EastEnders spoilers for 19–22 October: Five big stories as Denzel's photos are exposed

EastEnders is set for a turbulent week as secrets come to light and characters struggle to regain control of their situations. Denzel Danes faces the devastating consequences of blackmail, Cindy Beale uncovers a significant secret about Max Branning, and Kat Slater remains determined to find the man she believes let Zoe die.

Here are five major stories shaping the week.

1. Denzel's blackmail nightmare devastates his loved ones

Denzel's attempts to raise money for his blackmailer take him to desperate lengths. Nugget tries to steal cash from the Minute Mart, but Yolande stops them before they can get away with it. Howie and Kim then give Denzel a signet ring ahead of his birthday celebrations, but he pawns it to raise the money he needs.

Craig secretly watches as Denzel celebrates with family and friends. After Amy spots and confronts him, Craig sends Denzel's photographs to Kim and Howie out of jealousy, leaving Denzel and his loved ones horrified. Denzel later admits that he sold the ring to pay the blackmailer. Amy turns to Craig, who agrees to leave Walford with her after hearing about her upcoming inheritance, while Denzel begins questioning her version of events.

2. Cindy uncovers Max's secret property

Cindy's suspicions grow when her card is declined and she finds a lipstick in Max's flat. She investigates his private life, confronts Lauren and learns about his plans to buy No.31 from Gemma. After overhearing Max on the phone in The Vic, Cindy's interest is further piqued by something on their laptop, leading to the discovery of his secret New Zealand property.

Cindy exposes the property during a viewing of No.31, with Lauren alongside her. Suki rejects Max's offer in favour of another, leaving him humiliated and declaring war on Cindy. HMRC subsequently catches up with the property, and Cindy demands answers.

3. Kat refuses to abandon her search for Zoe's alleged culprit

Kat and Alfie track down the former owner of Charlie's cab as she searches for the man she believes let Zoe die. Their efforts prove disappointing when they discover police have already cleared him, but Kat refuses to give up. Jasmine grows suspicious of Kat's behaviour and questions Alfie, while Cindy later learns about Kat's revenge plan and the man she believes is responsible for Zoe's death.

Jasmine, Josh and Oscar also organise a bingo night in Zoe's honour to lift Mo's spirits.

4. Lauren investigates Ned despite warnings

Lauren arranges to see Mark, but he pulls away after spotting Ned and Ryder. Mark insists that they keep their distance from Ned, yet Lauren becomes increasingly suspicious of Ned's influence over Ian and starts investigating his background. Ryder provides a cryptic clue about Ned's former career, while Ian leans on Ned and receives encouragement about his life.

5. Max's plans and the Mitchell family's problems continue

Max persuades Oscar to help him prove that his marriage to Cindy was never consummated. As drinks flow between Oscar and Cindy, her suspicions are eventually stoked, adding another complication to Max's problems.

Elsewhere, Amy searches for a way to access her inheritance early while remaining at odds with Jack. Gemma and Jodie attempt to conceal their car troubles from Ned, but Phil initially refuses to help until Sharon encourages him to reconsider. Nancy also learns about Elaine and Ian's fling.

Where to watch EastEnders

EastEnders is available through BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Check the BBC's official listings for the latest broadcast schedule and streaming availability.

Image credit: BBC