Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty) recently learnt that her pregnancy was much further along than she’d expected in EastEnders, and she was soon set to attend her 20 week scan.
However, with Whitney set to leave Albert Square later this year, fans are wondering what could lead to her exit, with many wondering if a huge clue was dropped in that very scene.
Just before Whitney and partner Zack Hudson (James Farrar) reflected on their exciting baby news, Whitney scolded him for walking around topless in their flat in front of houseguest Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa).
When Zack joked that it was the highlight of both of their days, Lauren seemed amused, but could this be set to develop further?
Fans took to social media following the episode with their theories that Whitney’s exit may be spurred on by an affair between Lauren and Zack.
Lauren and Whitney have been best friends for many years, so a betrayal like that would surely be enough to drive Whit away.
Related: Patsy Palmer to get back to EastEnders as Bianca
Twitter/X user @yxnessa was quick to point out how Lauren and cousin Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) had been discussing how ‘hot’ Zack was, despite him being Lauren’s best friend’s boyfriend.
Similarly, user @mickney17 seemed sure that an affair between Lauren and Zack was ‘definitely’ on the cards, leading to Whitney’s exit.
Alessia was also suspicious of Lauren and Zack’s first interaction, sensing some chemistry between the pair, while Mike thinks that they may wait until Whitney is gone before getting together.
Very little is known about what will eventually lead to Whitney’s exit from the square, with actress Shona McGarty having announced her decision to leave last year.
Speaking to Inside Soap Magazine, Shona revealed the reason behind her decision to leave.
‘I’ve loved my time in Walford, but with the character of Whitney, bless her, she’s had some awful things happen to her, and I think she needs a break.’
So could an affair between her boyfriend and her best mate be the catalyst to her exit storyline? We’ll have to wait and see.
One thing we do know is that Patsy Palmer is reprising her iconic role as Bianca Jackson for the story, with Whitney and Zack visiting Milton Keynes for a special episode.
