Nish Panesar actor Navin Chowdhry has addressed his character’s impending death and which family member could be his biggest threat in an exclusive chat with Metro.co.uk.
The wicked businessman returned to Albert Square at the end of may to hand ex-wife Suki (Balvinder Sopal) their divorce documents, but it soon became clear that there was another reason for his arrival.
After worming his way back into the family home at No. 41, he announced that he is terminally ill and has months to live.
Speaking at the Radio Times Soap Awards this weekend, Navin told us of his surprise over the deathly plot-line.
‘It was first discussed quite a few months ago and when I heard it I thought “wow, that’s a really interesting way to go”‘ he explained.
‘Everyone is so used to him terrorising those that he comes across, [then] he returns after quite a hiatus and [they’re] fearful, wondering what is going to happen now.
‘It turns [the situation] on it’s head and he’s the one who needs his family and is vulnerable. But with that vulnerability comes a lot of rage, anger and dare I say… danger.’
However, after the clan rejected to allow him back into their lives, he sold the Bridge Street Cafe back to Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) for £1 so that they wouldn’t have any inheritance.
Suki charged over, furious that he should act so brazenly. Nish asserted that as a result of his family brushing them off in his dying days, it had prompted him to rewrite his will – with everything going to the Gurdwara.
Alongside son Vinny (Shiv Jalota), she conspired to worm their way back into his inner-circle and get their hands on his cash once he’s gone.
‘As a viewer, I think I would like to see them go head to head. Have a battle’ Navin told us.
‘Maybe, possibly, some of that might happen. Can you imagine what his reaction might be if he found out?’
Stood alongside co-star Jonny Freeman, he laughed: ‘I’m not sure he’s going to be in The Vic with Reiss cracking jokes. His reaction is going to be slightly different – if it happens.’
‘One could argue that [Suki is] villainous herself. This man is dying so lets see what this reaction might be.’
As much as we want Suki to succeed, we’d love for Nish to find out about their plans – and for things to kick off!
