EastEnders viewers are expressing concern over Joel Marshall, the troubled teen whose actions on Albert Square have sparked outrage. Since joining the soap in March alongside his father Ross Marshall and Vicki Fowler, Joel, played by Max Murray, has been involved in a string of shocking storylines.

To date, Joel has filmed himself sleeping with Avani Nandra-Hart without her consent, shared explicit pornography with Tommy Moon, and assaulted a young woman on the tube. He’s also reacted misogynistically to Avani after her abortion, directed inappropriate language at Kat Slater, and targeted Stacey Slater over her SecretCam scandal.

In the latest episode, Joel insulted Lily Slater over becoming a mother at just 12 years old. When Amy Branning stood up for Lily, telling him she wasn’t intimidated by his “incel boy band curtains,” Joel threatened to smash the café furniture and assert his dominance.

Amy Branning Channels Her Mother’s Fire

Fans were quick to applaud Amy’s response. Kat Slater intervened, warning the girls: “Stay away from little boys with big mouths, they never grow up.” Amy’s courage in standing up to Joel resonated strongly with viewers, many of whom linked her fiery determination to her late mother, Roxy Mitchell.

Social media erupted with praise for Amy. One fan tweeted: “Roxy Mitchell would be so proud. I’m glad someone finally put Joel in his place #EastEnders.” Another added: “That’s Roxy Mitchell’s daughter! Amy is a spitting image of her mum – in looks and mannerisms.”

Fans noted that Amy’s boldness seemed to carry forward the Mitchell legacy, embodying Roxy’s fiery personality and unflinching confidence.

Kat and Tommy’s Family Drama

Meanwhile, Kat Slater confronted her son Tommy over his friendship with Joel, leading to a heated argument and Tommy being kicked out of their home. Alfie added to the tension by revealing he had traveled to Spain in search of Zoe, complicating family dynamics further.

Even as Amy and Lily defended themselves, Joel’s behavior highlighted his growing volatility. Fans have called for consequences, arguing that Joel is “out of control” and his father, Ross, is failing to address the situation.

Fans Celebrate Amy’s Defiance

Amy’s actions have sparked widespread admiration online. Social media users praised her for standing firm against Joel’s aggression, with comments like:

• “Amy put Joel in his place… He’s out of control though and needs to be dealt with.”

• “She’s letting the Roxy side of herself out. Slay queen.”

• “I wish Roxy was still alive to see the confident young woman Amy has become!”

Fans see Amy as carrying on the legacy of Roxy Mitchell, who tragically died in 2017 alongside her sister Ronnie in a drowning accident. For many, Amy represents the next generation of strong Mitchell women, ensuring their spirit remains alive on Albert Square.

Looking Ahead on Albert Square

Joel Marshall’s storyline is far from over. With tensions rising, viewers are bracing for further clashes between him and the Slaters. Amy’s bravery may inspire others in Walford to confront him, while her connection to Roxy adds an emotional layer to the ongoing drama.

As the story unfolds, EastEnders fans are keeping a close eye on Joel’s next moves—and on Amy, who may become one of Albert Square’s defining young characters in the years to come.