In a shocking development that has left viewers on the edge of their seats, BBC's EastEnders has unveiled a terrifying new twist in the ongoing stalker mystery plaguing Zoe Slater. The episode that aired on Wednesday, November 26, pointed the finger of suspicion squarely at a character she has come to trust: her former flame, Anthony Trueman.
A Sinister Turn of Events
The dramatic instalment saw Zoe's conflict with Jean intensify after she discovered it was Jean's earring found by the Queen Vic barrel store. Convinced Jean was trying to drive her away, Zoe confronted her, completely unaware that her real tormentor was lurking much closer to home.
In her hour of need, Zoe turned to the man who has been her rock since her return to Walford in September: Anthony Trueman. Their rekindled closeness made this confiding seem natural. However, the episode took a dark and unsettling turn when cameras cut to Anthony alone, creepily scrolling through a collection of photos of Zoe on his laptop.
Fan Suspicions Confirmed
This chilling visual evidence sent EastEnders fans straight to social media to voice their theories and fears. One viewer immediately questioned Anthony's motives, writing: "Why does Anthony have photos of Zoe on his laptop?! He’s giving me really creepy vibes lately. Either he’s insanely obsessed… or he’s her stalker! Maybe even both."
Another fan expressed appreciation for the character's new direction, stating: "I kind of like this creepy, perhaps villainous turn Anthony has taken. His creepy smirk is cracking me up." A third viewer claimed they saw it coming, commenting: "Am I the only one not shocked that Anthony is the stalker? He’s been creeping around her for weeks."
A Scandalous Past Resurfaces
The potential stalker revelation is layered with the pair's complex and controversial history. In the 2000s, Anthony first dated Zoe's mother, Kat Slater. After that relationship ended, he began a romance with a teenage Zoe, who is 14 years his junior.
Kat strongly disapproved, and when it was revealed that Anthony still had feelings for her, a heartbroken Zoe ran away from Walford. Anthony briefly reconciled with Kat before their final split. Zoe later returned and became involved with Dennis Rickman.
This year, Zoe made the shocking claim that she gave birth to twins in 2006 and that Dennis, who died in 2005, was the father. This was later exposed as a lie designed to manipulate Sharon Watts into funding a search for her son.
Since her recent return, Anthony has been a constant presence for Zoe, supporting her through the stalking ordeal. However, their relationship has been rocky, with Anthony warning Kat that her daughter could be suffering from a form of psychosis. Despite this, the latest episode saw the former lovers share a kiss in his living room before Anthony flashed a menacing smile as Zoe led him upstairs.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. You can call the national stalking helpline on 0808 802 0300.
