BBC's EastEnders is set for an explosive week of drama as Cindy Beale's lifeless body is discovered following a violent confrontation, while two residents announce their departure from Albert Square.
Violent Confrontation Leaves Cindy Fighting for Life
The dramatic events unfold as newcomer Jasmine's suspicious behaviour finally reaches boiling point. After months of strange conduct, Lauren Branning and Cindy Beale take matters into their own hands by contacting Jasmine's mother, Anita.
During their meeting with Anita, they receive a chilling warning about Jasmine's dark side. Heeding this caution, Cindy confronts Jasmine directly, revealing everything she has discovered about the mysterious newcomer.
The situation turns dangerous when Jasmine learns about the meeting with her mother. In a fit of rage, she shoves Cindy down the stairs, leaving her motionless at the bottom.
Oscar Branning makes the shocking discovery of Cindy's lifeless body and immediately calls for help. He then confronts Jasmine about what happened, though she initially denies any involvement in the incident.
Medical Scam and Relationship Turmoil
Despite the violent attack, Cindy appears to survive the ordeal. Later in the week, Lauren confides in her about experimental treatments for visually impaired children that could help baby Jimmy.
When Peter Beale's father, Ian Beale, dismisses the treatment as a con, Lauren remains intrigued and speaks with the doctor offering the experimental procedure. The initial cost of £3,000 proves concerning, leading Lauren to discuss her financial worries with Cindy.
The community organises a fundraiser quiz night at The Vic, but an incident with Jimmy makes Lauren even more desperate to secure the treatment. Unfortunately, her hopes are dashed when she realises she's been scammed by the fake doctor.
The quiz night also sees tensions escalate between Ian Beale and Elaine Peacock. Elaine turns to Kim Fox for publicity ahead of Peacock Palace's opening, but the plan backfires when Kim accidentally makes disparaging comments about her followers during a live stream, causing her follower count to plummet.
Double Exit and Personal Struggles
In other dramatic developments, Anna Knight reveals she's going travelling, prompting Freddie Slater to offer to join her. However, Gina Knight expresses her displeasure at the news of their planned travels together.
Zoe Slater faces continued turmoil as she becomes convinced she knows who is responsible for the harassing phone calls targeting her, Kat and Alfie. When they disagree with her suspicions, Anthony Trueman provides a shoulder to cry on.
The situation worsens for Zoe when she discovers a sinister Christmas card left for her at The Vic with a threatening message.
Elsewhere in Walford, Nigel and Kojo begin working together on a film project, while Vicki Fowler and Ross Marshall reflect on their second anniversary. Chelsea Fox warns Vicki not to let Joel's actions change her perception of all men following his attack on her.
Ross attempts to join Vicki while she's dancing, but she becomes furious at his presumption. He eventually convinces her to stay for a drink, where he apologises for mishandling the situation with Joel. By the end of the week, the pair agree to take things slowly.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
