10 lesser-known facts about EastEnders

This iconic soap opera has been a constant for years for lovers of soap operas. For decades, it has been a staple source of entertainment. It has created a world of drama, love, loss, and more drama in the London borough of Walford. Though many of the viewers are more familiar with the show’s storyline and the characters, some of the facts about the show might not be well known to them.

These intriguing details of EastEnders add to the overall intrigue of the show. This show has a history of decades; as a result, it has naturally accumulated a large amount of information revolving around the characters and the background of the show. In this list, we will delve into the 10 lesser-known facts about EastEnders.

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1) Same dress

Dot Cotton has been the heart and soul of EastEnders since her arrival on the show. She and her endless gossip have been a crucial part of this long-running soap opera. Though a small detail about her may often go unnoticed. Dot wore the same dress for Christmas every year.

It is a testament to Dot’s pragmatic nature and resistance to fleeting trends. Throughout the years, the residents of Walford have faced numerous dramatic festive showdowns. However, Dot has remained a constant with her dress. It was a modest piece with floral patterns and muted colors.

In the world of soap opera theatrics, where we see characters often defined by their dramatic entrances and exits, Dot has been different. Though the details about her dress are small, it is indeed a fun fact that the fans of EastEnders often overlook.

2) Fake Postcode became real

Since the beginning of the show, the fictional borough of Walford has had the postcode E20. This code has been in use since the year 1985. For so many years, it remained fictional. However, in the year 2011, the development of the Olympic Park led to some new changes.

The postcode E20 became real from fictional. The E20 code was given to Olympic Park. Though the postcode might be the same, the location is not. E20 transitioned from being a purely fictional element of EastEnders to a real-world postcode. It has now become associated with a significant landmark in London.

3) Robbie Williams

It is not an uncommon thing for famous celebrities to make cameos in soap operas. These cameos add to the overall intrigue of the show while also adding to the entertainment factor. In EastEnders as well, the viewers have witnessed numerous cameos and special appearances.

Robbie Williams’ arrival in EastEnders was a surprise for the fans of the show. Though it was not a part of any elaborate storyline, his addition was a visual treat. The appearance was brief but left a lasting impression. Though his appearance was brief, many viewers might not have noticed. This is a fun trivia tidbit that adds to the touch of pop royalty to the show.

4) Dot’s solo episode

Soap operas are often filled with intricate plotlines that require numerous actors to deliver. It is rare to see a whole episode with only one actor. However, EastEnders made history by having a whole episode with only one actor. The title of the episode was “Pretty Baby.”

It was a masterclass in character study and dramatic performance. The brilliance of this episode lies in its simplicity. It is mainly a monologue. The viewers are able to hear Dot’s thoughts on everything. It is a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges that she faces.

June Brown has done a commendable job in giving this performance. There are no other characters to distract or any other elaborate sets to bring chaos. It is a testament to the character’s popularity.

5) Longest featured character

EastEnders is undoubtedly a landmark in the history of soap operas. Since its release, it has been a source of entertainment and drama for the viewers. The main part of the success of the show is the actors. With many new faces arriving through the years, some faces remain the same.

In EastEnders, Ian Beale has been the longest-serving character of the show. We saw him from the show’s start. Ian Beale is played by actor Adam Woodyatt. He has dedicated a large portion of his acting career to EastEnders. Ian’s life is not ordinary in the show.

He has been involved in some of the most dramatic and memorable storylines in EastEnders. Ian has been a frequent topic of discussion among the fans of EastEnders.

6) Highest-rated episode

EastEnders has kept its quality throughout the years. Each episode is a source of intense drama and entertainment that has kept the viewers engaged. However, among all the episodes, some of the episodes have received immense popularity. Did you know one of the episodes of this beloved series received well over 30 million viewers?

We are talking about the episode that was released in the year 1986 on Christmas Day. It captured the attention of the viewers and became one of the most-watched episodes of EastEnders. The tension leading to this episode was intense. This episode brought forth the turbulent marriage of Den and Angie. In the history of EastEnders, this number of viewers has made a benchmark in itself.

7) Emma Bunton could have been Bianca

Did you know that in the early years of her career, Emma Bunton auditioned for EastEnders? She tried for the role of Bianca. Later, Bianca's character was played by Patsy Palmer. It is intriguing to think how different it would have been to see Emma as Bianca.

To see the famous Emma Bunton play the role of Bianca in the beloved soap opera, EastEnders, would have given a different touch to the role. As the viewers know, Bianca is a fierce character. Many of the other actors of EastEnders had auditioned for different roles but received a different one than the one they auditioned for. A single choice can lead to vastly different outcomes, shaping careers and influencing popular culture.

8) Wellard

The iconic canine of EastEnders had a long-running history with the show. Wellard arrived in the show in the year 1994. He quickly became a beloved of the residents. Wellard had a personality and a strong presence. He was often involved in the everyday drama of the show.

Throughout the years, Wellard remained a constant in EastEnders. He was the longest-serving pet of the show. A fun fact about Wellard is that even though he was a boy dog, his role was played by three female dogs. Wellard’s popularity speaks for itself.

He remained a valuable part of the show until his departure in the year 2008. He was given a proper farewell, making him a true legend of EastEnders. It is undeniable that Wellard has left a paw-shaped imprint on the minds of the viewers.

9) Title of the show

Did you know that EastEnders almost had a very different name than the one it has today? Before the name EastEnders was given to the show, "Square Dance" was considered as an option for the title. Though the title EastEnders captures the true essence of the show.

The title captures the show’s focus on the lives of the people. The decision to go with EastEnders was a good one, as it is simple and direct. The name has also become synonymous with British television and popular culture. The switch of the name to EastEnders allowed the program to gain its serious tone.

Throughout the years, EastEnders has achieved a huge fan base. It is proof of the fact that sometimes the simplest choice turns out to be the best.

10) Pat and Peggy have their own theme tune

The two iconic characters of EastEnders, Pat and Peggy, have their theme tune in the show. Though the main theme of the show has a signature sound, Pat and Peggy’s theme tunes are different. This subtle variation has created an emphasis on the emotional weight of these key characters’ experiences in the show.

The variation in Peggy’s theme tune is often referred to as Peggy’s theme. It is more melodic and softer. It evokes her emotional moments in a more impactful manner. This involvement of a different musical tune strengthens the character’s presence.

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