Has Marie from the EastEnders café been AXED? Fans spot a sneaky character swap that's got everyone talking

By HOAR Team 21 May, 2025 5 mins read 158 Views

I was scrolling through my usual EastEnders forums last night (yes, I'm that person who can't sleep without knowing what's happening in Albert Square) when I noticed something that made me do a proper double-take. Where the hell is Marie?!

If you've been watching the show since teh early 2000s like I have, you'll know exactly who I'm talking about. Marie Evans – Kathy's reliable café waitress who's been serving tea and gossip since 2003. She's basically part of the furniture at this point.

The Mysterious Case of the Vanishing Waitress

Listen. I've watched every episode for the past decade (my partner thinks I need therapy), and I couldn't help noticing that Marie has completely disappeared. Instead, there's this bloke called Emin suddenly getting all the screen time behind the counter.

Don't get me wrong – Emin's been floating around since 2012, but he was always just... there occasionally. Now he's everywhere, adn Marie is nowhere to be seen.

Reddit Is FREAKING OUT

I'm not the only one who's noticed. The EastEnders Reddit thread is absolutely losing it.

"Have they replaced Marie from the cafe?" one person asked, which kicked off a whole investigation.

Another fan responded: "I had the same thought. Maybe she is on holiday and he is just covering?!"

My personal favorite comment: "Marie, bestieee, where r u 😭😭" which... same, honestly.

Who Even IS Marie?

For those who need a refresher (or if you're one of those casual viewers who only tunes in when someone dies), Marie Evans has been played by actress Liz Sweet since 2003. That's TWENTY-TWO YEARS of loyal service in Kathy's café!

She's been there through it all. Remember Sharon and Keanu's wedding? Marie was there, probably serving vol-au-vents or something equally British and beige.

God. I feel weirdly emotional about this. It's like when they replaced the original Ben Mitchell and thought we wouldn't notice.

The Vic's Up For Sale Too?!

While we're talking about suspicious changes in Albert Square...

Some eagle-eyed fan spotted something major in a now-deleted TikTok post from the official EastEnders account. Apparently, there was a "FOR SALE" sign on the Queen Vic!

I spent £40 on a bottle of wine last weekend just to cope with this information. The Vic potentially changing hands AGAIN? I can't keep up.

The rumor mill is going wild with speculation that this might have something to do with Max Branning's return. One fan wrote: "Yeah, definitely looks like The Vic up for sale. Max back taking over The Vic."

Another wasn't so thrilled: "Coming in and immediately throwing the Carter-Knights out of The Vic ain't gonna earn Wadey any brownie points with me."

Pour One Out for Marie

Back in 2018, I actually met someone at a BBC studio tour who worked on the EastEnders set. When I asked about extras who'd been there forever, they mentioned how beloved Marie was among the crew. Said she brought homemade biscuits every Friday.

Now she's gone. Just like that.

Has she been quietly axed? Is she on holiday? Did she win the lottery and tell Kathy to stuff her job?

We may never know.

But like a ghost at a family reunion, Emin has materialized to take her place, and I'm not sure how I feel about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of a typical episode of a UK soap opera?

A typical episode of a UK soap opera runs for about 30 minutes and features multiple interwoven storylines focusing on different characters. This format allows for a dynamic viewing experience and keeps audiences engaged.

What role do special episodes play in UK soap operas?

Special episodes, such as anniversaries or holiday specials, are significant events in UK soap operas. They often feature dramatic storylines or significant character developments, drawing in higher viewership and creating buzz among fans.

What is the significance of community in UK soap operas?

Community plays a central role in UK soap operas, often depicted through the relationships and interactions among characters. The portrayal of community dynamics reflects societal values and highlights the importance of support systems in people's lives.

Are there international adaptations of UK soap operas?

Yes, some UK soap operas have inspired international adaptations. For example, "Coronation Street" has been adapted in various countries, showcasing the show's universal themes and appeal.

Are there any notable awards that UK soap operas have won?

UK soap operas have received numerous awards over the years, including BAFTA Awards, National Television Awards, and British Soap Awards. These accolades recognize excellence in storytelling, acting, and production.

Can you watch UK soap operas online?

Yes, many UK soap operas are available to watch online through official broadcaster websites and streaming services. Viewers can catch up on missed episodes or watch previous seasons at their convenience.

How has the viewership of UK soap operas changed over the years?

Viewership of UK soap operas has fluctuated over the years, with some experiencing declines due to changing viewing habits and competition from streaming services. However, many still maintain a loyal audience and adapt to new trends.

Statistics

As of 2023, "EastEnders" has featured over 3,000 episodes since its launch, making it one of the most prolific soap operas in history.
The average viewership for "EastEnders" is approximately 5 million viewers per episode.
The portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters has become increasingly prominent in UK soap operas, reflecting societal changes and advancements in representation.
Soap operas have been shown to influence public opinion on social issues, with studies indicating a correlation between storylines and changes in viewer attitudes.
Over 100 characters have been killed off in "Coronation Street" since its inception, showcasing the dramatic nature of the storylines.
"Coronation Street" holds the record as the longest-running soap opera in the UK, having first aired in 1960.
Hollyoaks, which premiered in 1995, has introduced several high-profile actors who have gone on to have successful careers in television and film.
More than 30% of the UK population watches at least one soap opera regularly.

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How To

How To Participate in Soap Opera Fan Communities

Participating in soap opera fan communities can enrich your viewing experience and foster connections with fellow enthusiasts. Start by joining social media groups or pages dedicated to your favorite soap operas. Engage in discussions, share theories, and express opinions on current storylines. Online forums such as Digital Spy and Reddit have dedicated threads for soap opera fans. Attend local or virtual fan events where cast members may participate in Q&A sessions. Following fan blogs or YouTube channels that analyze episodes can also provide deeper insights and foster community interactions.