Joel on EastEnders on January 28, 2026 / BBC
This week on EastEnders, Vicki comes face to face with Joel in court as he goes on trial for violently attacking her.
Meanwhile, Mark Jr tells Phil his real reason for returning to Walford, Bea sets her sights on working alongside Honey and it’s full-out war between Ian and Elaine.
Read on for pictures and spoilers from this week’s new episodes!
Monday, January 26
Episode: 7267
Writer: Daran Little
Director: Emma Bridgeman-Williams
Vicki, Phil and Sam seek answers from Mark Jr, and he wastes no time in lying that he’s back to support Vicki for the upcoming trial. Soon after though he tells Phil the truth and asks for his help, but Phil refuses as he’s leaving with Nigel for Portugal tonight.
When Julie arrives home earlier than expected, Mark takes the opportunity to keep Phil in Walford by spilling the beans about the secret Portugal trip.
Max discovers that Jasmine has been lying about giving a statement to the police and uses the information to try to force her to stay well clear of Oscar.
Encouraged by Bea, Elaine gets her hopes up that George is planning to instigate a reconciliation when he invites her for a drink – but she’s left embarrassed when he instead tells her about Nicola’s pregnancy and she then lashes out at Ian, leading him to retaliate…
Also on Monday: Trying to boost his son’s confidence, Ravi gives Nugget some money to have a day out with Denzel.
This episode of EastEnders streams from 6am on iPlayer and airs at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Tuesday, January 27
Episode: 7268
Writer: Daran Little
Director: Kerri McLean
After Vicky confides in Zack just how much she’s dreading Joel’s trial, he invites her round to his flat and tests out some new recipes for The Vic on her.
Elaine vows revenge after learning that she’s front-page news thanks to Ian’s tip-off, but things get out of hand when she decides to hit back…
Also on Tuesday: Oscar’s furious when he learns that Max drove Jasmine away, while Ravi and Priya are relieved when Nugget decides to go back to Sixth Form.
This episode of EastEnders streams from 6am on iPlayer and airs at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Wednesday, January 28
Episode: 7269
Writer: Pete Lawson
Director: Emma Bridgeman-Williams
Vicki heads to court with Ross and Mark, with Zack making a last-minute dash to join them. Joel puts on a front when Tommy testifies, but when Vicki takes the stand, the defence’s tactics lead to her running out of court.
After stopping a shoplifter at the Minute Mart, Bea decides to apply to work alongside Honey.
The Beales are in no mood to forgive and forget as Elaine attempts to apologise. Later, Ian visits Elaine and tells her that he plans to run for the vacant seat on the council – and once he’s elected, he will make it a top priority to close down Peacock’s Palace.
Also on Wednesday: Kat’s determined to find Jasmine and get to the truth.
This episode of EastEnders streams from 6am on iPlayer and airs at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Thursday, January 29
Episode: 7270
Writer: Pete Lawson
Director: Emma Bridgeman-Williams
Elaine decides to play Ian at his own game and take him on by running for the council seat too.
After two teenage girls trash the Minute Mart, Bea arrives and helps Honey tidy up, leaving Vinny impressed with her work ethic.
Emotions run high for Vicki and Avani in court as the trial resumes. Joel requests to see his dad but Ross turns him down, and when Joel asks to see another resident instead, the visit doesn’t go to plan. Back in court, the trial takes an interesting turn.
This episode of EastEnders streams from 6am on iPlayer and airs at 7.30pm on BBC One.
