AN EastEnders star has issued a bleak update on his health after revealing he has a genetic condition.
Fans have flooded Ben Champniss with support as he addressed his health on social media.
The soap star has played the role of market trader Shrimpy in EastEnders since 2014.
While his character is usually found in the background of scenes, Ben is widely adored by the BBC soap’s fanbase.
Off screen though, Ben, 40, has been dealing with health problems after being diagnosed with a genetic condition.
He told worried fans: “After turning 40 back in September, I decided to ask my doctor for the free NHS health check. Anyone 40+ is entitled to this.
“My blood results came back and suggested I have Familial Hypercholesterolaemia. A genetic condition that causes extremely high cholesterol levels.
“There are no symptoms for this. The risk of heart disease, stroke and heart attack is extremely high with this.
“For me, statins have been prescribed for my 8.6 cholesterol level due to my Familial Hypercholesterolaemia diagnosis.
“This has been a serious wake up call for me. Even though this is a genetic issue, I’ve decided to completely rethink my lifestyle. Drink less and move more!”
EastEnders fans flooded Ben with support, with one writing: “Well said Ben…& this is a great time of year to make a change. Good health & best wishes.”
A second wrote: “Welcome to the magic number 40! Every downside to health starts when we reach this number! And they say age is just a number! Stay healthy!”
“Well done, not everyone is aware of illness running through families,” said a third.
While a fourth commented: “You didn’t have to share, but I’m glad you did. Thank you….it will make many others aware….”
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Coming up this year…
Ross Kemp – Kemp will reprise his role as Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.
