EastEnders casts much-loved actor for special Phil Mitchell episode - and fans will be shocked
During the soap's 40th anniversary episodes in February, Walford legend Phil (played by Steve McFadden) tried to take his own life and was later taken to a mental health unit. In the upcoming instalment, Phil will befriend fellow patient Gaz, played by special guest star Keith Allen, who will help him open up and begin his road to recovery.
The special episode will be set across four weeks, seeing Phil begin treatment to address his inner trauma and understand his depression and symptoms of psychosis. Gaz will bond with Phil, helping him to engage in therapy and group activities after initially being reluctant.
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Keith launched his acting career in 1981 when he starred as he played Heckler in the series Wolcott.
The 71-year-old is known for a variety of roles, with highlights including Trainspotting (1996), The Others (2001) and more recently, The Buckingham Murders (2023), Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017) and the TV series Robin Hood (2006 - 2009).
Speaking on his guest role, Keith said: "I've written a number one hit single, I've presented Top of the Pops, I've played the lead in the West End and I was at Craven Cottage when we beat Juventus 4-1...Could it get better than that?"
He added: "Well, yes, I've just guested in an episode of EastEnders... What a joy! And what an honour to be a part of Steve McFadden's incredibly moving story line. I may be a resting actor but I now rest in peace."
The BBC soap has worked with several charities including The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and Mind to ensure Phil's story is portrayed accurately and sensitively.
The show's executive producer Chris Clenshaw has shared his excitement at Keith joining EastEnders, he said: "I'm delighted to welcome the incredibly talented Keith Allen to the cast of EastEnders as he takes on the guest role of Gaz in a special episode focusing on Phil's mental health.
"As Phil struggles to begin treatment, we explore how his relationship with fellow patient Gaz, helps Phil to take the first step in his road to recovery."
Paying tribute to the soap stars, Chris added: "Keith and Steve's performances are both phenomenal, and thoughtfully and sensitively portray the complex realities of mental health recovery and the impact of hypermasculinity."
EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer
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