Tony King Returns To Walford

EastEnders bosses have announced that Chris Coghill is to reprise his role as Tony King on the soap.

The character was last seen in Walford in December 2008 when he was arrested on suspicion of rape and has since been held on remand.

He was arrested after it came to light that he had been having a sexual relationship with underage Whitney Dean.

Chris Coghill says of his return: “I’m really pleased that I have the opportunity to come back and finish this storyline.  When you are given a storyline which has had so much extensive research, it is only right that it is given closure is a realistic manner such as this.

“I hope by EastEnders tackling this sensitive issue once again, it can continue to raise awareness and show people in similar circumstances that they shouldn’t be afraid to stand up in court as they will not have to face their abuser.”

This November viewers will see the Jackson family preparing for their day in court, determined to get justice for Whitney.  However, as the day gets closer, Whitney becomes more and more confused.  Will she have the courage to testify about what Tony did to her?  Does she even want to see him convicted?

As Whitney is still a minor, she will not stand up in court to give evidence but will do so through a video link.

EastEnders has worked closely with the NSPCC and other organisations to not only raise awareness of this difficult issue but to also show the sensitivities that accompany them.

Diederick Santer, Executive Producer says: “One of the unique things about EastEnders is its ability to play stories over months and years. Chris agreeing to come back for these episodes will enable us to continue showing the long terms consequences of Tony’s abuse of Whitney and – I hope – continue to do justice to the issue of child sex abuse.”

John Grounds, Director of Communications at the NSPCC said “EastEnders has already performed an admirable job in raising awareness of child sex abuse and showing the damage it can cause its victims and their families. Now the Whitney storyline is moving on to the criminal trial and will show that, although there may be difficulties, it is important for children to get the full support they need to bring their abusers to justice.

“The BBC has worked closely with us to develop this plot and should be congratulated for highlighting this issue in a sensitive way. Programmes like this play an important role in persuading people to take action to prevent sex abuse, by calling the police, social services or our Helpline – 0808 800 5000 – and encouraging children to speak out.”