EastEnders fans have expressed outrage after Lauren Branning fell for a scam that cost £3,500, money she stole from a charity fund. In the episode aired on 27 November, Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) gave the cash to a fake doctor who claimed he could cure her son Jimmy's blindness, despite warnings from her family.
Viewers took to social media to criticise Lauren's actions, calling them 'stupid' and 'despicable'. Many argued that the character, known for her intelligence, would never have been so gullible. One fan wrote: 'Lauren being that gullible? Nah, the real Lauren would’ve clocked that scam, not fallen for it.' Another referenced her clever trick in the 2007 Christmas special, saying: 'Lauren Branning is the sole reason why Xmas 2007 exists, no way she’s acting this dumb??'
Some viewers felt no sympathy for Lauren, as the scam was obvious. 'Lauren you should’ve listened, everyone could see it was a scam from a mile off,' one said. Another added: 'I have absolutely no sympathy for Lauren she was warned & refused to listen.' However, a few found the storyline heartbreaking, acknowledging her desperation as a mother.
In the episode, Lauren confessed to father-in-law Ian Beale that she stole the money from funds raised at the Queen Vic pub quizzes, which were meant for a charity. Ian urged her to go to the police, but Lauren refused, ashamed of her actions. She convinced Ian to keep the secret from her husband, Peter Beale, but secrets rarely stay hidden in Walford.
Fans also warned that Lauren could face consequences from social services. One wrote: '£3.5k is a lot of money... She's not only stolen from a charity she's also given Oscar an alibi for Patrick's attack. Lauren best hope this doesn't get back to social services.'
