EastEnders has confirmed a heartbreaking storyline on the way ahead of the 40th anniversary which will see a BBC soap legend attempt to take his own life.
Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, has been struggling with loneliness, with loved ones like Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) fearing for his wellbeing.
But when Phil starts to experience psychosis, he begins to believe his life is not worth living, which leads to a devastating suicide attempt.
The story is likely to tie in with the return of Ross Kemp as Phil’s brother Grant.
EastEnders has been working with charities The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and Mind to ensure Phil’s story is portrayed as accurately and as sensitively as possible.
A spokesperson for the soap went into further detail on the story, explaining: ‘Having withdrawn from his family and friends in recent months following Sharon’s newfound relationship with his cousin Teddy, the breakdown of his marriage to Kat, and Ben’s incarceration in America, viewers will continue to see Phil’s mental health decline as he attempts to hide his depression from those around him.
‘The storyline will follow Phil, and the characters closest to him, as Phil’s depression takes hold and his psychotic symptoms intensify, with the character experiencing hallucinations at the crisis point where he starts to believe his life is no longer worth living.’
Pictures recently showed the cast filming at a graveyard, with Phil looking upset and clearly struggling.
Show boss Chris Clenshaw continued, adding: ‘Phil’s depression storyline will focus on his decline in mental health and the subsequent psychotic symptoms, and the reaction of those around him, as we hope to demonstrate how mental health can affect anyone at any time.
‘Steve’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary and has thoughtfully portrayed the complex realties of depression, and the experience of psychotic symptoms, with compassion and understanding.’
The charities involved have closely supported the soap in executing the hard-hitting storyline, something which EastEnders is known for.
Lorna Fraser, Head of Samaritans’ Media Advice Service, said: ‘The EastEnders team has done a great job capturing the reality of a mental health crisis, and we were delighted to help them tell Phil’s story in a safe and responsible way.
‘It’s good to show the importance of checking in and lending a listening ear in this way.’
Kat Allin, Associate Director of Media & Campaigns at Rethink Mental Illness, said: ‘Phil’s story serves as a powerful reminder that mental illness can affect anyone, highlighting how hard it can be to understand and cope with what’s happening.
‘Our hope is that Phil’s story will resonate with viewers and spark meaningful conversations in homes across the country, encouraging people to rethink their perceptions of mental illness.’
Wendy Robinson, Director of Services at Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), said: ‘EastEnders has always done a great job at shining a light on important issues.
‘Talking about suicide and bringing these stories onto our TV screens helps to break down the stigma surrounding it, which will ultimately save lives.’
Joe Levenson, Head of Media at Mind, shared: ‘On-screen fictional portrayals can drastically shift how we think, feel, and behave in relation to our mental health.
‘Loneliness, depression, and suicide are all devastating, and we know the figures of those affected in the UK are huge, particularly among men. We sadly need storylines like Phil’s now more than ever.’
One of TV’s most recognisable and loved actors, it’s inevitable that Steve McFadden will give a performance that resonates.
As is the power of soap, it is highly likely to spark discussion, and may even save lives.
When Coronation Street aired the suicide of Aidan Connor some years ago, calls to charities soared to unprecedented levels.
Recently, writer Dan Egg penned a piece for Metro highlighting the importance of the issue being raised with a character like Phil.
