SEAN Slater may take his own life in EastEnders.
In heartbreaking scenes which aired on Monday night, the Walford favourite – who is played by actor Rob Kazinsky – revealed he has been battling suicidal thoughts following a painful mental health battle.
Later this week, Sean will reveal he’s been hiding a big secret for years, which has left him struggling with his mental health.
EastEnders fans will see him open up to his mum, Jean, and sister, Stacey, and the impact the secret has had on him will be achingly clear.
It’s not yet known if Sean will actually take his own life yet, or if he’ll be pulled back from the brink by finally opening up to his family.
However, EastEnders bosses have confirmed that Sean is going to be part of a huge mental health storyline which they have been working closely with the Samaritans on.
Kate Oates – who is head of continuing drama at the BBC and brought soap fans Aidan Connor’s tragic suicide in Coronation Street last year – said: “The return of Sean Slater gives us a unique opportunity to explore two different aspects of mental health: on the one hand, the results of a long-term and untreated depression; and on the other, a person who has had a lifetime of trying to understand the delicate balance of their own mental health – and is coming out winning.
“The story is beautifully and intelligently played by Robert Kazinsky and Gillian Wright, both of whom cared deeply about getting it right, prompting discussion, and making a difference.”
Lorna Fraser – who is a spokesperson for The Samaritans – added: “Given the sensitivities with covering the topic of suicide, we were pleased that EastEnders worked with us on Sean’s storyline.
“It’s important that we raise awareness of the issues surrounding suicide and drama caplay a powerful role in this. Carefully developed storylines can help to generate discussion and can prompt viewers, who may be suffering in silence, to speak out and seek help. Sean’s story particularly highlights the importance of talking about our feelings, when we’re struggling to cope.
“If you’re worried about a friend you think may be struggling it’s alright to ask them if they’re ok, for some it can be a huge relief to know that someone’s spotted they may be going through a difficult time and they’re there to listen.”
In Monday night’s episode, Sean broke down in tears after discovering his ex-wife Roxy Mitchell had died two years previously.
Devastated Sean cradled the gravestone Roxy shares with her sister Ronnie – who died in the same drowning accident – and emotionally told her he’d be with her “soon”.
As well as telling Roxy’s headstone that he’d be joining her, Sean also told Jack Branning that he’d returned to Walford to make amends before it was “too late”.
Here’s hoping that by talking to the people who care about him, Sean will change his mind, leaving the door open for him to make another return to Walford in the future.
- EastEnders is on BBC One tonight at 7.30pm
