EastEnders fans are certain they’ve pieced together a gut-wrenching Christmas plot that’s bound to leave audiences reaching for the tissues.
Nigel Bates, portrayed by Paul Bradley, first graced our screens in 1992 and swiftly secured his place as a beloved character among BBC One soap enthusiasts.
Having exited the show after six years in 1998, Nigel made a dramatic return on Christmas Eve 2024, stepping back into the Square after a 26-year hiatus.
It was heartbreakingly disclosed that Nigel is grappling with early onset dementia, and recent episodes have shown him becoming increasingly forgetful, causing Phil Mitchell (played by Steve McFadden) to worry about his mate.
In a poignant moment, Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) paid Phil a visit, urging him to seek additional help for Nigel’s care, but Phil rebuffed the advice from his former spouse, reports Belfast Live.
Later on, Nigel endeavoured to assist Lexi Pearce (Isabella Brown) with her school story, but found himself overwhelmed as they delved into memories of the past.
Phil’s concern deepened when he discovered Nigel with Lexi, whom he mistook for his own daughter Claire Bates (Gemma Bissix).
As Nigel’s condition worsens, fans fear that the cherished character may tragically pass away during the holiday season.
One viewer speculated on social media: “They aren’t going to drag his Dementia storyline on for long. I suspect Nigel is a definite death for Christmas.”
Another chimed in: “I think Nigel will die at christmas tbh and it’s going to be heartbreaking.”
A third shared their sombre prediction: “I sadly think Nigel could die and it will be a teary Christmas.”
Discussing forthcoming scenes and his character’s journey, actor Paul Bradley revealed that Nigel is “experiencing a slow decline”.
“Things have started to happen that are understandably very confusing for him,” he shared.
He further explained: “He often mistakes things in his past for the present day, and his memories are disjointed. When that happens, it is also incredibly upsetting for those around him.”
