Emmerdale fans reckon they've figured out who'll be accompanying Brenda Walker on her cruise - and it's not Nicola King.
Brenda, portrayed by Lesley Dunlop, has been a mainstay of the soap since 2008, involved in major storylines including overcoming a brain tumour.
However, reports emerged in November last year that Lesley was set to bid farewell to Emmerdale after a 16-year stint. Recently, the long-standing show has begun setting the stage for Brenda's extended departure.
Viewers will remember that Brenda recently discovered she'd won two tickets for an all-inclusive luxury three-month cruise. But following her break up with Eric Pollard (Chris Chittell) last year, Brenda initially didn't want to embark on the trip.
The relationship with Eric ended when Brenda found out he'd used her savings for a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme. Eric was conned due to his Parkinson's symptoms, leading Brenda to call off their engagement, reports Leicestershire Live.
Recently on the soap, upon learning Brenda didn't want to go on the cruise, her friend and cafe co-owner Nicola King (Nicola Wheeler) expressed interest in the tickets for herself and husband Jimmy (Nick Miles).
However, in Monday's episode (April 1), Brenda informed Nicola she'd changed her mind and decided to go on the cruise. It didn't take long for Nicola to manoeuvre her way into securing the spare ticket.
Emmerdale enthusiasts are convinced they've figured out who'll accompany Brenda on the cruise, thus exiting the Dales – but they're not placing their bets on Nicola. Fans shared their predictions online, with many believing Eric will reunite with Brenda leading to both characters leaving the village.
Over on an Emmerdale Facebook fan page, a viewer expressed their exasperation with Nicola, commenting: "Nicola is annoying me now, I hope she goes with Brenda."
Another speculated about veteran character Eric's departure after a long stint of 39 years, writing: "I think Eric will leave with her and they can have their happy ending!".
A fellow fan concurred, adding: "I said this last week too." Meanwhile, another lamented the potential exit, stating: "I would be sad to see Eric go but I want them to get back together."
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm