The landlord fears for his life after getting trapped in the Vic during Aidan’s evil plan

After finally convincing evil Aidan to let him back in on his mysterious New Year plan, Mick Carter is left fearing for his life when it all goes horribly wrong.

When Mick’s mum Shirley realises what he’s up to – alongside Aidan, Vincent, Phil, Keanu and Billy – she takes drastic measures by locking him in the Queen Vic cellar.

Of course this mean’s Mick misses his part of the job and it’s not long before a furious Aidan comes after him, holding a gun!

Determined to protect her son, Shirley has a face off with Aidan and Mick finally breaks free. But, despite getting to his position in the job in the nick of time, he’s still fearful Aidan will end his life.

And, this is EastEnders, so Aidan’s vision doesn’t go entirely to plan and it’s not long before someone is shot.

But will it be Mick?

It’s not looking good for Mick after he pulled out of Aidan’s evil plan

It wouldn’t be Christmas in EastEnders without a lot of misery but fans are convinced it’s going to be Mick Carter’s last festive period on the Square.

Viewers watched as he bravely backed out of evil Aidan’s scheming during Friday night’s episode – but the Irishman wasn’t impressed and issued a thinly veiled threat towards Mick.

Aidan told Mick: ‘If you should breathe a word of our plan, your darling missus might just be making a call to our new friend the undertaker.’ He was later seen measuring up a coffin!

Concerned fans took to social media to reveal their theories, with one writing: ‘I like Aidan but please don’t hurt Mick!’

Another said: ‘That coffin is Mick Carter size.’ And a third added: ‘Mick is as good as brown bread.’

It comes after executive producer John Yorke confirmed someone would die over the festive period.

With Lauren and Abi Branning confirmed to be leaving the soap, as well as their dad Max out for revenge against those who wronged him, it seems nobody is safe in Albert Square this year…

EastEnders' couple Mick and Linda Carter appear to be drifting further and further apart

EastEnders fans will finally get to learn Linda Carter’s big secret on the soap next week.

The Albert Square resident, played by Kellie Bright, has been keeping something from husband Mick (Danny Dyer) since she returned to the programme after some time away.

However, rather than telling Mick what has been plaguing her, she will spill the beans to Jack Branning (Scott Maslen).

Viewers have seen Linda battling with something that has been plaguing her, but have yet to discover exactly what it is.

She will also be seen making a huge decision about the future of her marriage, which has been on a knife edge following the reveal of Mick’s kiss with Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty).

After a meeting with Whitney, Linda is surprised to be assured by her that Mick only has eyes for her. But Whitney’s words only add to Linda’s turmoil over what to do about her relationship.

This will all take place within a dramatic week in EastEnders, as it is due to be rocked by a huge gas explosion during the Walford In Bloom celebrations.

Panic ensues as the Mitchells realise that Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) was near the site of the explosion, and Martin Fowler (James Bye) becomes concerned when he is unable to find Stacey Fowler (Lacey Turner).

Kellie recently returned to EastEnders after being away for maternity leave.

These episodes will screen from Monday, September 4 on BBC1.

It's crunch time for Mick and Linda Carter as their marriage reaches make or break!

With Mick and Linda Carter's marriage on the line, after his kiss with Whitney was revealed, his mum, Shirley, tries her bestto help the fractured couple put the past behind them and get back on track with what was one of the most solid partnerships in the Square.

Will Linda go along with Shirley's plan or has she had enough and is ready to ditch Mick? And will Mick be able to make it up to Linda with a special gesture or is it too late for that and the end is near for The Queen Vic pair?

As their marriage reaches crisis-point, the Carter couple are at loggerheads about their situation

Shirley tries to come to the rescue by arranging lunch with Whitney and fiance Woody to show Linda that everyone's moved on...

But as the awkward lunch turns boozy, a tipsy Linda winds Mick up by flirting with Woody!

After the painful gathering, Mick and Linda try to thrash out their differences

But they just go round in circles, as they argue about all that's wrong in their marriage

Mick and Linda contemplate their future as they gaze out over the Square. Are they about to say goodbye to their life as a married couple?

When Mick tries to make a grand, last-attempt gesture and give Linda a present, how will she react?

When Linda reacts in an unexpected way to Mick's gesture, is this the end?

As Linda confides in best mate Sharon about the situation, what will her pal advise?

Meanwhile, Mick tries to get to the bottom of what's going on with businesswoman Fi

As the pair have a heart to heart, Fi later makes a phone call

But who is feisty Fi mysteriously calling and why? And what will the outcome be for Mick and Linda's fragile marriage? Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, August 28

Linda Carter gave hubby Mick a slap last night after she found out he gave money to Whitney Dean... and fans were impressed.

EastEnders viewers applauded Linda Carter after she slapped husband Mick for giving money to Whitney Dean in last night's episode.

The Queen Vic landlady, played by Kellie Bright, was left furious when she found out Mick had taken money out of the pub till to give to the woman he had cheated on her with.

After Linda discovered £200 was missing from the till, Mick had to admit he had given it to Whitney, played by Shona McGarty, to help her out after she had been sacked from her job at the pub.

When Mick protested as Linda referred to Whitney as a “tart”, his wife delivered a stinging slap.

Ouch! Mick will be feeling that one for a while... 😬😲 pic.twitter.com/k2wl6Qzz4s

— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) August 11, 2017

Fans of the BBC soap applauded, with one writing: “Been waiting for that, GO LINDA C YOU QUEEN,” while another tweeted: “thank god, i was about to jump into my computer and slap mick myself.”

After Linda discovered £200 was missing from the till, Mick had to admit he had given it to Whitney, played by Shona McGarty, to help her out after she had been sacked from her job at the pub.

When Mick protested as Linda referred to Whitney as a “tart”, his wife delivered a stinging slap.

Fans of the BBC soap applauded, with one writing: “Been waiting for that, GO LINDA C YOU QUEEN,” while another tweeted: “thank god, i was about to jump into my computer and slap mick myself.

@BethEWest tweeted: what a slap #eastenders

@Ayshahahashah wrote: Woahhhhhhhh that slap #EastEnders

Earlier in the episode, Mick returned Whitney’s possessions to her, where she confronted him about telling his wife about their tryst.

She said: “I didn’t ask for any of this. You’ve made me look like a homewrecker.”

Linda Carter returns to the Square and finds out about Mick's kiss with Whitney. How will she react?

You can cut the atmosphere with a knife when Linda Carter makes a dramatic return to Walford and, in a bid to get her marriage back on track, tells Mick there must be no more secrets between them.

Unfortunately, that prompts her husband to confess all about his kiss with Whitney Carter – and all hell breaks loose. Is the Carters' marriage now beyond repair?

As Linda tries to get her head round Mick's revelation, she clashes with her husband

On her return to Walford, Linda immediately senses Mick was hiding something

The Taylor clan are among those surprised to see Linda back in the Square

As the fur flies, Linda tries to get her head round Mick's confession

Inevitably, it's not long before Whitney gets caught up in the commotion…

What will she do now she has been exposed as the 'other woman'?

Shirley is desperate to find out from Linda what has been going on

Meanwhile, Mick unburdens himself to Jack

But it's down to Linda and Mick to try to find a way to salvage their relationship

Meanwhile, Whitney confides in Stacey. Will she decide to make a fresh start away from Walford? Catch Linda's dramatic return on EastEnders from Monday, August 7

How will Mick Carter react when Whitney arrives back in Walford with shock news?

Last seen in May tearfully fleeing the Square after her second kiss with Mick, Whitney Carter is back in EastEnders with bombshell news – she’s got engaged!

The revelation sends the locals reeling, especially Mick. But who is Whitney going to marry?

Mick Carter is taken aback when Whitney pulls out a ring and announces her engagement. But who is the lucky man? And isn't she still married to Lee?

Her return has taken everyone by surprise, but she’s soon back behind the bar of The Vic helping out Mick

As Whitney unpacks her things, it’s clear she intends to stay around, and an engagement party is planned at The Vic

Shirley for one isn't happy Whitney's back AND in The Vic. She confronts her, but Whit stands her ground.

Later Mick and Whitney have a heart to heart. How will he respond to having her fiancé on his doorstep? Especially when it's ex barman Woody!Find out by watching EastEnders from Monday, July 31

A busy week in Walford sees Mick, Fi and Shirley appoint a new barmaid for The Vic

EastEnders fans were aghast when popular barmaid Tracey was sacked earlier this year as part of Fi's shake-up at The Vic. But could she soon be pulling pints again? She's in the frame for the barmaid vacancy at the pub, but with Fi on the interview panel, will she be given her old job back?

Elsewhere in the Square, Sonia frets about Bex, Louise has her nose put out of joint, and Steven steps up his stalking of Lauren. Not that he's paranoid or anything…

At The Vic, Tracey is interviewed by Mick, Shirley and Fi for the barmaid vacancy.

Earlier, Karen expresses her interest in the job to Mick and Shirley

Earlier, Karen expresses her interest in the job to Mick and Shirley

But instead, she manages to find work at Beale's

Meanwhile, Mick is still wary of some of the changes Fi is introducing at The Vic

Elsewhere, a somewhat anxious Jack leaves Amy and Ricky in the hands of their new nanny, Ingrid

In hospital, Dot is alarmed when Sonia suggests that Robbie move in with them

Heading to The Vic, Robbie tries to build a relationship with the market traders

Upstairs, the interviews are under way and Shirley is confident the job is Tracey's. But is it?

At the cafe, Martin offers Sonia the opportunity to get more involved in Bex's life

Sonia then arranges a meeting with Bex's teacher, Mr Pryce

Back at the cafe, Louise is dismayed to hear Alexandra is set to upstage her at the school's end-of-term showcase

Will Alexandra seize her chance to get closer to Travis?

As Steven's paranoia grows, he gives unwitting Lauren a phone charger enabling him to spy on her

Looking on, Abi can't understand why Steven doesn't dump Lauren and make her his girlfriend

But as Lauren and Josh have a heart to heart, will Steven regret his spying? Find out in EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, July 3

Shocks, surprises and life-threatening drama in Albert Square.

An edgy Mick Carter looks forward to the return of wife Linda to Albert Square this week, but will everything go as well as he hopes?

Meanwhile, Derek Harkinson gets some bad news from Yolande Trueman… Will it lead to more trouble for him?

Robbie Jackson makes his mark as the new part-time market enforcement officer… How will the market traders react?

And while Patrick Trueman notches up another birthday, across the square Dot Branning suffers a serious fall… Will she be OK?

It's a week of mixed emotions for Linda when she returns to Albert Square and her place behind the bar of The Queen Vic.

It's a week of mixed emotions for Linda when she returns to Albert Square and her place behind the bar of The Queen Vic.

Earlier, before Linda's return, Mick throws himself into organising a surprise birthday party for her 40th…

Mick's on edge as he gets ready for Linda's return as Fi goes through the accounts…

Linda's surprised when she gets back behind the bar of The Vic with Shirley… How will she react to the changes that happened while she was away?

Linda thinks it's time for a heart-to-heart with husband Mick.

Meanwhile, Yolande visits Derek and reveals some worrying news… What is it?

Market stallholders Martin Fowler, Donna Yates and Kush Kazemi get a shock when they find out Robbie Jackson is the new part-time market enforcement officer…

Patrick claims he wants a quiet birthday as Denise showers him with attention… Is he telling her the truth?

As Dot prepares for Patrick’s birthday, disaster strikes when she trips over Dave and goes crashing to the ground...

Dot is wheeled out to the ambulance by paramedics after Sonia discovers her on the floor…

Jack visits Dot in hospital… How serious is her condition?Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, June 26

Pub landlord Mick is furious when he discovers his mum forged his signature while he was away...

Mick Carter breezed back into the Square recently completely oblivious to the fact his mum Shirley has raised much- needed cash for the family by selling The Vic's freehold. And she did it by forging Mick's signature. It was only a matter of time before the landlord discovered Shirley's fraudulent action, and when he does, he predictably hits the roof. But could a meeting with Fi Browning – who's now overseeing The Vic's affairs – provide Mick with a way of staying in control of his beloved Vic?

On his return to the Square, Mick wastes no time in catching up with The Vic's paperwork

On his return to the Square, Mick wastes no time in catching up with The Vic's paperwork

Greeting Shirley, he fails to pick up on the anxiety she feels having forged his signature

When Mick's gone, Whitney and Johnny urge Shirley to come clean

After Mick learns the truth, predictably he goes ballistic at his mum

Desperate to find a way to keep control of his pub, Mick meets with Fi

Has he found a way to get out of the new contract?

And will Mick regret accusing Whitney of being partly to blame for his plight? Find out by watching EastEnders from Monday 22 May

Jack Branning's fight to hold onto little Matthew, the return of Mick Carter and the arrivals of the Murrays and the Taylors feature in EastEnders' new promo

It’s set to be a dramatic summer of lies, betrayal and revelations in Albert Square as residents struggle with the burden of their dark secrets. It will be an especially challenging time for Jack Branning – after already losing his true love, Ronnie, he must face the prospect of life without Matthew as Charlie Cotton battles to take him back to Ireland.

Unaware of Max’s involvement, Jack does everything in his power to keep Matthew with him leading him to take drastic action.

As Max focuses on destroying Jack’s happy family,  he'll soon be thrown a curveball of his own when the Chairman makes an appearance in the Square…

 The Murrays, Ted and Joyce, will soon be arriving in Albert Square after being rehoused from a nearby estate. It doesn’t take long for Joyce to learn that Ted has brought a piece of the past with him. But what is he hiding?

 However just as Ted and Joyce settle in, the residents are in for a rude awakening when the Taylors (featuring Benidorm star Danny Walters) burst onto the scene. Immediately getting off to a bad start with some of their neighbours, just what trouble will the family cause?

Tensions are running high at The Vic as Mick returns home, oblivious to the fact that he no longer owns his cherished Queen Victoria. With Shirley struggling with the burden of her secret, it’s only a matter of time before the truth is set to explode … but how will Mick react to the news and will he be able to forgive Shirley and his beloved Linda.

Watch EastEnders' spring trailer:

https://youtu.be/fkiobax0XPQ

Things aren’t much easier for Whitney as she faces the reality of everything that’s happened over the past few months. Feeling lost and damaged, Whitney does her best to move on from Lee and start a fresh but as she faces reality, it’s clear she’s struggling but which path will she take?

Denise is set to face one of the toughest times of her life in the coming weeks. With no income, a proud Denise continues to suffer in silence as she struggles to make ends meet. But will she be able to swallow her pride and accept the help she so desperately needs?

Across the Square, Lauren puts all her efforts into impressing her new employer leaving a paranoid Steven feeling like he’s losing her. Already going to desperate lengths to keep Lauren close, just how much further will Steven go to get his way? For Lauren, as things grow more difficult at home, work becomes a good distraction, but with Josh struggling to hide his feelings for her, will she reciprocate?

 As well as the arrival of new families, Walford will be welcoming home some familiar faces this summer as characters including Robbie, Sonia and Linda return. What has brought Robbie and Sonia back to Walford and can Mick and Linda ever get back on track?

Eastenders fans rejoice! You won't have to wait too long until you see Danny Dyer back on your screens. His official return to screen date has been confirmed...

If like us you've been missing Mick Carter's charm and cheeky grin then you'll be pleased to know he is coming back to Albert Square soon.

Danny Dyer will return to your screen from Friday, May 19 and the weeks could not come sooner. Danny joined EastEnders in 2013 and has been involved in some big storylines. However the actor has been off since February after suffering from exhaustion. He said he needed to 'sort his life out'.

The soap is known for its busy filming schedule and it seems as though the work load had taken its toll on Danny. The actor has been enjoying a month-long break with his wife Jo Mas and their three children in sunny South Africa.

Now fully rested his official on-screen return has been announced.

Danny's character Mick, left the show after his daughter was involved in a car accident. His return will not be without drama as he is set to clash with Walford newbie Woody, played by Lee Ryan.

Lee, formerly part of the boyband Blue, joined EastEnders last month and plays the Queen Vic's temporary manager. During an interview with Ruth and Eamonn on This Morning on Thursday, Lee revealed that he and Danny have filmed some exciting scenes together.

He said: “We got some great scenes, and there was only a short time that we got to act with each other, I can’t say too much. When he turned up on the day he went, ‘Bosh that, bosh that, we’re gonna do this, we’re gonna do that. We just got at it, it was great.”

Fans on Twitter are delighted with the news that Danny is set to return. One posted "Oh thank God he needs to get back and kick Woody's butt".

Another simply added: "Yay!!"

The drama unfolds with confrontations and life-changing decisions across Albert Square...

Ian Beale's been increasingly concerned about his health recently, and despite his attempts to show he's top dog in the Vic's Pancake Day race, he soon gives wife Jane a couple of nasty shocks in EastEnders.

Meanwhile, Denise has made an enemy in Keegan and her outspoken comments to the Walford Gazette haven't made her any friends. On top of that, she's facing the biggest decision of her life about whether to go through with her baby's adoption… and her sister, Kim, thinks she knows who the baby's father is!

At the Queen Vic, landlord Mick's money problems aren't getting any easier… Can he find a way to get back on an even keel?

Ian goes head-to-head with Vincent and Kim in the Vic's Pancake Day race, but it doesn't go well for him…

Ian goes head-to-head with Vincent and Kim in the Vic's Pancake Day race, but it doesn't go well for him…

Earlier, Kush looks over Denise’s shoulder as she reads her strong comments about the state of the community and the Minute Mart in the Walford Gazette…

When Denise refuses to serve troublemaker Keegan in the Minute Mart, Kush comes to her defence…

Kim intercepts Minute Mart area manager Harry Beckett when he arrives to dress down a nervous Denise… How will he react to Kim’s defence of her sister?

Denise receives a call from her social worker and is thrown into turmoil… Will she sign the adoption consent form?

Later, when Denise joins her sister for a drink in the Vic, Kim comes to a shocking realisation… Has she guessed who the baby’s father is?

Encouraged by Jane, Dot tries to get through to a worried Ian… Will he listen?

Later, Jane comes home to find Ian writing his will… Can she calm his fears?

At the Vic, Whitney supports cash-strapped Mick when the bank manager turns up for a meeting… Will Mick get the answer he’s hoping for?Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, February 27

Danny Dyer's break from EastEnders due to reported exhaustion won't be long-term, a show source has told PA

Danny Dyer will return to EastEnders in 'weeks not months', a BBC source has said.

The actor, who plays pub landlord Mick Carter, is currently taking a break from filming the BBC1 soap, following reports he had been suffering from exhaustion.

A soap insider told the Press Association that fans of the programme can expect to see Danny back soon.

The reasons behind Danny’s time off screen are also expected to become clearer as his character’s storyline progresses.

A BBC spokesman denied reports that he had fallen out with the show’s producers.

A statement said: “Danny is on a short break from EastEnders. This was not enforced by bosses nor has he quit the show.”

His character recently rekindled a possible affair with his daughter-in-law Whitney (played by Shona McGarty), who he kissed last year and again earlier this year after Albert Square’s horrific bus crash.

His on-screen wife Linda (Kellie Bright) is currently away from Walford, visiting her mum in Spain. Off-screen the actress has been on maternity leave, after giving birth to her second child in November last year.

Danny recently hit headlines last year when he discovered he was related to royalty during an episode of BBC genealogy series Who Do You Think You Are?

He discovered that William the Conqueror, Edward III and Thomas Cromwell were among his ancestors.

Heartbroken Whitney feels even sorrier for herself in the coming week on EastEnders, and Mick is set to get even deeper into financial trouble

As if Whitney hasn't got enough on her plate with her marriage crisis, she has more to worry about when she hears bad news about her and Lee's flat in EastEnders.

And Mick's woes about the state of The Queen Vic continue when the environmental health inspector makes a discovery, putting more pressure on him to cough up the cash.

Does this mean she'll be homeless?

Mick does his best of console her. Will he be her knight in shining armour again?

Meanwhile, the environmental health inspector drops a bombshell, meaning Mick will have to fork out even more money on The Vic

Putting the disaster of the Polish night behind them, Konrad asks Shirley out

Mick feels like his world is caving in when Bob the plumber says it'll cost him big to fix his leaks

Will things ever start to look up for Mick? Find out how he deals with the disaster on EastEnders on BBC1 from Tuesday, February 21

Beset by financial worries, can the Carter clan find a way to ease their cash crisis in EastEnders?

When the roof of The Vic sprang a leak recently, it was the last straw for Mick, who has been desperately seeking ways to keep the pub going in the wake of a financial crisis.

Now he needs to find yet more money. But are Babe's efforts to raise cash a help or a massive hindrance? Knowing her, it will be the latter. Meanwhile, Whitney is keen to help Lee resolve his own dire financial problems…

As forlorn Mick counts the pub's takings, it's clear the sums are not adding up

As forlorn Mick counts the pub's takings, it's clear the sums are not adding up

Babe's secret shenanigans certainly don't seem to be helping the Carter clan, pushing Shirley and Johnny to lash out at her

Meanwhile, Mick is only too aware that something needs to be done soon to turn round the family's fortunes

Despite the doom and gloom he attempts to rally Shirley and Whitney

With the pressure on, Mick needs to come up with a money-making idea. Fast.

Taking Whitney and Shirley aside, he explains his idea for a new lunchtime offer at the pub

But with the pressure on in the kitchen, he finds himself snapping at poor Abi

Determined to give troubled Lee a lift, Whitney arranges a night out, and is very keen that his old Army pal Beanbag should turn up

A furtive phone call suggests Whitney thinks Beanbag can help Lee. But what does she have in mind? Watch EastEnders from Monday, February 6

Will everything go to plan when the locals put on their first performance of A Christmas Carol?

After weeks of backstage bickering and artistic differences, the moment of truth is rapidly approaching for the Walford Players as they prepare for the opening  of A Christmas Carol. One person definitely not looking forward to the big night is Bex Fowler, as Louise's involvement in the production looks set to escalate the pair's war over Shakil. But the show must go on –  will it be a night to remember, or an embarrassing flop?

It's time to put on make-up… The Walford Players are all set for their first performance of A Christmas Carol

It's time to put on make-up… The Walford Players are all set for their first performance of A Christmas Carol

Among those busy backstage is Linda, who helps Carmel get ready for curtain up

As nerves start to jangle, Derek gives the cast a pep talk

It looks like Mick regrets getting roped in to the production by Denise

From behind the curtain, Derek and Denise watch Patrick and Carmel perform

Will the Fowler clan win over the audience with their portrayal of the Cratchit family?

It's soon the turn of Kush and Patrick to take centre stage

Meanwhile, Martin Fowler looks as though he may be suffering from stagefright!

Soon, it's the moment Bex has been dreading: the part of the play when Louise has to kiss Shakil

In the wings, Bex is heartbroken as she looks on

Afterwards, Derek makes some observations about Patrick's role as Ebenezer Scrooge

In the café, the next day, Kush, Kathy and Donna are among those reflecting on the big night

While Patrick seems preoccupied with his own performance

Denise looks animated as she approaches her friend: so was the first night a hit, or a miss? Find out by watching EastEnders from Monday 19 December

It's not a happy homecoming when Johnny Carter returns to Albert Square

But he's shocked and upset to discover the traumatic events his family has been through while he's been away.…

After all the drama with Ollie, Linda's feeling down in the dumps so Mick and Sharon come up with an idea to cheer her up. Will hosting a karaoke night do the trick?

If the karaoke night doesn't lift Linda out of the doldrums, Mick has an idea that's sure to put a smile on his wife's face, so he makes a call…

The karaoke night doesn't get off to a good start when Ben and Abi cause a scene, but it improves when, to Linda's delight, Johnny makes a surprise return…

After Johnny steps into the karaoke spotlight to sing a favourite song, he soon begins to notice that all is not well chez Carter…

Although she's thrilled to be reunited with her son, Linda's on edge because she still hasn't told him about what happened with Dean, so Mick encourages her to tell him

After Johnny tells his mum that he's split up with his boyfriend Gianluca, Linda realises he needs to know the truth and tells him that she was raped by Dean…

Johnny struggles to come terms with everything he's missed, and a chat with his gran Shirley makes him realise how much his family has been keeping from him…

Things aren't helped when Nancy fills her brother in about her recent dramas involving baby Ollie and dad Mick…

It all becomes too much for Johnny and when he finds himself alone he ends up breaking down…

Despite his heartache, Johnny paints on a smile when Mick gathers the Carter clan for a family photo…

They say the camera never lies but while the Carters may look like a happy family, things are still fraught between certain members of the family…

Later, Johnny finally snaps and blames his dad for everything that's happened! Watch this story unfold on BBC1 from Monday, April 11

Linda is having a tough day.

Linda's in turmoil on Mother's Day as chaos breaks out among the family and baby Ollie's injured…

With a Mother's Day celebration planned for Linda, Mick tries to talk daughter Nancy into coming

Will a reluctant Nancy be talked round when Mick shows her her mum Linda's box of memories from over the years?

Nancy decides to join in the family gathering, but how will she react when she discovers Lee has given up his job at The Rat?

Meanwhile, Shirley's moved when son Mick hands her a card for Mother's Day…

With Nancy having taken in the news about Lee chucking his job in, after she had gone for it too, she expresses her annoyance!

Things get physcial as Nancy takes her anger out on brother Lee

But with their baby brother, Ollie, in his high chair, Nancy makes an unwise move and pushes Lee... who stumbles towards Ollie!

Nancy looks on in horror as she realises Lee has fallen into Ollie

After the frightening collision, Whitney dashes to find Linda to give her the terrifying news about Ollie

A concerned Linda and Mick dash home to baby Ollie

As the frantic parents check their baby son, what will they do when they find out how he was injured?

Tina comforts Nancy, who's devastated by Ollie's fall

But then Mick finds out about Nancy and Lee's clash and how their actions led to Ollie's accident

He's had enough of his eldest son and daughter's fighting

Will the Carter kids resolve the ongoing feud and will baby Ollie recover? Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, March 7

Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) needs to get with it in EastEnders next week and realise that his son Lee's girlfriend, Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty), is leaning on him a bit too much and is now about to lean in for a kiss!

In recent weeks Whitney has confided in Mick about how difficult she's found it supporting Lee through his depression, and she also moved in for a kiss on Mick's wedding day! Mick may have thought nothing of it, but Whitney's crush isn't disappearing any time soon and she's about to pucker up again when she's alone with Mick in his car... How will newly-married Mick respond?

After an emotional Whitney rowed with Lee's sister, Nancy, earlier in The Vic, supportive Mick talks to her about the episode in his car.

But Whitney is relishing time with her bloke's dad and as she opens up to Mick, she asks a leading question about whether it's possible to love two people at the same time!

With Mick none the wiser about Whitney's intentions, she leans in for the kiss. Will the normally devoted husband be pleased and will his feisty wife, Linda, find out?

Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, January 25

EastEnders promised that last night’s New Year’s Day episodes would be dramatic, and they didn’t disappoint with Dean turning up at Mick and Linda’s wedding to get revenge on his mum Shirley.

However, before the episodes were aired, EastEnders posted a behind-the-scenes video showing the cast and crew dancing to Hotline Bling, the 2015 hit song by Canadian rapper Drake.

It shows Danny Dyer (Mick), Luisa Bradshaw-White (Tina), Shona McGarty (Whitney), Linda Henry (Shirley), Jonny Labey (Paul), Matt Di Angelo (Dean), Kellie Bright (Linda), producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins, as well as other cast and crew, dancing to the track. Clink the link below to see the video.

Attention all hashtaggers, likers, re-tweeters, trendsetters and key influencers: #EastEnders do the Hotline Bling! https://t.co/NGXME6SkLT

— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) January 1, 2016

The episodes began with Mick and Linda waking up on the morning of their big day and there was drama from the off when their eldest son Lee – also Mick’s best man – went AWOL after overhearing that his girlfriend Whitney wanted to dump him.

Then, as the guests arrived at the wedding venue – a posh country hotel – Dean Wicks turned up looking for his mum, who attempted to drown him in the bath after she discovered him attempting to rape his fiancée Roxy. 

Just before the ceremony was about to start, Mick realised his mum was missing and went to look for her. When young Jade told him that her dad, Dean, had showed up, and gone off with Shirley, a worried Mick went outside and spotted his mum and brother arguing by the lake. 

During the angry confrontation, Dean pulled Shirley into the water, leaving Mick to race down to the water to save his mum, which meant, of course, getting his ‘whistle’ (suit) wet. As the two brothers tussled in the water, Mick punched Dean and knocked him out, leaving him floating face down in the water as he went to pull Shirley to safety. 

When Linda realised what was going on, she rushed down to the lake with Tina and Buster. When Mick and Shirley were safely out of the water, they noticed Dean’s apparently lifeless body had sunk below the surface of the water, so Mick jumped back in to save him. 

After pulling Dean out of the water, Buster tried to bring his son back to life and declared that he had “gone”. But Mick wasn’t having any of that – he wanted to see Dean pay for what he had done – so after a bit of mouth to mouth, his brother spluttered back to consciousness. But before anyone had time to take in what had happened, the police arrived to arrest Dean.

By now, Linda’s white dress was covered in mud, and Mick’s suit was a wet right-off, but they weren’t going to let that – or the drama with Dean – stop them from getting married, so they went back to the hotel to get ready for their nuptials. While Linda did her best to clean herself up, Mick had nothing dry to wear except a few pieces of casualwear from his honeymoon suitcase. He tried them on but said they didn’t feel right, while Linda said she didn’t care what he was wearing.

As they say, be careful what you wish for, because when she arrived to walk down the aisle, she spotted Mick had opted to wear a fluffy pink dressing gown and flamingo slippers!

The couple finally tied the knot, but while they had a happy ending, there was drama for a few of the other residents of Albert Square. 

Roxy returned to the Square for the first time since Dean’s attack – but she wasn’t alone. She came back to pick up a few things with her mum Glenda. And when Ronnie revealed that Vincent is convinced Phil’s dad Eric killed his old man Henry on Christmas Day 1981, Glenda responded by saying that it couldn’t have been the Mitchell patriarch because he spent the day drinking until the point of passing out! So, who did kill Claudette’s husband? Seems like someone’s telling porkies. 

Meanwhile, Denise bottled out of seeing her murderous ex Lucas in prison, while Alfie told Kat he wanted them to stay in Walford, while still keeping her in the dark about his medical condition.

EastEnders fans are promised a dramatic episode on New Year’s Day as members of the Carter family end up in a freezing lake.

Mick Carter (Danny Dyer) is finally getting married to Linda (Kellie Bright), but as life-changing events rarely pass off smoothly in soapland, there is a major hitch in the shape of his brother Dean (Matt Di Angelo).

Just as the wedding is about to start, Mick is alarmed when he learns his rapist brother Dean has arrived.

Mick and Dean fight underwater (Phoebe Rudomino/BBC)

Sensing trouble, Mick watches from a distance as Dean confronts their mum Shirley (Linda Henry) by the lake.

Mick and Dean hold their breath as they battle (Phoebe Rudomino/BBC)

Mother and son get into a heated clash as an increasingly unhinged Dean hurls accusations at her over their troubled relationship.

He snaps and, fuelled by rage, pushes Shirley into the lake. Mick rushes to the scene and, despite being a poor swimmer, jumps in to try to help his mum.

Mick's not a strong swimmer (Phoebe Rudomino/BBC)

The brothers come face to face before ending up in the water where a battle for survival ensues. Mick is forced to make a decision which could have far-reaching consequences.

Mick's in trouble as Dean starts to overpower him (Phoebe Rudomino/BBC)

Danny recently revealed he had to fight for his life when he got into difficulties filming the water-based stunt.

The 38-year-old opened up about the incident at the famous Pinewood Studios.

“We went to Pinewood and we did it properly and I’ve got to say some of that stuff under the water, I was actually fighting for my life in real life. I couldn’t quite find the surface,” he said.

Is Dean watching Mick drown - or has he drowned? (Phoebe Rudomino/BBC)

“We did this big, epic battle, me and Dean, it’s a sad, sad story. The idea that he is me brother, it could’ve been so different. It tailed off into this madness,” Danny stated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HXXOS-qySE&feature=oembed

“I had to have me ear-hole syringed – a lot of lake in my ear-hole. It’s a strange feeling, but we’re committed to it. You’ve got to commit,” he continued.

EastEnders’ two special episodes will air on BBC1, January 1 at 6.30pm and 8.00pm.

Evil rapist Dean finally snaps – but who will he hurt this time?

For some time now, troubled Lee Carter has been battling both depression and the bottle, his life spiralling out of control on EastEnders.

He almost cost Stacey her life recently when she was electrocuted by a socket he had failed to fix properly. But has Lee now reached a new low point?

Concerned Whitney has done her best to support her boyfriend as he struggles with his illness, but now she feels forced to approach Lee's dad Mick with some upsetting news

After a typically turbulent Carter Christmas, Mick turns his attention to his stag do, but is clearly shaken by what Whitney has to tell him.

It appears Whitney is right to be worried as, later, she and Mick find Lee in the park getting drunk.

What's behind this disturbing turn of events? And does it mean Lee is losing his battle with his illness? Watch the drama unfold on EastEnders, BBC1, from Boxing Day.

Nothing will stand in the way of Mick's wedding, EastEnders' Danny Dyer tells Soaplife…

How are Mick and Linda feeling in the run up to their big day?

"Mick’s a little bit more confident than Linda [Kellie Bright]. She’s got a bit of anxiety about the whole thing, but that will unravel and people will soon understand why."

What can we expect at Mick’s stag do?

"The greatest stag do that has ever been or ever will be. It was perfect. I couldn’t have asked for a better stag. I had a lot of input in it and I was really thrilled. They said 'What would Danny’s stag do be like?' so we’re crossing over with the real world a bit. It’s the greatest stag and I hope my stag can be a quarter as good as Mick Carter’s."

Can you give us a little tease about the wedding?

"It’s a beautiful wedding. Of course it has a few hiccups along the way but Mick is determined to marry his L. He won’t let anything stand in the way of that."

How determined is Dean to destroy Mick and Linda’s happy day?

"Dean [Matt Di Angelo] is really determined to stop the wedding. It’s not just about stopping the wedding though, there’s more to it than that." 

We hear there's a lake stunt… what was filming that like?

"Very hard work, especially the underwater stuff. Physically, mentally… but it’s great to get out of Albert Square. It’s a beautiful thing working in The Vic, but to go on location is always great.  It’s shot beautifully. But it was difficult. It was hard jumping into a lake in November. "

What’s it been like working with Matt on this storyline?

"I love Matt. I needed a nemesis in the show and it definitely brought out Mick’s character more, but it’s a shame it had to be my brother. I’ve got a beautiful line in the script where I say 'Things could have been so different'. "

Will Mick and Linda have a happy ending?

"It’s EastEnders. There’s never a happy ending."

Do you have a New Year’s Resolution?

"I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. I just don’t see the point in them. I always strive to be a better person and I think that should be enough, really, but I will have a good New Year."

EastEnders, BBC1.

Will it be happily ever after for The Vic's landlord, Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), and his fiancee, Linda (Kellie Bright)? Hardly likely.

In next week's EastEnders, everything gets too much for troubled Linda and she calls off the wedding!

It's been a bumpy road to the altar, after Linda was raped by Mick's brother, Dean, and subsequently became pregnant, unsure whether the baby was Dean's or her husband's. With the paternity-test results confirming Mick was the dad, the couple began to look to the future, but Mick has been hiding secrets from Linda ever since he returned from Ramsgate in the summer…

The week gets off to a bad start when Cora comes to blows with Aunt Babe in The Vic over what happened in Ramsgate. An already-stressed Linda demands to know the truth, and is horrified when she realises that Mick knew all along and hadn't told her.

As the Square's residents don full period costume for the market's Victorian-themed day, suggested by Kathy last week, Linda is still furious with Babe, who spots a way to make amends…

With Linda acting out of character and snapping at everyone, Mick soon realises that something is wrong. With Mick pushing her to open up, Linda finally snaps and drops a huge bombshell – she can't go through with the wedding!

Still reeling from Linda's devastating announcement, Mick determines to get to the bottom of what's really upsetting her. As Linda admits to being worried about their money problems, Mick remains unconvinced. What is Linda hiding?

Desperate to know why Linda has got cold feet all of a sudden, Mick insists they sit down and talk. Will Linda confide in her husband-to-be about her real reasons for calling off the wedding? 

When Linda refuses to open up, with a heavy heart Mick tells the family the wedding is off and walks out. When Linda follows, the pair eventually sit down and talk. Will Linda finally tell Mick what's troubling her? Or is this the end for king and queen of The Vic?

Find out in EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, December 14.  

After last Christmas's explosive revelations, the Carters will be hoping for a somewhat happier Christmas this year…

After a turbulent year, the Carters are reunited for Christmas lunch!

The family get into the festive spirit by donning full Christmas fancy dress as they prepare for The Vic's Christmas grotto.

Shirley is delighted to welcome Jade to the Square for a pre-Christmas celebration

Dean, Buster and Shirley hope to make their first Christmas with Jade memorable. But will she remember it for all the right reasons?

Linda and Mick hope to put their troubles behind them as Mick dresses up as Santa!

Ho ho ho! Mick is in his element entertaining the children of Albert Square…

…and he's full of Christmas cheer. Will his feelings of goodwill to all men last?

In The Vic's Christmas grotto, Linda does her best Mrs Claus impression…

…while Mick greets the children as Santa!

Jade is delighted to meet Father Christmas…

…and doesn't realise that Mr and Mrs Claus are actually her uncle and aunt, Mick and Linda.

Later, it's time for Mick to kill Goosey Lucy, who is set to be the centrepiece of the Carters' Christmas dinner…

…will he go through with the deed or will the landlord's soft side get the better of him?

Putting their troubles behind them, the Carters sit down to Christmas dinner together.

Mick and Aunt Babe put their differences aside as they sit down to eat.

Will Aunt Babe reveal a Christmas goose? Or did Mick bottle it at the last minute?

Determined to have a happy Christmas this year, Mick has pulled out all the stops…

…and presents Linda with a beautiful wedding dress for their impending nuptials.

Linda is over the moon with Mick's thoughtfulness. Will it be happily ever after for The Vic's loved-up couple? Watch EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, December 21. ...

With the festive season fast approaching, Mick (Danny Dyer) is on a mission on EastEnders when he asks Dot (June Brown) to let Linda's mum, Elaine, help out with the auditions for the Square's Nativity play.

As Mick pleads with a reluctant Dot, who knows only too well how overpowering and interfering Elaine (Maria Friedman) can be, she eventually does the neighbourly thing and agrees. Has Dot made a big mistake or will Elaine bring some Christmas cheer to the production?

With Mick's mother-in-law-to-be on board, who knows if it will lead to a happy Christmas or a festive farce, but the show must go on, as they say…

Dot doesn't look overly impressed when Mick turns up to ask the favour about Elaine helping out with the local Nativity play. This will take some convincing… 

Delighted Mick is both relieved and grateful when Dot half-heartedly agrees to let Elaine help with the auditions and organisation of the play 

As Elaine makes herself comfortable round at Dot's for the auditions, her over-enthusiastic input doesn't make for a silent night, and Mick is forced to mediate and make a decision when Elaine turns down youngster Janet for the play, as she thinks she's too old, but Dot firmly disagrees!

Mick decides Janet should be in the play and her mum, Honey, is over the Moon when she learns Janet will be playing the part of Angel Gabriel. But apprehensive dad Billy is concerned the role might be too big for Janet and declines the offer

When Elaine steps in, yet again, this time she takes a supportive stance, and lifts spirits by convincing Billy that Janet has star quality and will fly high in her role as the angel

So it seems Elaine was the right person for the job after. But will everything else run as smoothly in the Square during the festivities or will it turn out to be a fright Christmas for the residents?

Watch EastEnders on BBC from Monday, December 7

EastEnders star Danny Dyer joined Alan Carr on his Chatty Man show last night “the man who puts the nuts behind the bar at the Queen Vic”, was how Alan introduced him.

But Danny was also the man who painted a grim picture of what life will be like in Albert Square this Christmas…with a little encouragement from Alan.

“Christmas in Walford is such a downer,” Alan moaned.

“Innit? It’s a kick up the b****cks,” Danny agreed.

“What are the chances of Albert Square having a little bit of Christmas cheer going on?” Alan asked. “I mean, you’ve got more chance of finding snow in the Caribbean than someone cracking a smile in Albert Square.”

“It’s bad, to be honest,” Danny answered. “I can’t really declare it - but it f***ing horrible.”

“Mick [his character] gets away with Christmas Day but not New Year’s Day. That’s when he’s getting married. It goes wrong, badly.

“But…it gets better,” Danny added.

“It’s got a right good ending on New Year’s Day. That much I can give away. The ending’s unbelievable. For once, it’s a lovely doof-doof moment. And I think we’re due one.”

Then Alan moved on to another hot topic for Enders’ fans: the return of Grant Mitchell.

“Mick’s the Alpha male in Walford. What do you think about Ross Kemp coming back as Grant?” Alan asked Danny.

“I like the idea of it,” Danny said. “He might be coming back. I’d like Mick to have a tear-up in the Vic with Grant Mitchell. Mick would iron him right out!”

We’d love to see Mick try!

EastEnders continues on BBC1, Monday, November 23, 8.00pm.

Danny Dyer revealed he was 'absolutely skint' and in a 'desperate' situation when he was offered his role in EastEnders.

The actor, who plays pub landlord Mick Carter on the show, said he barely had enough money to travel to meet the producers and feared the team asking him to buy a round of drinks.

Speaking on The Jonathan Ross Show, he said: “I didn’t have an audition, they rung me up, I had a touch. They rung me up and said ‘Listen, we want you to come in the show, take over the Queen Vic’. At the time I was skint and I just had about enough petrol money to get there, that’s the truth.

Kellie Bright and Danny Dyer as Mick and Linda Carter in EastEnders (Kieron McCarron/BBC)

“They thought I was a multimillionaire and I met them in the hotel and I walked in absolutely skint, not a bean about me. I thought, I hope they don’t ask me to get them a lager because I’ve got no dough. They sat me on a throne and said how great I was and how they wanted me to come in and take over the Vic and (I was) going to have a really big storyline about having a gay son.”

Danny admitted he was 'desperate' for the job and had to try hard not to show how eager he was to the producer.

“I was like, ‘Wow, I want to do a cartwheel in front of them’, but I thought, ‘Play it down, don’t show your bolt too early.’ I went, ‘I’ll think about it’ and then I walked out and I did a couple of backflips on the way out!”

“I played it right down, I didn’t want to look desperate and I was desperate,” he said.

He said that if the role had not come up, he would have been forced to work as a labourer to make ends meet.

Danny Dyer was talking to Jonathan Ross (Ian West/PA)

“I might have had to go and load skips, Jon. I just couldn’t catch a cold, I was doing nightclub appearances.”

Danny has worked as an actor since he was 16, gaining experience in British films like Mean Machine and The Football Factory before he moved into documentaries such as Danny Dyer’s Deadliest Men and then soap acting.

His character Mick was introduced to EastEnders by executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins on Christmas Day 2013, as the son of long-standing Walford resident Shirley Carter.

In the show, his brother Dean (played by Matt Di Angelo) raped Mick’s wife Linda (played by Kellie Bright), but has so far escaped justice.

Danny teased viewers with what they could expect in the Christmas episode of EastEnders and confirmed reports he would be wearing a wetsuit in the show, after a previous storyline saw him overcome his phobia of water and learn to swim.

“(There is) an EastEnders wedding so it’s (set for disaster) straight away… I’ve got a wetsuit, that says something, so there’s water involved.

“It goes a bit bandy, starts off lovely, then it goes a bit bandy, and then for some reason I whack a wetsuit on. You won’t know I have a wetsuit on though, that’s the thing. It’s dark but it resolves a certain storyline with the old woman (his wife, Linda).”

“There’s something in the water and I get in it to sort the something out in the water… I’m not meant to have a wetsuit on!”

He spoke about Mick’s upcoming bachelor party and revealed that it reflected his 'ultimate stag do'.

Danny Dyer is happy on Albert Square (BBC)

“I’ve got a brilliant stag do. They’ve given me a bit of free rein with that so I have it in The Vic obviously. I’ve given them my ultimate stag do to be honest with you,” he said.

If anyone wants to know the plot, Danny said his grandmother is the woman to ask.

He said: “It’s a right good stag do, someone gets (hit). My nan knows, I’ve told her everything.”

Beyond Walford, the actor confessed he had ambitions to don 007′s suit in the future.

I'm just putting it out there……If Daniel Craig wants to move on… pic.twitter.com/w8FqA0gRps

— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015

“I would love to do Bond, of course I would. There’s a little Facebook campaign – thing is my odds at the betting shop are that Emily Blunt has better odds than me to become the next Bond. Why can’t we have a cockney Bond?!”

Also on Jonathan’s sofa are Priscilla Presley, Elvis Costello and comedian Rob Beckett.

The Jonathan Ross Show will screen on ITV1 at 10.25pm on October 31.

What's the story behind Jason, the toyboy lover who turns up with Elaine in EastEnders

After what Dean Wicks (Matt Di Angelo) did to Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simons) in last Friday’s episode, we were starting to think that Ronnie Mitchell (Samantha Womack) would kill again to save her sister…

Burning with anger and jealousy because he thought Roxy wanted Charlie Cotton (Declan Bennett), Dean purposely burned Roxy’s neck with curling tongs while he was styling her hair.

Dean said it was an accident - but then he said he didn’t rape Linda Carter (Kellie Bright), too…

He’s definitely going to his dark side again and Roxy is definitely in danger.

But, at a recent TV festival, EastEnders’ boss Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Danny Dyer hinted heavily that justice will be served by Mick Carter (Danny’s character), not the Mitchells…

Danny said that he hates the character of Dean “with a passion” and revealed the story is going to come to a conclusion. “The geezer’s going to get it,” Danny said. “Don’t worry. He’s going to get it.

Dominic added: “There are a lot of big resolutions coming in the New Year. Danny has been fitted for a wetsuit and he’s going into water.”

Will Mick and Dean have some kind of furious water fight, where it becomes a desperate “sink or swim” battle for survival?

The thing is, Mick’s not much of a swimmer, having had to overcome a fear of water after his mum tried to drown him in the bath when he was a baby.

So we hope he has more than a wetsuit to help him defeat Dean…

EastEnders continues on BBC1, Monday, September 28, 8.00pm.

EastEnders’ mother and son, Shirley (Linda Henry) and Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), are set to come to blows over Stan’s ashes – and things get messy.

Mick and Shirley fall out - again - over what to do with the ashes in episodes due to air in September.

Mick and Shirley Carter row over Stan’s ashes in EastEnders (BBC)

Shirley arrives at the Queen Vic to take charge of her father's ashes, but Mick doesn't want to give up what remains of his grandfather.

They both have their hands on the urn and, as they struggle to keep hold of it, the urn falls to the floor – spilling the ashes all over the pub.

Well, Stan (Timothy West), who died in April, was fond of the place but probably didn't want to end up being walked all over by the locals.

Mick sees that the urn doesn't hold Stan's ashes (BBC)

Then Mick, Shirley and Tina (Luisa Bradshaw-White) are all knocked for six when they realise that the mess on the floor isn't Stan's ashes at all… Someone's nicked them.

And it doesn't take Mick long to work out who the thief is.

Is Mick going to go straight for Dean (Matt Di Angelo), the half-brother he hates? Or does he suspect someone else?

And will this reunite Mick and Shirley?

We do know that they all go to the seaside to say their final farewell to Stan from our previous picture story here.

The row over the urn will air on the BBC One soap on Tuesday September 1.

EastEnders continues on BBC1, Monday, August 24, 8.00pm.

EastEnders star Danny Dyer has taken to the role of Queen Vic landlord so much that he wants to bring his work home with him – and build a replica pub in his back garden.

The actor, who plays Mick Carter – landlord of the iconic public house – will soon be moving house, and he has big plans to put his own stamp on the property, in classic Danny Dyer fashion.

He told OK! Magazine, “When we move to the new house I’ve got an annexe at the back and I’m going to build a mini Queen Vic. That’s going to be my man cave, my little boozer.”

Mick Carter in front of the Queen Vic (BBC)

And it seems he’s actually serious about the plans. “I’ve got the prop guys from the show coming around with the actual blueprints to the pub. I’ll have a little Queen Victoria bust and everything and a little sign outside. I’m going to completely Vic it up!”

It was also revealed that Danny, whose long-term partner proposed to him on Valentine’s Day after 20 years together, apparently made the move first – and was rejected.

In the interview, his daughter Dani said: “When he was drunk at [on-screen wife] Kellie Bright’s wedding, he asked Mum to marry him and she said no – he meant it, but she says no to wind him up!”

EastEnders on location in Ramsgate to film Mick, Shirley and Tina Carter scattering Stan's ashes

Danny Dyer has revealed he still hopes to take time out from EastEnders to make films.

The 37-year-old hardman – who is nominated for Best Actor at the British Soap Awards this weekend – made his name in cult 1999 film Human Traffic and went on to star in a string of gangster movies, although he has admitted to making a few flops in his time.

Danny told Digital Spy: “My last film Assassin did really well. It was with Martin and Gary Kemp and it really was a success. I just want to keep my options open, really.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqLHIS5PyxQ&feature=oembed

“I totally still love filmmaking because that’s where I’m from – it was my bread and butter for so long and it’s how I learned my craft. So if it’s the right script and right director and I can come to an agreement with EastEnders, then absolutely.

“But the days of me making s*** films are long gone – that’s all behind me. EastEnders is just a great place for me to still hone my skills, because you can never learn enough as an actor. And if I want to go out and make a little movie, then so be it, bring it on.”

The Carter family (BBC)

Danny also admitted reports he suffered from exhaustion were true, after he worked so many hours on EastEnders last year.

Danny said: “I knew we had to do that to cement the character, but physically and mentally it was difficult. I’d just had a baby, so it was also trying to juggle my real life, which is very important, with my fake family life!

“It did break me towards the end, but my body sort of knew when to break. I did all the Christmas stuff and it was really hard, really harrowing. Then my body just went, ‘You can’t do it any more. You need a rest’. Everyone could see that around me. I’d got the work done and they went, ‘OK, he needs a break’.”

Linda Carter takes a tumble and goes into labour on EastEnders

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+01

Baby drama for Linda after she falls down the stairs

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+02

Earlier, a row with Mick leads to Linda opening up about her feelings

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+03

But Mick storms out…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+04

…as Linda chases him, she tumbles down the stairs

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+05

Is the baby in danger?

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+08

Meanwhile, Mick and Buster have a heart-to-heart in the cafe…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+06

…unaware that Linda has come round from her fall

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+07

Linda panics when she can't feel the baby moving

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+09

As she searches for Mick in the Square, Kat spots her and comes to her aid…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+10

…just as her waters break

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+11

Linda makes it to hospital and Mick is found and rushes to her side 

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+12

Everyone is relieved to hear the baby's heartbeat

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+13

Linda is about to give birth…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+14

…as they apologise to each other for their earlier argument

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+15

The baby is born healthy, but Dean later sneaks over to the hospital

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+16

He's convinced the baby is his

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+17

Linda is horrified to see him. How will she react?

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+18

Back in the Square, Dean tells Shirley and Buster he knows he's the father

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+19

Shirley is desperate to see her new grandchild

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+20

The Carters are in turmoil as they don't know who the father of Linda's baby is

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+21

They're struggling to come to terms with the implications if Dean's the father

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+22

Mick attempts to bond with the baby

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+23

He assures Linda they don't need to do a paternity test…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+24

…it's not about the DNA

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+25

But Dean has other ideas

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+26

After Shirley confronts Mick over his decision not to do a paternity test, he changes his mind…

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+27

…and decides to find out the baby's blood group instead

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+28

Will Mick be prepared for the outcome?

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+29

And what will the results mean for the family?

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+30

The moment of truth has arrived

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+31

Will the blood results prove conclusive?

wk19-EE-Linda-Carter-Mick-Carter-Dean-Carter+32

Find out on EastEnders on BBC1 from Monday, 11 May

We’re still rocked by the news that Kat (Jessie Wallace) has a son she doesn’t know about and now Mick (Danny Dyer) is about to meet the baby Linda's carrying that might be Dean's.

In the week beginning May 11, Linda (Kellie Bright) falls down the stairs at the Vic. She manages to get to her feet and goes looking for Mick but her waters break and she goes into early labour…

We can reveal that Tina (Luisa Bradshaw-White) and Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) rush Linda to hospital - and Mick arrives just in time for the baby’s birth.

But are mother and baby OK?

And, the BIG question: is Mick the baby's daddy, or is it rapist Dean (Matt Di Angelo), Mick’s brother?

EastEnders continues on BBC1, Monday May 4, 8.00pm.

Danny Dyer has been granted some much-needed time off by his bosses at EastEnders after some of the show’s biggest storylines that have kept him on screen more than any other character in the soap.

Since turning up in the Square on Christmas Day 2013, Dyer – who plays Queen Vic landlord Mick Carter – has proved to be such a hit with viewers that he’s been written into as many episodes as possible.

So, the 37-year-old actor has jetted off to the Caribbean for a family holiday with wife-to-be Jo Mas, 37, and kids Sunnie, seven, and 18-month–old Arty.

A source told Mirror Online: “Everyone has been delighted with Danny’s first year on the show – he has thrown himself into the role of Mick wholeheartedly.

“But appearing in a soap isn’t really that glamorous – it is pretty full-on and can be a real treadmill of early starts, late-night filming and reading scripts.

“It can be a real shock to the system for newcomers and everyone needs some time away occasionally to re-charge their batteries and relax.

"Danny told producers he wanted to enjoy an Easter break with his family, and his filming schedule was sorted to allow him to do so.”

On The Jonathan Ross Show back in March, Dyer told the chat show host how EastEnders had taken over his life… 

"It’s completely engulfed my life,” he said. “It’s just taken over my life and it’s like I’m getting a bit of recognition all of a sudden, it’s a strange feeling."

Dyer also revealed how filming emotional scenes in the fallout of Dean raping Linda has affected him…

"I’m sick of crying,” he said. “The thing for me is I go there, I go to some dark places in my nut so that’s real tears so you go home and you’re still half crying.

“I’m not going to lie, it affects your nut.”

EastEnders stars Kellie Bright and Danny Dyer have revealed each other's most embarrassing moments on Albert Square, one involving a silicone bra pad and the other a swimming pool scene.

The actress, 38, who plays Queen Vic landlady Linda Carter, joined the BBC One soap in 2013, opposite Danny Dyer.

Asked what her most excruciating experience had been, Danny, who plays her partner Mick, revealed to Radio Times magazine: “There was a moment when she was running after the Carters’ car and her chicken fillet dropped out and she just carried on with the scene – what a trouper.”

Kellie Bright as Linda Carter in the soap (BBC)

Kellie admitted: “I have a bit of help in the breast department to play Linda and there was a scene where one of my chicken fillets fell out of my bra.

“I just had to pick it up and carry on going. Afterwards I was crying with laughter.”

Kellie said that her co-star had suffered while filming a swimwear scene.

“It has to be when he wore his swimming hat, trunk and goggles. It was the scene where he had to swim in the swimming pool,” she said.

Danny Dyer and Kellie Bright as Mick and Linda Carter (BBC)

“He had his little tummy and his man boobs out, his ‘hairy Lils’, as he calls them.

“And Matt Di Angelo was in the same scene looking all buff and shaved. I’ll go with that, but Danny doesn’t really get embarrassed.”

Asked to name his “celebrity crush”, Danny said that it was one of his co-stars – 'Tish' (Letitia Dean).

Meanwhile, Tracy-Ann Oberman, who played landlady Chrissie Watts in the soap, said that she would not rule out a return to Albert Square, telling the magazine: “Never say never.”

Dean Wicks returns to EastEnders, and brother Mick aint happy to see him!

EastEnders star Danny Dyer is set to marry his long-term girlfriend after she proposed to him on Valentine’s Day.

The actor, who plays Queen Vic landlord Mick Carter in the soap, also said he is a changed man and vowed not to stray again.

He told Hello! magazine: “I thought the grass was greener – but the grass was horrible and I don’t ever want to go there again.”

(Hello! magazine)

Talking about the moment Joanne Mas proposed, he said: “It was a complete bolt out of the blue, but I’m so glad she did it because I don’t think I could have taken the rejection. I love the fact Jo proposed.”

Danny and Joanne, who were childhood sweethearts, have three children.

She said: “I’ve always wanted to marry Danny and I decided that if I didn’t get things moving, it would never happen.

Danny and Joanne have two daughters, Dani and Sunnia, and a son Arty (Alma Robinson/Empics)

“I never wanted to get married when the children were babies because I wanted to let my hair down and enjoy the day. But we have had our little boy now and we’re not going to have any more, so the time is right.”

She added she has forgiven him for his infidelities. “It’s been hard, but I’ve got over it,” she said.

“When you have children, it isn’t just about me and Danny. I wouldn’t destroy the lives of my babies for something that doesn’t matter.”

Londoners are quick to grumble about the dire service on the Tube, but now the announcements are Dyer as well.

EastEnders star Danny Dyer, who plays Mick Carter in the soap, is voicing the announcements at Bromley-by-Bow station today to mark the show’s 30th anniversary.

He said: “I can’t tell you how much I loved sitting in the Bromley-By-Bow control room with them lovely ladies in their blue coats who work tirelessly. I remember I used to go through there and get off at Mile End on the district line and change to the Central Line to get to Stratford. It brought back some happy memories. So remember everyone – mind that gap.”

Danny plays announcer (BBC/Press Association Images)

EastEnders bosses chose the station, on the District and Hammersmith and City lines, because it the one replaced by the fictional Walford East on Tube maps in the soap.

Sandra Anderson, Area Manager for Bromley-By-Bow London Underground station, said: “Our station is at the heart of the East End and it is fantastic that as part of EastEnders’ 30th anniversary, our customers will be able to hear one of the most recognisable voices from the show telling them that there is a ‘right pukka’ service on the District Line.”

EastEnders landlord Danny Dyer has said his nerves kicked in when he had to welcome back a former boss of the Queen Vic – Barbara Windsor.

Barbara, who played landlady Peggy Mitchell in the BBC soap, returned to Albert Square to film part of the show’s 30th anniversary celebrations and joined Danny, who plays Mick Carter, for one of his scenes.

Danny revealed: “I think EastEnders had some of its best moments when Barbara was at the helm. So It was a shame that when I came in, Barbara was no longer in the show.

Danny Dyer and Barbara Windsor face off in the Queen Vic (BBC)

“So when I was told Barbara was coming back for an episode and doing a scene with me it was just a real moment of like wow, wow it’s going to happen.”

He went on: “I think we were both a little bit nervous to be honest with you – I was a bit nervous obviously because Barbara was the matriarch.

“It’s an intimidating place to act in, The Vic, so we were both nervous together and I think that worked beautifully. She’s a beautiful lady and I think we both inspired each other in different ways.”

(BBC)

Danny added that he was relieved to find Barbara had given his character her seal of approval.

He said: “I’ve known Barbara for a little while, but not well. But she was lovely. She wound me up and said, ‘Oi you, I want a word with you!’ I was like, ‘Oh no, here we go,’ and then she wound me up and gave me a big cuddle.

“It was lovely to be around her, Barbara is a real force and a real presence and a massive EastEnders fan. She gave me the thumbs up which is a massive thing.”

The Carters (BBC)

The pair can be seen together when Peggy makes a visit to the Queen Vic on Tuesday, February 17 as part of EastEnders’ live anniversary week.

All episodes that week will feature live elements, with a wholly-live episode on Friday, February 20.

Other returning ex-Walford residents include Jo Joyner as Tanya Cross and John Partridge as Christian Clarke, with Hetti Bywater back for a flashback episode about her character Lucy Beale’s murder, before the killer is finally revealed.

EastEnders star Danny Dyer has revealed that he is 'petrified' at the thought of doing live episodes of the soap.

The BBC show will feature a week of live episodes to mark its 30th anniversary in February, and the 37-year-old actor, who won the serial drama performance prize at the National Television Awards, admitted he is nervous about it.

"I'm petrified. I'm not going to lie to you," he said backstage at the awards. "I've done (Harold) Pinter on stage, I've done Broadway, but the live episodes leave me petrified. We're doing five episodes, but one is an hour (long), so it's six really. But I think it's like television history, so it's an honour to be part of it."

Danny continued: "I think you've got to be petrified - I ain't going into it giving it the big 'un because it's a real big ask and we all know what it entails.

"I'll just be so happy when we wrap up on the Friday if it's gone well. I know people watch it because it's live and they want to see things go wrong like a boom drop into shot... It is scary, though. But you know what, bring it on."

Danny, who plays Queen Vic landlord Mick Carter in EastEnders, said the show has rejuvenated his love for acting.

"At that point in my career, I was a car crash, and I think people wanted to see me fail," he said. "I'm so glad I did this. Having that responsibility, taking on the Vic, I'm so glad that it's reined me in and it's made me concentrate and focus. I forgot about the love of acting, which I love to do.

"And can I just say something about soap acting? It's so hard. I had to draw on all my experience to get through it - it's so truthful every single day.

"There's so much dialogue involved and to create a character that anyone gives a f*** about every day is a difficult thing. It's drained the life out of me, but I love it."

The 30th anniversary week is set to reveal Lucy Beale's killer, with former stars Barbara Windsor, Jo Joyner and John Partridge returning to Albert Square.

EastEnders’ Carter family are struggling to put a brave face on things with a karaoke night, but are pushed over the edge when Dean Wicks turns up.

Queen Vic landlord Mick (Danny Dyer) rallies his family together for a fun event at the pub to show that it is business as usual, but it takes a sour turn when an unwelcome guest arrives.

Mick confronts Dean (BBC/Kieron McCarron)

Mick found out at Christmas that his wife Linda (Kellie Bright) was raped by Dean Wicks, who he thought was his nephew, but is actually his brother.

Mick has been supporting Linda through her ordeal (BBC/Kieron McCarron)

While Linda is about to brave the police station to report the crime, Dean is the last person the Carters want to see, so when he walks into the pub to have a drink with Denise Fox (Diane Parish), Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker) and Kim Fox (Tameka Empson), Mick immediately tries to throw him out.

Dean refuses to leave, but as mum Shirley Carter (Linda Henry) tries to drag him outside, how will Mick react – and why is Shirley so keen for him to leave?

All will be revealed on EastEnders in the episode that screens on BBC One on January 29.

EastEnders fans all over Britain held their breath while Ronnie (Samantha Womack) lay lifeless in hospital on New Year’s Day after her baby boy’s birth… Then her heart started beating again… Phew!

In the following episode, it’s Nancy (Maddy Hill) who’s holding her breath, as she allows Shirley (Linda Henry) to settle back in at the Queen Vic - against her dad Mick’s wishes.

Tina (Luisa Bradshaw-White) tells Nancy: “What Mick [Danny Dyer] don’t know won’t hurt him”, clearly not realising that now is not the time to be keeping more secrets from Mick, who has just found out that Dean (Matt Di Angelo) raped Linda (Kellie Bright) and that Shirley is his mother, not his sister, making Dean his brother, with Buster (Karl Howman) as their father. Which all means that Stan (Timothy West) and Sylvie (Linda Marlowe) are his grandparents, not his mum and dad.

Will Nancy realise that now is the time to be making her dad happy, not mad?

EastEnders, BBC1, Friday, January 2, 8.00pm.

EastEnders’ Mick Carter gets much more than he bargained for this Christmas – when he finally learns that Dean Wicks raped his wife Linda.

And Mick (Danny Dyer) is not one to hold back when it comes to lashing out at Dean (Matt Di Angelo) and attacking him.

Mick Carter attacks Dean Wicks in EastEnders on Christmas Day (BBC)

When the pub landlord finds out the truth, he launches himself at Dean and throws him across the Queen Vic, while Linda (Kellie Bright) and Shirley Carter try to stop him.

And there are more hard to hear home truths for Mick to come.

Mick Carter beats Dean Wicks (BBC)

All his life he has thought Shirley (Linda Henry) is his sister. But she is in fact his mum, making Dean his half brother.

The Carter family are in for a rocky 2015 (BBC)

EastEnders’ executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins previously revealed that Danny was himself very upset by what happened to Linda, and wanted a chance for his character to lash out at rapist Dean.

Dominic said: “He’s such a puppy, he just doesn’t like it. It just makes him sad, but also he’s Danny Dyer and he wants to smash things.”

These explosive scenes will screen on Christmas Day at 9pm on BBC One.

EastEnders star Kellie Bright has revealed that love will win out in Linda and Mick Carter’s marriage, despite the Christmas episode rape revelation.

When Mick proposes to pregnant Linda on Christmas Day, she finally tells him that Dean Wicks raped her. But despite Linda’s fears that he could doubt her story, a distraught Mick stands by her.

Kellie said: “I never had a doubt that Mick Carter would react in that way. Mick Carter is the best husband on the planet.”

Dean (Matt Di Angelo) has tried to intimidate Linda by saying that this will tear her marriage apart, but Bright has stronger faith in Linda's relationship with Mick, who is played by Danny Dyer. However, this does not mean things will be easy after the revelation.

Kellie said: “It would be unfair for everything to be rosy again after. It changes them, I mean it really does change their relationship, and they also have an unborn child thrown into the mix as well.”

During the festive special episode, which will air on BBC One on Christmas Day, Linda also confesses to Mick that she does not know whether he or Dean is the father of her unborn baby.

Executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins said he wanted to put the power in Linda's hands and show rape victims that they do not have to keep their ordeal a secret.

He said: “The constant through it all is their love and we also kept hold of that, because we want women out there who’ve been through this, who haven’t spoken out to go, ‘Oh, it’s going to be OK when I tell my husband, it’s going to be OK when I speak out’.”

Dominic added: “Things aren't always going to be smooth, they are going to get rocky, but ultimately there will be a happy ending.”

The soap producer also revealed that Danny was himself very upset by what happened to Linda, and wanted a chance for his character to lash out at rapist Dean.

Dominic said: “He’s such a puppy, he just doesn’t like it. It just makes him sad, but also he’s Danny Dyer and he wants to smash things.”

EastEnders continues on BBC1, Monday, December 22, 8.00pm