Abi Branning Returns for Revenge | EastEnders

EastEnders viewers were left reeling after a week of explosive episodes that raised as many questions as they answered, all while quietly laying the groundwork for a shock twist that could change Walford forever. What initially appeared to be a straightforward rescue storyline soon unraveled into something far darker, more emotional, and far more unsettling — especially as whispers of Abi Branning’s return begin to ripple through Albert Square.

The drama kicked off in terrifying fashion when a fierce fire ripped through a building in Walford, placing Zoe Slater directly in harm’s way. Trapped inside as flames rapidly spread, Zoe’s screams for help echoed through the Square, sending panic through anyone within earshot. The fire quickly appeared suspicious, with many characters — and viewers — suspecting it was yet another calculated move by Zoe’s mysterious stalker, who has been circling her life with increasingly sinister intent.

Just when the situation seemed utterly hopeless, Oscar found himself close to the scene. Hearing Zoe’s cries, he didn’t hesitate. In a moment of pure bravery, Oscar ran straight into the burning building, risking his own life to save hers. Against the odds, he managed to pull Zoe out onto the street, emerging through smoke and chaos to the shock of onlookers. He even found the strength to crack a brief remark — a moment of relief that lasted only seconds — before collapsing from smoke inhalation.

Oscar was rushed to hospital in critical condition, while Zoe, astonishingly, appeared physically unharmed. Max arrived at the hospital soon after, instantly taking control as fear for his family threatened to consume him. Thankfully, Oscar survived the ordeal, but the aftermath sparked confusion and outrage among fans. When Oscar returned to Albert Square days later — Wednesday, December 17 — he walked straight back into another explosive situation, as a heated confrontation erupted between Max and Ian. Tempers flared, accusations flew, and under pressure, Lauren finally confessed to stealing charity funds, adding yet another scandal to an already volatile atmosphere.

Despite the relentless drama, viewers couldn’t help but notice glaring inconsistencies in the storyline. Online, fans flooded social media with disbelief, questioning how events unfolded the way they did. Many pointed out that Zoe had been trapped in the fire significantly longer than Oscar, yet she walked away without a scratch while Oscar ended up hospitalized — and, in some versions of the story, nearly comatose. Comments poured in, calling the situation confusing, illogical, and emblematic of EastEnders’ recent habit of sending the “wrong” characters to hospital after major incidents.

While debate raged online, the emotional weight of the episodes was undeniable, especially as the show edged closer to its highly anticipated festive period. Christmas in Walford is always a time for shock revelations, heartbreak, and long-buried secrets — and this year is shaping up to be no exception.

Adding a poignant layer to the season is the real-life emotional journey of Molly Rainford, who plays Anna Knight. As fans prepare for her final EastEnders scenes, Molly has opened up about a deeply personal Christmas marked by grief and reflection. The festive season has always been about family for her, particularly because Christmas Day also marked the birthday of her beloved grandmother, Christine. For years, celebrations included not just festive traditions but a birthday cake in Christine’s honor — a tradition heartbreakingly brought to an end after her passing from pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2024.

Now, Christmas feels irrevocably changed. Molly has spoken about the rawness of celebrating without her grandmother for the second year in a row, and how the loss still lingers. To keep Christine’s memory alive, she’s woven small but meaningful tributes into her festive routines, including nutcracker decorations — something her grandmother adored and displayed year-round.

Beyond personal remembrance, Molly has turned her grief into action, supporting Marie Curie through a campaign offering complimentary nail treatments to carers. The initiative aims to give those providing end-of-life care a rare moment of calm and self-care — something Molly feels passionately about after watching her own mother and aunts care for Christine in her final weeks. She’s spoken openly about the emotional toll carers carry and how even a brief pause can offer immense comfort during overwhelming times.

Molly’s reflections extend beyond grief, touching on the sobering realization that loved ones aren’t invincible and that time is never guaranteed. Christine was a proud supporter of Molly’s career, celebrating milestones like her win on Richard Osman’s House of Games and cheering her on throughout her journey on Strictly Come Dancing — a show that forever changed Molly’s life, not least because it’s where she met her fiancé.

As Molly looks ahead, she does so with both gratitude and anticipation. After two years portraying Anna Knight, she’s preparing to say goodbye to EastEnders, with her final scenes set to air over the Christmas period — a fittingly emotional farewell. She’s described her time on the soap as transformative, crediting the cast and fast-paced environment for helping her grow in confidence, discipline, and resilience. Though sad to leave, she departs on positive terms, hopeful that the door to Walford may one day reopen.

But while one chapter closes, another may be about to reopen in the most dramatic way imaginable.

Behind the chaos of fires, hospital beds, and festive heartbreak, a chilling rumor has begun to circulate: Abi Branning may not be gone after all. Subtle clues, unresolved tensions, and the timing of Walford’s upheaval have fueled speculation that Abi could return — not as the troubled young woman fans remember, but as someone hardened by betrayal and loss. With Max already stretched to breaking point and secrets bubbling dangerously close to the surface, Abi’s potential comeback could ignite a revenge storyline unlike anything EastEnders has delivered before.

If true, her return would shake the Branning family to its core, reopening old wounds and exposing truths long buried beneath guilt and denial. As Christmas approaches, the Square is bracing for emotional farewells, shocking revelations, and possibly the resurrection of a ghost from Walford’s past — one who may be ready to settle scores.

EastEnders fans should buckle up. Between fire, fallout, and the looming shadow of Abi Branning, this festive season promises heartbreak, shock, and a chilling reminder that in Walford, the past never stays buried for long.