EastEnders begins in February 1985, introducing the bustling community of Albert Square in East London. The show centers around the lives of the Beale family, particularly Arthur and Pauline Beale, who run the local café. The series opens with the arrival of new characters, including the charismatic and troubled Ian Beale, their son, who is navigating the complexities of adolescence.

As the story unfolds, we see the Beales' interactions with their neighbors, including the tough and resilient Den Watts and his wife, Ange. Den is a notorious figure in the square, known for his domineering personality and shady dealings. He runs the Queen Vic pub, a central hub for the community. Tensions rise when Den's past catches up with him, leading to confrontations with various residents.

In the early episodes, we witness the budding romance between Ian Beale and his classmate, a girl named Sharon Watts, who is Den and Ange's daughter. Their relationship is fraught with challenges, including class differences and parental disapproval. Ian's awkwardness and insecurities often lead to misunderstandings, but there are moments of genuine connection that hint at a deeper bond.

As the series progresses, the focus shifts to the struggles of the Jackson family, particularly the matriarch, Ethel, who is dealing with the fallout of her husband's death. Ethel's grief is palpable, and her attempts to maintain her family's dignity in the face of adversity resonate with the audience. Her son, Arthur, grapples with his own demons, including a troubled marriage and financial woes.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Den Watts reveals his darker side. He becomes increasingly abusive towards Ange, leading to a pivotal confrontation in the Queen Vic. The tension escalates as Ange finally stands up to Den, resulting in a shocking moment where she threatens to leave him. This confrontation sets off a chain reaction of events that ripple through the community.

Meanwhile, Ian's relationship with Sharon deepens, but it is tested by the arrival of new characters, including the enigmatic and alluring Michelle Fowler. Michelle's presence complicates matters for Ian, as he finds himself torn between his feelings for both girls. The emotional turmoil is heightened by the pressures of adolescence and the expectations placed upon him by his family.

As the summer months approach, the storyline intensifies with the introduction of a major plot twist: a fire at the Queen Vic. The fire is set deliberately by a rival of Den, and the chaos that ensues brings the community together in unexpected ways. Characters who were previously at odds find themselves united in the face of disaster, showcasing the resilience of the residents of Albert Square.

In the aftermath of the fire, the community begins to rebuild, but the scars of the event linger. Den's reputation is further tarnished, and he faces increasing scrutiny from the police and his neighbors. The tension between him and Ange reaches a boiling point, culminating in a dramatic showdown that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats.

As the year progresses, the Beale family faces their own challenges, including financial difficulties and personal conflicts. Ian's struggles with self-esteem and his desire for acceptance lead him to make questionable decisions, including betraying his friends. This betrayal has lasting consequences, affecting his relationships and his standing in the community.

The series concludes its first year with a cliffhanger, as a shocking revelation about Den's past comes to light. This revelation not only threatens his marriage but also puts him at odds with the entire community. The final scenes depict the fallout from this revelation, leaving viewers eager to see how the characters will navigate the complexities of their intertwined lives in the episodes to come.

Arthur and Pauline Fowler arrive in Albert Square in 1985, bringing with them a sense of normalcy and family dynamics to the show. Arthur, a hard-working man, is often seen trying to provide for his family, while Pauline, his wife, struggles with her insecurities and the challenges of raising their children, Mark and Michelle. Their interactions with other residents, particularly with the likes of the Beales and the Jacksons, set the stage for many of the show's early conflicts and relationships.

Den Watts, known as 'Dirty Den', is introduced as the owner of the Queen Vic pub and becomes a central figure in the community. His manipulative and often cruel nature creates tension, especially in his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Angie's struggles with alcoholism, and his affair with other women. Den's actions lead to significant plot developments, including Angie's emotional breakdown and the eventual revelation of his true character, which captivates viewers and establishes him as a notorious villain.

The love triangle between Ian Beale, Sharon Watts, and Den Watts is a pivotal plot element in EastEnders. Ian, the earnest and somewhat naive character, falls deeply in love with Sharon, who is initially drawn to the charm of Den. This creates a complex emotional dynamic, as Den's manipulative nature leads to betrayal and heartbreak. The tension escalates when Sharon discovers Den's true intentions, leading to a dramatic confrontation that highlights themes of love, betrayal, and the consequences of deceit.

The breakdown of Arthur and Pauline Fowler's marriage is marked by a series of emotional and financial strains. Arthur's infidelity and Pauline's growing resentment towards his lack of support in their family life create a rift between them. The arrival of new characters and the pressures of raising their children, particularly Mark's rebellious behavior, exacerbate their issues. The culmination of these tensions leads to explosive arguments and ultimately, a painful separation that resonates with viewers, showcasing the fragility of relationships.

Angie Watts, portrayed as a strong yet vulnerable woman, copes with her struggles primarily through her relationships and her work at the Queen Vic. Her battle with alcoholism and her tumultuous marriage to Den create a poignant narrative of despair and resilience. Angie's emotional turmoil is often depicted through her interactions with other characters, revealing her deep-seated insecurities and longing for love and acceptance. Her journey is marked by moments of clarity and despair, making her one of the most relatable and tragic figures in the early episodes of EastEnders.