EE: Jim Branning/John Bardon news on progress

11antoniacourt · Post by **11antoniacourt** » Sun Dec 30, 2007 3:51 am

From Digital Spy:
EastEnders star John Bardon has walked for the first time since he suffered a severe stroke six months ago.

The 67-year-old actor, who plays Dot's husband Jim Branning in the soap, was admitted to hospital in June and was warned that he may never be able to work again.

Bardon was wheelchair-bound and suffered poor speech but he has now made progress by managing to walk a few paces.

A family friend of the star told the Mirror: "It was the first time he has managed to do anything under his own power. We just hope and pray it is the beginning of the recovery to full health, but it will be a long haul."

Since his stroke, fans of the programme have written in to show their support for him. A BBC insider said: "The EastEnders audience want to see John back by Dot Cotton's side as soon as possible."

6ULDV8 · Post by **6ULDV8** » Sun Dec 30, 2007 5:46 am

Good for him...

I know how a mild stroke (whatever you want to call it, it has many names) can play havoc with your life...
But a full on, not walking, not talking bugger is something I just don't think I could deal with personaly...

Too many people just 'give up' & it's good to see he didn't...

I don't care if he gets back on the set of eastenders or not... I am just happy that the old bugger is taking steps...

Post by **Skylace** » Sun Dec 30, 2007 5:58 pm

It is nice to hear some good news about him. While I miss him terribly on the show and wish he were back on, my main concern is his health. And if he never returns it's a shame but that's okay. My thoughts are with him and his family.

Post by **eefanincan** » Mon Dec 31, 2007 12:21 am

Skylace wrote:It is nice to hear some good news about him. While I miss him terribly on the show and wish he were back on, my main concern is his health. And if he never returns it's a shame but that's okay. My thoughts are with him and his family.

I'm with you both on that.... as long as he gets better, that's the main thing.

Personally, I was beginning to wonder if he would or not. As a general rule, most progress after a stroke is made within the first 3-6 months. So the fact that he's walking is nothing short of great! Even if he regained full mobility and speach, I wonder if he'd have the endurance to tolerate those long days of shooting the soap.

Kezza · Post by **Kezza** » Mon Dec 31, 2007 8:27 am

I hope he continues to progress toward recovery. Thanks for the post.

Post by **faceless** » Tue Jan 15, 2008 3:43 pm

Jim to be written out of soap?

EastEnders bosses are apparently making plans which may see Jim Branning written out of the soap. Actor John Bardon - who plays Jim - has been forced to take an extended leave after suffering from a stroke and now insiders are saying he may not be well enough to return.

A show source told the Daily Star: "Everyone connected to the show wants John to come back because Jim is such a lovable character - but you have to be realistic that it might not happen. No decisions will be made for a good few months but people are just starting to come up with a few ideas."

The 68-year-old has not been at work since June last year after he collapsed from a massive stroke. Writers mirrored John's off-screen health in the show - the cheeky screen character was also struck down with a stroke. He is currently being cared for in hospital with Dot making regular visits to his bedside.

The insider added: "Everyone wishes John all the best in his recovery. We want to see him back on the Square. But there is no way we would want him to rush back and risk his health - which is more important than the character."

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Post by **Skylace** » Tue Jan 15, 2008 4:14 pm

I agree totally. It would be a shame but his health and well being take the forefront.

11antoniacourt · Post by **11antoniacourt** » Thu Jan 17, 2008 2:32 am

'preciate the update Face. It would be great to see him back because he is so loveable but the poor fellow is 68 years old and he deserves to retire with dignity.