Fans were left scratching their heads when newcomer Avani's age was revealed.
The new character, who's Priya and Ravi's daughter (though he didn't know about her until very recently) is meant to be 14. Her age was confirmed during tonight's episode (Wednesday October 18) in a throw-away line, but viewers had some questions.
Mainly they were wondering how a 14-year-old could look so much older than her years.
There's a very simple answer to that, and that's that Aaliyah James, the actress who's bringing Avani to life, is actually 23. That's right, nearly a decade older than her character.
READ MORE: EastEnders viewers 'can't stop laughing' as Avani compares Martin Fowler to Hollywood actor
"Why didn't they just cast an actual 14 year old instead of some who looks like they're in their 20s," one fan wrote.
Another joked that she's the 'world's oldest 14-year-old', while a third chimed chimed in: "Ravi’s daughter Avani is only 14."
Yesterday (Tuesday, October 17) saw Priya confront Ravi with the truth that Avani is his daughter.
While walking through the market, Avani insulted Nugget's hairstyle to Denzel Danes as he held a poster of his missing friend after hearing he's arrived back home. Avani then set her sights on Zack Hudson and Martin Fowler as they stood at his fruit and veg stall.
After trying to flirt with the two men, Zack made a swift exit as she tried to get the market stallholders' attention. "I guess it's your lucky day then," Avani told Martin. "I've got daddy issues and you're giving off Pedro Pascal vibes, what's your name?"
"Well I'm Martin and you're a child," he replied before giving the teenager a warning. "Look, please...you want to be careful around here, right? Pervs everywhere."
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