BBC Doctors star joins EastEnders after soap axe as fans say 'best reason to watch'

Fans of the long-running medical drama Doctors were in for a treat as Joanna Bending, who famously portrayed Dr Michelle Walton, made an unexpected appearance on BBC's EastEnders.

Joanna, who became part of the Doctors cast earlier this year, graced our screens ahead of the show's final episode set to air next month. The series, centred around the lives of staff at a bustling Midlands GP practice, has been a television mainstay since its inception in 2000, winning over audiences for 24 years.

However, in a surprising turn of events last year, the BBC announced the cancellation of the much-loved soap, citing "increased expenses" as the reason behind the decision, with the last episode scheduled for December 2024.

On Thursday (October 24), in a dramatic twist, Joanna Bending swapped the medical backdrop for Albert Square as she appeared on EastEnders. She stepped into the role of Jackie Fairhurst, a social worker, who paid a visit to Kat Slater (played by Jessie Wallace).

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

In the latest episode, social services were called to Kat's home after Jean reported Tommy's aggressive actions. They conducted interviews with Alfie (Shane Richie), the twins, and Tommy, ultimately determining that Tommy's presence posed a risk to his siblings' safety.

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

Actress Joanna was over the moon about her appearance on EastEnders, taking to Instagram with a snap alongside her co-star and writing: "A new Social and a Handsome DC arrive in Albert Square tonight at 7.30pm......."

Her fans and friends didn't hold back their enthusiasm either. One commented: "Wohoooo go on Jo!" Another chimed in with: "Loving this! " And a third remarked: "Best reason to watch."

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