Phil – played by Steve McFadden – proposes after he survives a heart attack and re-evaluates his life.
But it does not go to plan as Shirley – actress Linda Henry – turns him down the first time he asks.
A source said: “He has been married several times before so he doesn’t have a great record. There are sure to be a few twists and turns before they make it down the aisle.”
Rival Glenda Mitchell threatens to ruin his day by exposing their romps.
The source said: “Phil will have to work hard if he is going to marry.”
He added: “EastEnders has been hit by complaints with the cot death and baby swap storyline getting people talking about the soap for the wrong reasons.”