EastEnders fans are buzzing with speculation that Nicky Di Marco could be poised for a sensational comeback to Walford after the demise of her ex-beau Martin Fowler (portrayed by James Bye).
Carly Hillman, who stepped into Nicky's shoes back in 1998, became an integral part of the iconic Di Marco clan, arriving in Walford with her mum Rosa (played by Louise Jameson), elder brothers Beppe (Michael Greco) and Gianni (Marc Bannerman), along with her sister Theresa (Leila Birch).
Nicky quickly struck up a friendship with Sonia Jackson (Natalie Cassidy) and had a fleeting romance with Martin. Her love life took a dramatic twist when she fell for Rod Morris (Forbes Masson), her maths teacher, leading to a harrowing storyline.
The plot thickened as Nicky tried to lure Rod, resulting in him attacking her. The aftermath saw her brother Gianni lash out at the teacher, fuelled by doubts about Nicky's account of events.
This chain of events led to Nicky's exit from the Square in 2000, as she escaped to a youth hostel, reports Plymouth Live.
In the EastEnders episode aired on Tuesday (April 8), whispers of Nicky's return intensified following a mention of her name during Martin's funeral preparations.
Jean Slater (Gillian Wright), while tending to Martin's fruit and veg stall, mentioned receiving a card from someone named Nicky.
"Nicky Di Marco", Stacey clarified, recalling Martin's past stories about her.
Social media has been rife with chatter, with one viewer posting on X: "Nicky Di Marco mention in 2025??! Is crazy #EastEnders."
Another chimed in: "TWO mentions of Nicky Di Marco in the last few months. The return looms. #EastEnders."
A third fan shouted: "A Nicky di Marco reference in 2025? ! #EastEnders."
While one viewer couldn't contain their excitement, writing: "NICKY DI MARCO! #EastEnders", another chimed in with a similar sentiment, saying: "OMG A Nicky Di Marco mention."
EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer