Albert Square is no stranger to surprise returns, but this latest comeback has EastEnders fans buzzing — and for good reason. After months of absence and very little on-screen explanation, the soap has finally addressed the status of a long-missing character — and now, it’s been officially confirmed: they’re coming back. This long-awaited return marks another major shift in the Walford landscape, as a familiar face resurfaces just when their family — and the Square — needs them most.
The character in question? Keanu Taylor’s younger sister, Keegan Baker, who has been missing from the screen since his sudden off-screen departure last year. Originally played by Zack Morris, Keegan was once at the heart of some of the most emotional and socially relevant storylines in EastEnders, from racial profiling to his passionate but complicated relationship with Tiffany Butcher. His unexplained absence left fans scratching their heads, particularly as his family — especially Karen Taylor — continued to be major fixtures in ongoing plots.
This week, during a scene between Karen and Bernie, Keegan’s name was finally brought up again in conversation — not as a throwaway mention, but with emotional weight and significance. Bernie expressed concern that “we haven’t heard from Keegan in months,” to which Karen replied, “Maybe it’s time he came home.” The dialogue, though brief, was deliberately placed — and show insiders have now confirmed it’s part of a planned re-entry arc for Keegan. While the BBC has not yet officially announced who will play the role (whether Zack Morris will reprise the character or if a recast is in the works), one thing is clear: Keegan’s comeback is happening.
So what brings him back now?
Speculation is running wild. Some believe Keegan may return in connection to Bernie’s growing troubles — including her blackmail situation involving Vicki Fowler. Others think his return will tie into Karen’s potential exit storyline, as rumors swirl that Lorraine Stanley, who plays Karen, may be leaving the soap later this year. Keegan’s return could provide a way to resolve loose ends, bring emotional closure to Karen’s story, and inject fresh energy into the Taylor family’s dynamic.
Fans are also wondering if Tiffany Butcher (Maisie Smith) might not be far behind. The pair left under emotional circumstances, with their relationship fractured but unresolved. A Keegan return could reopen old wounds — or possibly rekindle old flames — and reintroduce one of the show’s most beloved young couples. And with Walford currently full of complicated romances, betrayals, and secret agendas, the return of a grounded, heartfelt character like Keegan could provide both balance and new tension.
Keegan’s return is also symbolically powerful. He was once the moral compass of the younger generation — deeply flawed, passionate, and emotionally driven. His absence left a noticeable hole in the show’s representation of young working-class voices, particularly those navigating identity, race, and responsibility in modern London. His return now, especially as EastEnders continues tackling relevant social issues, feels timely and necessary.
Behind the scenes, sources have revealed that Keegan’s comeback is not just a nostalgic nod to longtime fans but part of a larger summer shake-up that will bring multiple former characters back to the Square. With Grant Mitchell’s return already making waves, and Cindy Beale reigniting old rivalries, Keegan’s comeback adds another layer to a season that is shaping up to be one of the most character-rich and emotionally explosive in recent memory.
For Karen, the return of her son could be exactly what she needs as her world continues to unravel. After years of holding the Taylor family together through hardship and sacrifice, Karen is now facing one of her most challenging periods. Keegan’s arrival could either serve as a beacon of hope — or spark new conflict, especially if he’s changed in the time he’s been gone.
The dynamic between Keegan and Bernie also promises to be emotional and raw. Bernie’s current crisis has left her feeling isolated, desperate, and cornered. The possibility of confiding in her brother, or being judged by him, could lead to powerful scenes between two of the show’s most grounded and relatable characters. There’s history, loyalty, and pain between them — and EastEnders will no doubt explore all of it.
As for fans, the excitement is already building. Social media lit up within minutes of Keegan’s name being dropped on-screen. “Finally! The Taylors don’t feel complete without Keegan,” one viewer posted. Others speculated whether Zack Morris would reprise the role, with many calling for his return rather than a recast. “He is Keegan. No one else can bring that heart to the role.”
Whether his return is a short arc or the beginning of a longer journey remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Keegan’s comeback matters. It’s not just about filling a gap — it’s about reigniting emotional connections, resolving unfinished storylines, and honoring the complex, powerful role the Taylors have played in Walford’s recent history.
EastEnders continues to prove it’s capable of blending the past with the present — honoring its legacy while creating gripping, relevant, and emotionally honest storytelling. And Keegan Baker, once the angry but big-hearted teen fighting to find his place, now returns older, wiser, and undoubtedly with a story to tell.
Walford better brace itself. Because when the Taylors reunite, things are never quiet — and Keegan’s return may just be the emotional catalyst that sets everything in motion.
