Sam Mitchell’s EastEnders fate ‘sealed’ in heartbreaking storyline
Sam Mitchell's exit storyline will reportedly involve the businesswoman returning to Spain following her breast cancer diagnosis and recent lumpectomy.
Sam Mitchell will reportedly exit EastEnders amid her cancer battle.
The headstrong businesswoman - played by Kim Medcalf - returned to Albert Square in December 2025, but TV insiders have now claimed Sam is set to head back to Spain following her breast cancer diagnosis and recent lumpectomy.
Speaking about Sam’s departure, an EastEnders source told Digital Spy: “It’s time for Sam to head back to Spain to continue her cancer treatment, after being surrounded by her loved ones over the festive period and in the lead-up to her important lumpectomy.”
Before she leaves Walford, Sam is expected to share emotional scenes with Lily Slater (Lillia Turner) as they mark the anniversary of Martin Fowler’s (James Bye) death.
The insider added: “But first she pays it forward by supporting Lily through a difficult day – will the teen’s wise words change Sam’s mind about leaving?”
Sam’s storyline began when she discovered a lump in her breast but initially hesitated to seek medical advice.
Her erratic behaviour sparked concern from ex-partner Jack Branning (Scott Maslen), Denise Fox (Diane Parish) and her brother Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), who encouraged her to see a doctor.
Tests later confirmed she had breast cancer, though it was detected early.
Speaking about the storyline, EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey said: “Sam is initially hesitant to seek medical advice after she finds a lump in her breast, but with the support of family and friends, Sam gets help quickly, and because her cancer is caught early, she’s able to successfully remove her breast lump via a lumpectomy in the New Year.
“It was imperative that we worked with Breast Cancer Now to ensure that Sam’s important breast cancer storyline was portrayed sensitively and accurately.”
The BBC soap collaborated closely with the charity to highlight the importance of early detection.
Sally Kum, associate director of nursing and health information at Breast Cancer Now, said: “Sam’s experience will resonate with thousands of EastEnders viewers.
“We know that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment and, ultimately, of lives being saved.
“As such, EastEnders is delivering a vital health message by raising awareness of the importance of breast checking, knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and getting any new or unusual breast changes checked by a GP.”
Kim had expressed her delight at returning for what she described as a short stint.
She said: “It’s such a joy to be asked to come back to EastEnders, especially as it’s the festive period, and you know there will always be plenty of fireworks.”
