EastEnders has announced that Keith Allen will guest star in "a special episode focusing on Phil's (Steve McFadden) mental health recovery".
"Set across four weeks, the episode will focus on Phil's journey in the mental health unit from the moment he starts treatment as his character prepares to face his inner trauma and understand what may have contributed to his depression diagnosis and his symptoms of psychosis," said the BBC soap.
"Having attempted to end his own life on the 40th anniversary when his mental health reached a crisis point, Phil is initially reluctant to open up in therapy and group activities, but he soon befriends another patient called Gaz after the pair bond over their shared life experience.
"Keith Allen, star of the small and silver screen, will take on the role of Gaz, and is known for a variety of roles, with highlights including Trainspotting (1996), The Others (2001), and more recently, The Buckingham Murders (2023).
"EastEnders has worked closely with The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and Mind to ensure Phil's story is portrayed as accurately and as sensitively as possible."
Guest star Allen said: "I've written a number one hit single (World in Motion), I've presented Top of the Pops, I've played the lead in the West End, and I was at Craven Cottage when we (Fulham FC) beat Juventus 4-1... Could it get better than that?
"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 storyline. I may be a resting actor, but I now rest in peace."
Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: "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 on his road to recovery.
"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."
If you have been affected by issues raised in this story, please visit: www.rte.ie/helplines.
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