EastEnders’ Nigel Bates has revealed another big secret after confirming his tragic diagnosis, in the show’s latest episode.
This week, Nigel became overwhelmed when Phil told him that he planned to sign over his share of the Boxing Den to him.
He fled the house and escaped to the laundrette, and Yolande noticed that something was wrong. It was here that Nigel told her the devastating news that he is living with dementia.
In today’s episode, Nigel explained that he was diagnosed with young on-set dementia about a year ago. He tried to leave, but Yolande insisted that he stay for a cup of tea.
Meanwhile, Phil became worried about Nigel’s whereabouts. He set out to look for him, and Sharon agreed to help with the search.
At the laundrette, Yolande remarked that his wife Julie was selfish for leaving him after his diagnosis and starting a new relationship, but Nigel became defensive.
He revealed that Julie doesn’t know about his dementia, as on the day he received the diagnosis, he packed a bag and walked out without saying goodbye to his wife or giving an explanation.
In emotional scenes, Nigel said that didn’t want Julie to have to watch him deteriorate, but Yolande pointed out that his disappearance will be causing her pain every day.
Reiss later found Nigel stood outside Sonia’s house, and Nigel explained that he used to know Dot. They formed a connection – with Reiss being Dot’s great-nephew – and Nigel was invited inside.
When Yolande called round to tell Reiss that she will be supporting Sonia at her trial next week, she spotted Nigel, and the pair had another chat.
As he reminisced about his close relationship with Dot, Yolande provided Nigel with some religious words of comfort, and he was grateful for her support.
However, Nigel still felt unable to tell Phil about his diagnosis on his return. When Phil explained that his friendship had helped him stay away from alcohol in recent weeks, Nigel had no choice but to accept his offer of the Boxing Den.
Will Nigel be able to tell Phil about his health?
