Fans of EastEnders are calling for an end to the unexpected flirting between Grant Mitchell and Linda Carter as hints of romance emerged during Tuesday’s episode (February 25). The residents of Albert Square are trying to regain some normality after the shocking explosion at the Queen Vic, which was a central plot point in the soap’s 40th-anniversary special.
In the heartbreaking live episode on Thursday (February 20), Martin Fowler tragically lost his life, prompting others in the fictional Watford town to live more intensely in the weeks ahead. Among those looking to embrace life anew are Grant and Linda; Grant is coping with his brother Phil’s hospitalisation due to mental health concerns while Linda has been displaced by the Queen Vic calamity.
Although both characters are weathering tough times, they displayed a surprising connection in a scene at the iconic Bridge Street Cafe. While Linda was checking in on Grant’s brother and sharing her past experiences with rehab and fighting alcoholism, Grant found himself touched by Linda’s story.
He let her know he’d be off to Portugal soon and playfully suggested to Mick Carter’s ex, Linda: “You, are amazing. And if you ever fancy a week or two in Portugal, so I can, er… make it up to you then give me a call,” leaving her with a suggestive grin.
Viewers at home were left stunned by the unexpected on-screen chemistry as they flocked to X, previously known as Twitter, to share their thoughts on a surprising match-up. @KellieBrightLY exclaimed: “THE FLIRTING! I don’t know how to react to this help. Not Grant and my Linda.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Meanwhile, @chloefilmsx was adamant: “Get Grant trying to flirt with Linda OFF MY SCREEN #Eastenders.”
The sentiment was echoed by @AthollMills who tweeted in disbelief: “Linda and Grant? ! ? ! Oh my days! Hahaha #Eastenders..”
And @eastenderskel offered some reassurance: “Not sure why grant is flirting with linda but let’s not PANIC, he’s here for a short stint nothing will come of this, mick and linda forever. #EastEnders.”
Ross Kemp, the actor behind Grant, had previously confirmed on This Morning that his return to EastEnders since 2016 was intended to be a brief appearance for the BBC soap’s anniversary celebrations. He expressed his gratitude towards the show, saying: “I owe EastEnders so much, making documentaries and travelling across the world. That was all capitalised by being in EastEnders for 10 years. I owe it a massive amount and it was only fitting that when they asked me to go back I did. I’m proud of it,”.
