Eagle-eyed EastEnders fans are convinced that Ian Beale will be the unfortunate victim in the upcoming Christmas whodunnit murder storyline after spotting a series of clues.
The streets of Albert Square are buzzing with anticipation as BBC fans gear up for a jaw-dropping festive season filled with drama, suspense, and a mysterious murder plot that has everyone guessing.
Ian – portrayed by Adam Woodyatt – made a huge return to the BBC soap last month as he arrived in Walford alongside his wife Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins).
READ MORE: EastEnders star ‘quits soap after fiery row with BBC bosses’ as storyline left in tatters
Cindy made a shocking return from the dead after 26 years as she was revealed to be living in France with ex-husband Ian Beale and son Peter.
But sharp fans believe there are too many clues that point to Ian being the dead Christmas body, including the actor’s very own words when he exited the soap years ago.
When Adam initially left EastEnders a few years back, he mentioned it was “for good.”
Fans suspect that a lucrative offer from the show’s producers, including promises of Cindy’s return and, most importantly a guarantee that Ian would be killed off, convinced him to return.
“He said years ago he was done with the show,” said a fan.
“Clearly they made him an offer he couldn’t refuse, and it’ll ensure he is killed off this time so he can move on for the show permanently.”
Another clue is Ian’s connection all the five cast members seen in the Christmas teaser, making him a prime candidate for a shocking demise.
Kathy, his own mother, is just the beginning of his connections.
He’s been friends, lovers, and enemies with many key figures, including Sharon, Denise, Stacey, Linda, and Suki.
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And while Ian Beale has always been a complex character, his return to the Square has seen him take a darker turn. He’s antagonized several characters, causing turmoil and turning him into a “villain” with fans believing this is intentional in the buildup to his death.
Other clues raised by fans mention Ian’s ever deteriorating health.
One penned: “there is a lot of focus on the Beale family again ever since the return of Cindy. And I’m ngl to you, I feel like it’s no coincidence that Ian suddenly has a heart problem.
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“I feel like this is probably foreshadowing Christmas Day. I can see him having a heart attack and dying in front of the six, maybe during a fight with George.
“I can see George and Cindy having a affair, and when Ian finds out he tries to fight George in the pub (which is why Denise smashes a bottle, to stop it) and has a heart attack during the fight.”
Ian holds the distinction of being the longest-serving character in EastEnders, akin, fans say, to Ken Barlow’s legacy in rival soap, Coronation Street.
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The shock and emotional impact of his death would be unparalleled, making him the ideal candidate for such a high-stakes storyline.
“he is the longest serving EastEnders character, he is basically EastEnders answer to Ken Barlow!” said one fan.
“I just don’t think a character like Nish or Theo would be worth this much hype and they’re way too obvious. Ian would have the biggest impact imo.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk