Jack Branning hit by son Ricky’s touching bombshell as he becomes a grandfather in EastEnders

In dramatic scenes airing next week, Lily Slater gives birth, making Ricky Mitchell a father for the first time. This surprise news leaves Ricky's father, Jack Branning, emotional and sets the stage for a potential shift in their complex relationship.

Stacey Slater's daughter shakes up the square

Earlier this year, Stacey Slater's daughter, Lily, alarmed viewers when she fell ill during a New Year's Eve party. Rushed to the hospital, Stacey discovered that her young daughter, who celebrated her thirteenth birthday in June, was pregnant.

Lily's dangerous situation

As Lily grapples with the idea of becoming a mother, she finds herself entangled in a dangerous situation with her mother's stalker, Theo Hawthorne. Theo, played by William Ellis, became infatuated and obsessed with Stacey after spotting her online. In an attempt to get closer to Stacey, Theo manipulates Lily, offering her gifts and tutoring.

A shocking revelation

While Stacey remains oblivious to the danger, Martin Fowler and Eve Unwin start piecing together the truth about Theo. As they dig deeper, they uncover his true identity as Stacey's stalker. Meanwhile, Theo seizes an opportunity to reveal his twisted intentions to Stacey, causing fear to set in as she tries to protect Lily while her waters break.

A tense birth at home

With the ambulance delayed, Stacey's mother Jean Slater arrives just in time to assist Lily with the birth at home. The outcome of the birth remains uncertain.

A bond between father and son

As the events unfold, Ricky Mitchell has some significant news to share with his father, Jack Branning. Emotions run high when Ricky announces that he plans to change his last name from Mitchell to Branning. Could this decision finally bring father and son closer together?

Don't miss EastEnders airing from Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One to find out what happens next.