EastEnders actor Max Murray has described his ongoing storyline as 'challenging', as his character Joel continues to express misogynistic views influenced by social media. The 18-year-old, who plays the teenager, spoke to the Mirror at the National Television Awards about taking on the role.
Joel has recently made a series of sexist comments, including branding women as inferior and referring to Lily Slater as a 'sket' for having a baby. The character's views have been linked to the rise of online influencers like Andrew Tate. Max said: 'It's a big topic at the minute... it's a lot to get stuck into, but I've done the absolute best I can.'
Co-stars Alex Walkinshaw, who plays Ross, and Alice Haig, who plays Vicki Fowler, praised Max for his portrayal. Alex stated: 'If you think he's terrible as a human being, he's doing his job right.' Alice added that the storyline 'wouldn't work without Max being brilliant'.
In recent episodes, Vicki confronted Joel over his comments, but he retaliated by suggesting she needed a 'proper slapping'. Alice teased further drama, saying: 'Hopefully she can tell Ross before it's too late.' The storyline is expected to continue shocking Walford residents and viewers.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
