EastEnders fans were shocked this week when Nancy Carter (Maddy Hill) returned and revealed she is carrying a baby for her brother Lee Carter (Danny Hatchard) and his partner Jess. The BBC One soap confirmed Nancy is acting as a surrogate for the couple, who suffered multiple miscarriages while trying for a child.
Legal Advice and a Mystery Split
Lee and Nancy sought legal advice from their brother Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff) after Jess walked out on Lee and blocked him on social media. Johnny explained that if Nancy does not give up her parental rights, Jess technically need not be told when the child is born. Viewers grew suspicious when Lee took a call from Jess and told her to stay away, reiterating that he wants her to have nothing to do with the baby.
The Janine Butcher Theory
Since viewers have not met Jess yet, speculation has mounted that she could be someone already known to fans. The leading theory is that Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) — who married Lee, Nancy and Johnny's dad Mick, had a baby with him, and is currently in prison — has been in a relationship with Lee.
Janine's return to EastEnders has already been confirmed, which has fuelled the rumours. However, the theory does not hold up. Lee Carter would recognise Janine, especially given that Mick Carter's disappearance at sea would have been major news in the Walford universe. Furthermore, Janine is only back in Walford for a handful of episodes, leaving little time for such a major storyline.
Janine's Return Hints
Charlie Brooks, who marked her 1,000th episode in 2022, recently hinted at returning as Janine as her character's release from prison approaches. Speaking on Good Morning Britain earlier this year, she told Richard Arnold that Janine should be out from behind bars in 'about a year'.
Susanna Reid responded: 'OK! Out in about a year… sounds like Richard knows about the future script.' The entertainment reporter replied: 'Well, you could get out earlier. You never know.' Charlie then chimed in with a grin: 'You will have to see.'
Asked whether she can see herself going back, the I'm A Celebrity star said: 'I get asked this question all the time. I love Janine; I love playing her; she's a wonderful character. I always get blessed with such great storylines. So who knows.'
Despite the speculation, the mysterious Jess appears to be someone else entirely, leaving the door open for a different twist in the Carter family saga.
