EastEnders' violent teenage incel Joel Marshall, played by Max Murray, is poised to return to Walford after serving a short sentence for attacking his stepmother Vicki Fowler. His impending release, revealed in upcoming episodes, has sent shockwaves through the Square.
Joel's crimes and conviction
Earlier this year, Joel was sentenced for violently assaulting Vicki in their family kitchen, leaving her for dead. The attack followed months of disturbing behaviour, including sexually assaulting a tube passenger and secretly recording himself with Avani Nandra-Hart without her consent. Avani, devastated by the betrayal, bravely testified against Joel during his trial.
Due to time already served in a young offenders institute while awaiting trial, Joel's full sentence was short, making his release imminent.
Avani and Priya's fear
In forthcoming scenes, Avani's mother Priya Nandra-Hart is shaken upon hearing the news. She tries to reassure her daughter that Joel won't return to the Square, but his guaranteed comeback, confirmed by actor Max Murray's reprisal in May, suggests otherwise.
Marriage strain for Ross and Vicki
Joel's living situation had already caused tension between Vicki and Joel's father, Ross Marshall, before their wedding last month. Ross promised Vicki that Joel would not move back in with them upon release. With Joel's return now certain, the strain on their marriage is set to intensify.
EastEnders airs these scenes from Monday 29th June at 7.30pm on BBC One or streams first from 6am on iPlayer.
