
Get ready for some truly “awful” and shocking scenes in Albert Square next week, “EastEnders” fans, as Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) is set to do something devastatingly “awful” to Peter Beale (Thomas Law)! The newcomer has already made a significant impact on Walford and viewers alike since his explosive arrival on the BBC One soap last week, but nothing will prepare you for the fallout of his desperate actions.
Oscar’s turbulent past quickly caught up to him after his sister, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), was forced to take him in. Oscar had just been released from a three-month stint in a young offenders’ institute, where he’d served time for joyriding. Their mother, Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner), had made it abundantly clear that he was not welcome back at her house, a direct consequence of the “dodgy characters” he’d been associating with.
The trouble began when Oscar, in an attempt to distance himself from his criminal associates, tipped off the police about their involvement in a car robbery. This act of betrayal, however, came with dire consequences. His enraged former mates retaliated by attempting to petrol bomb Oscar’s property, but in a horrific twist of fate, they mistakenly targeted his innocent neighbors instead.
Despite Oscar’s desperate attempts to escape his brutish former friends, they’ve relentlessly tracked him down to Walford and are now seeking violent revenge. Actor Pierre Moullier, who plays Oscar, explains the chilling reality of the threat: “Oscar feels threatened as Mike (Tai Hilferink) is a serious guy who doesn’t seem to care about getting caught or the consequences.” He adds that viewers will see a darker, more desperate side to Oscar this week. “Since he arrived in the Square, Oscar has been all fun and games, but you’ll see another side of him this week because Mike wants to make him suffer for what he’s done!” This sets the stage for Oscar’s escalating paranoia and rash actions.
A Desperate Attack and a Shocking Victim
Pierre’s words prove prophetic, as next week’s episodes witness Oscar taking extreme measures. Convinced that his vengeful ex-associates have finally caught up to him, Oscar launches a violent attack on an apparent intruder, believing it to be Mike.
Meanwhile, Lauren uncovers the terrifying truth about the thug’s threats against Oscar, learning that Mike has even left a knife as a chilling warning. Realizing the gravity of the situation, she believes their uncle, Jack Branning (Scott Maslen), a police officer, should be alerted for protection. However, Oscar stubbornly resists this idea. “Oscar believes getting Jack involved will only make things worse,” Pierre explains, “because if Mike finds out that there’s a policeman in his family, he’ll be even more on [his] case.” Oscar’s misguided confidence stems from a lifetime of escaping tight spots with his “smooth talker” charm, making him believe he “can do it again.”
Despite Oscar’s resistance, things quickly spiral out of control, forcing Jack to intervene. Lauren, clearly at her wit’s end, gives her brother a final, stern warning, desperate for him to understand the severity of his situation. But the fear and paranoia have already taken deep root. That very night, Oscar’s anxiety intensifies when he hears a noise echoing from the hallway, confirming his worst fears about Mike’s impending revenge.
In a horrifying climax, Oscar, consumed by fear and convinced he’s facing his tormentor, sneaks up on a hooded figure in the dark hallway and goes in for the attack. It’s a moment of pure terror and desperation. But the crushing revelation soon follows: Oscar is utterly “unaware that it’s actually Peter Beale (Thomas Law) in his dressing gown.”
The realization of his terrible mistake is a devastating blow for Oscar. “It’s so awful for Oscar when he realises that he’s done this to Peter, who has been kind enough to take him in,” Pierre explains. This act of violence against an innocent Peter, who has shown Oscar kindness and hospitality, highlights the desperate corner Oscar has been backed into by his past. Despite his often manipulative “games” with people, Pierre reveals a deeper truth about Oscar’s character: “deep down, he’ll do anything for the people he cares for, and Peter has become one of those people, so this is awful.” This attack, born of fear and mistaken identity, will undoubtedly have severe consequences for Oscar, potentially jeopardizing his fragile new start in Walford and his relationship with Peter.
Lauren’s Unwavering Support and Oscar’s Uncertain Future
Despite Oscar receiving his “marching orders” (implying severe repercussions for attacking Peter, possibly even involving legal action or further exile), Pierre hints at one potential “saving grace” for his character. “No matter how many times he messes up, Lauren is still there for him and backing him, which really surprises him,” the actor shares. This unwavering support from his sister is a powerful force in Oscar’s chaotic life, offering him a lifeline even when he seems intent on self-destruction. “Lauren is a powerhouse,” Pierre concludes, “and Oscar is in awe of this woman who he’s lucky enough to have as his sister.”
This storyline promises to be an intense exploration of Oscar’s troubled past catching up to him, the depths of his fear, and the enduring strength of sibling bonds. The attack on Peter will undoubtedly send shockwaves through the Beale and Branning families, forcing them to grapple with Oscar’s dangerous connections and his capacity for violence. Will Lauren’s loyalty be enough to save him, or will Oscar’s recklessness ultimately lead to a more permanent downfall?
Stay tuned to “EastEnders” to witness the dramatic fallout of Oscar’s desperate mistake and the impact it will have on Peter and the entire Square.
👉 What do YOU think the consequences will be for Oscar after attacking Peter? And can Lauren truly save him from the dangerous path he’s on? Share your predictions and thoughts below! 👇