Drama episodes currently airing. I definitely feel like both of them have gone through periods of severe underuse though - the drugs storyline they gave her in 2008 should have lasted so much longer than it did.
Shrimpy: Loved both versions of Chelsea, this current one is the stronger actress, has been weighed down by not great storylines but finds a way to shine.
Daniel68: Don’t mind her but probably preferred the first actress
Monokuma: I love her but she's so underused that it's hard to rate her high among these icons. You forget she's there until she appears weeks later to kill any scene she gets then disappears again. I want her to get more defining stories cause I never cared for the Grey stuff so I can't count that but that really was her *it* moment in the spotlight...unfortunately.
GETAHHHT!!!: as Zaraah Abrahams, I’ve enjoyed Chelsea a lot more, despite her recent lack of storylines. But watching Tiana Benjamin’s portrayal in the classic episodes, she’s a bit too chavvy for my liking and I find her character very grating, even if she does look like Rihanna!
PintOfChurchills: I didn’t enjoy the character under the first actress, but like her much better with Zaraah Abrahams in the role. Incredibly underused though, which limits the score I feel I can give. Lots of untapped potential if Ben Wadey chooses to use it.
Macjay: Chelsea is growing on me, someone needs to be the voice of reason where Denise & Kim are concerned

47. Steve Owen
Average score: 6.88
Highest score: 10 x 4 (Bwfcol1984, Dot to Dot, Seamus2008 & sesame_seed)
Lowest score: 1 x 1 (danijaydex)

Shamelessness: Possibly Matthew Robinson’s greatest achievement as EP. Great casting, great acting, great chemistry with his scene partners and the Saskia storyline was brilliant.
*Betty*: One of the best male characters of all times who had the perfect stint.
BrightEyes: Seems like a fascinating character, but I can't rank him too high because I've only seen bits and pieces. But he hated Phil, so mad respect!
Roastmyownbeans: Could never see past the Spandau Ballet of it all. Kind of a yuppie, as I remember, a flash bland guy. Not much to him.
Jedi Pat: I liked the premise of a new suave character coming in and almost immediately whacking a crazy, violent ex on the head with an ashtray, dumping her body, and shifting the blame on a quivering, snivelling teenage DJ. That was surprising, well-paced, and ultimately satisfying storytelling. ("He's innocent! My son is innocent!" is about the only line I remember of the otherwise quite forgettable Michael Rose.) But after that initial story was over, and Matthew had had his moment of revenge, I wasn't that bothered with Steve anymore. His relationship with, and marriage to, Mel is all a bit of a blur in my memory, and by the time he went up in flames, my reaction was little more than "okay, so that's that then".
TheTrueMitchell: A layered character, with some iconic moments in EE history, notably the ashtray and the exploding car. Feels like a classic EE Character and it’s Martin Kemp off of Spandau Ballet, what’s not to like.
VinegarLips: Steve is a character that gets a lot of reverence and rightfully so, but he's not one I've ever particularly felt a connection to so I'm giving an above average score of 6. From what I've seen, he was a brilliantly rounded anti-hero and Martin Kemp was superb. Steve's rivalry with Phil and romance with Mel were both compelling to watch, and his death is a classic. It's a bitter shame that his legacy was damaged somewhat with Mel and Hunter's stints in 2018 and 2019, with the Owen dynasty firmly butchered.
WearyHippo: I don’t remember being particularly captivated by Steve at the time, and I don’t ever revisit his scenes, but he was solid for his time.
Shut It Tariq: Complex villain with an interesting backstory.
easstenders: I liked Steve, I enjoyed his various feuds and relationship with Mel. I also found the Saskia storyline gripping. He’s a classic EastEnders ‘bad boy’ and you have to love him for that.
Ooh, I Say: From what I’ve seen, he was great. Glad he left when he did, he didn’t fizzle out and remained an exciting, amazing character until his fiery death. Makes me even sadder that they didn’t make more of the Owens upon their 2018 return.
LostandFound16: Loved his and Mel’s relationship; sexy and dramatic!
SeeThemFlying: I was too young to watch Steve during his stint, so I am going to give him a solid 7. In the clips I've seen of him, though, I can't help but think he's been Phil's best rival.
TellyAddict: Martin Kemp oozed so much charisma as Steve, making him a really memorable bad boy. It's incredible that the show managed to keep him on even after he murdered Saskia but his fiery death provided a very satisfying payoff to that story.
Shrimpy: Another I didn't see, so only clips, love the clips I have seen, probably a shame he was killed off, but can see why he was.
BlakeButcher123: One of the show's best ever leading men.
Daniel68: Not a character I have ever watched other than in old clips. Whenever I’m writing player ratings articles after football games I start with everyone on a 6/10 as an average so I’ve gone with that 6
Monokuma: a real sleazy bastard that was electric to watch.
PintOfChurchills: Another character who made a very big impact in a relatively short amount of time. I adored his charisma and he definitely brought something fresh and different to the show at the time. It was right to kill him off though. Some characters arc should only ever be short ones, and I think Steve is one of them.
Seamus2008: inspired casting and not your typical leading man - he had charisma aplenty - didn’t last long but left a lasting impact. Saskia’s death and Matthew Rose’s revenge were sensational at the time.

46. Mick Carter
Average score: 6.89
Highest score: 11 x 1 (MrPapadopoulos); 10 x 6 (Dennys Biscuit, DISGUSTING Genes, EddyEE, eesarah, smere & TheTrueMitchell)
Lowest score: 1 x 3 (danijaydex, EthelMaySkinner & JadieLeigh12); 0 x 2 (No Ice & VanGoghed)

Shamelessness: I think a lot of the hatred for Mick is forced and bandwagonny. Danny Dyer was an asset to EastEnders and his arrival heralded the start of an exciting era, and he helped keep the show afloat through some diabolical subsequent eras. I loved Mick’s chemistry with all of his family members and hope to see him again soon.
*Betty*: Sometimes overused; but played perfectly by Danny Dyer and a massive presence.
BrightEyes: In general, very likable, but this show beat this horse of a character to death with overexposure.
Roastmyownbeans: Some very odd decisions were made about this character and was obviously over-used but fundamentally a strong and interesting character, indelibly played by Dyer who was a refreshing addition to the show originally. He moved it to a new era, and that’s worth something.
Zachary: Bring him back, his EL needs his ass like come on now x
Jedi Pat: I never thought Danny Dyer in a waistcoat, playing a slightly drippy family man, would be a recipe for success, and yet here we are… I really enjoyed Mick's tenure on the show, and thought Danny's acting skills were a lot stronger than expected. The saga of him and Whitney developing "feelings" was a bit of a drag, and his romance with and marriage to Janine felt forced and mismatched, but I loved his rivalry with evil brother Dean, his fierce, protective love of his "L", his complex relationship with sister-turned-mother Shirley, the natural way he reacted to Johnny coming out, the revelation of his historical abuse resulting in the birth of Frankie, and even some of the less high-stakes stories like him overcoming his fear of water and learning to swim. All in all an interesting, compelling character, and I hope we'll see him alive and well before too long, even if it's just for a brief return stint.
TheTrueMitchell: A brilliant creation of a character with a great family unit. Arguably oversaturated in the early days but I like that it meant we really knew who this character was. His historic abuse storyline, the relationship with Linda, the reveal of Shirley being his mum and Dean his brother. I desperately hope we get to have Mick back on the square at some point, Danny Dyer was an unexpectedly great fit for EE.
VinegarLips: Mick entered and departed the show as a truly brilliant character but if I am to rate him honestly, I must acknowledge that much that came in between 2013 and 2022 wasn't to my taste. Danny Dyer was always a glittering presence that fit the Vic like a glove but he did feel rather exhausted by the end of the DTC era and then the Sean O'Connor and John Yorke eras gave him such rubbish material on top of that which made him rather unlikeable for a while. Credit to Oates and Sen, for all the damage they did to the show, Mick miraculously didn't come out of their era too badly and Danny delivered his best performances in the (IMO) ill-advised sexual abuse story. What really made Mick was his relationship with Linda and his place at the head of the Carter family - which makes it such a shame that he left the show with such a depleted clan and separated from Linda, however strong his rapport with Janine was. Mick is a return that feels inevitable for the day Linda leaves us too, but I'm enjoying the show thriving without him and I'm in no rush to see him back on a permanent basis.
WearyHippo: There were quite a few lengthy periods in Mick’s stint in which he was exhaustingly overused or largely unlikeable, sometimes both at once, but they found a much better balance for Mick in his last few years and I feel a lot of fondness for him as a result. I think Danny Dyer did a lot to keep the show relevant off-screen too and he deserves credit for that.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: Ever since their introduction, I have always loved the Carters. People often complained at their over exposure but I never tired of them. It was great they went against the grain and had Mick the complete opposite of the roles Danny normally portrayed. I did, however, Frankie and the Max Branning affair did some damage it was hard to come back from. I was sad to see Mick go, but I'm happy not to see him again. I think a line should finally be firmly drawn under the character now moving forward.
easstenders: I used to really love Mick, but from 2017 onwards I just found him insufferable. He was shoved into what seemed like every storyline possible, and we just never got a break. I didn’t enjoy the panic attack stuff and I didn’t enjoy his initial role in Linda’s alcoholism. The one bright light in the midst of my dislike for him, was the historical child abuse storyline, and I thought Danny played a blinder in the reveal scenes. I was glad to see the back of him, and I’m in no rush for him to return.
Ooh, I Say: Love Mick. I was always more invested in Mick than Linda, can’t lie. Need him back, but I’d probably want him to whisk Linda off rather than be back full-time. Though my mind changes on this regularly.
SeeThemFlying: When it was first announced that Danny Dyer had been cast on the show, I think everyone was a little sceptical. He went on to prove everyone wrong and became a modern legend! I do think at times the character was overused, which was damaging for both the show and character at points, but he was a great character who is missed!
TellyAddict: Mick came into the show at just the right time, when we needed that injection of energy in the Vic. I think Danny Dyer really proved his worth by not just playing against type, but doing it so effortlessly, and helped make Mick one of the last true icons to be introduced. It hasn't always been plain sailing and there were many times where he could test my patience but overall he was a great presence in the Vic and brought a lot to the show.
VanGoghed: the worst character ever to exist on the show, ruined the show
FancyACuppa: I adore the Carters and sometimes I just randomly think about how happy Mick + Linda's life would have been if they'd stayed in Watford. Mick had some exhausting years in the middle of his tenure (Aidan Maguire, prison Mick, the early Stuart years) but he was brilliant at the beginning and quite good at the end. Danny Dyer breathed new life into the show and his chemistry with Kellie Bright was unreal. I would love to see him back someday for Linda + Mick's happy ending.
Shrimpy: Defo the strongest character of the last 10 years. Has been great in the Vic and had some great storylines within the Carter family. The less said about Janine the better.
BlakeButcher123: I don't hate Mick, but i never liked how dominant his presence on the show was, though I understand it as he was the landlord, and they'd want their money's worth of Danny Dyer.
Daniel68: Initially didn’t like him but thought Danny Dyer got better as the years went on, surprised he stayed as long as he did
Monokuma: an excellent character that unfortunately got tedious to watch the longer he was overused by the show.
No Ice: I suppose I’ve just never really understood the hype. He was very slowly sucking all of the life out of the show (and the Vic) and I was so elated when it was announced that he was leaving. Nine years of misery, it was getting draining to watch.
GETAHHHT!!!: Danny Dyer was made for EastEnders. Had some great storylines over the years but he was probably right to go when he did. He’ll be back though and I’ll be waiting for that day with bated breath.
PintOfChurchills: I warmed to Mick, particularly as he seemed so emotionally intelligent, in tune with his softer side and was a solid family man. The angsty storylines quickly took over though and seeing Mick in an angry, depressed, panicked state for what felt like about five years was repetitive and quite dull. I wish there’d been a bit more happiness to balance things out.
Startedin2014: Always liked Mick as a character despite acknowledging he was overused. He was a likeable guy who was always there and interesting, but boy was he just used way too much. Luckily they toned it down by the end, it’s obviously inevitable that we’ll see him again but it will be a long while.
Tomski12: A character I had a complicated relationship with. Loved him at the beginning and then became utterly sick of him. I came to appreciate him again by the time of his departure, but I can’t say I miss him, and actually think the show has benefitted from his absence. But I will be pleased when he returns eventually, I just hope we’re still a little while off that yet.
Seamus2008: He had such a presence at the beginning and he had great moments through his run but the last storyline he was involved with didn’t sit right with me - I was glad he reunited with Linda but as he’s lost at sea, I’m sure we’ll see him pop back one day.
EastEnders2021: I don’t think anyone could have predicted how much of the “right stuff” Danny Dyer had for EastEnders. He spent nearly a decade fronting the show but honestly his icon status on the show was established very early on. Probably (along with Linda, but to a greater extent) the last true legend the show produced.

45. Ricky Butcher
Average score: 6.95
Highest score: 11 x 1 (Startedin2014); 10 x 3 (BrightEyes, smere & VanGoghed)
Lowest score: 2 x 1 (LostandFound16)

Shamelessness: A fantastic everyman. Bring him back and give him and Bianca a happy ending together!
*Betty*: The perfect every day man.
BrightEyes: My classic watch has made me the biggest Ricky Butcher fan. Completely in love with him. Why isn't he my boyfriend?
Roastmyownbeans: What a dope. That is all.
Zachary: RICKAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
Jedi Pat: I'm tempted to give Ricky my 11, but this is a character rating, not a rating of how hopelessly in love I was with Sid Owen three decades ago. Still, a solid 9 for being the perfect Everyman character, portrayed by a gorgeous and competent actor. Whether he was eloping to Gretna Green, forever breaking up or getting back together with Sam or Bianca, or sneaking off for an illicit fumble with Natalie, I always cared about whatever Ricky went through. And I still do, thinking about him struggling to bring up Janine's offspring in Germany. Ricky is a character I would always welcome back - his latest prolonged stint proved he still feels relevant, and still has a place on the canvas.
TheTrueMitchell: I’ll always love Ricky, I think the ‘everyman’ is the sort of character I am drawn to most often, a character who is largely just a good guy who might make mistakes and is sometimes down on his luck, but values family.
VinegarLips: Ricky is a wonderful, wonderful everyman and one of the best in that archetype but he's definitely someone I feel was carried by the women in his life - Bianca, Janine, Pat, Sam, Natalie - as opposed to being much of a strong presence in and of himself. Sid Owen is a lovely and familiar face and it was amazing to finally get him back in 2022 for that stint but I only really long to see him again if it involves Bianca, Janine or Tiffany if I'm honest.
WearyHippo: I might be alone in this but I honestly think the entire reason Ricky is iconic is because all his key relationships were with genuine icons, not because of Ricky himself. He was a dull character played by a limited actor who was given the absolute gift of being surrounded by some of the show’s best ever. At this point, the nostalgia factor is the only thing he has going for him.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: How could you not love Ricky? Bumbling about from disastrous decision to disastrous decision. A harmless, nice guy who always found himself paired up with strong, fiery women. You can't think of Ricky without thinking of Bianca's iconic bellow of "Rickaaaaaaaay"
easstenders: A character I’ll always want back! I preferred Ricky as more of a supporting role in storylines, rather than his own leading storylines, but I’d still love to have him back. Seeing Ricky again in 2022 was lovely, it’s just a shame none of his kids were on screen. I’m dying for him to be reunited with Bianca, so here’s hoping!
Ooh, I Say: Lovely everyday character. So much chemistry with Bianca. Bring him back with Liam, Tiff, Scarlett and baby Carter-Butcher, ready for Janine’s return in a year’s time! I need it!
SeeThemFlying: Again, I wasn't a watcher in the 90s, so I may have missed his best moments... but he's always just been an okay "everyman" character to me. Sid Owen is very good at comedy, though.
TellyAddict: A solid, dependable everyman character. He felt a bit rudderless when they brought him back in the early 2000s but the 2008 return with Bianca and co was great, with the slow burn of their reunion. It was great seeing him back to aid Janine's exit more recently as well.
VanGoghed: Just a nice all round character
FancyACuppa: Bring him back and reunite him with Bianca. I don't care what it takes.
Shrimpy: Harmless supporting character with strong ties to a lot of people.
BlakeButcher123: A solidly, enjoyable character, Ill always root for him and Bianca.
Daniel68: Not really one of the more memorable characters for me but likeable enough
Monokuma: he's enjoyable to watch but I've always found him a bit bland. He's just someone that needs other excellent characters with him as I can't really think of any standout moment that's his, it's always other characters moments that he's a good support for.
PintOfChurchills: There’s something very endearing about Ricky’s character. I think his real appeal, for me, is in his everyman persona.
Startedin2014: I’m not sure what makes Ricky my favourite ever EastEnders character. I don’t really have an answer to that. I guess he’s just the relatable everyman that is easy to latch onto but I do think he has some great and interesting relationships and storylines which make him into an interesting character. He’s not the best EastEnders character, but he is my favourite. As unlikely as it may be, I hope Sid Owen returns permanently some day.
Macjay: Solid and dependable, a good counter to the fiery Sam & Bianca. Can't fault him as a father
Tomski12: EastEnders needs characters like Ricky and seeing him again a couple of years ago just cemented that. I’m surprised he hasn’t been brought back on a permanent basis and I’m hoping we’ll see him again soon, if only to send him and Bianca off into the sunset together.
Seamus2008: Ricky’s an alright character, he’s been involved in great storylines but he’s more B/C list than A list material.

44. Lou Beale
Average score: 7.03
Highest score: 10 x 8 (ArthursFlatCap, Cam, eesarah, EthelMaySkinner, Matt0891, NurseSonia, Ooh, I Say & TellyAddict)
Lowest score: 2 x 3 (Dennys Biscuit, JadieLeigh12 & Watts your Butchers name)

Shamelessness: Lou was the original character responsible for grounding the show in an East End setting. She set the tone for all the matriarchs who came after her, and what a legacy she has!
*Betty*: The original matriarch, a class act. The presence, unmatched.
BrightEyes: She was a great take no shit matriarch. She showed her heart and kindness with equal aplomb. In retrospect, we could have gotten more of her, but at least her good standing tenure wasn't ever able to be threatened with bad writing like most of the longtimers.
Roastmyownbeans: I suppose she was needed originally as the Ena Sharples type, but god she was a chore to watch. Such an old bag lecturing everyone all the time.
Zachary: Before me time xx
Jedi Pat: Although I only saw her stint in retrospect, years after I first became a regular EastEnders viewer, Lou is a character I instantly liked, despite (or perhaps because) of her stubbornness, her unwillingness to compromise, her harsh treatment of poor Arthur, and the way she used to wind up Kathy. But then, every now and then, a softer Lou briefly emerged, especially in connection with her grandchildren and her great-granddaughter Vicki (despite practically demanding an abortion when Michelle first revealed her pregnancy). I think the fact she reminded me so much of my own grandmother, a real-life battleaxe if ever there lived one, plays a big role in how much I appreciated the character. And her shingles.
TheTrueMitchell: The original matriarch, I’ve seen lots of the early episode and she was a bit of a battleaxe and quite unlikeable but also very real, integral to the Fowler/Beale history and shaped how the younger members of her family have led their lives.
VinegarLips: For a character who died four years into the show's 40 year lifespan, Lou Beale has arguably lived on far beyond that. But before I talk on her legacy, let's talk on the woman herself. She was very much a product of her time but my God what a hoot she was. I obviously wasn't alive myself until over a decade after her death but Lou always captivates me. She's brutally honest and often harsh to a fault, but there was so much realness and grit that made her such a wonderful, classic EastEnders matriarch. Anna Wing played her with such a ferocity and such a wisdom that you can't help but like her. Her scene with Ian with Julia's Theme playing where she comforts him over his cooking aspirations is one that stays with me always. It's a shame she left so soon but I think you can feel her presence in every Beale/ Fowler scene, traits of her having bled into the women that carried on her mantle - Pauline, Michelle, Kathy etc. Gets mentioned a tad too much and in tad too self referential a manner but it's always nice to have her remembered as she is the original Beale matriarch at the end of the day - without her, none of the others would be there! Just a big jewel in the foundational crown really.
Ross: I’ve seen lots of episodes featuring Lou from years gone by and can fully appreciate why she was such a successful character. Lou is a prime example of a character that didn’t always have to be likeable to be loved.
WearyHippo: I was too young in the early days to remember specific details of Lou’s time on the show, but my overall impression is very positive. I do remember finding her quite fearsome when I was little.
Getting Phil Mitchelled: Lou, the original Matriarch they tried to style so many other characters on. It's such a shame we didn't have her for longer.
easstenders: Lou was the original battleaxe, but unlike a character such as Peggy, she never really had another side, she was always just a bit bitter. Appreciate what she’s given to the show in the long run.
Ooh, I Say: Only seen clips of Lou but she’s everything I love in a character. A fierce matriarch who’s not afraid to tell her family where they’re going wrong – and she was the original. I always wish she had carried on for longer, with Anna Wing being active until 2012, but I actually think – much like Angie – part of Lou’s legacy is that she left before anything could be done to ruin the character. I’d love to know what Lou would have made of all the Beale stories in the 90s such as Ian/Cindy/David and the hitman; Pete’s death; all of the stuff with the Fowlers.
SeeThemFlying: I gave Lou a solid 7 because I have only experienced her from the odd YouTube clip, and although she is an utter powerhouse in them, I'm not sure if she ever really had long enough to be a truly legendary character.
MrJames: It’s funny to think about how she could have been on the show for a lot longer than she was. It’s weird that such a formidable matriarch only exists in her own little 80s bubble.
TellyAddict: The original matriarch who took no prisoners. A brilliant character who made such a big impact in a relatively small period - her final episode is one of my all time favourites.
Shrimpy: Another I never saw live, but any YouTube clips I have seen I just dont feel like the character is likeable in anyway.
Daniel68: Not a character I have ever watched other than in old clips. Whenever I’m writing player ratings articles after football games I start with everyone on a 6/10 as an average so I’ve gone with that 6
Monokuma: I think she had a defined place in the show for the time, and she worked great as the head of the family until her death. I remember her death hitting me quite hard on rewatches, particularly as she takes a final look at all her family with nothing but the ticking of a clock breaking the silence. It's such a poignant moment that makes classic EastEnders something special indeed.
GETAHHHT!!!: legendary battleaxe. Never minced her words. It’s a shame Anna Wing decided to leave so early, taking into consideration her longevity, I could have seen her sticking around on the show even into the 21st century. Imagining her interacting with the likes of Peggy, Cindy and Shirley – she would have destroyed them in a double act with Pauline. And I doubt Ian would’ve become such a twat with his grandmother around to keep him in line.
Dave Sullivan: I was born after Lou was killed off in 1988 so I didn't see her properly though through old episodes via youtube and the like a picture does emerge. One of a very difficult but loving mother very much in the mold of her generation, her bitterness at Pete for being a failed father thrice over is a frequent theme which echoes through her time onscreen and even today.
PintOfChurchills: As a youngster when EastEnders aired I disliked Lou vehemently, and it was only when I rewatched the early episodes in the 1990s that I appreciated what she added to the show and the sense of history she helped create.
Macjay: The original EastEnders matriarch, wouldn't have wanted to experience the sharp side of Lou's tongue. Poor old Arthur...
Tomski12: A hard one to rank for me, because 80’s EastEnders is definitely the most patchy era for me in terms of having watched. But Lou sort of set the bar for every matriarch who would come after her. Ruling over her family with an iron fist yet showing her softness on the odd occasion. I have a fondness for her final scene where she lays into each and every one of her family one last time and then disappears to bed to pop her clogs. Icon.
Seamus2008: the original matriarch, I really believed in her and was sad when she left.