Ian Beale romance confirmed? EastEnders viewers notice telling sign

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EastEnders viewers think a new love story is brewing on the Square

EastEnders viewers are speculating about a potential new love interest for Ian Beale, almost a year after his dramatic split from Cindy.

During Wednesday’s trip to Walford (November 26), locals got ready for a quiz night hosted by Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) at the Queen Vic.

Entrepreneur Ian (Adam Woodyatt) announced that the winner would receive a discount on haddock and chips from his fish shop, much to the amusement of Elaine Peacock (Harriett Thorpe).

“Nothing says festive generosity like discounted haddock,” Elaine joked, as Ian and his mother Kathy (Gillian Taylforth) laughed along with the former landlady.

Later that evening, the quiz ended in a tense tie-breaker between Ian and Elaine, during which they argued over the correct answer, according to OK!.

Alfie declared Ian the winner, leaving Elaine confused. But Ian’s happy mood was short-lived.

While everyone was distracted, baby Jimmy Beale managed to snatch a knife that Ian had left on the table.

Moments later, Jimmy injures himself, prompting Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) to react in horror as chaos unfolds around her. The shocking incident also heightens Lauren’s fears about Jimmy’s future, given his severe visual impairment.

Later in the episode, Ian and Kathy visit the Minute Mart, where they run into Elaine. Although Ian questions her choice of drink, Elaine reassures him, insisting that Jimmy’s accident wasn’t his fault.

Following recent flirtatious moments between Ian and Elaine, some EastEnders fans are convinced there are sparks of romance between them.

Ian was previously married to Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), who later wed George Knight (Colin Salmon) while living under witness protection.

After Cindy left George, he eventually found love with Elaine and moved to Walford in 2023.

Cindy later rekindled her relationship with Ian, only for them to split at Christmas 2024 when her affair with Junior Knight (Micah Balfour) was revealed.

Shortly after, Elaine and George also chose to divorce. But in a surprising twist, could Ian and Elaine find romance together? One viewer took to X, writing: “Can see Ian and Elaine getting together #EastEnders.”