There’s trouble brewing in Albert Square as Joel Marshall’s (Max Murray) dark side begins to surface, sending shockwaves through Walford. What started as an attempt to steer him in the right direction quickly unravels into lies, lashing out, and a disturbing discovery that could threaten the family’s relationships.

Following Vicki’s suggestion, Ross brings Joel and Tommy along to the timber yard, hoping some structure and hard work might help the boys. But Ross quickly grows concerned when he overhears worrying language from other workers that could influence the boys. Then, Ross gets an unexpected call with the news that Joel’s mum is getting remarried.

Ross breaks the news to Joel, who doesn’t take it well. Later, he sneaks off to The Vic with Tommy, and the pair are caught red-handed stealing alcohol from the barrel store. When Ross, Vicki, Kat, and Alfie confront them, the situation explodes. Joel lashes out with cruel, offensive language aimed at Kat, leaving everyone stunned.

As Ross and Vicki try to rein him in, a brief moment of bonding gives them hope as Joel shares a video from an online influencer he admires. But Ross’s relief is short-lived when he finds disturbing content on Joel’s laptop. In a moment of panic, he destroys the device, cutting Joel off entirely.

Ross shuts Joel out of work, and Vicki, now in the loop, urges him to take control before things get any worse. A heartfelt conversation with Harvey in the café prompts Ross to reflect. Joel later reluctantly apologises to Kat and is allowed to hang out with Tommy again, but his temper is far from under control.

While Vicki and Stacey bond over parenting struggles in The Vic, Joel overhears their conversation and is once again triggered. His uncontrolled anger issues rise to the surface, showing a more sinister side of Joel, leaving those around him questioning if they really know him.