Ned Hawkins has been determined to stop his son Ryder from coming out ever since he secretly caught him kissing another man in EastEnders last week.
But today’s episode took things to a disturbing new level, as Ned resorted to blackmail and manipulation in a bid to keep Ryder firmly in the closet.
And fans certainly weren’t impressed by the shocking turn of events.
Ned blackmails Mark today (Credit: BBC)
Ned blackmails Mark in EastEnders today
Yesterday Ned caught Mark and Lauren together at No.31. Today Ned decides to use this to his advantage and blackmails Mark.
Mark is clearly reluctant to get involved with the Walford newcomer. However, he realises he has little choice and joins him in the office at Harry’s Barn. But nothing can prepare Mark for what Ned wants in return for his silence.
He tells Mark that he wants him to put the frighteners on Ryder, clearly planning to scare his son into keeping his sexuality hidden.
Mark is horrified that Ned is asking him to beat up his son. However, Ned twists things and comments that he is sleeping with another man’s wife.
Mark tells him that he won’t do the job, but later Ned tracks him down at home. He pressures Mark into going through with his demands, using mind games to get what he wants.
In the end, Lauren persuades Mark to do as Ned asks.
Mark tells her that it was Ned who saw them together and that he has asked him to do a job for him to keep quiet. Mark doesn’t reveal what the job is, so assuming it isn’t anything too bad, Lauren encourages him to do as Ned wishes so their secret stays safe.
Mark tells Lauren about Ned’s blackmail (Credit: BBC)
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