The baby has a name — and Walford can’t stop talking about it.

In the aftermath of Lauren Branning’s emotional emergency labour, EastEnders delivered another surprise during the May 8 episode: Lauren and Peter Beale revealed their newborn son’s name… and fans have very strong opinions.

As Cindy Beale rushed Lauren to the hospital after a delayed ambulance, tensions were still high between the families. Cindy, despite a rocky history that includes drug dealing and betrayal, stepped up for Lauren in her time of need. And even though Peter and Ian coldly shut her out, Cindy stayed — showing compassion few expected.

Lauren gave birth to a healthy baby boy, and soon after, she and Peter made a choice that stunned viewers and stirred major chatter across social media:

They named their son Jim Branning.

💥 A Tribute… or a Twist?

The name “Jim” immediately sparked speculation among EastEnders fans. Was it a tribute to Jim Branning, Lauren’s late grandfather and husband to the iconic Dot Cotton? Or was there a deeper, hidden meaning?

While many embraced the homage to a legendary family figure, others picked up on a potential real-world reference — James Bye, the actor who played Martin Fowler and whose character recently died during the Queen Vic explosion. Known affectionately as “Jimmy” behind the scenes, some viewers wonder if the name was a subtle nod to the much-loved actor.

On social media, the reactions came thick and fast:

• “Why have they called it Jimmy? I thought they’d have called it Martin unless it’s a tribute to the actor?”

• “I thought Jimmy might’ve been a nod to James Bye aka Martin Fowler.”

• “Jim is a Branning name. Jack’s son was named after him too. Makes total sense to keep it in the family.”

Regardless of intention, it’s a name that carries weight — steeped in both legacy and possible behind-the-scenes sentimentality.

🍼 Family Fallout Continues

Even amid the joy of the birth, tensions remain sky-high in the Beale and Branning households. Cindy, once again rejected by Ian and Peter despite helping Lauren deliver her son, declared she has no intention of staying quiet. She’s now planning to go after Ian and Kathy’s business interests, threatening yet another power struggle within the Beale clan.

And Peter, torn between gratitude and resentment, insists Cindy has no place in his life — or his child’s.

📺 What’s Next?

As Walford celebrates the arrival of Baby Jimmy, storm clouds are already gathering. Cindy is on the warpath, Lauren’s sobriety hangs by a thread, and Peter’s fractured loyalty could destroy the family from within.

But one thing is clear: Jimmy Branning’s birth is more than just a new life — it’s the start of a whole new era of EastEnders drama.