EastEnders’ Chantelle Atkins will be murdered by her evil husband Gray on Friday (September 18) night’s episode after months of sickening domestic abuse.
In the episode viewers will see that Chantelle’s abuse has worsened during the lockdown period after being stuck at home with her husband.
A clip shown on ITV’s Lorraine on Friday, has now revealed Chantelle final chilling scenes.
Chantelle, who is played by Jessica Kate Plummer, is seen being forced to make a call to her new boss Kheerat Panesar by her husband, before she is murdered
It shows her discussing a plan to flee with Kheerat, who wanted to look after her and revealed his feelings for her, before Gary discovers what they have been plotting.
In the episode viewers will see that Chantelle’s abuse has worsened during the lockdown period after being stuck at home with her husband (Image: ITV/BBC)
Gary confronts her in a rage before forcing her to call Kheerat.
She is then seen sending him an emotional message where she lies and tells him she is going to stay with Gray and try and make her marriage work, as her maniac husband watches on.
In the episode Kheerat becomes aware of Chantelle’s suspicious behaviour in a bid to cover up the abuse and vows to help her.
Bosses at the BBC One soap have not yet revealed how Chantelle’s life will come to an ending but they admitted to working closely with Women’s Aid and Refuge on the storyline.
Gary confronts Chantelle in a rage before forcing her to call Kheerat in the episode (Image: ITV/BBC)
Jon Sen, executive producer said: “Being able to shed light on the realities of what goes on behind closed doors has never been more crucial given the harrowing statistics as a result of the current pandemic and hopefully Chantelle’s story will encourage people to speak out to someone they trust and get the support that they need.”
He added: “Jessica’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary and even in her final scenes, the audience will be moved by Chantelle’s strength. We’re very sorry so see Jessica go but hope that her impact on viewers is long-lasting.”
Refuge, which a 24-hour domestic abuse helpline has seen a rise of 54 percent of women contacting them as the lockdown period eased in the first week of July.
Earlier in the year viewers saw Gray’s abuse on his wife escalate to new levels with Chantelle ending up in hospital treatment (Image: BBC / Jack Barnes)
While Women’s Aid said that two-thirds of domestic abuse survivors reported that their abuse had worsened during the lockdown.
Speaking about her dramatic ending, actress Jessica Kate Plummer who plays Chantelle said: “Sadly what she goes through is all too common and her death is a reminder of the devastating effect of domestic abuse.
“I’ve known it wasn’t going to end well for Chantelle for a while now and although it was a shock to find out her fate, far too many men and women suffer in silence so I hope that by raising awareness we can ultimately save lives.
“I am so grateful to all the team and my lovely cast members for being so supportive, I’ll miss Albert Square!”
EastEnders airs tonight on BBC One at 8:30pm
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
