EastEnders fans predict romance between Ian and Elaine as sparks fly

Do you see it?
Joel Harley

EastEnders fans have predicted that a romance could be on the cards between Ian Beale and Elaine Peacock. The pair have clashed in recent scenes, as their rivalry heated up over the Queen Vic pub quiz.

The pair crossed words in last night’s episode (Tuesday, November 26) during a charged exchange outside of the chippy.

“Nothing says festive generosity like discounted haddock,” joked Elaine as the pair’s banter continued.

“Oh, she is the most annoying human ever,” Ian remarked once she’d sashayed away.

But is there an undercurrent of flirting behind their rivalry? Some fans think they might have spotted a certain tension between the pair.

Ian and Elaine talk on EastEnders while Kathy looks on
Ian and Elaine matched wits last week (Credit: BBC)

EastEnders fans predict Ian and Elaine romance

Taking to social media as this week’s episodes aired, fans shared their theories on a future Ian and Elaine romance. And, unlikely as it might seem, many were convinced that it could happen.

“Can see Ian and Elaine getting together,” wrote one fan on X.

“Ian and Elaine are definitely going to become an item,” another predicted.

“My bet is Ian and Elaine getting together at some point,” said a third.

A fourth echoed: “Calling it now, Elaine and Ian are gonna get together.”

How do you feel about a potential Ian and Elaine romance?

Ian talks to Elaine at The Vic

We’re not opposed (Credit: BBC)

Ian and Elaine – the case for

And why not? As of this year, both Ian and Elaine are free agents.

Ian split from Cindy after learning about her affair with Junior Knight, while Elaine and George’s marriage crumbled after she cheated on him during a one-night stand.

Since then, both parties have been single and ready to mingle. George has already moved on, entering a situationship with Nicola Mitchell – resulting in the pregnancy that he still doesn’t exist.

If this week’s scenes have proved, Ian and Elaine certainly have the chemistry for it. And who doesn’t love an enemies-to-lovers story?  Plus, just imagine the fallout, should Elaine seduce the ex-husband of her frequent frenemy, Cindy.

Done right, Ian and Elaine could be Walford’s next big power couple.

Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns.