EastEnders’ Balvinder Sopal on Nish’s New Year vendetta and “high-intensity wedding drama”

As a seasoned soap opera enthusiast who has witnessed countless weddings and their ensuing dramas, I must say that Suki and Eve’s big day is shaping up to be one for the books! With a notorious ex-husband like Nish lurking in the shadows, it seems this wedding might just live up to the EastEnders tradition of high-stakes, heart-stopping suspense.

After a long time, Suki Panesar is making a fresh start, moving on from her former spouse, Nish (Navin Chowdhry), to tie the knot with her cherished partner, Eve Unwin (Heather Peace).

But Nish has a vendetta, and this means that the wedding has a huge cloud hanging above it.

Yet, the actress asserts that a great deal of beauty lies within the intense New Year episode, a statement that certainly piques our curiosity!

As I reflect on the storyline unfolding before me, it’s clear that the character Suki has undergone a remarkable transformation. With newfound resolve, she stands up against Nish’s authority, choosing instead to follow her heart, fueled by a newfound strength and confidence.

The star also reveals the iconic EastEnders characters she’d love to have dinner with!

Ahead of Suki’s much-anticipated big day, read on for the full chat below.

This week, following numerous obstacles, Eve and Suki are now ready to exchange their vows. What emotions might Suki be experiencing as she prepares to marry Eve?

It seems quite clear to me that she’s extremely anxious and nervous, but it appears this moment has been building up for quite some time. I get the sense that Suki can hardly believe she’s now welcoming a touch of joy which, I suspect, will transform the course of her life.

This is a significant turning point for Suki emotionally, since she’s experienced genuine happiness for the first time in her character’s history. However, following the typical twists of a soap opera, things never run smoothly.

Given that Nish is currently free, does Suki worry about the safety of herself and Eve, considering she withdrew from her agreement with Nish?

I agree with your assessment. It seems there’s a dark shadow looming over this joyful moment in Suki’s life, and given Nish’s nature, if he finds out about it, there’s always a chance he might interfere, potentially ruining any semblance of happiness Suki has managed to achieve.

It’s not only her who’s affected, but the entire family, as this is a beautiful moment for all parties. However, there’s a possibility that Nish could unexpectedly spoil it all. The anticipation is high because Nish harbors a grudge.

“Had I ever imagined Nish would escape from prison, or had I simply assumed he’d be off my radar, out of mind and out of sight?”

Suki knows Nish quite intimately, and I suspect she might have convinced herself that he wouldn’t reappear again, but I don’t believe she was completely taken aback by his escape.

She’s amazed by the extent he’s taken to reappear, and I believe her newfound strength is the reason she chooses to persevere.

This is a Walford wedding, so is it safe to say that there is going to be drama?

I’m no stranger to theatrics; even EastEnders’ Walford seems tame in comparison. The Panesars are a family who live their lives with an endless supply of drama, and it’s always following them, just like a shadow. So, if you’re expecting some high-stakes excitement – the kind that EastEnders is known for – look no further than the Panesars!

Tell us about Suki’s wedding outfit?

Every aspect of it is breathtakingly beautiful – the colors, the design, even the flowers have been meticulously considered. We’ve made sure everything ties together seamlessly. Suki is adorning a blue Anarkali gown, a floor-length dress that gracefully flares out from the waist.

The color is reminiscent of peacock hues, complementing the floral design since there are peacock feathers incorporated within the flowers. Each one possesses distinct characters, and we aimed to embody this individuality.

How will you be spending your Christmas?

We’re spending the day with family, including my sister and her spouse’s relatives. It promises to be a heartwarming day where we can reconnect spiritually and appreciate how fortunate we are to share our lives. I’m eagerly anticipating enjoying delicious food together, as well as taking a moment to honor and cherish our loved ones.

What EastEnders character (past or present) would you invite to your Christmas dinner and why?

“I’d love to have everybody! [Laughs] I think, because I’m spending Christmas with my sister and her family, that I’d like to invite Grant Mitchell.

It would be great if we could include him in our discussion about his connection with Phil Mitchell. In fact, I’d love to hear from both of them on this topic! []

What is your favourite festive memory on set?

The first moment I recall experiencing EastEnders was during a backstage interview inside a Christmas ornament. The way it was put together really captivated me, and the overall ambiance felt distinctly Christmassy and fresh. At the time, I had just joined the show, making this my debut in something so large-scale. That experience will always hold a special place for me.

In three words, tell us what the viewers can expect from New Year week, and Suki and Eve’s wedding?

Beauty abounds in all aspects, encompassing deep, profound emotion and nail-biting suspense. It’s quite a rollercoaster, with intense drama packed within just three words! [Chuckles]

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2024-12-10 04:39