EastEnders doesn’t shy away from tough storylines, and it seems that viewers are in line for some tragic scenes very soon.
This week, some of the cast were seen filming scenes for a funeral, believed to be for the victim of a knife attack.
The BBC has confirmed to Entertainment Daily that Shakil Kazemi, played by Shaheen Jafargholi, will be attacked alongside his friend Keegan Baker, played by Zack Morris.
Read more: Real reason EastEnders’ Max married Rainie
However, with funeral scenes already shot, it seems that one of the pair may be fatally wounded.
Zack Morris was spotted filming the funeral scenes alongside Davood Ghadami, who plays Shakil’s brother, Kush with other characters in attendance including Kat Slater, Adam Woodyatt, Tilly Keeper, Dean Gaffney, Gillian Taylforth and Tameka Empson.
EastEnders has already indicated that they will be tackling the very real issue of knife crime in storylines, and show boss John Yorke recently spoke about their intentions.
The brutal reality of knife crime was brought home to everyone at EastEnders with the tragic murder of Ben Kinsella in 2008,” he said, referring to the death of the brother of Brooke Kinsella, who played Kelly Taylor in the show until 2004.
“Ben’s sister Brooke– who has been such an important part of the show– began an inspiring campaign to bring attention to the awful consequences– a campaign that continues to this day.”
“However, knife crime is as prevalent today as it was back then so it’s more important than ever to raise awareness of the nature of this terrible crime– and how horrendous it is for teenagers, their families and communities.”
Read more: EastEnders’ Tameka Empson on Kim’s dark twist
“EastEnders has a long tradition of tackling serious public issues and this is one of the most important the show has ever embarked on.”
“The episodes are powerful, heart breaking and dramatic, and we hope will help both carry on Brooke’s inspiring message– while making it clear that knife crime destroys the lives of everyone it touches.”
Brooke herself has also spoken about the planned storyline, and says it’ll be hard to watch but that it’ll be well handled.
“It’s going to be a tough, hard-hitting storyline,” she said. “I’m aware that it will be quite upsetting, but the EastEnders team were wonderful. They were very brave in tackling this issue.”