EastEnders fans are convinced they have uncovered the reason behind Gray Atkins' reported return to the BBC soap, as a new storyline involving a relative begins next week.
Gray's Return Plot Thickens
The villainous character was rumored to be making a comeback, and while the soap has not officially confirmed it, recent spoilers strongly hint at his return. Next week's episodes reveal that Gray's grandmother, Sheila, has been in contact with his ex-wife Chelsea Fox.
After Chelsea and Gray's son Jordan is involved in an accident, Chelsea finds herself struggling financially. She confides in her sister Libby Fox that Sheila has been sending her cheques, which she has been ignoring due to her reluctance to have any association with Gray. However, next week she finally decides to reach out to Sheila for help.
Sheila's Arrival Sparks Theories
Spoilers and pictures show Sheila meeting with Chelsea and Libby. Chelsea listens to Sheila's reasons for wanting to help her and Jordan, and then asks if Sheila is in contact with Gray, who is currently in prison. Sheila claims she is not in touch with him, leaving Chelsea relieved. Chelsea accepts Sheila's support, but later feels guilty about whether she should continue accepting help or allow Sheila into their lives.
Fans, however, believe Sheila is the key to Gray's return. Despite Sheila's denial of contact with Gray, viewers suspect there is more to the story. Social media theories suggest that Sheila will inform Gray about Jordan's accident, prompting Gray to reach out to Chelsea for news or to help his son.
Fan Reactions
One fan commented: "Sorry, but why the hell would Chelsea just believe everything Sheila about supposedly being full on estranged from Gray? Get she's desperate but come on & the fact he's soon to return (Briefly!!!) doesn't that kinda hint she's damn well lying & there's more to it? No?" Another fan speculated: "She tries to take Jordan."
Another theory shared online reads: "In the aftermath of the accident - I think Jordan will be ok but he'll need some form of life changing operation or surgery. Chelsea will consider her options leading her to one difficult choice - turning to Jordan's dad Gray Atkins and this is what will spark his return?" The question remains whether Gray will return as a changed man wanting to help his son or if he will blame Chelsea and seek custody of Jordan.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
