Devastation in EastEnders tonight as THIS Walford resident gets life-changing news

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There's heartache heading for EastEnders tonight as a Walford favourite hears something that will turn their life upside down...

Tonight's EastEnders sees Jean Slater gets devastating news, which she decides to keep a secret from her family.

After suffering from numerous ailments over the last few weeks, Jean has been left convinced that she might be going through the menopause after a chat with Ian Beale.

EastEnders Jean Slater and Dr Elinor Walters

Jean has a worrying consultation with the doctor tonight...

But tonight sees her seek medical advice after her symptoms continue, and she is set to be left worried when the doctor reveals that she needs to undergo further tests following her consultation.

But instead of going home and telling her family what she is facing tonight, Jean is set to hide her heartbreaking news from everyone as they prepare for Hayley's return to Walford.

Will Hayley's departure from hospital all go to plan? And how long will Jean be able to keep her health fears hidden?

Jean at the doctors in EastEnders

Jean is heartbroken when the doctor delivers bad news

EastEnders fans will know that this is the start of the devastating ovarian cancer storyline that has been lined up for the character.

It was announced by the soap last month that Jean is about to face the battle of a lifetime, leaving fans shocked.

The soap has been working closely with Macmillan Cancer Support on the new storyline and it is believed that this latest twist for Jean will tie in with the return of her son, Sean Slater.

Jean and Ian in EastEnders

Jean thinks she is going through the menopause thanks to Ian's misjudged diagnosis

Gillian Wright, who plays lovely Jean has said: "It's an honour and a huge responsibility to be taking on such an enormous issue, affecting so many women and their families.

"I'm aware of the impact such stories can have."

She went on to say that she hopes that the storyline can help raise awareness for the disease...

"It's important we treat the issue of cancer diagnosis and treatment with huge sensitivity, dignity and respect.

"I hope the storyline is supportive to those that are affected."

EastEnders airs Monday and Friday at 8pm and Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One. 

Picture credits: BBC and BBC / Kieron McCarron

Claire Crick
Assistant Managing Editor at What To Watch

Claire is Assistant Managing Editor at What To Watch and has been a journalist for over 15 years, writing about everything from soaps and TV to beauty, entertainment, and even the Royal Family. After starting her career at a soap magazine, she ended up staying for 13 years, and over that time she’s pulled pints in the Rovers Return, sung karaoke in the Emmerdale village hall, taken a stroll around Albert Square, and visited Summer Bay Surf Club in sunny Australia. 


After learning some tricks of the trade at websites Digital Spy, Entertainment Daily, and Woman & Home, Claire landed a role at What’s On TV and whattowatch.com writing about all things TV and film, with a particular love for Aussie soaps, Strictly Come Dancing and Bake Off


She’s interviewed everyone from June Brown — AKA Dot Cotton — to Michelle Keegan, swapped cooking tips with baking legend Mary Berry backstage at the NTAs, and danced the night away with soap stars at countless awards bashes. There’s not a lot she doesn’t know about soaps and TV and can be very handy when a soapy question comes up in a pub quiz! 


As well as all things soap-related, Claire also loves running, spa breaks, days out with her kids, and getting lost in a good book.