EastEnders star teases "fantastic" storyline for Ian and Elaine: "The fight is on"

When asked about the duo's feud potential turning into a romance, Harriet Thorpe revealed that she she "couldn't possibly say"...

Harriet Thorpe as Elaine Knight and Adam Woodyatt as Ian Beale in EastEnders, looking at each other angrily in the pub.

BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron

Published: Saturday, 7 March 2026 at 11:08 am

Subscribe to Radio Times: 10 weeks for £10, including the Christmas double issue

As Elaine and Ian continue to feud on EastEnders, Elaine star Harriet Thorpe has teased how the "fantastic" storyline is set to continue.

Ad

The feud began when Elaine opened Peacock Palace, and started attempting to steal business from Kathy's caff. Elaine then accidentally injured Kathy, and, most recently, both Elaine and Ian have decided to run for a vacant position on the local council, competing with each other for the role.

Speaking to Inside Soap, as reported by Digital Spy, Thorpe said of the duo's feud: "I love the beef they have as they're vying to get on the council. There are serious stories going on with other characters that are often life and death, but with Ian and Elaine, it's the pettiness and hilarity of the neighbourhood WhatsApp group, and it's a joy to play."

Some fans of the soap have suggested that the feud could ultimately turn into a romance, with Harriet responding that she "couldn't possibly say!" when asked about that proposal.

Ian and Elaine smile at one another at The Queen Vic bar in a scene from EastEnders

Harriet Thorpe as Elaine and Adam Woodyatt as Ian in EastEnders. BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron

"Ian is another one [as well as Max Branning] who's worked his way around the Square, I don't think Elaine has time for all that, but who knows?," she added.

Meanwhile, teasing the future of the storyline and how it might progress, Thorpe said: "The gauntlet is down and the fight is on. It's funny and fantastic at the same time. They're both out to get each other, and it's a brilliant roller coaster of a journey that will keep delivering! What's about to happen between them will hook everyone in…"

Want to see this content?

This page contains content provided by Google reCAPTCHA. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Google reCAPTCHA may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose 'Accept and continue' to allow Google reCAPTCHA and its required purposes.

Accept and continue

It has already been revealed that next week will see Ian asking Oscar for help in his campaign, unaware that Elaine has already enlisted him to run a smear campaign against Ian.

When Ian rumbles their plan, he and Elaine both realise that they've been played - but how will they react?

Visit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers.

Add EastEnders to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.

Ad

Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

Authors

Black and white cut-out portrait headshot of James Hibbs, smiling against a lime green background.

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

Ad

Ad

Get the Christmas double issue

Too much to watch at Christmas? Let Radio Times do the choosing to find something the whole family will enjoy.

Subscribe by 3 Dec

Loading...

Ad

Loading...