UKNIP247 
EastEnders fans were left scratching their heads after a legendary character made a covert return to Albert Square in last night’s episode. The character’s return was subtly referenced towards the episode’s conclusion, leaving many viewers puzzled as they failed to catch a glimpse of him.
The episode focused on the funeral of Keanu Taylor’s son, who was tragically killed six months ago. Keanu’s mother, Karen, attended the sombre event, which saw a sparse turnout. Confiding in Kat Slater, Karen lamented the lack of attendees: “Hardly anyone’s going,” she said. “Chatham, Riley, Mitch… none of them can face it. Mitch thinks something’s going to happen to Bailey. He’s got her under lock and key.”
While it seemed that only Karen, Bernie, step-nephew Felix, and their friend Chelsea were present, it was later confirmed that another key character had also attended. Keanu’s younger brother, Keegan, had reportedly flown in from Germany for the funeral. However, fans were informed of his presence through a brief mention in a scene towards the end of the episode.
Sonia, on a phone call with Keegan’s wife, Tiffany, mentioned: “Yes, Keegan went straight to the airport.” This off-hand comment left fans bewildered and discussing the unexpected revelation online.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Fans took to social media to express their confusion and disappointment. One viewer commented, “Sonia’s call to Tiff implies that Keegan only went for the service and then went to the airport, but the way it was scripted does leave the possibility that he overslept and was on his way to the airport too late.”
Another fan said, “A bit strange that Zack Morris was said to have been spotted at the studios around the time these scenes have been filmed only for the funeral to take place off-screen, and Sonia’s phone call to Tiffany suggests that Keegan was at the funeral but had to make a quick exit to the airport.”
Calls for Better Representation
Some fans were disappointed by the absence of more prominent characters, with one viewer noting, “I won’t lie, I expected more from this episode. I recognise they couldn’t get Zack Morris back, but Roger Griffiths would’ve felt sufficient to have Karen, Mitch, Bernie and Felix representing the unit.”
Despite the mixed reactions, some fans appreciated the nod to Keegan’s character, with one stating, “I like that it was at least mentioned that Keegan had gone to the funeral. Am I bothered that we didn’t see him? No, not really. Maybe that little bit of money can be spent on a more exciting one-off return further down the line.”
Looking Ahead
As EastEnders continues to unfold, fans are hopeful for more significant character returns and storyline developments. The subtle inclusion of Keegan’s attendance at the funeral has sparked conversation and anticipation for future episodes.
