Ravi’s explosive EastEnders exit story ‘confirmed’ and it will change everything

| Deputy Soaps Editor Published August 17, 2026 9:06am Updated August 17, 2026 9:12am Ravi is set to wave an explosive goodbye to the Square (Picture: BBC/ Metro) EastEnders fans were left saddened over the weekend when it was reported that Ravi Gulati star Aaron Thiara would be saying goodbye to Walford after four years. Having taken centre stage in many high-octane storylines over the years – ranging from killing both his fathers to falling in love once more with Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) – it’s safe to say Ravi has left quite the impression on viewers. Much like Linda Carter (Kellie Bright), who is sadly also set to depart the show, a character of Ravi’s calibre will require a big exit to wrap up his story, which begs the question of just how exactly he will leave. But could EastEnders already have cleverly hinted at Ravi’s final storyline earlier in the year? As fans will know, a flash-forward episode aired in January, showcasing the events of New Year’s Day 2027, with Max Branning’s (Jake Wood) kids Oscar (Pierre Counihan-Moullier) and Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) set to be taken hostage by a mysterious person who holds them at gunpoint. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. While the identity of the gun-toting gangster has been yet to be revealed, fans are already starting to wonder if – following news of his exit -Ravi could be the culprit in question. Ravi will not be pleased when he uncovers the truth about Priya’s relationship with Max (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) ‘Ravi [is] the gunman then,’ said X/Twitter user GG. It was a sentiment echoed by user sukeve_xo, who wrote: ‘This confirms my theory that Priya is the pregnant woman in Max’s bed and Ravi is the gunman’ Rebecca had a similar thought, writing: ‘I think Ravi is going to be the gunman and will either die or go to prison and that’ll be how he leaves next year.’ But why exactly would Ravi have an axe to grind with Max? Because of his affair with Priya of course! When Ravi returned to the Square following a stay in a mental health facility, he was determined to win back Priya, who had her heart broken when he ended the relationship previously. Does Max’s flashforward episode prove a huge clue regarding Ravi’s goodbye? (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) To his shock, he learned that Priya was seeing a mystery man – and he’s since made it his mission to find out who it is. The man in question, as viewers are aware, is none other than her boss Max, who is all set to marry Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins). Could Ravi perhaps uncover the truth of Max and Priya’s relationship and thus decide to take revenge on Max by taking his children prisoner and forcing him to choose between them – on New Years’ Day? If so, will this play a direct role in how Ravi exits the show? A source told The Sun, who first reported the story, that star Aaron would remain filming until the end of the year so it is possible that his departure will be directly tied to the events of the January 1 episode. You’ll just have to keep watching in order to find out! EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you Arrow MORE: EastEnders wedding drama confirmed as Ravi tries to seal future with Priya Arrow MORE: EastEnders’ Max left in a panic as his sordid secrets close in on him Arrow MORE: Kat rescues gloomy Kim after she is left heartbroken over Denise in EastEnders The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.