BBC Share By Joel Harley Jan 30 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 30 2026 Joel owns up to attacking Vicki with guilty plea... but fans are convinced he's still plotting something Is he up to something? Joel Marshall Vicki Fowler Share By Joel Harley Jan 30 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 30 2026 Joel Marshall plead guilty to attacking Vicki Fowler in EastEnders last night (Thursday, January 29), as he faced the consequences for last year’s actions. Owning up to this and his recording of Avani, Joel seemed to be taking some ownership of his actions at last. And, as Ross and Vicki looked on in relief, the pair were ready to move on from everything that had happened. And, as the episode ended, Joel even shared a teary hug with his dad before being led off again. But is all as it seems? Is Joel changing for the better? (Credit: BBC) EastEnders fans predict Joel is up to something in spite of guilty plea As last night’s episode aired, fans shared their thoughts on what had just transpired. And some worried that Joel might be ‘faking’ his apparent change of heart. “I still don’t believe Joel with Ross at the end. Maybe because he’s lied so much he’s become the boy who cried wolf,” wrote one fan on Reddit. Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Another agreed: “I did wonder if it was just Joel being manipulative again but then maybe that’s just because his about-turn seemed to come from nowhere. He was laughing at Avani about 10 minutes before.” Said a third on X: “Joel’s change of heart was barely credible.” “We never know when Joel is honest though,” another pointed out. Is Joel up to something still? Is this the last we’ll see of Joel? (Credit: BBC) Is Max Murray leaving the soap? All we know so far Following the shocking events of last night’s trial, Joel is yet to face sentencing for his crimes. In the episode, it was revealed that he could face up to a year behind bars for what he’d done – and potentially less, now that he’s owning up to what he did. Does this mean that star Max Murray will reprise the role once Joel’s served his time? Last year, a source told Metro.co.uk: “Max is leaving EastEnders following an incredible year.” This serves as confirmation that Max has indeed left EastEnders. “Following his spellbinding performance, there’s no doubt that producers will be keen to snap him up – and Max is already on the lookout for his next role,” the newspaper’s insider continued. However, the door could very well be open for his return. But will he come back a changed man? Or worse than ever? 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 30 2026 By Joel Harley Jan 30 2026 Next Story
