Phil Mitchell and Nigel Bates have been through a lot lately on EastEnders. Phil, who has already had a tough year with his own struggles, is now stepping up for Nigel after the dementia news. Fans have seen how much this friendship is keeping Phil going. EastEnders boss Ben Wadey says he’s excited for viewers to see what comes next for the pair. Keep scrolling to know more.
Phil Steps Up For Nigel
Phil Mitchell had a tough year on the BBC soap. He had depression and even wanted to take his own life. However, he kept all his personal struggles to himself. He did so to help and care for his long-time friend, Nigel Bates. He took it on as his responsibility. Nigel has young-onset dementia. Fans absolutely love watching the two together. Their scenes are always realistic.
Phil has always been there for Nigel. He is trying his best to keep Nigel safe and happy. He has been through Nigel’s highs and lows. There have been times when the weight of the responsibility was too high, but Phil did not give up. Fans love how real the struggles feel and how honestly their friendship is shown. They also love the chemistry between the two actors. Each episode shows another side to their bond. It proves that real friendships go through a lot, but the strong ones last. Fans love seeing how a person you care for changing so drastically is reflected in their storyline.
They have made people nostalgic through their everyday lives. They share meals, joke about old times, and even their small gestures of care are something that makes their bond even more beautiful. Away from chaos, their happy moments are what the audiences enjoy. Their friendship is the heart of Walford.
It’s something many people face in real life, too. It highlights the importance of mental health support for those who go through some sort of illness. And it is also for those who take care of them. Fans know that Phil and Nigel’s journey is not easy. But it is relatable to everybody.
EastEnders Boss Hints At More Heartfelt Moments
The executive producer, Ben Wadey, says that there is more emotional ground to cover with their storyline. He called their relationship beautiful. He knows that the audience is invested in seeing how their story unfolds. Ben says that it is important to show stories that involve mental health.
Steve McFadden, in speaking of Phil, says he loves playing the character. It is an honour to bring certain characters to the limelight who often go unheard. He also credits his real-life friendship with Paul Bradley, who plays Nigel. Their real-life friendship helps their on-screen friendship to look so real.
Ben Wadey told the audience that the upcoming episodes will show more struggles and victories in their relationship. Their bond is between two people who refuse to give up, no matter how tough it becomes. And fans are also completely in awe of their friendship. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.