EastEnders' Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe) is known for speaking her mind, and next week her big mouth threatens to damage her daughter Linda Carter's (Kellie Bright) friendship with Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean).
Linda's new romance with Clive Masters
Linda has endured a tumultuous few years, including the death of her beloved Mick Carter (Danny Dyer), killing Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters), and battling alcoholism. However, some happiness has recently come her way in the shape of local councillor Clive Masters (David Hide). After his arrival in Albert Square this week, the chemistry between the pair is undeniable, and they go on a successful date.
Next week, the local ladies tease Linda about her blossoming romance, and she later accepts when Clive asks her out again. Their second date is witnessed by Elaine and Sharon, who are heartened to see Linda flirting and looking so happy.
Elaine's comment triggers Sharon
However, Elaine makes a passing comment that leaves Sharon's jaw on the floor. Stunned and unsettled, Sharon seeks out ex-husband Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and demands some answers from him. While fans will have to wait to see what exactly has got Sharon's back up, they may recall that during her months away from Albert Square, Linda somewhat broke girl code and had a short-lived fling with her best mate's other ex-husband and Phil's brother Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp).
Sharon and Grant have a long and complicated history, most recently falling into bed together last spring after he rescued her from the rubble of the Queen Vic explosion. Sharon's recent return to Walford after 10 months off screen has been far from quiet, having already locked horns with long-time enemy Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan).
What's next for Linda and Sharon?
Is Linda about to be the next to find herself on the receiving end of Sharon's ire? EastEnders airs these scenes from Monday 27th July at 7.30pm on BBC One or stream first from 6am on iPlayer. According to the source, Elaine's comment is ill-timed and puts Linda's friendship with Sharon on the line.
