EastEnders is setting the stage for a sizzling new romantic storyline on Albert Square, and this time, it intriguingly bypasses the notorious womaniser Max Branning. Viewers had previously theorised that Priya Nandra-Hart and Max might kindle a relationship following a spark-filled interaction on New Year's Day, but fresh developments suggest her affections are veering toward another man entirely.
Priya's Tumultuous Relationship with Ravi Gulati
Priya, portrayed by Sophie Khan Levy, is currently entangled in an on-again, off-again romance with Ravi Gulati, played by Aaron Thiara. Their relationship has been severely strained since the revelation that Ravi was responsible for their son Nugget's hospitalisation. Tensions escalated further this week when it emerged that Ravi has been secretly informing on his drug bosses to the police, adding another layer of danger and deceit to their already fragile bond.
A Flirtatious Encounter with Mark Fowler Jr
In the episode aired on 11 February, Priya discovered that Ravi now faces a new threat from Mark Fowler Jr, a member of the same drug gang, played by Stephen Aaron-Sipple. In a bold move to gather intelligence and assess whether Mark is targeting Ravi, Priya deliberately interrupted his drink with his sister Vicki, portrayed by Alice Haig. Whether this was a calculated strategy or a fortunate coincidence, their ensuing conversation was undeniably charged with flirtation, touching on topics like the number of Valentine's Day cards Priya once received.
Fan Reactions and Theories on Social Media
Enthusiastic fans quickly took to online platforms to share their perspectives on this budding potential romance. One viewer predicted, "I bet it isn't going to be long before she is having a fling with Mark." Another expressed hope for this pairing, noting that Mark might prove a more suitable partner than Ravi, stating, "We can be thankful that Mark isn't bad to the core so she probably won't be in danger from him. Maybe he'd even treat her better than Ravi." This fan also speculated about the risks, adding, "I can see her becoming more of a target to Ravi and Mark's bosses, the more she gets involved, though."
A third fan admitted a preference for Mark to pair with Chelsea Fox, played by Zaraah Abrahams, but conceded, "I want Mark and Chelsea but it seems we're leading towards Mark and Priya which isn't bad." This highlights the diverse speculations circulating among the soap's dedicated audience.
Max Branning's Mysterious Future Entanglements
Both Priya and Chelsea were among the female characters fans initially suspected might become involved with Max Branning, portrayed by Jake Wood. This speculation was fueled by a New Year's flashforward scene showing Max not only marrying an unidentified woman but also sharing a bed with another, who appeared to be pregnant. Social media buzzed with theories in response to this preview, with many noting the pregnant woman's sigh. One fan asserted, "Sounds like Chelsea that does," while others echoed similar sentiments, such as "That's Chelsea sighing" and "Gotta be Chelsea, she's not been in a big storyline for a while."
Additional comments reinforced this view, with one stating, "Priya or Chelsea definitely involved!" and another concluding, "That's got to be Chelsea in bed with Max Branning in 2027." These reactions underscore the ongoing intrigue and anticipation surrounding Max's future romantic liaisons, even as Priya's path seems to diverge toward Mark Fowler Jr.
As EastEnders continues to unfold, viewers are left to wonder whether Priya's flirtation with Mark will blossom into a full-fledged romance or if unforeseen twists will redirect her affections back toward Max or another character. The dynamic interplay of relationships on the Square promises to keep audiences engaged and speculating in the episodes to come.
