EastEnders To Introduce First Deaf Character To Help Ben Mitchell Deal With Hearing Loss After Boat Crash
EASTENDERS’ first mainstream deaf character is joining the cast to help Ben Mitchell come to terms with losing his hearing.
Rose Ayling-Ellis will make her debut as Frankie as Albert Square residents reel from the tragic boat crash, which claimed the life of young Dennis Watts.
During last Friday’s episode partially deaf Ben, played by Max Bowden, was seen looking disorientated after being pulled out of the Thames.
Viewers will soon discover a head injury sustained in the crash triggered his additional loss of hearing.
Frankie is put in touch with Ben through boyfriend Callum Highway, played by Tony Clay.
A soap insider said: “Ben’s life is going to be turned upside down but, thanks to Frankie, he gets some unexpected help.
“The storyline will highlight some of the challenges deaf people go through.”
Frankie will communicate with Ben using sign language — a first for the soap.
Bosses have worked closely with the National Deaf Children’s Society to ensure the storyline is portrayed as accurately as possible.
