EastEnders spoilers follow for Monday’s episode (March 31), which is available to watch now on streaming service BBC iPlayer but hasn’t yet aired on BBC One.
Note: This article discusses topics including suicide.
EastEnders‘ Phil Mitchell has discovered heartbreaking news about Sharon Watts, in the soap’s latest episode.
Phil is currently adapting to life back in Albert Square after spending a month in a mental health unit, recovering from his suicide attempt.
While in hospital, he admitted to his new friend Gaz that this time for reflection had made him realise he still has feelings for his ex-wife Sharon.
Related: EastEnders shares first images of Martin’s funeral
In today’s episode, Nigel Bates discovered that Phil had gone missing and, concerned for his welfare, he told Sharon and Denise Fox and called the police.
As the police gathered details, Sharon was especially terrified that something had happened to Phil, saying that she couldn’t lose someone else she loves – so she was emotional when he arrived home.
He explained that he had visited his mum’s grave that morning and had told Nigel he was going. Phil realised that Nigel had forgotten, amid his worsening dementia, and he covered for his friend.
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Once they were alone, Nigel remarked on Sharon’s love confession and encouraged Phil to tell her that he feels the same.
Meanwhile, Sharon wanted to help Phil, so joined forces with Denise and Kathy Beale to give him a visit from his children on Mother’s Day. They called round with Raymond and Albie, plus Phil was thrilled to get a phone call from Ben, who is in prison.
Nigel and Denise decided to give Phil and Sharon some time alone, but Sharon was dismayed when Martin Fowler’s sister Michelle called to say she wasn’t coming to his funeral.
Phil supported Sharon and used this opportunity to confess his love for her. She reciprocated his feelings, and the pair shared a kiss.
Related: EastEnders‘ James Bye reveals co-star’s real-life emotions in exit scenes
He began making plans for them to get back together, but it was clear that Sharon was more reluctant. When Phil asked what she was hiding, she was forced to admit that she slept with his brother Grant while he was in hospital.
Phil was devastated by this revelation and Sharon’s betrayal, telling her to leave as he can no longer trust her.
He continued to berate her in the Square, but Sharon was defended by none other than her half-sister Vicki – who had just arrived in a taxi.
Is there any hope for Phil and Sharon now?
EastEnders airs on Mondays – Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage
We encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Information about how to access support is available via the NHS, and organisations who can offer help include Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 3393
Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.