EastEnders star confirms ‘beautiful ending’ for Nigel

It’s time to say goodbye to Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) in EastEnders, with wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) having been told by doctors that her beloved husband hasn’t got long left.

Perhaps one of Walford’s most loved characters ever, Nigel returned to the Square a year and a half ago after three decades away, confiding in old pal Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) that he’s got dementia.

‘It’s been an absolute privilege to return for a storyline that unfortunately is such a resonant subject for the viewers, but undoubtedly an important storyline to tell and raise awareness of’,’ said Nigel star Paul Bradley on his historic comeback.

‘Returning to the set, and cast, has been amazing and it’s been a rollercoaster. The fact that Steve is still there, and that I could work with him again was fantastic. There is mutual admiration there, and so it was great being asked back, and a privilege to tell this story.’

At the time of Nigel’s return, Phil was in desperate need of support as he was struggling with his mental health. His former mate’s comeback couldn’t have come at a better time, with Nigel proving instrumental in getting him the help he needed.

Overwhelmed, Phil promised to return the favour, being there for Nige as his dementia progressed, supporting both he and Julie in every way he possibly could, proving to be a true friend.

‘They reunited during a crisis point for each of their characters,’ explained Paul. ‘When Phil was at his lowest, Nigel admitted to him that he had dementia, and they made a pledge that they would look after each other, and I think that’s so moving to have someone in your life who will say to you unconditionally that they are going to be there for you.

‘That’s why it’s quite a surprise when Phil gets to a point where he hasn’t been able to see Nigel anymore, but I think it’s the emotional intensity of it all.’

As Paul mentioned, since Nigel entered a care home, Phil hasn’t felt able to go and see him, much to the dismay of his loved ones, who worry how he’ll cope when his treasured mate passes away.

The sad day is approaching, however, with Julie telling Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) – who returned to scenes this week – that time is running out during the latest episode of the show, urging him to return to the care home at once.

And now, an emotional outing of the BBC One soap awaits, as Nigel takes his last breath in what Paul promises to be ‘very moving’ scenes.

‘It’s very moving, and for such a heartbreaking subject matter, it’s a very beautiful ending,’ he said. ‘It’s difficult to describe without giving too much away, but the story has found a way to reconcile a lot of the loose ends in the various relationships Nigel has, and end on a hopeful and positive note.’