EastEnders: Nigel Bates listens to voicemail from his wife
EastEnders fans are on tenterhooks over the fate of Phil Mitchell (played by Steve McFadden) as his silent battle with personal demons takes a dark turn. Phil's heartbreaking descent into depression and loneliness has also left his family worried.
Phil's vulnerability was glimpsed when Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) made a festive return, becoming an unwitting focal point for Phil's growing despair.
On Tuesday (January 7), a bold move saw Phil transfer his Boxing Den shares to Nigel, eluding his partner Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean).
Despite Nigel's attempts to reason with him, Phil was resolute in his decision during Wednesday's trip to Walford (Janaury 8).
However, Nigel's revelation to Sharon set off a chain reaction, leading to a heated showdown at The Vic where Phil's stoic facade crumbled, admitting, "I'm done, I'm tired."
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An intervention quickly materialised as Sharon rallied the Mitchells, but Phil rebuffed their concerns over his health, attributing his unkempt home to bachelorhood rather than a deeper issue.
This has sent alarm bells ringing among viewers who, connecting the dots, fear Phil is hurtling towards a tragic end, reports the Manchester Evening News.
On the social media platform X, concerned fans of the show expressed their worries about the potential direction of Phil's storyline. One fan cautioned: "They better not mess around and try do a Phil suicide story #eastenders".
Another viewer inquired: "Is Phil having a suicide storyline? #EastEnders."
A third fan shared their speculation with a friend, saying: "Just told my friend that they're gonna give Phil a [suicide-storyline] and look all he's saying is "I'm tired" and Grants is coming back."
Some fans are already picking up on subtle hints in the show, with one noting: "Phil giving away his possessions randomly.....I think I know where this is leading" Another impassioned fan pleaded: "Protect Phil Mitchell at ALL costs. #EastEnders".
If you are struggling and need someone to talk to, contact the Samaritans by calling 116 123, or via their website.
EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer
