EastEnders fans were left buzzing after the National Television Awards. Steve McFadden, the man who has carried Phil Mitchell for more than three decades, walked on stage to collect a huge win. The cheers were loud, the claps went on, and you could see how much it meant to him. However, as he gave his speech, emotions ran high, and he has now set off a wave of questions. Was this just a proud moment, or could it be a hint that his Walford journey is close to an end? Keep scrolling to know more.
Steve’s Emotional NTA Moment Sparks Speculation
Steve got the award for playing Phil Mitchell since 1990 and was cheered by the audience. And Steve looked so touched. He hugged Jessie Wallace and Michelle Ryan and praised the team for their support.
However, his emotional words raised questions. Fans now fear that he is leaving the BBC soap. They posted on Instagram asking their doubts and seeking answers. One could guess by his words as if he were giving a farewell speech. Steve always keeps his personal life private. He has five children. Steve even shares a strong bond with his costars. However, fans are tense if he is making his exit from the soap.
EastEnders Phil Mitchell’s Legacy
Steve is 65 now, and he has made Phil Mitchell an iconic character. He joined the soap alongside Ross Kemp. Fans loved to see the duo together. However, Ross left the soap earlier, but Phil stayed. There were so many interesting episodes that he was a part of. His multiple marriages and complicated family life episodes were worth watching for.
According to some reports, he earns £200,000 a year for his role. His net worth is also over £2.8 million. He is one of the top earners in British soap history. He also hosted Sky One’s game show Britain’s Hardest in 2004. He appeared in Kevin and Perry Go Large in 2000. Steve has won more than 20 award nominations in his career.
It includes Villain of the Year at the British Soap Awards in 2001. And Best Actor at the Inside Soap Awards in 2006. He also got Best Male Soap at the TV Now Awards in 2007. And multiple accolades in 2016, such as Outstanding Achievement and Best Male Dramatic Performance. Earlier this year, he won Best Dramatic Performance at the British Soap Awards before securing his recent Serial Drama Performance win at the NTAs.
However, Walford feels like home to him as he has given 35 years of his life to the soap. For now, everybody wants to know if Phil Mitchell is bidding adieu or not. Even before any official announcement, the fans are worried about him leaving the soap. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.