EastEnders has dropped a huge plot bombshell, and fans are convinced it’s setting up a deadly Christmas twist — one that could mark the exit of a long‑running character after 25 years.

Earlier this week, Howie Danes (Delroy Atkinson) surprised Kim Fox with a proposal. But there was one major problem: the ring was stolen. Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey) quickly grew suspicious and uncovered the truth, pushing Howie to admit where the ring really came from.

Secrets Collide — and the Fallout Begins

Not one to stay silent, Howie dug into Anthony’s life and discovered that his ex‑wife Sophie had taken out a restraining order against him. The pair agreed to bury each other’s secrets, but the promise didn’t last long.

During Wednesday’s episode (December 3), Anthony splashed out on champagne for Kim and Howie’s engagement celebration. When Kim complimented him, Howie retaliated by hinting at Anthony’s past. Moments later, Kim confronted Anthony directly — unable to keep her anger at bay despite her promise to stay quiet.

The Truth Explodes in Front of the Truemans

Things escalated when Oscar Branning confessed that Howie had pressured him into handing over Patrick Trueman’s stolen money after an assault earlier in the year. During the family gathering, Anthony snapped.

“He knew who attacked you, dad!” he shouted. “He blackmailed Oscar and Lauren, and he kept the money! And Kim, that ring is stolen. This humble delivery man you all adore is a blackmailing, two‑faced, thieving little weasel!”

Howie was left frozen as every lie unraveled in front of Walford’s most respected family.

Fans Predict Murder — and a Christmas Exit

The confrontation has sparked major speculation online, with fans now convinced the storyline is leading to Anthony’s death — potentially at Howie’s hands.

Reddit theories include:

• Accidental killing: “Howie doesn’t plan. He reacts. I could see something happening that ends in Anthony’s death.”

• Christmas Day showdown: “Anthony is exposed in the Vic. He goes home. Howie shows up, has no idea what’s just come out. They fight. Howie kills him and tries to frame the Slaters.”

• Long‑term pattern: “Howie has always been dishonest — pretending to be Vincent, covering up a murder. This feels like the next step.”

A Christmas Murder Mystery in the Making?

With tensions rising, secrets exposed, and emotions spiraling out of control, fans believe the soap is building toward a dramatic — and deadly — Christmas climax.

If the theories are right, one EastEnders icon could meet a brutal end… and another may pay the price for it.

Would you like a shorter social media teaser version of this story too?