EastEnders spoilers follow.
EastEnders explores how Nigel Bates’ loved ones are coping without him next week, as he settles into his new life at the care home. He’s reunited with some of his nearest and dearest as they pay him a visit, but there’s one notable absence.
“Phil is still struggling with the decision to put Nigel into full-time care,” begins our EastEnders insider. “Even though he knew he and Julie couldn’t look after Nigel without professional help as his dementia progresses, he still feels as though he’s let his mate down.
“This is difficult for everyone who cares about Nigel, and they’re all coping in different ways – some better than others.”
Almost a week on from Nigel moving into the home, Phil is avoiding going to see his friend. He’s consumed with guilt at not nursing him through his final days at home — but this isn’t the only medical drama Phil has to contend with.
Phil’s little sister Sam is having radiotherapy following her operation to remove breast cancer, so Phil offers to accompany her to the hospital instead of visiting Nigel.
BBC
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Lexi is finding it particularly hard without Nigel around. The teen had formed a very special bond with her grandad’s best friend and helped Clare Bates make peace with her estranged stepdad when she came to visit.
The schoolgirl is desperate to see how Nigel is getting on, and with Phil indisposed, Callum and Julie take her to the care home instead. Nigel appears to be in good spirits, and Lexi is pleased to see his room is full of photographs as reminders of his life back in Walford.
It’s an emotional reunion as Nigel spends time with his wife and pals. Even though Phil has a perfectly legitimate reason for not being there, there’s the distinct feeling that Julie is secretly disappointed he hasn’t made the effort to visit…
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The trio head back to the Square, and while Lexi is boosted by seeing Nigel, it’s clear she’s more upset about his deterioration than she’s letting on – something Callum realises is starting to cause problems.
“Lexi says she’s too ill to go to school, but she’s obviously faking it,” our source continues. “This isn’t the first time, either. Callum calls her bluff and levels with her – he understands she’s got a lot on her mind but if she misses any more lessons, he’ll have to take her to the doctor!”
Can Lexi and Phil support each other as they adjust to Nigel not being around?
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.
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