Mostly, this involves a murder or an act of savage violence; but as we delved into EastEnders' archives, we couldn't ignore those versions that were more scandalous than fatal.
Over 19.8 million viewers tuned in to find out who would try and kill the beloved Walford resident, with his girlfriend Lisa Fowler (Lucy Benjamin) revealed to be the culprit. The reception was huge, and stretched way beyond the BBC soap's everyday audience.
So, join Radio Times as we rank the very best 'whodunnit' plots from across the decades.
10. Who's sleeping with Kat?
But as Alfie wondered which Branning brother was her lover, Kat pointed to the one we least suspected - the toxic Derek (Jamie Foreman)!
All was eventually forgiven and put right when Alfie and Kat reunited, but this was one 'whodunnit' we really didn't want to know about!
9. Who attacked Cindy Beale?
It had all the makings of a classic Christmas, but the reveal of Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) in the show's 40th anniversary episodes was simply bizarre, and soured the mystery somewhat.
There seemed to be no justification for her actions, other than the fact they just didn't see eye to eye.
8. Who fathered Heather's baby?
View oEmbed on the source websiteViewers gasped when Darren walked into Heather's hospital room and Heather declared, "George, this is your dad!"
What a moment we didn't see coming in a million years!
7. Who's the father of Michelle's baby?
Baby Vicki's paternity was revealed the moment pet pooch Roly came into view, accompanying owner Den Watts (Leslie Grantham) to a clandestine meeting with Michelle Fowler (Susan Tully). In the preceding scenes, a number of potential fathers were lined up.
With Michelle barely aged 16 at the time, we can certainly understand why Den became known as 'Dirty Den'.
A scandalous reveal that, while lacking the violence of other mysteries, simply had to be included on this list.
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6. Who attacked Ian?
But it was old rival Phil who did the deed, having been instructed to do so by Ian's former friend and, at the time, wife, Sharon!
Of course, Ian survived the attempt on his life, but his friendship with Sharon was broken. A rather sad consequence indeed.
5. Who ran over Max?
While mum Tanya (Jo Joyner) claimed she had been the one to mow Max down in the car, it was actually Lauren who was responsible.
Lauren finally handed herself in to the police and faced punishment, but the underlying narrative here was just how much damage can be done to one family, as the teen found herself pushed to the brink.
4. Who killed Lucy?
But the special live 30th anniversary week, which saw dad Ian work out the truth, was built with heart and a strong, emotional performance from EastEnders' longest-serving cast member.
As an adult, Bobby was tormented by what he had done, but the 10-year arc was brought to a cathartic close as he was reunited with Jane to finally lay Lucy's ghost to rest.
A beautifully delivered plot which shaped the Beales forever.
3. Who shot Phil?
View oEmbed on the source websiteThe scene revealing his ex Lisa's guilt was much quieter and more understated, but packed a powerful punch as Phil finally realised the depths of his coercive behaviour.
And let's not forget that this storyline aired before social media, during an era where leaks were far less likely to occur and anticipation less easy to generate.
2. Who dies and who is the Christmas killer (The Six)?
We then watched Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) kill Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters) in order to save Sharon.
Such a grisly festive cliffhanger may not be what everyone ordered after their turkey, but it sure made for outstanding television and deserves its high rating.
1. Who killed Archie?
The cliffhanger remains one of the soap's biggest and best ever reveals, which is why it has taken our top spot.
Brilliantly, the live edition also meant any leaks were avoided, with Turner herself only told the outcome minutes before going live!
Read more:
6 EastEnders spoilers next week: Penny Branning pregnancy twist as Nicola Mitchell goes into premature labourEastEnders confirms Holby City legend cast in pivotal role alongside Zoe Slater's long-lost son for trial storylineEastEnders' Max Branning makes reckless move to show commitment to Linda Carter in early BBC iPlayer releaseVisit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide.
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