The death of beloved Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) delivered some of the most emotional scenes EastEnders has ever seen, but the Square is set for further sorrow next week when the day of his funeral arrives – and not everything runs to plan.
Mark Fowler Jr (Stephen Aaron-Sipple) family become increasingly concerned after he goes missing, unaware that he has been kidnapped by his criminal associates for failing to repay his debts. His absence threatens to derail Nigel's final farewell when Mark's father and one of Nigel's closest friends, Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp), finally learns of his whereabouts.
On the morning of the funeral, Grant receives a call from Mark's boss Russell, demanding full payment. However, things escalate further when Russell overhears Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) on the call, revealing they have history. When Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) hears what's been happening, he is determined not to let it disrupt his best friend's funeral and persuades a reluctant Grant and Sam to postpone finding Mark until after the proceedings.
Despite their agreement, Phil, Grant, Sam, and Billy decide to find Mark immediately. With unfinished business between Russell and Sam, a tense standoff breaks out.
Classic Mitchell Moments
'Everything escalates very quickly,' explains Kim Medcalf, who plays Sam. 'Although the plan is initially to try and save Mark after the funeral, they realise they can't leave him there and agree that Nigel would have wanted them to act.'
'It balances huge emotion with flashes of humour and nostalgia – there's some classic Mitchell moments. Between the attempted rescue mission and Nigel's funeral, they're reminded who they are as a family,' she adds.
When the Mitchells return to Walford, they join Nigel's loved ones at the church, where those closest to him deliver emotional tributes. Speaking of filming those scenes, Kim reveals: 'It was incredibly emotional. Seeing the packed church really felt like the whole community had come together to honour Nigel. Everyone adores Paul too, which made it even more moving.'
'It was handled with real care and respect by Karen, Steve, Ross and production.'
More Drama Ahead
The drama does not end there, as Phil shares a touching moment with Nigel's wife Julie Bates (Karen Henthorne), and Sam barges in demanding Mitchell sibling time. What mess will the family find themselves in next?
EastEnders airs these scenes from Monday 18th May at 7.30pm on BBC One or streams first from 6am on iPlayer.
