EastEnders serial killer Gray Atkins has been seen again on Albert Square in a sickening twist that has left fans feeling uneasy. The character, played by Toby-Alexander Smith, appeared in a photograph kept by his grandmother Sheila, revealing her manipulation of his ex-wife Chelsea Fox.
In Thursday's episode (18 June), Chelsea met with Sheila to determine if she was still in contact with the imprisoned killer. Struggling financially after her son Jordan was hit by a car, Chelsea had previously received a cheque for £1,000 from Sheila and wanted to ensure the older woman was not communicating with Gray before accepting further help.
Sheila assured Chelsea she had no contact with Gray since before his arrest for multiple murders, claiming her only motive was to be involved in her great-grandson's life. However, at the end of the episode, after Chelsea agreed to let Sheila see Jordan, the grandmother tucked a photo of the boy into her purse—right next to a picture of Gray. This marks the first time Gray's face has been seen on the show since 2022.
Sheila smiled evilly as she caressed Gray's image, leading fans to believe she is manipulating Chelsea to eventually bring Gray back into Jordan's life. Viewers were sickened by the twist, with one asking: "Couldn't Sheila just be a good person with good intentions for once?" Another added: "I actually felt a bit sick seeing that smile at the end."
Some fans speculated that Sheila's feelings might be complicated, but many believe she is plotting to help Gray. Actor Toby-Alexander Smith previously discussed his return, noting the challenge of portraying Gray after four years in prison and the character's loss of control and power.
