The Queen Vic has been a staple on EastEnders since 1985 and has seen the likes of Peggy Mitchell and Den and Angie Watts serve as landladies
EastEnders’ iconic Queen Vic pub could be on the brink of a new proprietor, according to soap fans.
The legendary establishment has been a constant fixture in the show since its inception in 1985. Known for the various families that have managed it over the years and the drama that unfolds within its walls, the Queen Vic is truly the heart of the renowned square.
The fictional pub, reportedly built in the 1860s, originally boasted two bars – the public bar and the saloon. As per former landlady Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean), the first owners were Mr and Mrs Bagstock. Over the course of the soap’s four-decade run, viewers have seen numerous faces take charge behind the famous bar, from soap legends like Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor) to newcomers like Elaine Knight (Harriet Thorpe).
However, recent episodes saw the beloved Queen Vic pub reduced to ruins following a shocking explosion during the soap’s 40th anniversary week. Fans watched in terror as the pub was engulfed in flames, trapping frightened residents inside – including Martin Fowler (James Bye), who tragically later died.
The pub is a staple on the BBC soap (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes)
The explosion was triggered by killer Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) during his escape attempt. Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) pushed Ian (Adam Woodyatt) into the road after spotting Reiss speeding down it, reports Plymouth Live.
This caused Reiss to swerve and crash into the Queen Vic’s barrel store and several gas bottles. Fans of EastEnders are buzzing with speculation after clocking a hint that the Queen Vic could soon be in the hands of a familiar face following its reconstruction. The beloved pub is set for a grand reopening in May, and loyal viewers are placing their bets on who will take over the helm.
Chatter has erupted across social media, especially on an EastEnders Facebook fan group. One keen fan posted: “It’s about time it has some new owners.”
Vicki could be the new owner according to fans (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Another jumped in, tipping Vicki Fowler as a potential new landlady: “I think Vicki will end up running the Vic. Perhaps the Knights will have some problems getting it back due to insurance?” A third added fuel to the fire by saying: “It would be good timing and she has a new family who could move in there.”
The rumour mill went into overdrive with last week’s announcement of Vicki’s return to Albert Square following the sad passing of her uncle Martin. It’s been a long spell since Vicki strutted around Walford – not since 2004 to be exact.
And filling her shoes this time around is Alice Haig, taking the baton from Scarlett Alice Johnson. Despite jetting off to Australia with her beau Spencer Moon (Christopher Parker), Vicki is making a comeback alongside her fresh squeeze Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) and his lad Joel (Max Murray), setting the scene for some serious drama at the Vic.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.
