Joel’s Shocking Downfall

EastEnders took a chilling turn tonight as Joel Marshall faced questioning over his brutal attack on Vicki Fowler, leaving viewers horrified by his disturbing behaviour.

The teen was taken into custody after police confirmed they had evidence linking him directly to the assault, and what followed inside the interview room made it clear that Joel has no intention of taking responsibility.

While his teacher Julie Bates acted as his responsible adult and his father Ross Marshall watched from behind the glass, Joel’s arrogance and aggression came to the surface in harrowing scenes that left both the police and viewers stunned.

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“He Showed His True Colours”

During the tense interview, Joel initially tried to twist the story, claiming that Vicki had been the aggressor. “I don’t know. We had a row,” he told officers. “She came at me hard, and I was scared. So I gave her a little push, and she must’ve tripped. I didn’t mean to hurt her.”

But when detectives confronted him with digital evidence of the attack found on his laptop, Joel’s mask slipped completely. In a chilling outburst, he accused Vicki — and even the detective — of “hating men,” before turning his rage toward his father.

When told Ross was watching the interview, Joel screamed: “Dad! You bring him here now! We’re finished! Tell him he’s dead to me!” The episode ended with Ross looking on in horror, finally realising the full extent of his son’s darkness.

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Ross Torn Between Guilt and Reality

Before Joel’s arrest, Ross had visited Vicki in hospital, trying to apologise for his son’s actions. But Vicki was unforgiving, furious that Ross hadn’t intervened sooner. “You should have done something,” she told him coldly, refusing to accept his apologies.

Later, as he spoke to Julie, a tearful Ross asked, “Is my son a psychopath?” Julie replied gently, “I’m not a psychologist. I don’t believe in labels — I just see young people struggling to make sense of a confusing world.”

But after witnessing Joel’s behaviour in the police interview, it was clear even Ross could no longer deny the truth. His son’s fury and lack of remorse shattered any remaining illusion of innocence.

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Viewers React to Joel’s Meltdown

The final moments left fans stunned — and convinced that Joel’s fate is now sealed. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their reactions:

One wrote: “Joel losing it in the police station after attacking Vicki has to be one of the best outcomes — they’ll finally see him for what he is, even if his dad still doesn’t.”

Another said: “I hope Ross continues to do the right thing by Vicki and lets the police deal with Joel. He needs psychological help in a young offenders unit. Maybe he could be redeemed one day — but not right now.”

A third added: “Just watched tonight’s #EastEnders. Those final scenes with Joel were really disturbing.”

However, some fans aren’t ruling out a twist. “I still think Ross might try to cover for him,” one speculated. “I don’t think it’s the end for Joel just yet.”

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What’s Next for the Marshalls?

As Joel faces the consequences of his crimes, Ross must decide whether to protect his son or finally let him face justice. With the police closing in and tensions rising across Walford, this could be the moment that defines both of their futures.

But one thing is clear — after tonight’s disturbing scenes, there may be no redemption left for Joel Marshall.