EastEnders: Celebrating 40 Years of LGBTQ+ Milestones

British soaps have always been more than just light entertainment; they have the power to spark vital discussions and influence public opinion. Over the years, EastEnders has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ representation on television, leading the way with groundbreaking moments.

As we celebrate the soap’s 40th anniversary, we take a look back at 12 of the most iconic and impactful LGBTQ+ moments that have graced our screens, leaving lasting impressions and opening minds.

12. The First Lesbian Couple (1994)

In 1994, viewers were introduced to Della Alexander, EastEnders' first lesbian character, played by Michelle Joseph. Her relationship with Binnie, portrayed by Sophie Langham, brought the first lesbian kiss to the soap. While their storyline was marred by internalized shame and homophobia, the pair left a mark by strutting into the Ibiza sunset together, avoiding the tragic fate often reserved for LGBTQ+ characters at the time.

11. The First Trans Man on a British Soap (2015)

Riley Carter Millington made history as the first trans man to portray a trans character in British soap history. His character, Kyle Slater, was introduced as the half-brother of Stacey Slater. Despite lasting only a year, his presence was a significant step forward for trans representation on television.

10. Sonia's Surprise Kiss (2007)

Sonia Fowler's unexpected kiss with her coworker Naomi was a pivotal moment for viewers, sparking tabloid headlines and community backlash. This storyline was one of the first instances of seeing same-sex female affection in the show, and while it faced criticism, it paved the way for more nuanced portrayals of bisexual characters in the future.

9. Johnny Carter Comes Out (2014)

Johnny Carter’s coming out scene to his father Mick was a rollercoaster of emotions, reflecting the complicated realities many LGBTQ+ individuals face. Mick's initial awkwardness gave way to acceptance, providing viewers with a relatable and hopeful narrative about family acceptance.

8. The Prince Albert and Walford’s First Pride (2019 & 2021)

With the opening of The Prince Albert, a new gay bar, EastEnders brought a much-needed space for LGBTQ+ characters to gather. This venue set the stage for the soap's first Pride celebration, a joyous occasion that celebrated love in all its forms.

7. Ballum: A Beloved Pairing (2022)

The relationship between Ben Mitchell and Callum Highway, affectionately known as Ballum, captured the hearts of fans. Their tumultuous yet passionate love story has left a lasting legacy, with dedicated fan accounts and social media tributes keeping their romance alive.

6. Ben Mitchell's Coming Out (2011)

Ben Mitchell’s coming out story challenged stereotypes and highlighted the complexities of growing up in a rough-and-tumble family. His journey to self-acceptance was a poignant reminder of the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community.

5. Paul Coker’s Tragic Story (2016)

Paul Coker’s storyline tackled the devastating reality of homophobic violence. His tragic death served as a harsh reminder of the dangers LGBTQ+ individuals face, sparking conversations about hate crimes and societal change.

4. Mark Fowler’s HIV Diagnosis (1991)

Though not an LGBTQ+ character, Mark Fowler’s HIV diagnosis broke ground by challenging misconceptions about the virus. His story helped change public perceptions, demonstrating that HIV is not limited to one group and is not a death sentence.

3. Walford’s First Lesbian Wedding (2025)

The long-awaited wedding of Suki and Eve marked a historic moment for the soap. Their journey to the altar was fraught with challenges, but their love triumphed, providing a heartwarming and aspirational depiction of queer love.

2. Christian and Syed's Romance (2009)

The love story between Christian and Syed challenged cultural and religious stereotypes, bringing a diverse narrative to the screen. Their romance broke barriers and opened up dialogues about acceptance within different communities.

1. The First Gay Kiss (1989)

The first on-screen gay kiss between Colin and Barry was a revolutionary moment that faced backlash but ultimately paved the way for future portrayals of LGBTQ+ love. This courageous act of representation resonated with many and inspired a generation of queer viewers.

EastEnders continues to stream on BBC iPlayer, proving that its dedication to diverse storytelling remains as strong as ever.