And a breathtaking standalone episode just reminded us why these classic characters must remain at the very heart of the show.
Alfie and Kat have endured infidelity, abuse, loss, and many a make-or-break showdown like that shown this week, so you’d be forgiven for wondering how they remain current and fresh when they’ve been down this road before.
We always knew Jessie Wallace would shine in this truly visceral depiction of Kat’s grief, but Shane Richie’s sensational work as the helpless but determined Alfie has only strengthened this arc, with both bringing new layers to their alter egos’ relationship.
Naturally, different character groups must have their turn in the spotlight and EastEnders can’t dedicate every episode to Kat’s grief, but the soap could only leave her to her own devices for so long before some tender loving care and a turning point was required.
It wasn’t just about Kat’s self-destructive behaviour and Alfie being pushed beyond his limits, though. A nod to his 2002 debut came in the form of a stray apple on the empty market lane, close to where a cheeky Alfie conned a young Martin Fowler (then played by James Alexandrou) into giving him free fruit.
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As important as it is to establish and develop new blood on the Square, this showcased how the rich history of longstanding characters is woven into the very fabric of the show; and making them a priority delivered a magic I want to see more of.
Let’s see Kathy with more to do than managing the café and Sharon sharing a two-hander special with adoptive half-sister Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig).
It was a tonic to see the once stoic Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) dish out some welcome wisdom in Alfie’s hour of need. Alfie has a connection with experienced therapist Ned so it would have been easy to draft him in for the occasion, but having Phil as the moral compass and sounding board was the right move.
The frank, heartfelt and anguished dialogue throughout also proves it doesn’t have to be gritty and dangerous to pack a powerful punch. Domestic, kitchen sink drama is more essential than ever as we strive to find relatable people within our favourite television programmes.
There was never really any doubt about their future, but that wasn’t the point – it was all about examining the damage done and how they were going to navigate it together. Living through backstories such as Alfie and Kat’s in real time has kept us invested, and that gut-wrenching, historic mention of Kat’s 'Man on the Moon' landed with an immediate, bittersweet aftertaste.
Alfie recalling his promise to always pick up the phone for Kat before racing to her rescue and sealing their renewed unity with a kiss was cathartic viewing and the perfect way to reset their relationship.
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