EastEnders kills off popular gay character in shock death twist
Events took a tragic turn in the popular BBC soap during Monday’s episode.
*SPOILERS*
EastEnders has killed off popular gay character Paul Coker in a shocking storyline twist.
The BBC One soap last week revealed that Ben Mitchell’s family would be informed of his death this week, following a night out with his boyfriend Paul.
Monday night’s episode saw Ian Beale and Phil Mitchell being told that Ben had died after a fight.
However, when they were asked to identify the body, they were shocked to discover it was actually Ben’s boyfriend who had lost his life.
Ben and Paul had last been seen heading out of Walford for a night out, with Paul’s grandparents Les and Pam – who are currently involved in a cross-dressing storyline – believing their beloved grandson had returned safely and was in bed.
The rest of the week will focus on the fallout of Paul’s tragic demise, as the Mitchell’s try to find missing Ben.
Actor Jonny Labey has played the role of Paul for just over a twelve months – but show bosses decided to write him out earlier this year as part of an “explosive” set of episodes.
“It has been [hard to keep secret]. I knew about the exit ages ago so had to stay quiet,” Labey revealed.
“When I heard all the details I was shocked at first as it was my exit storyline. But the storyline is beautifully written and the build up to it is great,” he added.
“The way it’s all been written is great.”
Discussing the aftermath of his character’s death, the actor promised audiences they are in for a “really emotional” week.
“It’s incredible to have a week dedicated to your character. A lot of the really emotional stuff happens after I leave,” he said.
The exit comes just months after Mitchell and Coker went public with their relationship, after viewers complained about a sex scene between the pair that took place in a funeral parlour.
EastEnders will air the aftermath of Paul’s death tonight (Tuesday July 19) at 7.30pm on BBC One.
