Has Ned gone too far with Ryder in EastEnders?
EastEnders’ Ned continues to pressure Ryder, while his manipulation of Mark raises questions about how far he will go to get his own way.
Ned Hawkins’ treatment of his son Ryder has become increasingly troubling in EastEnders, with his need for control threatening to damage their relationship beyond repair.
Ryder has been struggling with the pressure Ned puts on him to conform, even as he tries to work out how to be honest with the people closest to him. Ned overheard Ryder preparing to speak to his mum, Nicola, and has continued to exert influence over his choices.
His behaviour has also affected Mark, whose secret affair with Lauren has given Ned leverage. Rather than keeping the situation between the adults involved, Ned has used the threat of exposure to force Mark into doing what he wants.
The consequences have been serious. Mark reluctantly followed Ned’s instructions and attacked Ryder, leaving viewers to question how much further Ned’s manipulation could go.
One viewer summed up the reaction to the storyline by writing: “I knew Ned wanted me to batter Ryder, he’s an even bigger twat than I thought”.
Another described Ned as “even more disgusting”, adding that his behaviour was expected because he was a villain.
Those comments underline the anger surrounding Ned’s actions, particularly because Ryder is being placed under pressure by someone who should be supporting him.
Could Ryder finally stand up to his father, or will Ned find another way to keep him under control, and how far is Ned prepared to go?
With Lauren beginning to question Ned’s past, his influence over the family could soon face a serious challenge.
EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer. Image credit: BBC.
