Lives hang in the balance as Nigel crashes his car in early iPlayer release

Nigel's act of rebellion has dangerous consequences
Joel Harley

WARNING: This piece contains spoilers for tonight’s episode of EastEnders, which is streaming now on BBC iPlayer, but has not yet aired on BBC One – in which calamity strikes when Nigel is involved in a serious car crash.

Nigel Bates is behind a serious car crash in EastEnders tonight (Monday, October 20), after deciding to take his beloved Morris Minor out for a spin. Growing emotional after a conversation with Julie, Nigel jumps behind the wheel – with serious consequences for two Walford residents.

But who’s left fighting for their lives? And what will become of Nigel?

Nigel argues with Julie on EastEnders
Nigel steals his car keys after an argument with Julie (Credit: BBC)

Car crash terror for Nigel in EastEnders tonight

As the episode begins, Nigel finalises the sale of his car with Lauren. However, he begins to have second thoughts about his trip to India with Julie when he accidentally damages the car.

Telling Julie that he’s too ill to travel, he grows annoyed when she dismisses his concerns. He storms off outside, where he reunites with his car.

Having stolen the spare keys earlier in the day, he jumps in and gets behind the wheel.

Gina and Jasmine talk in The Albert
Gina and Jasmine’s night takes a terrible turn (Credit: BBC)

Jasmine and Gina fight for their lives as disaster strikes

At The Albert, Jasmine and Gina are hitting it off over tales of Cindy’s past. Distracting Gina from missing Harry, Jasmine presses her on more information about Cindy.

When Oscar interrupts, Jasmine snaps – sending him off in a huff. Jasmine and Gina continue to bond, and decide to head out for more drinks. However, disaster strikes when Nigel rounds the corner in his car.

Nigel has grown overwhelmed after stalling his car and getting a call from Julie. And, as he arrives back on Albert Square, he accidentally hits the accelerator.

Seeing the car approach, Jasmine shoves Gina out of the way. As Gina is knocked unconscious, Nigel’s car also hits Jasmine, sending her flying.

With both women lying in the street unconscious, Nigel is horrified by what he has done. But how serious are Gina and Jasmine’s injuries? And what will Nigel do next?

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