EastEnders: ‘work out’ why Joel owes money as Ross’ huge secret ‘revealed’

EastEnders fans ‘work out’ why Joel owes money(Image: PA)

EastEnders fans were introduced to new characters Ross and Joel this week, as they arrived with Vicki Fowler. Vicki made her return to Albert Square to attend the funeral of her uncle Martin, but brought her own baggage along.

Vicki and her new partner Ross have been exposed over their secret, as it was previously revealed they needed money to “be in the clear”. It was then hinted they owed someone for a mystery reason.

However, in tonight’s episode, fans learnt that Ross owed money because of his son, Joel. Now, fans think Ross may be hiding a bigger secret.

In a moment on the Square benches, Ross could be heard telling his son Joel: “I’m keeping my end of the bargain – now it’s up to you yo keep yours.

Ross was heard telling his son that he owes money because of him(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

“Because I’m up to my eyes in debt because of you,” he continued. “And we don’t want anyone knowing why, OK?” An upset Joel could be heard telling his father: “I hate all of this”.

“Like I said to you at the time, you are my everything,” Ross reassured his son. “I’ll do whatever’s needed to look after you.” Joel then apologised to his father, as he continued to play football with Tommy.

Fans have taken to Reddit to discuss why Joel owes money, as one penned: “So it’s Joel’s debt. I’m guessing he’s either a wrong’un or he’s got a secret addiction,” as another penned: “I assume it would be either drugs or stealing that would make the most sense, but those are both so boring.”

Joel has become popular with the residents(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Others thought Ross could be bringing Joel here to avoid a custody battle: “Gotta be some sort of custody thing with Joel right? The boys 15, and all he’s done is chat up Avani, Amy and Lily (seemingly the only three young girls on the square) and play football with Tommy. So yeah would like to see how on earth it is his debt…” questioned another.

“I thought Ross was suggesting that he ‘bought’ Joel and his mother sold him for 50k,” another responded.

One fan commented: “Interesting to see why it’s Joel’s faults that Ross owes the money I’m glad they are sticking around I do like them especially Joel’s character.”

Elsewhere in today’s episode, emotions ran high when Kathy burst into tears after attempting to read a poem over Martin’s coffin.

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.