EastEnders spoilers follow.
EastEnders’ Ian Beale tries to come to terms with the fact he could be facing prison next week, but as his plea hearing arrives, will he declare himself guilty in the hope of a lighter sentence? Or plead innocence and resort to dirty tricks to keep himself out of jail?
"Ian is a desperate man," begins our EastEnders insider. "He has people left, right and centre telling him what they think he should do, but only he can decide. If he pleads not guilty, he’ll be forced to blame Chelsea for what happened, painting her as an unfit mother.
Related: Best streaming services
"But if he pleads guilty, there’s still no guarantee he’ll escape prison. Either way, he might end up behind bars for some time!"
As the week begins, we see Ian’s lawyer advising him to take accountability. Peter and Lauren think he should listen to the advice, but Kathy reckons Ian should fight and tells her son what she thinks.
What to Read Next
His mind reeling, Ian turns to on-off lover Elaine for advice, hoping for a more impartial voice on the whole situation – and is left wanting to find a way to defuse things.
"Ian goes to see Chelsea hoping that if can reconcile their differences, she will change her statement," explains our source.
"But before he can, Chelsea’s lioness mum Denise leaps into action, giving Ian what for and sending him on his way. And with Denise’s words ringing in his ears, Ian makes a big decision…"
Related: EastEnders villain Joel looks unrecognisable as he returns to Albert Square
Returning home, Ian has an announcement for his family. Heartbroken, he tells them what he’s decided to do, which leaves them reeling.
When the day of Ian’s plea hearing arrives, the atmosphere is tense in the Beale household. Kathy tries to remain positive, while nervous Ian talks to Phil – a man who is no stranger to courtroom situations. After their chat, Ian heads to court, but what will he do?
Related: EastEnders confirms Sharon's permanent return - ahead of another comeback
Later, Ian throws a family BBQ, hoping to bring the clan together. Yet as the Beales arrive, the shadow of Ian’s decision looms over proceedings.
"Ian loves hosting and showing off – and he’s bound to cook up a storm," says our insider. "But this could be Ian’s last supper before he heads for a stint at His Majesty’s Pleasure. Will he be swapping those gourmet burgers for a diet of porridge?"
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
Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.
The new edition of Living Legends, celebrating the global phenomenon of BTS, is here! Buy this ultimate fan guide in newsagents or online.
