EastEnders fans will see Keith Allen make a guest appearance in the BBC soap next week as he takes on the role of Gaz, a fellow patient who befriends Phil Mitchell
EastEnders is gearing up to welcome the much-adored actor Keith Allen to Albert Square as he steps into the shoes of Gaz, a new character in the BBC’s enduring drama.
The popular soap is set to broadcast an episode dedicated to Phil Mitchell’s harrowing journey as he seeks to recover from his suicide attempt.
During the monumental 40th-anniversary episodes aired in February, Walford stalwart Phil (portrayed by Steve McFadden) reached a dark crossroads and subsequently found himself in a mental health unit.
In an eagerly anticipated episode, viewers will witness Phil forge a connection with Gaz, another patient, who becomes instrumental in encouraging Phil to confront his issues and embark on the path to healing.
EastEnders’ Phil Mitchell makes friends with Gaz while in the mental health unit (Image: BBC)
This narrative will unfold over four weeks, marking a significant period of Phil addressing his deep-seated pain, grappling with depression, and coming to terms with psychotic symptoms. Gaz is set to play a pivotal role, guiding Phil towards participating in therapy and group sessions despite his initial hesitation.
On commenting about his stint in EastEnders, Keith Allen enthused: “I’ve written a number one hit single, I’ve presented Top of the Pops, I’ve played the lead in the West End and I was at Craven Cottage when we beat Juventus 4-1…Could it get better than that?”, reports Plymouth Live.
He went on to say: “Well, yes, I’ve just guested in an episode of EastEnders… What a joy! And what an honour to be a part of Steve McFadden’s incredibly moving storyline. I may be a resting actor but I now rest in peace.”
Keith Allen pictured with daughter Lilly Allen in 2007(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Keith’s multifaceted career began in earnest back in 1981 with his portrayal of Heckler in the series Wolcott, launching him into the versatile and successful creative trajectory he enjoys today.
The 71-year-old actor has an impressive portfolio of roles, with standout performances in Trainspotting (1996), The Others (2001), The Buckingham Murders (2023), Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017) and the TV series Robin Hood (2006 – 2009).
Outside of his acting career, Keith shares two children with his ex-wife Alison Owen, a renowned film producer whose work includes Back to Black, Me Before You, Suffragette, Saving Mr. Banks and many more.
Actor Alfie Allen is also the son of actor Keith Allen (Image: Photo by Jed Cullen/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Their daughter is the acclaimed singer-songwriter Lily Allen. At 39, she boasts a catalogue of hit songs such as LDN, Smile, and The Fear. The mother of two is also the elder sibling of actor Alfie Allen.
Alfie, a celebrated actor in both film and theatre at 38, is most recognised for his portrayal of Theon Greyjoy in the HBO series Game of Thrones (2011-2019).
His other notable appearances include SAS Rogue Heroes (2022), White House Farm (2020), John Wick (2014), Atonement (2007), among others.
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer
