EastEnders fans were left floored after learning how old Kathy Beale’s character is on the BBC soap, during a moving tribute to the Queen.
Queen Elizabeth II died ‘peacefully’ last Thursday aged 96, Buckingham Palace announced in a statement, commencing a period of national mourning.
EastEnders bosses found a moment to pay tribute to the Queen in the opening moments of Monday evening’s episode in the Queen Vic pub, in which her death was likened to the entire country ‘losing its Nan’.
Before the iconic opening titles rolled, the soap opened with Linda Carter, Kathy Beale and Denise Fox gathered around a photo of the Queen propped up on the bar.
The trio discussed milestones including the Queen’s coronation in 1953 and her silver and platinum jubilees, the latter of which was described as “a classy way to say goodbye”.
"God bless her," Kathy said as Denise replied: "She's been here our whole lives, it's like everything we've ever known."
"It just feels so personal, you know, just devastating," Kathy replied.
EastEnders viewers were then shocked when Kathy declared she was three years old when the Queen was coronated – making her 73 years of age.
Recalling key moments of the Queen’s seven-decade reign, Kathy said: “I was, what, three when she became Queen. I wish I could remember the coronation but, well, I’ve got other people’s memories.”
"I wish I could remember the coronation, but, well, I've got other people's memories," she told Linda and Denise.
Fans immediately took to social media to air their shock at Kathy's age, saying she doesn't look 70.
"Out of everything I've heard this past week, the thing I'm struggling most with is that Kathy Beale off EastEnders is 73," one fan said.
"I'm sorry, Kathy in EastEnders just said she was three when the Queen had her coronation? Kathy is 73?! I had her at early to mid 60s," said another.
Later in the scene, Diane added: “Do you remember the Silver Jubilee? I think I was eight or nine. I just remember I was so happy. I just remember everyone feeling so happy.”
Kathy then responded: “Well that’s what she did, didn’t she, she made you feel so joyful and safe.”
A special episode marking the Platinum Jubilee earlier this year featured appearances from the King and Queen Consort.
Charles and Camilla made a surprise visit to Walford where they were greeted by soap opera royalty Danny Dyer, and introduced to residents.
Recalling the occasion in Monday’s episode, Linda says of the Queen: “Thank goodness she made it to the Platinum Jubilee this year. I mean what a classy way to say goodbye.”
Kathy added: “And what a day we had here, eh? We had Camilla and Prince Charles right here with us," as Denise quickly corrects her and says: “King Charles III."
Together, the trio declare “long live the King”, before Linda continued: “We’ve got Kat and Phil’s wedding in here today and the show must go on. But first I’m nipping up Buckingham Palace to pay my respects.”
