We are now halfway towards the events of the EastEnders flashforward episode, and while some questions have been answered, many remain unresolved. The mysterious man first seen on 1 January 2026 is Mark Fowler Jr., and his closeness to the Branning family is explained by his dodgy car dealings with Lauren and their budding attraction. Max's comment that Lauren was hiding something likely refers to either the car deal or an affair with Mark. Additionally, Libby Fox's return is probably linked to her mother Denise's cancer diagnosis and her nephew Jordan's accident. Cindy has accepted Max's proposal, making her the bride in January 2027. However, several questions persist.
Who is the gunman?
In the flashforward, a mystery gunman takes Lauren and Oscar Branning hostage, forcing Max to choose who to save. Some fans believe it is Ravi, seeking revenge for Max taking Priya away. Others think it is Mark, in cahoots with Lauren to prove Max never puts his children first.
Who did Max try to have killed?
Max was arrested for soliciting murder. Theories point to Ravi, as Max slept with Ravi's ex Priya and may feel the need to protect her. Max claims he was set up, with potential enemies including his ex-wife Tanya, Stacey Slater, Mark Fowler, or even his bride-to-be Cindy, who may be seeking revenge for her son Steven Beale's death.
What happened between Max and Jack?
Jack despises Max and refuses to be his best man. Initially, theories suggested Max was marrying Denise, causing a rift, but as he is marrying Cindy, the reason remains unclear.
Who is Ethan?
Jack is seen with a baby named Ethan, whose parentage is unknown. It could be Penny Branning's child, as she is currently pregnant, or possibly Amy Branning's.
How did Max save Ethan?
Oscar claims Max saved both Jimmy and baby Ethan. Jimmy was saved earlier this year from a car explosion, but Ethan was not yet born, so Max will save him another way.
Is Oscar with Jasmine or Josh?
Oscar is in a relationship with Jasmine Fisher but has been sleeping with her brother Josh. Patrick Trueman tells Oscar he is "a Trueman now," but it is unclear which sibling he is dating. Fans lean towards Josh, as Patrick has embraced him while rejecting Jasmine.
What happened to Louie, Penny and Amy?
Lauren's eldest child Louie and Jack's daughters Penny and Amy were absent from the flashforward. Fans theorised they might have died, possibly due to Max failing to save them while saving Ethan. Penny's pregnancy has led to speculation she may die in childbirth.
Who owns the Vic?
Characters avoided mentioning who owns the Queen Vic, suggesting it may not be Kat and Alfie Moon. After serving bad prawns at Vicki Fowler's wedding, they could lose their license.
