BBC Share By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 EastEnders fans 'figure out' exactly why Mark Jr's back and how it connects to flashforward episode Did you spot him in the flashforward episode? Lauren Branning Mark Fowler Jr Share By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 EastEnders fans think they’ve worked out why Mark Fowler Jr has returned to the soap… and how it relates to the events of Max Branning’s flashforward on New Year’s Day. Mark Jr. made his comeback to the soap last night (Thursday, January 22), leaving uncle Phil shocked and confused. Chronologically, this may have been the first time we’ve met Stephen Aaron Sipple’s Mark, but it’s not the first time we’ve met him. No, he first showed up in the flashfoward special, and was at the scene when police arrested Max for solicitation to murder. But how is Mark Jr. involved with the Brannings? Did you catch Mark Jr’s debut? (Credit: BBC) EastEnders fans ‘work out’ how Mark Jr is involved in flashforward Following the return of Mark Jr. last night, fans shared their theories as to what the future might hold for Phil’s nephew. And many wondered whether an affair with Lauren Branning might be on the cards. Viewers will recall how Lauren and Peter’s marriage seemed to be in trouble in the flashforward episode. This included the hint that she’s having an affair; receiving a text from a mystery individual who asked to meet her at the ‘usual’ place. Furthermore, she seemed to be on edge while around Mark in the flashfoward scenes. Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Wrote one fan on X: “Lauren cheating with Peter’s cousin Mark, she takes after Max, and keeping it in the family.” “So Mark Fowler Jr is going to have an affair with Lauren,” suggested another. “My first major theory surrounding Mark Fowler Jnr is that he embarks on an affair with Lauren Branning. It was implied but not confirmed in the Flashforward that Peter and Lauren ain’t in a very good place but has Lauren cheated on Peter behind his back?” said a third. Will Lauren have an affair with Mark Jr? Mark returned last night (Credit: BBC) Why is Mark Fowler Jr back? That’s all very well and good – but what brings Mark back in the first place? From the (fresh) bruises on his face, he’s clearly in trouble with some bad people and needs help. Putting two and two together, some have wondered if he might be involved with local gangsters. “Don’t get me wrong, i am THRILLED Mark Jr is back. the more fowlers, the better. But if this is another return that involves gangsters, I’m gonna scream,” stressed one fan on X. “I really hope Mark Fowler has got himself involved with The Firm. I like the gangster stuff,” said another alternative opinion. And who else do we know that’s involved in the drug trade? “Now Mark’s back could his beating have something to do with Ravi’s bosses and that’s how Max/Jack get involved in the story,” wondered one fan. Mark’s comeback continues next week (Credit: BBC) Mark’s return sends shockwaves around the Square next week As the soap continues next week, Phil and the family demand to know why Mark’s back. He claims that he’s come to support Vicki during Joel’s trial, but soon shares his ulterior motive with Phil. However, Phil refuses to help, as he’s still planning on leaving town with Nigel. Later, Mark spots an opportunity when Julie returns home. He reveals what Phil’s been up to, forcing his uncle to stick around when she stops him from taking her husband to Portugal. But what is Mark’s big secret? And why does he need Phil’s help? Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 23 2026 Previous Story Next Story
