Steve McFadden Delivers ‘Extraordinary’ Performance in EastEnders’ Groundbreaking Mental Health Plot

A Landmark Performance in a Milestone Year

Steve McFadden is celebrating his own remarkable milestone, having been a fixture in Walford for 35 years. His latest portrayal of Phil Mitchell’s mental health crisis has been described as ‘nothing short of extraordinary’ by EastEnders Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw, as the show takes on a groundbreaking storyline focusing on depression and psychotic symptoms.

The Current Storyline

The character’s mental health has declined following a series of personal setbacks, including Sharon’s new relationship with his cousin Teddy, the breakdown of his marriage to Kat, and his son Ben’s incarceration in America. As his illness has become more severe, Phil has experienced hallucinations, seeing visions of his younger self and family members, including his brother Grant and parents Peggy and Eric. The situation reaches a critical point when he considers ending his life using a bullet given to him by his dying father.

A Career Defined by Excellence

McFadden, whose career has spanned three decades, rose to prominence for his role as Phil Mitchell in EastEnders since 1990. His portrayal has earned him numerous accolades, including the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement. Reflecting on his career, McFadden revealed that when he first decided to become an actor, many doubted his choice. His goal was to create work that ‘people down the market will talk about and the kids in the school playground will talk about in their lunch break.’ He notes that he’s ‘ended up where I wanted to be without really knowing it’.

Impact and Recognition

The EastEnders team has been praised by mental health professionals for their portrayal of a mental health crisis, with the Samaritans’ Media Advice Service commending their ability to tell Phil’s story in a safe and responsible way. The nature of the soap format has allowed them to present sensitive topics through characters audiences can relate to. The storyline’s significance has led to a special episode partnership with Comic Relief, airing on Friday, 21 March, as part of the charity’s 40th-anniversary fundraising event.