Stroud actor Keith Allen is set to join the cast of EastEnders for a special episode.
The stellar actor will take on the role in a one-off episode focusing on Phil Mitchell’s mental health recovery.
The storyline will focus on Phil – who is played by Steve McFadden – who is admitted to a mental health unit after he attempted to take his own life as his depression and psychosis got out of control.
Keith will play a character called Gaz who is a fellow patient at the unit who befriends Phil.
Keith is best known for a string of film and TV roles, including Trainspotting, The Others and more recently, The Buckingham Murders.
A talented golfer, Keith is often spotted on the golf course at Minchinhampton with the likes of former Arsenal and England legend Tony Adams and actor Patrick Baladi, star of The Office and Bodies.
Speaking on his guest role in Eastenders, Keith Allen said: “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? 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 story line. I may be a resting actor but I now rest in peace.”
