EastEnders fans have been moved by an episode which focused on Ruby Allen explaining to Stacey Fowler what happened to her when she went home with Martins mates Ross and Matt – with Stacey then telling her best friend in no uncertain terms that she was raped.
Ruby was in a confused state as she turned up in Walford wearing the same dress as the previous night – with judgey looks and comments coming thick and fast. But when Ruby took Stacey through the events which saw her feel like she owed Ross sex before she then passed out and woke to find Matt on top of her, the horrific enormity of what had happened to her became clear.
Viewers have been praising Louisa Lyttons performance as a bewildered Ruby who was blaming herself and wondering if her own actions led to what happened and also commending EastEnders for raising the subject of consent and portraying an all too prevalent lad culture.
Advertisement Advertisement
In our most recent soaps column, we analysed the episode and found it to be a very important half hour of television.
And we werent alone:
Just caught up on #EastEnders. That was a brilliantly written, powerful episode.
“I didnt say no”, “You didnt say yes” needs to be heard by everyone.
Louisa Lytton delivered in every scene.
— Ryan Love (@RyanJL) October 9, 2018
Ruby's rape storyline on #eastenders is so relevant and needed right now. It's highlighting the boundaries of consent, showing the different sides/perspectives of an assault.
— S A V A N A H
(@SavanahAli) October 9, 2018
"I felt like I owed him" – One of the truest and saddest things I've heard on @bbceastenders. Glad they tackled this kind of issue with the sensitivity and execution that they did. #EastEnders
— Tany el Tulipa
(@TanyElTulipa) October 10, 2018
Not reading too far down the hashtag stream for #EastEnders tonight because can't stand to see some of the comments on the other side. Another truly important issue being explored on a soap but hate that there still has to be a debate over consent. Actress playing Ruby did well.
— Claire (@_shewrites_) October 9, 2018
I recorded @bbceastenders & I can't even get through the episode without bawling. It's incredibly raw, triggering & authentic. I didn't expect it to ring so….true. My heart breaks for Ruby. #MeToo #EastEnders
— Aoife (@irishginge) October 9, 2018
The storyline will continue from here with Martins friends trying to put doubt on Rubys version of events, something which could cause conflict between Martin and Stacey. Stacey will open up to Ruby about her own experience and persuade her to go to the police.
Advertisement Advertisement
But will Ruby get justice?
You can find information, support and advice by visiting the website of Rape Crisis. 0808 802 999 is the confidential helpline number.
Advertisement Advertisement
[contf] [contfnew] 
METRO
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]
