EastEnders confirms unexpected major twist for tomorrow’s episode and fans ‘had no idea’

EastEnders confirms unexpected major twist for tomorrow’s episode and fans ‘had no idea’ | Deputy Soaps Editor Published August 16, 2026 12:48pm Updated August 16, 2026 12:49pm To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video EastEnders has confirmed the arrival of a brand new family much earlier than expected, with Nicola Mitchell’s (Laura Doddington) clan set to make quite an entrance in the next episode of the BBC One soap. Fans were aware that the family in question would debut in upcoming scenes, but the fact that their arrival would be this coming week was kept under wraps. Spoilers for the week ahead simply indicated that Nicola would get a shock on the anniversary of her father’s death – a day which she struggles with due to the difficult relationship with her abusive dad. But a brand new clip of Monday’s (August 17) edition of the BBC One soap has revealed just what that shock in question is- the unexpected arrival of her extended family! Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. In the preview video, the Harry’s Barn favourite is taken aback when a car speeds towards her, crashing into the pillar outside of Elaine’s (Harriet Thorpe) B&B (cough Boutique Hotel cough). Nicola’s world is turned upside down (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) One of the Peacocks located outside the establishment falls and crumbles on the floor, which leaves Elaine utterly reeling. And she’s not the only one, with Nicola horrified at the scene before her. Gemma (Patricia Potter) exits the vehicle and races over to Nicola, apologising for making such a scene upon her arrival. Their sibling Jodie (Anna Constable) makes it clear she needs the loo so Nicola advises her to use The Vic’s facilities, while Gemma confides in Nic that she’s got a bit of a problem that needs sorting. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video In other words, she’s in trouble! The question is: just what has Gemma done? And will Nicola be able to help her? We’ll just have to wait and see but it’s safe to say that confirmation of the Hawkin’s clan’s arrival in tomorrow’s episode has taken viewers by surprise, with fans taking to social media to express their shock. ‘Oh I had no idea they were arriving tomorrow,’ exclaimed X/Twitter user Josh, while Debs added: ‘Waitttt they are already going to be here tomorrow. I thought they’d be a bigger / longer build up to them arriving.’ Nicola’s family will send shockwaves (Picture: BBC/Jack Barnes) ‘It would seem the Hawkins arrive tomorrow!,’ wrote the Albert Square: After Dark podcast. Confirming the Hawkins’ arrival last month, Executive producer Ben Wadey said: ‘The Hawkins family are a fantastic addition to Walford. ‘While the family share a fierce loyalty to one another, decades of complicated history and Nicola’s estrangement from them has left fractures within the family that are far from healed. ‘We’re all very excited for what we have planned for the family, and we can’t wait for the audience to meet them’. Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Arrow MORE: Fears grow for Nicola in EastEnders as pressure mounts following decisions Arrow MORE: All EastEnders spoilers for next week as Ian works with serial killer Gray to destroy Chelsea Arrow MORE: All EastEnders cast returns, exits and new arrivals coming up in 2026 The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.