Keegan Baker

Keegan Baker
EastEnders character
Portrayed byZack Morris
Duration2017–2022
First appearanceEpisode 5421
9 January 2017 (2017-01-09)
Last appearanceEpisode 6453
17 March 2022 (2022-03-17)
ClassificationFormer; regular
Created byDaran Little[1]
Introduced bySean O'Connor
In-universe information
Other namesKeegan Butcher-Baker
Occupation
  • Student
  • Road sweeper
  • Waiter
  • Sandwich salesman
FatherMitch Baker
MotherKaren Taylor
SistersChantelle Atkins
Half-brothers
Half-sisters
WifeTiffany Butcher (2019–present)
UnclesAvery Baker
Aunts
NephewsMackenzie Atkins
Roland Highway
Nieces
First cousinsFelix Baker

Keegan Butcher-Baker (also Baker) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Zack Morris. He first appeared in episode 5421, broadcast on 9 January 2017, transpiring to be a school friend of established character Shakil Kazemi (Shaheen Jafargholi). Morris began filming in November 2016 and Keegan was introduced to become promenant in storylines focusing with other teenage characters, namely Shakil, Bex Fowler (Jasmine Armfield), and Louise Mitchell (Tilly Keeper). Initially characterised as an arrogant and spiteful bully, Keegan's character became more sensitive and sympathetic throughout his time on the soap, particularly following the introduction of his family – the Taylors – in June 2017. During the family's announcement and promotion, it was kept secret that Keegan was their relative.

Keegan and Shakil became the focuses of a storyline about gang violence in 2018, which saw both characters be stabbed, resulting in Shakil's death. The storyline was considered as one of the most important in the show's history by executive producer John Yorke. In the aftermath of the stabbing, Keegan began a relationship with Tiffany Butcher (Maisie Smith), with the couple marrying in November 2019. Morris opined that despite their character's young ages, their attraction was genuine as they were bonded by both having to mature quickly. In February 2022, it was announced that Morris had left the soap to pursue other projects. The actor sang praises of his co-stars before Keegan and Tiffany departed in episode 6453, broadcast on 17 March 2022, being given a rare happy ending to their story. Keegan's character development and storylines often attracted critical praise during his run, with Morris securing several awards and nominations for his portrayal.

  1. ^ Knight, Lewis (8 December 2023). "EastEnders airs multiple surprise exits in early BBC iPlayer release". Radio Times. Archived from the original on 16 December 2023. Retrieved 10 June 2024.