EastEnders character Ian Beale has been sentenced to eight months in prison after accidentally knocking over Jordan Fox with his car. Despite hopes of a suspended sentence from his lawyer, Mr. Get-Out, Chelsea Fox's last-minute change of heart came too late. Ian was handcuffed and taken down in tears.
Fan Speculation
Viewers are now convinced that Ian will meet Gray Atkins, who is serving three life sentences for murder, in prison. Gray's nan, Sheila, has been visiting him and secretly giving Chelsea financial support, including a wheelchair for Jordan. Fans predict Ian will witness their conversations and inform Chelsea, saving her from the conspiracy.
On Reddit, one fan wrote: "I’m wondering if somehow we’re going to see Ian and Gray meet in prison — like Sharon & Chrissie. I’m not sure yet how all the dots join up, but somehow they link back to Chelsea." Another added: "Then Ian could see Gray talking to his nan during visiting hours, somehow tell Chelsea about it, and then she changes her statement or whatever."
Possible Redemption
Some fans see this as a redemption arc for Ian. One said: "This is how I think it will go. Ian will go to prison, meet Gray, find out that Gray's nan is talking to him, and overhear the conversation. On a visit from Kathy and Ian will tell Kathy what’s going on. So, Chelsea gets informed, saving Jordan from Gray's nan, and protecting Jordan and the foxes. Then Ian kind of becomes a hero." Another added: "I suspect that Ian going to prison is going to be a redemption sort of arc for him."
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer.
