EastEnders tackles drug use

EastEnders has never been a show to shy away from controversial storylines and the latest plotline to shock viewers is hardman Phil Mitchell's (Steve McFadden) crack cocaine addiction. Scenes showing Phil's drug binge have already received over 200 complaints, so is the hard-hitting plot too much for the pre-watershed timeslot?

Yes, it is too much too early - With a large audience that ranges in ages EastEnders does have a responsibility to its viewers to not cross the line and be seen to glamorise drug use. Certain scenes where both Phil and addict Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks) are in possession of drugs or talking freely about taking drugs risks upsetting many viewers. The violent and manic effects the drugs have on both characters can also be uncomfortable to watch.

Since her return the character of Rainie has only been used as a vehicle for Phil's story and so it makes it hard for the viewers to feel any sympathy for her character or see her as anything more than a drug addict.

No, EastEnders is highlighting an important issue - Whilst it might be uncomfortable and at times slightly frightening to see Phil fly into a drug-induced rage the acting from all involved as been superb. McFadden has brilliantly depicted Phil's rage and out of control behaviour whilst also showing a fragile and sensitive side that is behind Phil's drug use after the loss of his kids (you couldn't help but feel terribly sad for Phil as he lay crying in Shirley's arms last night).

The supporting cast of ex-girlfriend Shirley (Linda Henry), mum Peggy (Barbara Windsor) and drug addict Rainie have made this storyline realistic, showing the effects Phil's downward spiral has on those closest to him.

EastEnders have been careful never to show any character taking drugs and by doing so have avoided further complaints and any criticism of glamorising the storyline. But at the same time they have not held back with showing the physical and emotional deterioration of Phil as he struggles to cope.

The storyline may be hard to watch with its painful level of realism but the disastrous consequences drugs has had on Phil highlights the negative and dangerous effects of drug taking. This ongoing plot is a strong piece of storytelling and an accessible way to raise awareness.

Picture from Virgin Media