EastEnders undergo huge format shake-up due to summer sports tournaments

EastEnders will switch to BBC iPlayer this summer, in a bid to avoid clashes with major sporting events.

The soap opera will debut on the streaming service June 27 until mid-August to avoid clashes with Wimbledon.

All weeklong episodes of EastEnders will air at 6am on Monday mornings.

Audiences will be able to watch the soap when and where it suits them on BBC iPlayer, or they can tune in while the episodes air on BBC One.

The Mitchell family will be at the heart of drama this summer, with Phil causing mayhem.

The tough man is about to wonder if his time is up after making a deadly enemy in prison.

Sam is back in Albert Square and seems to be settling in well – but time will reveal his true intentions, with big consequences.

Ben is about to face his demons as his behavior is about to spiral out of control following his attack, despite Kathy’s support.

Mitch Baker is to run into his brother, Avery, and his two sons, Finlay and Felix, in the square.

Mitch soon realizes his brother is keeping a secret from him, but Avery isn’t the only person keeping his cards close to his chest.

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The loyalty of the Panesar family will be tested as they are set to face one of their toughest times yet.

Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer, said: “With such a big summer of sports ahead, boxing all four episodes this year feels like the perfect solution to allow EastEnders viewers to choose when and where they want to get their weekly dose of Albert Square.

“We have a big summer ahead of us, so this is the perfect way to make sure no one has to miss it.”