Following the onscreen advice Gray provided, subsequent episodes show Chelsea allowing Sheila unrestricted access to Jordan. Gray continues his manipulative behavior by demanding ongoing updates.
"Gray was a brilliant character.
It was a gift to play Gray and it'll be fascinating to know what four years in prison would do for someone like him.
His identity was very much, you know, control and power and very manipulative. Being in prison would very much strip a lot of that identity.
So it was fascinating to tap into that psychology," stated Toby-Alexander Smith.
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Meanwhile, EastEnders fans on social media have speculated that Gray may become a stem cell match for Denise's cancer treatment, potentially giving him permanent leverage over the Fox family.
"You just know Gray is going to be a stem cell match for Denise, don't you?" stated one fan.
Audiences shared similar theories regarding the narrative timing of the medical emergency and the villain's unannounced return.
"It can't be a coincidence that Gray is coming back just as Denise potentially needs a stem cell transplant," agreed another fan.
The speculation continues to grow among the show's highly engaged digital community as the plot develops.
"Imagine the twist if no one is a match for Denise – apart from evil Gray!" commented someone else.
Actor Jake Wood also discussed concurrent storylines involving character Max Branning's complicated love life and his upcoming engagement to Cindy Beale.
"A marriage could work between [Max and Cindy], but they're very complicated characters, bringing a lot of history to the table.
And we've seen Max have feelings for Linda Carter," said Jake Wood.
The actor noted that the character remains fundamentally unable to maintain monogamous relationships. "I think he would drop everything to be with Stacey.
Has he got it in him to be faithful? I think so… but it would be really boring to watch, wouldn't it?!"
stated Jake Wood.
Due to World Cup and Wimbledon broadcast coverage changes, EastEnders aired two episodes back-to-back on BBC Two on Monday instead of its usual Tuesday slot.
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Regular episodes are scheduled Mondays through Thursdays at 7:30 PM on BBC One.
