Nelson Mandela death: Eastenders films tribute scene

Tributes at Mandela’s home in Houghton (AFP/Getty)

As the world gears up to join South Africa in celebrating the life of Nelson Mandela, the BBC has announced that the Nobel laureate will also be given a mention on Eastenders.

A specially filmed scene in Monday's episode will see two regular characters - Carol Jackson and Denise Fox - discuss their memories of Mandela's release from prison. It was one of the key moments of Mandela's life, remembered around the world as a long-coveted victory against his oppressors.

Mandela later became president of South Africa, and oversaw the country's transition from apartheid. He died on Thursday, aged 95, after years of declining health.

Bosses at the long-running soap said they chose to add the scene into the existing show, saying they aim "to reflect big news stories and events".

The show's spokesman said: "Nelson Mandela had such a huge effect on so many people's lives that we felt it was important to reflect the impact his death has had."

The show has previously given topical nods to the birth of Prince George, Andy Murray's Wimbledon victory and the election of US President Barack Obama. One character, Billy Mitchell, even carried the Olympic flame through Walford, the show's fictional east Londoin setting, shortly before the 2012 Games.

World leaders are about to descend on Johannesburg for an official Mandela memorial service on Tuesday. It will be held in the 95,000-capacity Soccer City stadium, and has been arranged to alleviate logistical pressures on the tiny village of Qunu, which will host Mr Mandela’s state funeral next Sunday.