EastEnders has introduced a new threat to the Mitchell family in the form of Russell Delaney, an old acquaintance of Grant and Phil Mitchell. The character has been mentioned repeatedly as Mark Fowler Jr finds himself in increasing danger. Mark, played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple, has become entangled in criminal activities since returning to Walford, begging his uncle Phil for help when he got in over his head.
Mark's Troubles Mount
Although Phil has left his criminal past behind, his reputation still carries weight, allowing him to buy Mark some time to repay his debts. Phil suggested that Mark work off what he owes by taking shifts at the Boxing Den, using his earnings to pay off the gangsters pursuing him. Meanwhile, Mark has been dealing in stolen cars with Lauren Branning, but despite their efforts, he has failed to raise enough money to keep the criminals at bay.
With his estranged father Grant back in Walford, Mark is determined to solve his problems alone. However, Grant is eager to prove himself to his son and takes matters into his own hands, knowing that he, Phil, and Sam have a history with the kingpin Russell Delaney.
Who Is Russell Delaney?
As recent episodes have made clear, Russell Delaney is an old acquaintance of the Mitchell family, though he had never appeared on the show before last week. Hearing his name was a blast from the past for Sam, who told her nephew Mark that she knew him from 'years ago,' downplaying their true connection. In Wednesday's episode, Mark sought a loan from Phil, who offered £30,000. Still short by £60,000, Grant demanded answers about his son's predicament. Phil revealed that Delaney is a 'big deal' in the criminal world, recalling that he 'used to knock about in Limehouse.' Grant remembered Russell as 'the plank that used to run the door down at Elsie's.'
Grant wanted Russell's number, hoping to reason with him, but Phil reiterated that they 'hated' each other. Grant insisted he could handle Russell, but it turned out that Grant had slept with Russell's wife years ago, making the situation far worse. Mark was subsequently taken hostage by Delaney, who doubled the young man's debt, having him kidnapped and thrown into the back of a van.
Sam's Secret Connection
The situation reaches a dramatic peak on the day of Nigel Bates' funeral, and more secrets about Russell's past with Sam come to light. It turns out that after Grant slept with his wife, Russell turned his attention to Sam, and the two had a relationship of sorts. However, Sam was not pleased when Russell got back with his wife, so she stole a chain from his bedside table in revenge.
Who Plays Russell Delaney?
Actor Anthony Skordi portrays Russell Delaney in EastEnders. His career began with guest roles in Soldier Soldier and The Bill, and he has since appeared in dramas such as Law & Order: Organised Crime, CBS's Scorpion, and Prime Suspect 1973. Gaming fans may recognize Anthony's voice as The Dealer in Hand of Fate, Tenebrae in Star Wars: The Old Republic, and Admiral Garrick Versio in Star Wars Battlefront II, as well as Pythagoras in Assassin's Creed Odyssey.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
