In EastEnders, Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) is already causing quite a stir with his bold, flirtatious behavior, and it looks like his story is about to take an even more unexpected turn. After his release from a young offenders institution, where he served time for joyriding, Oscar is making waves in Albert Square, much to the surprise of his sister, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), who reluctantly takes him in. The tension rises when it becomes clear that Oscar’s past associates, who were involved in trying to petrol bomb Tanya’s (Jo Joyner) house, haven’t exactly helped his reputation.
Oscar quickly rekindles old relationships with Ian and Peter Beale (Adam Woodyatt and Thomas Law), and his attention is immediately drawn to Peter, whom he flirts with relentlessly. From calling him “Hot Pete” to teasing him about watching him in the shower, Oscar’s outrageous behavior catches the attention of viewers and characters alike. In tonight’s episode, things escalate further when Oscar wakes up naked on the sofa and invites Peter to join him, shocking everyone with his boldness.
Amidst the chaos, Oscar sits down with his uncle Jack (Scott Maslen), who notices Oscar’s flirtation with Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James). When Jack probes further, asking if Avani is his type, Oscar reveals that he’s bisexual, openly admitting, “I swing both ways.” This marks a significant moment for Oscar’s character, as he opens up about his sexuality, something that hadn’t been addressed in the show before. Oscar’s confession to Jack also sheds light on his previous relationship with a girlfriend before he was in the youth offenders facility, but his attraction to women and men complicates his romantic journey.
Jack’s response, a nod to Oscar’s father Max Branning’s (Jake Wood) well-known womanizing history, adds an extra layer of humor and complexity to the situation. Fans have been reacting positively to Oscar’s confident and unapologetic personality, with many enjoying his flirtatious antics, especially with Peter. This storyline is not only groundbreaking in terms of representation, but it also brings much-needed levity to the ongoing drama in Albert Square.
As Oscar’s flirtation with Peter and his open sexuality unfold, viewers can expect his presence to continue shaking up the dynamics on the Square, with more shocking moments and hilarious interactions ahead. Will Oscar find romance or more trouble? Stay tuned as EastEnders explores this complex and exciting new chapter for the Branning family.