EastEnders spoilers follow, while this article contains discussion of sensitive subject matter.
EastEnders has lined up the return of Joel Marshall as the teenager is released from a young offender's institute. With his crimes affecting several Walford residents, news of his upcoming release will cause worry for some characters.
In January, Joel was charged with grievous bodily harm, voyeurism, and taking and distributing indecent images of a child. He was sentenced in April, as he was ordered to spend six months in a facility.
Related: EastEnders reveals joyous news for Suki and Eve in adoption story update
It was reported in the same month that Max Murray would reprise his role on the BBC soap, with the soap indicating in previous scenes that the villain had begun to repent for his vile actions.
In next week's scenes, Priya Nandra-Hart is shaken when she hears that Joel would be released in the near future. Her daughter, Avani, was one of the victims of his crimes, after he recorded them having sexual intercourse without her consent.
What to Read Next
Priya assures Avani that Joel will live elsewhere upon his release, with Ross and Vicki having already discussed this. Vicki, Joel's stepmother, was also a victim of Joel's, who struck her and caused bodily injuries.
"The news of Joel’s release from young offenders is difficult for both Avani and Priya," says our EastEnders insider. "Avani doesn’t want to be anywhere near him, and Priya is desperate to protect her struggling daughter.
"Despite the assurance that Joel will live away from the Square, it's going to be a tense time for everyone involved," they add.
Related: EastEnders' Honey to make shocking Bea discovery that changes everything
Murray, who debuted on the soap in March 2025, previously discussed the issue-based storyline – which centred on radicalised misogyny – during EastEnders Investigates: The Manosphere, a documentary which aired on BBC Three in October.
"The character isn't meant to be liked. It's very challenging, but equally I've got the best support I can possibly have with the whole team," said the actor, who said he received a "positive response from the audience" despite the difficult subject matter.
EastEnders airs on Mondays-Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage
If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from Rape Crisis England and Wales, which works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on its website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
