EastEnders fans have been left fearing for Nigel Bates (played by Paul Bradley) as he appeared forgetful during Tuesday’s episode of the BBC One soap (December 31).
The classic character reunited with friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) after he found him in the Square on Christmas Day. Phil invited him back to his where they caught up on missed time.
Nigel told him: “Me and Julie split up a while back. Tried to sell the house but couldn’t. She found someone else and wanted me out.” Phil replied: “Couldn’t Clare take you in?”
But Nigel told him: “Nah. We lost contact ages ago.” Phil asked him where he was living and Nigel claimed he was homeless and living in hostels when there was space.
Paul Bradley as Nigel Bates (left) and Steve McFadden as Phil Mitchell -Credit:BBC
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However, when Phil disappeared into the kitchen, it became clear that Nigel had been lying to him. He received a text from wife Julie – and it was obvious they hadn’t split up.
During the latest trip to Walford, Nigel caused more confusion when he called Phil by the name of his brother Grant, leaving Phil amused. Moments later, he confused Phil’s dinner with his own and was left squirming after eating a hot curry.
EastEnders fans are now convinced Nigel is suffering from dementia which is causing him to be forgetful.
Nigel Bates is back in EastEnders -Credit:BBC
Taking to Facebook, one viewer wrote: “Not sure what long term storyline has been given to Nigel, but with him calling Phil Grant and him doing a lot of reminiscing, it suggests to me he might have dementia. It could explain why he ran out on Julie. Just a hunch.”
A second chimed in: “I was thinking that when he called him Grant”, while a third echoed: “I thought that too after tonight’s episode.”
“Definitely thought this too”, added another viewer. Meanwhile on X, one fan asked: “So do we think Nigel may have dementia? #EastEnders.”
“#EastEnders I hope they’re not going to do a dementia storyline for Nigel”, exclaimed another.
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer