Tony King

Name: Tony King
First Appeared: 12th September 2008
Last Appeared: 18th December 2009
Played by: Chris Coghill

Tony King was one of those characters who left a lasting impression on the residents of Albert Square, though not for the best reasons. He first appeared in 2008, stepping into the chaotic life of Bianca Jackson and her family. Tony quickly became a father figure to Bianca’s children, but his dark side soon overshadowed any semblance of normality he brought to their lives.

From the get-go, Tony’s relationship with Bianca’s stepdaughter, Whitney Dean, was troubling. He had been grooming Whitney since she was 12, and his return to Walford saw him resuming this inappropriate relationship. Tony’s jealousy and possessiveness were evident when Whitney got involved in a school play, leading to some rather awkward and tense moments. His attempts to control Whitney’s life, including her appearance and friendships, were both creepy and unsettling.

Tony’s manipulative nature didn’t stop with Whitney. He also set his sights on Lauren Branning, another young girl in the Square. His predatory behaviour was masked by a façade of support and understanding, but it didn’t take long for the truth to come out. Tony’s plans to run away with Whitney when she turned sixteen were thwarted when Bianca discovered the horrifying truth and called the police. Tony’s arrest was a moment of relief for many, but the damage he caused lingered.

Despite his brief return in 2009 for his trial, Tony’s presence was felt long after he left. His actions had a profound impact on the characters involved, particularly Whitney, who struggled to rebuild her life. Tony’s storyline was one of the darkest in EastEnders’ history, tackling the sensitive issue of child abuse with a raw and unflinching approach.