EastEnders have confirmed that Ruby Allen will be involved in a dark rape storyline when she returns to Albert Square.
On Thursday (13 September), the BBC soap announced it has been working with Rape Crisis on the upcoming plot.
The upsetting scenes will explore the subject of consent after Ruby is raped.
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Ruby returns to the square next week, and reconnects with her old best friend Stacey Fowler.
The storyline begins shortly after, when Ruby confides in Stacey about a sexual attack that happened at a party they both attended the night before.
Naturally, Stacey stands by Ruby, but it soon becomes clear the perpetrator is telling a very different version of events and believes the sex was consensual…
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An EastEnders spokesperson told ED!: “Although viewers will not see the attack, the storyline is set to highlight the complex issues that surround sexual violence which is something Rape Crisis are keen to raise awareness of.”
Yvonne Traynor, CEO of Rape Crisis South London, said: “It is so vital to the safety of men, women and children to understand sexual violence and not to make assumptions or believe the myths and stereotypes that are often portrayed.
“EastEnders have taken this responsibility very seriously and ensured that their portrayal of sexual violence has been thoroughly researched and is based on realism which is, sadly, so prevalent in our country today.”
Meanwhile, EastEnders’ Executive Consultant John Yorke said: “From the original story of Kathy and Willmott-Brown, to the abuse of Little Mo by her husband, Trevor, and Linda’s attack by Dean, EastEnders has always been at the forefront of dealing with these topical and sensitive issues.
“Whilst this story centres round an unseen rape, its real focus will challenge the stereotyping and myths that can surround sexual violence and consent.
“As a subject, it’s difficult and incredibly moving but we hope that by EastEnders tackling this issue we can raise awareness about an incredibly important issue.”
Louisa Lytton, 29, said: “As someone that has been part of EastEnders before, and as a viewer of the show, I know the impact a storyline such as this can have.
“And although it is a huge responsibility, I feel honoured to be part of something that, by working alongside Rape Crisis, we all hope can help end the many misconceptions surrounding sexual violence.”
The storyline will air this autumn following Ruby’s return to Walford.
The issue of consent was recently explored in Casualty, when favourite Alicia Munroe was raped by colleague Eddie McAllister.
Ruby Allen is coming back to Albert Square after 12 years away.
When Ruby’s return was first announced in July, John Yorke promised that she’d be involved in one of the show’s biggest storylines later this year.
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