EastEnders viewers are growing concerned that Ned Hawkins (Jamie Bamber) is set to become Walford's next major villain, as his darker side continues to surface on the BBC One soap.
Introduced as Gemma Hawkins' (Patricia Potter) laid-back husband and a friend of Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), Ned has recently been shown in a more sinister light. It was revealed weeks ago that Ned and Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) have shared a secret for 20 years, as Ned knows Nicola drove her father off the road before his death and has helped her cover it up.
Fans predict 'Nasty Ned' storyline
Viewers also saw Ned's reaction after his son Ryder Hawkins (Felix Uff) spent an evening with another man, leaving Ned upset and angry. Now, fans believe the real Ned is beginning to show, with some predicting worse to come.
Georgia wrote on social media: "I suspect this is the beginning of the Nasty Ned storyline, we've seen him blackmail Nicola but I think that's just the tip of the iceberg. No spoilers but his face judging by what he saw in tonight's episode looked pretty sinister. 2027 whodunnit maybe".
Kezza echoed the concerns, saying: "I don't trust Ned at all but hopefully him helping Ian is genuine & not just buttering him up because he's planning something#EastEnders". Marie added: "I don't believe Ned is genuine". Other viewers compared Ned to Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith), who was introduced as a family man but went on to abuse and kill partner Chantelle, as well as Tina Carter and Kush Kazemi.
Ryder's secret and Ned's next move
Next week, Ned attempts to rally the community to mark his co-ownership of Harry's Barn, but what he saw on the Square lingers on his mind. He pressures Ryder to return to sport after an old football coach makes contact.
Nicola learns the truth about one of Ryder's former teammates and the struggles he faced after coming out, helping her understand why Ryder is reluctant to open up about his sexuality. Ryder tells Nicola about the man he's been seeing and admits concerns about Ned's influence. Armed with confidence, Ryder asks Gemma if he can speak with her later that day, but Ned has overheard his request.
