Max Branning nearly confesses his role in a deception about Mick Carter's death in Thursday's EastEnders, as the Carter family welcomes a baby named in Mick's honour. The episode, available on BBC iPlayer before its 7.30pm BBC One broadcast, also sees Lee Carter ask for help with his drinking.
Spoilers follow for the 12 November episode. According to Radio Times, Max's attempt to tell Linda Carter the truth is interrupted by news that Nancy Carter is in hospital after going into labour. Originally reported by Radio Times.
Janine's deception leaves Max with a choice
Linda had received a call announcing Mick's death, almost four years after he disappeared in the English Channel. Hoping to organise a farewell, she approached his widow, Janine Butcher, for permission to arrange the funeral.
Janine instead claimed Mick had survived his disappearance and suffered a fatal heart attack at his North London home two weeks earlier. She said she had identified him and arranged his cremation.
Linda and Max's search for answers led them to a funeral organised by Janine, contradicting her account of the cremation. Linda initially wanted to inspect the coffin herself, but withdrew to Max's car and asked him to look instead.
Janine then admitted inventing Mick's death because Lee had revoked the original death certificate, leaving her facing repayment of the life insurance money. She persuaded Max to stay silent rather than contact police, presenting the deception as a chance for him to build a future with Linda without Mick overshadowing their relationship.
Linda and Lee struggle with alcohol
After Linda told her children, Lee refused to accept the news and drank heavily. Linda came close to drinking herself, lifting a bottle before stopping short of taking a sip.
Lee later went to The Prince Albert and accused his mother of damaging his life through her addiction. Linda embraced him, and they returned to Peacock Palace.
There, Max began suggesting that what he had told Linda might have been comforting rather than true. The hospital notification arrived before he could explain.
A newborn named for Mick
At Nancy's bedside, Lee held the newborn and chose the name Michael Carter as a tribute to his father. He then handed the baby to Zack Hudson and broke down.
In the hospital corridor, Lee acknowledged to Linda that his drinking had become a problem and asked for her help.
Originally reported by Radio Times.