EASTENDERS - First Look at newbie Karin...

When the gorgeous EastEnders people announced that Denise Van Outen would be joining in a guest role, stirring up trouble and strife, particularly for the men of Walford, my initial thought was 'it's gonna be Max!' It had to be, right?

And right I was...

From this little spoiler photo, from tonight's episode, we see Denise's character, Karin Smart, passionately embracing Albert Square's resident Don Lothario himself...

Of course, Karin isn't in Walford to see Max, because, at first she's an 'acquaintance' of Phil Mitchell. The 'K' we've seen calling him since he's return home is Karin and not Kathy - she'll be back later! - but how does Ms Smart know Mr Mitchell?

Well after striking a business deal with Max, Karin soon falls for his charms and they end up in the above situation! But Max should watch out because Karin is not all she seems. 

My instincts say she's been sent by Phil to honey business-trap Max in a ploy to get the beloved Arches back in Mitchell hands. Phil knows Max can't seem to ignore a beautiful woman, so has he fallen into the trap?

Having said that, those EastEnders bosses have been very good at springing surprises on us of late (cough cough Kathy Beale!) so Phil may have more of a motive behind Karin's appearance than meets the eye. 

I also can't see a certain Sharon Mitchell being too happy about this mystery blonde her husband seems to have acquired during his time away from the Square. 

Watch out though Sharon, because whatever happens, I'm sure Karin has nothing on Kathy, when she finally returns home! 

See Karin's arrival tonight at 7.30pm on BBC1. 

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