Anthony Trueman (Nicholas Bailey) finds himself reflecting on the death of his half-brother Paul in tonight’s episode of EastEnders.
Patrick Trueman’s (Rudolph Walker) son Anthony returned earlier this week ahead of his dad and Yolande’s (Angela Wynter) wedding.
Heading back to Walford was bound to stir up memories for Anthony, and the mention of Paul has prompted us to open up the EastEnders history books.
Let’s take a look at the life Paul led while he was in Albert Square, and how things ended for him.
Who was Paul Trueman?
Paul arrived in 2001. He was the son of Milton Hibbert and Audrey Trueman, and the adoptive son of Patrick. The character, portrayed by Gary Beadle, made his final appearance on December 23, 2004.
Patrick abandoned Paul and Anthony during their childhood and remained estranged from them. As he grew up, Paul lived a rebellious life and his mum wondered if he’d end up leading Anthony astray.
When Anthony crashed his car while drunk and hit a young girl, Paul took the blame and went to prison to save his brother.
Who killed Paul Trueman?
Paul started dealing drugs for a man called Andy Hunter, and then told the police about his criminal dealings. This proved to be a fatal mistake, as Andy then ordered to have him killed.
In December 2004, Paul left in a taxi, with the driver being a hitman.
A month later, Patrick discovered that Paul had been killed and had to identify his body. In February 2005, Andy was killed by Johnny Allen.
What has Nicholas Bailey said about returning to Walford?
On reprising his role, the star told us: ‘It felt like coming home! The first scene I filmed felt just like old times because it was with Jessie and I think we got it in one take because it felt so natural. There are so many people at EastEnders who I know from before, both in the cast and the crew, which is lovely.
‘There have been lots of changes too and so there’s a different energy and it’s a really nice one. I felt like I was coming into a family and being made to feel very welcome.’
He added: ‘Rudy is really special to me. I remember his first day on the show like it was yesterday. It was the funeral for Anthony’s mother Audrey, and I remember Rudy stepping out of the taxi for Patrick’s first scene and thinking it was one of the best entrances on the show ever.
‘When I saw him, I just gave him a massive hug, and all the memories flooded back. Rudy is a legend and a pioneer and such a force on set. I really couldn’t wait to work with him again.’
