Plotline set to bring 'new dimension' to relationship of 'Eastenders' rivals

Adam Woodyatt, a veteran of the BBC soap since its earliest days, said the shocking plotline would bring a “new dimension” to the pair’s relationship.

The actor, who plays Ian, said: “I don’t think they’re going to be bosom buddies but there’s a bit of understanding there.”

Viewers will see Lucy’s (Hetti Bywater) body discovered on Friday and Ian and his family struggle to come to terms with her violent death next week.

The show’s executive producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, said: “Grief changes people and changes people’s relationships. One of the most powerful things is how it’s going to change Ian and Phil’s relationship because Ian and Phil are the biggest enemies in the world and Phil Mitchell hugs Ian Beale, a crying Ian Beale, and starts to cry himself.”

Laurie Brett, who plays Ian’s ex-wife Jane, said she listened to the scene with co-star Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon.

She said: “We were crying and we couldn’t even see it – that was just hearing it -and that’s all I can say about that scene. That put me right on my arse, quite frankly.”

Treadwell-Collins said the murder was “a massive story... but it’s not our only story”.

He said: “We are not closing for the summer. We have a huge story coming for the Carters, Shirley, Phil and Sharon, massive stuff for Carol and David, for most of the cast. Rudolph Walker as well, Patrick Trueman, is getting a very big story as well.

“Every single family in EastEnders is going to have their chance to shine but over the next few days you’re going to see the Beales shine properly.”

He said a recent scene where Lucy cut her head and left blood on the floor of the cabin on the car lot was a “little red herring” and ruled out another live episode similar to the climax of the 2010 Who Killed Archie storyline.

He said: “It’s been done, we don’t do cover versions of greatest hits.”