EastEnders fans disgusted by Sam's actions as she fleeces vulnerable Nigel: 'Too sick to bear'

How could she?!
Joel Harley

EastEnders fans have registered their disgust at Sam Mitchell’s behaviour since returning to the soap this week – specifically, deciding to scam Nigel Bates. Sam made her surprise return to Walford last Friday, emerging from the shadows where she’d been lurking, watching Zoe Slater.

Sam’s comeback, as it happened, had nothing to do with Zoe. No, she’s scared that she’s dying, and is out to secure a future for her son, Ricky Jr.

In doing so, she broke into brother Phil’s safe and stole a wedge of his cash. Alas, it wasn’t long before Phil figured out what had happened, and took the money back. Once again penniless, Sam spotted another opportunity when Denise offered to give her the money if only she’d see a doctor about her cancer fears.

Sam’s no fool though, and soon realised that she was being played. Enter generous, vulnerable Nigel

Sam talks to Nigel on EastEnders
Sam was more than happy to take Nigel up on his offer (Credit: BBC)

Sam decided to scam Nigel in EastEnders last night

Returning to her brother’s home after dinner with Jack and Denise, Sam settled on her next plan – getting the money from Nigel, who had mistaken her for estranged stepdaughter Clare.

After taking Nigel for a coffee date, Sam snuck him off to the bank, where he was to transfer her the money. She almost had second thoughts for a while there, but Nigel, determined to help ‘Clare,’ was insistent.

And, as Phil, Julie and Ricky Jr. caught up with them both, they were horrified to realise what Sam had done.

A step too far, even for Sam?

Nigel talks to Sam on EastEnders
Confused Nigel happily stumped up the cash for Sam (Credit: BBC)

Fans disgusted by Sam’s ‘vile’ Nigel scam

As last night’s scenes aired, fans took to social media to share their revulsion at Sam’s latest actions. And to many, Sam had sunk to an all-new low.

“I know Sam Mitchell is chaos but please have her leave Nigel alone. That’s just too sick to bear,” wrote one fan on X.

“Sam should be imprisoned for defrauding a vulnerable man. Despicable,” said another.

A third agreed: “Sam is horrid.”

“Sam is vile!! How could she do that to Nige,” said a fourth.

Is there any way back for Sam after this?

Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns.