EastEnders axes the show's online cast lists as the soap plans more shocks

EastEnders is adding a whole lot more mystery and intrigue to its storylines - by axing advance access to the show's cast lists online.

For years now, the BBC soap's official website has listed exactly who'll be appearing in each individual episode days before they air - allowing viewers to keep track of when their favourite characters will feature.

Die-hard fans often used the lists to monitor comings and goings, uncover new characters, figure out who'll get the duff-duff cliffhanger, and even get sneaky clues on who'll survive any storylines involving shock deaths.

However, in a major change implemented from next week onwards, everyone in the entire cast is listed online for each episode - regardless of whether they'll actually appear or not.

EastEnders hasn't officially commented on the switch in procedure, but Digital Spy understands that it's a permanent change.

With the show aiming to deliver more on-screen twists and surprises, the new strategy should create more suspense and anticipation surrounding storylines - especially during big weeks.

The change also won't affect the on-screen credits at the end of each episode, which will continue to credit those who appear.

EastEnders' team have always avoided major spoilers by leaving any shock returnees or arrivals out of the official online lists, giving fans an element of surprise as certain stories play out.

Despite this, the lists did still sometimes undermine some of the suspense surrounding big storylines.

Just last month, fans and journalists were able to use the cast lists to find out who'd feature in the action-packed bus crash episodes, as well as to get some clues over who might survive by scouring the lists for future episodes.

While the show's most ardent supporters may miss the speculation the official lists provide, they have proved handy by revealing some potential new gossip one last time.

That's because teenage newcomers Keegan (Zack Morris), Travis (Alex James-Phelps), Madison (Seraphina Beh) and Alexandra (Sydney Craven) are all included on the extended lists.

Does this confirm that they're all classed as regular cast members too? Or is EastEnders also just crediting characters who'll be appearing for the next few weeks?

The foursome have all featured in recent school scenes with established regulars Shakil, Bex and Louise - and we know we'll be seeing more of them in upcoming storylines as the teens face even more drama.

EastEnders continues on Thursday (February 9) at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on BBC One.

Digital Spy