EastEnders viewers are bracing themselves for a potentially explosive and violent storyline, as many fans now believe Barney Mitchell may soon take matters into his own hands — possibly attacking or even killing Joel Marshall. Tension has been building ever since Joel arrived in Walford and began forming a troubling connection with Avani. Alarm bells rang when Ross, Joel’s father, revealed disturbing details about Joel’s past behaviour back in Australia.

In an intense exchange last week, Ross confronted Joel after learning he had not only slept with Avani but also secretly recorded the encounter. The situation escalated when Ross admitted to Vicki that Joel had previously taken and shared an explicit image of a girl without her consent, a scandal that led to both of them being effectively exiled from Australia. These shocking revelations have sparked outrage among viewers, with many fearing for Avani’s safety.

As the tension between Joel and Barney mounts, fans are now predicting a dramatic showdown. Some are convinced that Barney, protective of Avani, won’t stand by much longer — and that his next move could have deadly consequences. With emotions running high, the stage is set for one of Walford’s darkest and most intense confrontations yet.

Vicki had been in the dark about the real reason for Ross’s debts (Credit: BBC)

Ross reveals the truth about Joel to Vicki – but there’s more

After being caught in an ‘upskirting’ scandal, Ross had paid off the girl’s family – but he and Joel were now unable to return. What he neglected to mention, however, was that history had already begun to repeat itself.

And with Joel refusing to back off from Avani, fans have worried that his behaviour might escalate – causing Barney to lash out.

Barney’s developed strong feelings for Avani (Credit: BBC)

Barney to attack Joel, EastEnders fans predict

Writing on Reddit as last week’s scenes aired, fans shared their thoughts on where this all might be headed. And some suspected that Joel might have even worse in store for Avani.

“Prediction I think avani and joel end up in a abusive relationship where joel eventually rapes Avani,” wrote one fan on Reddit. Suggesting an end to the story, they continued: “Tommy, nugget, barney or ravi badly attacks joel. Resulting in him confessing out of fear.”

“I have a feeling if Joel does end up raping Avani and Barney finds out, I think he will seriously injure or even murder Joel,” another commented below.

“Nicole please take the rap for Barney if it happens, we’ll forgive your crimes!” said a third.

With Barney demonstrating strong feelings – and a protective streak – for Avani, will dangerous Joel spur him on to take desperate action?