Walford is heating up, and fans are convinced that the seeds of a massive New Year disaster are being sown right now. As Max Branning (Jake Wood) continues his high-risk affair with Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy), viewers are speculating that the ultimate price for his betrayal could be paid when a mystery gunman strikes this New Year.
The tension began when Priya, left devastated after Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) abandoned her following his stint in a mental health unit, turned to Max for solace. What started as a physical arrangement has become increasingly volatile, with the pair even sneaking off during Max’s engagement party for Cindy Beale to be together.
However, with the EastEnders flash-forward for New Year 2027 teasing a pregnant woman in bed with Max and an unidentified gunman, fans are putting the pieces together—and the theory points directly at a vengeful Ravi.
The prevailing fan theory on Reddit suggests that Ravi could make an explosive return to the Square, only to discover the betrayal between his former partner and Max. The theory suggests a complex path to tragedy: