BBC EastEnders viewers open-mouthed after realising who David Wicks is related to

EastEnders enthusiasts were left stunned after discovering a surprising familial connection between Walford resident David Wicks and another character.

Soap icon David (played by Michael French) made his return to the BBC One soap this week, a decade after his last appearance in Walford, having first arrived in 1993.

The notorious character made his entrance at his father Pete Beale's (Peter Dean) funeral and quickly became one of the most recognisable faces on the show. Known as Walford's infamous womaniser, David was embroiled in numerous major storylines.

His dramatic tenure on the show included fathering multiple children and engaging in violent altercations. He even nearly embarked on a romance with Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer), only to discover she was his daughter.

David, the Walford rogue, also had an affair with his then-wife, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), which almost resulted in Ian's death. Actor Michael French departed the show in 1996, much to the disappointment of viewers, reports the Daily Star.

However, the villain made a triumphant return to the soap over a decade later in 2012, before leaving again in 2014. Now, a decade later, David returned to the square this week, arriving to support his daughter Bianca amidst her erratic behaviour and depression diagnosis.

Yet, fans have been left astounded upon realising who David Wicks is related to on the soap: Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt). It turns out that David's father Peter Beale is also Ian's father.

One viewer expressed confusion on an EastEnders Facebook fan page, saying: "Just watching EastEnders how is Ian David's half brother??" Another joined in: "Yes I only just clicked with this too can't believe I didn't realise."

A third shared their surprise: "Only found out today myself." Yet another exclaimed: "I know I thought that good old Cindy likes to keep it all in the family."

Regarding his comeback, actor Micheal had previously remarked: "I feel honoured to be asked to reprise the role of David Wicks once again. It may only be a brief visit, but we know from his past that David never fails to create a lot of drama in a very short time."

EastEnders' Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw also commented: "David Wicks is undoubtedly one of EastEnders' most beloved rogues, and we are thrilled to welcome the talented Michael French back to the legendary role as we lead up to the show's 40th anniversary. David's character was never shy of drama during his previous stints, and I can assure you this return will be no different."

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer