Two beloved EastEnders characters have been spending time together following the Queen Vic explosion, but viewers are calling for an end to the unexpected chemistry between Grant Mitchell and Linda Carter.
As life in Albert Square slowly returns to normal after the tragic blast during the show’s 40th anniversary special, residents are trying to move forward. The live episode on February 20 saw Martin Fowler lose his life, leaving many in Walford embracing life with a fresh perspective.
Grant and Linda are among those navigating major challenges. Grant is struggling with his brother Phil’s mental health crisis, which has led to his hospitalization, while Linda is dealing with the loss of her home in the Queen Vic disaster.
Despite their hardships, sparks seemed to fly between them during a conversation at the Bridge Street Café. As Linda checked in on Grant’s brother, she also opened up about her personal struggles, including her battle with alcoholism and her journey through rehab.
Touched by her story, Grant revealed he would soon be heading back to Portugal before playfully suggesting she visit him. With a cheeky grin, he told her, “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.”
The unexpected exchange took fans by surprise, sparking a wave of reactions on X (formerly Twitter).
One fan, @KellieBrightLY, was stunned: “THE FLIRTING! I don’t know how to react to this help. Not Grant and my Linda.”
@chloefilmsx was unimpressed: “Get Grant trying to flirt with Linda OFF MY SCREEN #EastEnders.”
@AthollMills found the situation amusing: “Linda and Grant?!?! Oh my days! Hahaha #EastEnders.”
Meanwhile, @Debs_1982 hoped it wouldn’t go any further: “Please tell me they won’t be putting Linda and Grant together. #EastEnders.”
Another fan, @eastenderskel, reassured viewers: “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 & Linda forever. #EastEnders.”
Ross Kemp, who plays Grant, previously confirmed that his return to the soap for the first time since 2016 was only temporary, as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Reflecting on his time in the show, Kemp shared on This Morning: “I owe EastEnders so much. It led me to making documentaries and traveling the world. Being in EastEnders for 10 years gave me so many opportunities, so when they asked me to return, it felt right. I’m proud of it.”
