EastEnders fans ‘confused’ as Walford legend doesn’t return to soap

EastEnders fans have been left confused by scenes in the latest episode after an iconic character remained in America following a brief trip across the pond

Fans of EastEnders have been left baffled by Ian Beale’s (played by Adam Woodyatt) disappearance as he failed to return to Albert Square following his trip to the US.

Ian, along with his mum Kathy (Gillian Taylforth) and Ben’s daughter Lexi (Isabella Brown), headed to America to visit Ben (Max Bowden) in prison. Ben is currently behind bars for credit card fraud and was extradited to the US earlier this year.

But during Monday’s episode (August 19), when Kathy caught up with Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) about her trip across the pond, she revealed that Ian decided to stay over there. Discussing the situation over a cup of tea, Kathy gave insight into Ian’s whereabouts.

Sonia said: “Poor Ben! And how was Lexi?”

**Kathy shared details on Ian’s whereabouts in EastEnders** (Image: BBC)

Kathy replied: “Well, she was putting on a brave face for him you know. Telling him all about the American sweets we picked up at the airport.

“Ian decided to stay another week you know, to try and sort things out. I told Cindy but I could swear she was thrilled not to have him home.”

But some viewers found Ian’s decision to stay in America perplexing and headed over to X formerly known as Twitter to share their thoughts. One fan wrote: “Ian staying to help Ben, even though Ben’s never given two s***s about him.” (sic)

**Ian is still in America trying to assist with Ben**

Another confused viewer also wrote: “Is Ian Beale still in Eastenders?”

According to the spoilers, in upcoming episodes, viewers will see Ben’s dad Phil (Steve McFadden) and half-brother Ian joining forces to aid their mutual family member. This follows Kathy’s return from the States, where she informs Phil about their son’s dire situation.

Simultaneously, Kathy pleads with her former spouse to focus all his energy on supporting Ben’s appeal. Back in March, audiences watched in shock as police apprehended the young mechanic under an international warrant.

**Ben is in prison in America for fraud** (Image: BBC)

The charges stemmed from a trip to the US last year, where he made a futile attempt to enroll dying Lola Pearce into a drug trial. It was later revealed that Ben’s credit cards had been frozen.

Instead of resolving the issue legally, he resorted to stealing someone else’s card. Ben splurged thousands on hotel stays, car hire, and a business-class flight back home.

EastEnders is available to watch on BBC IPlayer.