EastEnders just gave Nigel Bates a massive scare after he nearly drowned in his own bathtub. Between Phil’s dangerous secrets and Julie’s struggle to accept Nigel’s dementia, the family is falling apart.
Now, a surprise move to a care home and a desperate call to his daughter Clare change everything. With all his loved ones closer to him, are we moving to the endgame for Nigel on the soap? Here is exactly what happens next for Nigel in Walford.
Nigel’s Health Declines In EastEnders
Nigel‘s latest scare came after he nodded off in the bath. It happened when Phil Mitchell got distracted by Mark Fowler Jr arriving at the door. However, he managed to pull him out in time. But the sad news came when the hospital said that he had been dangerously close to losing his life.
Now, Nigel is recovering in the hospital. But a place has opened up for him in a local care home. Also, this becomes the turning point for Julie and Phil. They have been clashing for weeks. It grew stronger when Julie learnt that Phil had planned to take Nigel to Portugal without talking to her.
Despite this, she forgave him. However, she had no idea that he had also kept the care home offer from her. But when it was revealed, they finally agreed that Nigel cannot be left without full support anymore. Accepting the placement, Julie calls the home, even though it hurts her.
Later, things flare up again when Nigel keeps asking for Clare. Phil thinks that they should reach out. However, Julie refuses at first and shuts the idea down. But Lexi overhears and reminds Julie how much Clare meant to Nigel when she was young. After this, Julie rethinks her decision and reaches out to her.
What The Show Confirms About Nigel’s Ending
Clare has been gone for years. Also, it has been nearly three decades since she last shared scenes with Nigel. Also, she had no idea about her stepdad’s onset of dementia until Julie contacted her. Elsewhere, Nigel’s exit has been expected. The show has already confirmed that his time in Walford will eventually end. Paul Bradley’s return was meant to be temporary.
Even Julie has already sold their house to cover care costs. And Phil has become a carer through a friend. Executive Producer Ben Wadey said the storyline will follow Nigel and Phil’s bond. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.