Character Nigel Bates has revealed his diagnosis for an ongoing storyline.
Nigel, played by Paul Bradley, returned to the BBC soap on Christmas Eve after almost three decades away, having left in April 1998.
In Wednesday night’s episode he told Yolande Trueman that he is living with the progressive condition that causes degeneration of the brain and asks her not to tell anyone else.
💔 #EastEnders Watch the whole episode now 👉https://t.co/uDyVH2dxGp
Details of organisations offering information and support with dementia are available at https://t.co/OzdVGAcgXz, or you can call for free to hear recorded information on 08000 560 780. pic.twitter.com/MaadSGBREq
— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) January 8, 2025
EastEnders begins young onset dementia storyline
In future episodes, fans will see him share more about his diagnosis, how his dementia is affecting his life and his decision to return to Albert Square.
The soap’s executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, said: “Nigel’s story will explore the challenges faced by people diagnosed with young onset dementia and their loved ones, which is why working with Dementia UK has been so vital.
“As Nigel’s story unfolds, viewers will learn more about the decisions he’s made and how he’s coping with such a difficult diagnosis.”
Nigel’s biggest storylines have included him falling in love with his video shop employee Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett) before she was killed in a hit-and-run accident and becoming a son figure to Dot Cotton (June Brown) which caused tension between him and her son “nasty” Nick (John Altman).
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Dr Hilda Hayo, chief admiral nurse and chief executive of charity Dementia UK, said: “We’re pleased to be working alongside EastEnders to help raise awareness of young onset dementia, a condition which is often misunderstood.
“Obtaining a diagnosis of young onset dementia can be challenging, and it is often even harder to find age-appropriate support.
“Our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses work with people like Nigel across the country, and we know the confusion, fear and anxiety he feels is a reflection of what many people go through every day.”
The full 2022 season of #EastEnders is now available to binge on @BBCiPlayer. Rewatch the reunion of one of The Square’s most loved couples, plus the return of familiar faces like Sam Mitchell and Alfie Moon! Link to watch here 👉 https://t.co/uMZ8x1Epxn pic.twitter.com/M1N9mbEZ9U
— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) January 8, 2025
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What is young onset dementia?
Dementia is described as “young onset” when symptoms develop before the age of 65, according to Dementia UK.
As dementia is frequently thought of as a condition associated with old age, the early symptoms of young onset dementia, including changes in language and motivation, are not always recognised and may be attributed to other causes.
Dementia UK has a dedicated free helpline so anyone who needs support or advice on living with dementia can contact them on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org.
