EastEnders confirms sexuality storyline for Ryder Hawkins
EastEnders has confirmed a new storyline for Ryder Hawkins, which will see him opening up about his sexuality. Nicola Mitchell encourages her nephew to be true to himself – but other family members aren't quite as supportive.
In next week's episodes, Ryder is reunited with an old football coach, who urges him to return to the sport. Though Ryder is unsure about the idea, his dad Ned Hawkins pushes him to rejoin the team.
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When Nicola questions Ryder's reluctance, he explains the struggles faced by his former teammate after coming out. The pair have a heartwarming chat, with Nicola understanding his perspective.
Feeling supported, Ryder confides in his auntie about the man he's been seeing. He also opens up about the pressure from Ned, who has a strong influence over his life.
Meanwhile, Ned invites the whole community to a big event at Harry's Barn, as he celebrates becoming co-owner of the club. After the encouragement from Nicola, Ryder decides to have an honest conversation with his mum.
Unbeknownst to Ryder, Ned overhears him asking to speak with Gemma and muscles in before they can chat. Ned continues to pressure Ryder to conform, but will the latter back down?
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"Ned is shaping up to be a major villain, so it seems that he could be one to watch in this storyline," says our EastEnders insider. "We've seen that he likes to be in control – and that extends to his relationship with his son, too.
"With Ned being so manipulative, will he stop Ryder from coming out?"
EastEnders airs on Mondays-Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
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