‘New couple’ fans ‘didn’t see coming’ leaves viewers saying same thing
BBC soap EastEnders aired a major plot twist for Shrimpy during Thursday's instalment and viewers have been quick to share their thoughts on his new romance with Marie
EastEnders viewers were treated to a surprising twist involving Shrimpy (Ben Champniss) on Thursday night’s episode (June 5), and fans are absolutely loving the unexpected turn of events.
In the latest visit to Albert Square, Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) and Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) celebrated their upcoming nuptials with a joint hen and stag do after a whirlwind proposal.
Meanwhile, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) was seen struggling to draw in a crowd at The Prince Albert for her new bar’s launch, while her romantic rival Elaine Peacock (Harriet Peacock) hosted a karaoke evening at the pub.
The atmosphere at The Prince Albert was rather subdued until a tipsy Shrimpy took to the stage to belt out Van Morrison’s classic ‘Have I Told You Lately’, serenading café worker Marie Evans (Liz Sweet) during his dubious rendition.
Marie seemed charmed by the performance, enjoying the adorable moment, while Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff) watched on awkwardly, reports Belfast Live.
Elaine, on the other hand, was far from thrilled, complaining to Linda: “This is our karaoke night, we should be heaving!”.
But Linda was quick to notice the spark between Shrimpy and Marie, leading Elaine to dismissively comment: “What Marie does in her own time is her business”, as Linda had to coax Shrimpy off the microphone.
Fans didn’t waste any time taking to social media to express their delight as Shrimpy and Marie’s relationship appeared to blossom before their eyes.
One viewer exclaimed on Twitter: “Didn’t have Shrimpy and Marie love developing on my 2025 bingo card #EastEnders.”
Another fan expressed enthusiasm, writing: “Shrimpy and Marie? That’s a love story that should be on screen more! ! Sod the rest! #EastEnders.”
A different viewer commented with amusement: “Shrimpy and Marie lol #Eastenders”, and one more chimed in, declaring their excitement for the new pairing: “I’m obsessed with Marie from the caff and Shrimpy from the markets new relationship #eastenders.”
Capping off the gushing comments, another tweet exclaimed: “SHRIMPY GOT A GIRLFRIEND AND HER NAME IS MARIE @benchampniss #EastEnders”.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am