Ruby’s shocking rape marks her return to EastEnders
RETURNING EastEnders favourite Ruby Allen will be raped at a party just days after arriving back in Albert Square this autumn.
In the shocking storyline, actress Louisa Lytton’s character will be subjected to the assault after befriending a group of lads in E20 – and agreeing to go home with one of them.
While viewers will be spared the attack itself, the plot focuses on the issue of sexual consent.
In the aftermath traumatised Ruby, last seen in Walford 12 years ago, confides in friend Stacey Fowler about what has happened. But when the rapist tells a very different version of events, it raises a debate among Albert Square residents about whether or not Ruby had consented.
EastEnders boss John Yorke said the soap had a long history of tackling sexual violence. “From the original story of Kathy and Willmott-Brown, to the abuse of Little Mo by her husband, Trevor, and Linda’s attack by Dean, EastEnders has always been at the forefront of dealing with these topical and sensitive issues. While this story centres round an unseen rape, its real focus will challenge the stereotyping and myths that can surround sexual violence and consent.”
Louisa, 29, said: “Although it is a huge responsibility, I feel honoured to be part of something that, by working alongside Rape Crisis, we all hope can help end the many misconceptions surrounding sexual violence.”
Yvonne Traynor, chief executive of charity Rape Crisis South London, said: “EastEnders have taken this responsibility very seriously.”