EastEnders fans predict how Gray Atkins’ prison storyline will end as chilling theories grow

EastEnders fans have wasted little time sharing their predictions for how Gray Atkins’ latest storyline could unfold after his dramatic return brought him face to face with Ian Beale behind bars.

The former solicitor has already begun manipulating Ian following his arrival in prison, offering him protection before attempting to convince him that Chelsea is responsible for both of their situations.

While the BBC has kept Gray’s long term plans under wraps, viewers have been putting forward a range of theories about where the story could be heading in the weeks ahead.

One of the most popular suggestions is that Gray is carefully building Ian’s trust before asking him to play a part in his revenge against Chelsea.

Several fans believe Gray has no genuine interest in helping Ian and instead sees him as someone he can influence while both men remain in prison. According to the theory, Ian could unknowingly become another pawn in Gray’s latest scheme before eventually realising he has been manipulated.

Jordan has also become a major talking point among viewers.

Many fans believe Gray’s return is ultimately linked to his son, with some predicting he will attempt to regain influence over Jordan’s life despite serving a life sentence. Others think Sheila could become increasingly involved as Gray looks for new ways to exert control over events outside prison.

Another theory gathering support is that Ian will eventually reject Gray and help expose whatever he is planning.

Rather than becoming Gray’s ally, some viewers believe Ian’s own experience of being manipulated could lead him to turn against the killer before innocent lives are put at risk.

Gray first appeared in Albert Square in 2019 and quickly became one of the soap’s most infamous villains. Behind the image of a successful solicitor, he subjected wife Chantelle to years of abuse before killing her. He later murdered Tina Carter and Kush Kazemi as his web of lies began to unravel.

His downfall eventually came after Chelsea discovered the truth and helped expose his crimes, leading to his arrest and imprisonment.

Despite being behind bars, viewers have seen that Gray has lost none of his ability to manipulate those around him, something that has only fuelled speculation about what comes next.

Some fans have even suggested the storyline could build towards a dramatic showdown involving Chelsea, Jordan and Ian, while others think Gray’s latest plans could ultimately lead to his final downfall once and for all.

For now, the BBC is keeping the outcome firmly under wraps, but if fan theories are anything to go by, viewers are expecting plenty more twists before Gray’s latest chapter reaches its conclusion.

EastEnders can be viewed on BBC One, while episodes are also available to stream and catch up on through BBC iPlayer.

Images: BBC used for editorial purposes only.

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