Axed soap star lands role in EastEnders as excited fans say 'best reason to watch'

Fans of the long-running medical drama Doctors were in for a surprise when actress Joanna Bending, known for her role as Dr Michelle Walton, made an unexpected appearance on BBC's EastEnders.

Joanna, who joined the cast of Doctors earlier this year, graced our screens ahead of the show's final episode set to air next month. Since its inception in 2000, the series has been a fixture on television, chronicling the lives of doctors and staff at a bustling Midlands GP practice for 24 years, earning a dedicated fanbase.

However, the BBC announced last year that Doctors would be coming to an end, with the final curtain call scheduled for December 2024. The decision to axe the popular soap was attributed to "increased expenses" by the network executives.

On Thursday (October 24), viewers of EastEnders were treated to a cameo from the Doctors alumna. Joanna Bending stepped into the shoes of social worker Jackie Fairhurst, visiting one of the show's central characters, Kat Slater, played by Jessie Wallace.

Kat Slater is currently embroiled in a harrowing child-to-parent abuse storyline involving her son Tommy Moon (portrayed by Sonny Kendall), who has become violent towards her and his younger brothers, reports the Daily Star.

In the latest episode, social services paid a visit to Kat's home after Jean reported Tommy's aggressive behaviour. They assessed the situation, speaking to Alfie (Shane Richie), the twins, and Tommy, ultimately determining that Tommy's presence posed a risk to his brothers' safety.

Determined to keep Tommy out of care, Kat turned to Zack (James Faraar), her neighbour and a registered foster parent, for assistance, hoping he could provide a temporary home for Tommy.

Actress Joanna was overjoyed about her role on EastEnders and took to Instagram to express her thrills. She posted a picture with her co-star, captioning it: "A new Social and a Handsome DC arrive in Albert Square tonight at 7.30pm......." Her followers and friends rushed to show their support. One wrote: "Wohoooo go on Jo!," another chimed in with: "Loving this! " and yet another said: "Best reason to watch."

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer