BBC announces huge EastEnders story for Phil Mitchell

EastEnders spoilers follow.

Note: The following article contains discussion of themes including depression and suicide.

EastEnders has confirmed a devastating storyline involving Phil Mitchell, which will see the character attempt to take his own life.

Over recent months, Phil has had to deal with a number of struggles, including the end of his and Kat’s marriage, Ben’s lengthy prison sentence and Sharon’s new relationship with his cousin Teddy.

In November last year, it was reported that Phil’s mood would deteriorate over the festive period, and he would begin to experience suicidal thoughts.

phil mitchell, eastenders
BBC

Related: EastEnders to introduce new character in Nigel Bates story

Now the soap has confirmed that Phil’s mental health will continue to decline in upcoming scenes, as he tries to hide his depression from his loved ones – including Nigel Bates, who has recently returned to the show.

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His mental health takes a darker turn as Phil begins to experience psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations. As he reaches breaking point, he starts believing that life is no longer worth living and will attempt suicide.

Executive producer Chris Clenshaw said in a statement: "Phil’s depression storyline will focus on his decline in mental health and the subsequent psychotic symptoms, and the reactions of those around him, as we hope to demonstrate how mental health can affect anyone at any time.

sharon mitchell, phil mitchell, eastenders
BBC

"Steve [McFadden]’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary and has thoughtfully portrayed the complex realities of depression, and the experience of psychotic symptoms, with compassion and understanding."

To tell Phil’s story accurately and sensitively, EastEnders has worked closely with a number of charities – Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) and Mind.

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Wendy Robinson, Director of Services at CALM, said: "EastEnders has always done a great job at shining a light on important issues through the stories they choose to explore, and we’ve been really pleased to support them in presenting this on in a safe and responsible way.

phil mitchell, eastenders
BBC

Related: EastEnders to reveal shocking secret about Gina Knight next week

"Talking about suicide and bringing these stories onto our TV screens helps to break down the stigma surrounding it, which will ultimately save lives."

This important storyline will coincide with the soap’s 40th anniversary next month. As part of the milestone, Ross Kemp is set to reprise his role as Phil’s brother Grant, whose return could be linked to his sibling’s declining mental health.

EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.

Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage


We encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Information about how to access support is available via the NHS, and organisations who can offer help include Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 3393.

Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

EastEnders has worked closely with Mind and Samaritans on Phil’s storyline, as well as the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) and Rethink Mental Illness.

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