Eastenders
The iconic soap character took her own life in 2016.
Lorraine Kelly, Piers Morgan and Eamonn Holmes have also sent Barbara their best wishes.
Dame Barbara has kept the news secret since 2014.
Of course, Linda Carter was overjoyed by the news.
Another one bites the dust.
We never dreamed we'd be writing the phrase ‘the Bafta-nominated Jane McDonald’.
'It’s a shame to rip out the roots of such a long-serving family.'
He's also admitted he wasn't a fan of his character's recent storylines.
He didn't tell anyone about his diagnosis as he felt 'embarrassed'.
Yet more big changes are afoot in Albert Square.
About Eastenders
Having launched in 1985, 'EastEnders' remains one of the most popular soaps on TV, alongside rivals 'Coronation Street', 'Emmerdale' and 'Hollyoaks'. Over the years, the show has introduced us to characters such as Dot Branning, Phil and Grant Mitchell, Mick Carter, Ian Beale, Sharon Watts, Stacey Slater, Kat and Alfie Moon, Pat Butcher and, of course, Peggy Mitchell, who was killed off in an emotional suicide storyline in 2016. It focuses on the lives, loves and loses of the residents of Albert Square in the fictional London district of Walford, which is also home to the iconic Queen Victoria pub. Among the present cast are Danny Dyer, Shane Richie, Jessie Wallace, Kellie Bright, Jake Wood, Jacqueline Jossa, June Brown, Lacey Turner and Richard Blackwood. On this page you will find all the latest 'EastEnders' news, spoilers, storyline details, casting announcements and pictures from your favourite soap.