Penny’s baby dad secret uncovered in EastEnders – by someone very unexpected

| Deputy Soaps Editor Published September 16, 2026 7:00am An unexpected character uncovered the truth (Picture: BBC / Metro) EastEnders spoilers follow for Wednesday’s (September 16) episode, which can now be streamed on BBC iPlayer. The episode in question will air at 7:30pm. Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) welcomed her baby in emotional EastEnders scenes – but her happiness could be short-lived after someone unexpected uncovered her big secret. The popular character, as viewers know is in a relationship with Vinny Panesar (Shiv Jalota), who is under the impression that he’s definitely the father of her baby. Penny, however, had a one night stand with Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway), the now boyfriend of her best mate Gina Knight (Francesca Henry), at the end of last year, meaning there is a very high possibility that the mechanic is the father. Prior to the birth, Penny resolved to keep such information from Vinny but – on the day of his 30th birthday – she resolved to come clean. Before she could do so, however, her waters broke and she was rushed to hospital. Vinny almost didn’t make it in time for the little one’s arrival but he ultimately did so – and was overwhelmed with emotion to hold his child for the first time. Priya and Penny have grown rather close as of late (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron) Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), who knows of Penny’s dilemma over whether or not to tell Vinny the truth, asked her cousin what her thoughts were on the matter when they were alone. But as Penny came to the conclusion that she will keep shtum, Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) arrived at the hospital to see her – and overheard everything! Yikes. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. Though Priya has become friendly with Penny in recent weeks, she is also very close to Vinny given that he’s Ravi Gulati’s (Aaron Thiara) brother, which puts her in a very awkward situation. Penny welcomed her baby – but is her future with Vinny at stake? (Picture: BBC) Penny, however, is aware that Priya is pregnant – and that there’s a possibility the baby could be Max’s (Jake Wood) – which complicates the situation much further. As it stands, no-one else apart from Ravi knows of Priya’s pregnancy – and Priya would like it to stay that way. Will Priya confront Penny? And if so, will her discovery go any further? Deals of the Day An Instagram mattress left me with back pain – this one completely changed my mind Book Val d'Isère, Val Thorens and Tignes for less in Club Med's ski sale Save 25% on red light therapy masks, sauna blankets and sleep gadgets in Bon Charge sale The viral LED face mask with over 350 lights that's currently discounted by £100 A friend said I looked 'snatched' – I credit this new Charlotte Tilbury powder EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. The Soaps Newsletter – Daily All the latest soaps spoilers and gossip, in your inbox every morning.