EastEnders confirms Denzel Danes steroids storyline
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EastEnders has confirmed a major new storyline for Denzel Danes, in which the character will become dependent on anabolic steroids.
Denzel will struggle with his body image as a new obsession with exercise takes control of him.
He will eventually be introduced to steroids and will begin taking them, with the storyline also focusing on how social media is affecting his perception of body image and the mental health ramifications of this.
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Meanwhile, Denzel's relationships will also deteriorate as he struggles to hide his steroid usage from his loved ones, including his dad Howie. He will continue to suffer further when he implements greater diet and exercise restrictions upon himself.
The storyline will kick off in spring and EastEnders has collaborated with charity WithYou and experts with lived experiences.
Executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: "It was imperative for us to work alongside WithYou and individuals with lived experiences of steroid usage to accurately present and portray Denzel’s storyline."
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He continued: "Jaden’s [Ladega, who plays Denzel] performance has thoughtfully portrayed the isolating realities of a steroid dependency as we explore how social media has an impact on his perception of body image and the affects that anabolic steroid misuse are having on the youth of today."
Meanwhile, lead clinical pharmacist at WithYou, Abigail Wilson, said: "It is really important that this type of storyline highlights the character's journey and the risks they may face in a realistic way."
She continued: "It has been amazing to work alongside the EastEnders team, and I really hope that this storyline will help and encourage people affected by similar challenges to access support, from WithYou or another substance misuse support service."
EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
We encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. EastEnders has been working alongside WithYou on Denzel's storyline. The organisation offers a free online chat for free, confidential advice on drugs and/or alcohol on Monday to Friday from 9am to 9pm as well as Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
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