EastEnders viewers believe they have cracked a major storyline mystery, speculating that Lauren Branning is embroiled in a secret affair. The theory emerged from a dramatic flashforward episode set in 2027, which teased high-stakes drama for the character played by Jacqueline Jossa.
Flashforward Drama Hints at Lauren's Double Life
While the episode primarily focused on her father, Max Branning, it was Lauren who was left looking deeply troubled. Max alluded to knowing exactly what she had been involved in, telling her not to preach as he "knew what she had been doing". Lauren was visibly rattled but denied any knowledge of his claims.
The tension built after Lauren visited her uncle, Jack Branning, finding him drinking heavily amid a family crisis. As she left, she received a mysterious text message asking her to meet "in the usual place", strongly suggesting a pattern of clandestine rendezvous. Later, another blunt message arrived stating: "It's make up your mind time."
Viewers Point to a Secret Romance
Fans quickly took to social media to share their suspicions, with many concluding an affair is the most likely explanation for Lauren's secretive behaviour. One fan directly asked: "What has Lauren been doing? Cheating? If so, who with?" Another supporter wrote: "The only good thing to come out of tonight’s episode was Lauren having an affair, so proud of her."
The speculation doesn't end with Lauren. The same flashforward showed Max waking up in 2027 next to an unidentified pregnant woman. After a recent scene where Chelsea Fox hinted at finding Max attractive, many fans are now theorising that Chelsea is the mystery mother-to-be in his bed.
What's Next for Walford?
With Jack Branning's family in disarray and Lauren facing mounting pressure from an unknown source, the stage is set for explosive revelations. The cryptic threats and secret meetings point to a storyline that will unravel across 2026 and 2027, keeping audiences guessing about the true nature of Lauren's dangerous secret.
EastEnders continues to air Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
