EastEnders fans ‘work out’ Phil Mitchell’s new lover and it’s bad news for Nigel Bates

EastEnders fans are convinced that Phil Mitchell is set for a new romance with a Walford resident, and it’s not Sharon or Linda

EastEnders enthusiasts are speculating that Phil Mitchell, portrayed by Steve McFadden, is on the brink of a new love interest, much to the dismay of his best mate Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley.

As regular viewers of the BBC soap will be aware, Nigel and his estranged wife Julie Bates, played by Karen Henthorn, recently returned to Walford following Nigel’s diagnosis with dementia.

Phil has been looking after Nigel since his own near-death experience earlier this year, and the pair, who have been friends since childhood, enjoy each other’s company.

However, tensions are rising in the Mitchell household as Phil and Julie butt heads over how best to care for Nigel. On Monday (8th September), Nigel and Julie were left heartbroken when their three chickens fell prey to foxes.

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Nigel was not only upset by his failing memory but also became suspicious of Julie, who kept making secretive phone calls, reports Plymouth Live.

Julie attempted to calm her husband, explaining that the call was regarding a potential job opportunity; however, the conversation stirred up old emotions as it reminded Nigel of Julie’s past infidelity.

Later, seeking a change of scenery, Nigel and Phil spent a day in the countryside. Back at home, Julie felt excluded and struggled with their close friendship.

Ahead of her job interview, Julie is a bundle of nerves, but her spirits are lifted as Phil and Nigel help her prepare. Could this be a turning point for the trio?

Despite Phil and Julie’s rocky relationship, some EastEnders fans are speculating about a potential romance as their connection deepens amid Nigel’s distress.

On Reddit, one viewer theorised: “Julie, they hate each other, so realistically, when Nigel dies, they’ll turn to each other.”

Another chimed in: “Genuinely could see it being one night of passion in their shared grief, and she leaves to never be seen again.”

Over on X, one fan expressed dread: “Please God no! Not Julie and Phil!”, to which another responded: “Called it.”

“I love Julie and Phil’s scenes,” gushed another viewer.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer