This article contains spoilers from Thursday’s episode of EastEnders, which is already streaming on BBC iPlayer.

EastEnders appeared to confirm a major theory about Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) as her forthcoming return was teased during Thursday’s episode.

The character was carted off to jail three years ago when Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) framed her for growing a cannibis farm as revenge for her lying to falsely imprison Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).

At the time, it was hinted Ruby was pregnant with ex-husband Martin Fowler’s (James Bye) baby, but fans were left wondering what ever happened to her after she was sent down.

There was a shock update about her on Thursday, however, as Chrissie Watts (Tracy-Ann Oberman) revealed to Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) she had briefly shared a cell with Ruby.

Sharon was then stunned when Chrissie unknowingly revealed she’d had Martin’s baby, telling of how Ruby had been moved after giving birth.

Back in her cell, Sharon continued to reel as she looked at a picture of Martin – and with her release set for next week, it likely won’t be long before he learns the truth…

Chrissie confronts Sharon in her cell in EastEnders

Earlier this month, it was confirmed Ruby would be making her way back to Albert Square in the lead up to EastEnders’ 40th anniversary in February.

Speaking of her comeback, actress Louisa Lytton said: ‘I am thrilled to have been asked back to the Square to revisit Ruby once more, and to shed some light on what the past three years have been like for her during her time away from Walford.

‘I’ve always loved playing Ruby as there is never a dull moment and I cannot wait for everyone to see what Ruby has in store.’

Ruby Allen in a yellow jacket, black top and blue jeans outside the Queen Vic in EastEnders

Meanwhile, Thursday’s episode also saw Chrissie released from prison before she was reunited with Jake Moon (Joel Beckett), who made a previously unannounced cameo appearance.

With Ruby and Chrissie now having their freedom, could the former cellmates team up to wreak havoc on Walford?

While Tracy-Ann Oberman’s guest stint as Chrissie has come to an end, she has previously teased she would be up for reprising the role again, saying: ‘I had such a great time, so you know what they say, never say never…’