The dramatic trial of troubled teenager Joel Marshall is set to commence in EastEnders next week, with his victim Vicki Fowler left reeling after a distressing day in court. The storyline, which airs from Monday 26th January, will confirm the fate of the young incel, played by departing actor Max Murray.
A Violent Attack Comes to Court
Joel has been held in a young offenders institute since the end of last year, when his misogynistic views escalated into a brutal physical assault. He violently attacked his stepmother Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) in their family kitchen, leaving her for dead. Having pleaded not guilty, Joel's day in court has finally arrived, forcing Vicki to relive the horrific ordeal.
Vicki's Trauma and Unexpected Support
In the lead-up to the trial, Vicki confides her anxiety to Zack Hudson (James Farrar), with the chemistry between them still apparent since their kiss in November. Zack provides a welcome distraction, inviting her to his flat as he practises recipes for The Vic. This support is crucial for Vicki, who is also dealing with the shock return of her brother, Mark Fowler Jr (Stephen Aaron-Sipple), to Walford.
On the day of the trial, Zack stands by Vicki once more. However, the proceedings quickly become harrowing. Joel sits in the dock putting on a troubling front, and his former friend Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) gives evidence against him. When Vicki takes the stand, she is blindsided by Joel's defence barrister, who uses underhand tactics to discredit her testimony.
A Fleeing Witness and a Puzzling Request
The aggressive cross-examination proves too much, causing a deeply distressed Vicki to flee the courtroom and forcing a pause in the trial. During the recess, a twist unfolds when Joel's father, Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw), refuses to meet him. Joel then unexpectedly asks to see another resident of Walford, leaving his motives unclear.
When the court reconvenes, emotions are still running high. Joel's meeting with the mystery figure does not go to plan, leading to an unexpected turn in the trial's direction. With actor Max Murray confirmed to be leaving the soap, viewers are left to wonder if Joel will be sent down and if Vicki will finally get the justice she deserves.
EastEnders airs these dramatic scenes from Monday 26th January at 7.30pm on BBC One, with episodes available to stream first from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
