Colin Salmon reveals decision to join EastEnders was led by desire to be close to his ‘unwell’ wife
Colin Salmon has revealed that his decision to take on a role in Eastenders was motivated by his desire to be close to his ‘unwell’ wife.
The star, 60, best known as MI6 aide Charles Robinson in three 007 films, admitted he needed work that wouldn’t be “far from home” because his wife of 35, artist Fiona Hawthorne, has lung disease.
When the role, based in London, was subsequently brought up, it was a no brainer.
Speak against The mirrorthe father of four explained that anyone who doubted his decision to join the BBC soap was dead wrong.
He said, ‘They don’t know me. It’s a good idea. My wife is not well, so I can’t be far from home.
New role: Colin Salmon has revealed that his decision to take on a role in Eastenders was motivated by his desire to be close to his ‘unwell’ wife
“I was born decades ago at Mothers’ Hospital in Clapton Pond, and I’m an East Ender and it was a big show for us growing up. Everyone I’ve told I’m doing this has gotten really excited.’
Reflecting on his career so far, Colin added, “The universe has been very kind and I love it.
‘It’s like a meeting of theatre, film and television – it’s a different genre. You have to work hard. I like to work hard and be happy.’
Colin starred as MI6 aide Charles Robinson opposite Pierce Brosnan in three James Bond films from 1997 to 2002, as well as starring in Doctor Who, 24 and Arrow.
But now veteran actor Colin will be joining EastEnders’ newest family, The Knights – who will make their grand arrival in Walford next week, causing quite a stir as they prepare to take over the Queen Vic.
Colin, who plays George Knight, will move to The Square as Elaine Peacock’s handsome new man, joined by his two daughters Anna and Gina.
Linda (Kellie Bright) is furious to learn that George and his family have returned from Marbella to help run the Queen Vic.
In the upcoming episodes, George Knight is rocking out in Walford with his daughters Anna and Gina in tow.
Supportive: The star, 60, best known as MI6 aide Charles Robinson in three 007 films, admitted he needed work that wouldn’t be ‘far from home’ because his wife of 35 years, artist Fiona Hawthorne, had lung disease has
Pro: Colin starred as MI6 aide Charles Robinson opposite Pierce Brosnan in three James Bond films from 1997 to 2002, as well as starring in Doctor Who, 24 and Arrow
They arrive at The Vic and Linda is stunned when George introduces himself as Elaine’s dude and tells her they have arrived from Marbella to help run The Vic.
Linda is furious when she discovers Elaine’s plan all along was to invite her fiancé and his family to join them.
George’s arrival immediately causes a stir in Walford as he makes his mark, and he immediately recognized Jack, Phil and Winston as a champion boxer.
Nish soon learns that George is not to be messed with when the two men clash.
Back at The Vic, George promises Linda that he won’t cause any trouble as all he wants to do is build a great life with Elaine and the girls.
Colin plays Elaine’s handsome new beau George, described as “a charming rogue and an old-fashioned gentleman who adores his two daughters.”
A regular on the big screen, Colin has starred in three James Bond movies and the Resident Evil series, as well as General Zod in the Syfy series Krypton.
Gina is George’s eldest daughter and moves into the Queen Vic with her father, sister and Elaine.
New on the block: But now veteran actor Colin will be joining EastEnders newest family, The Knights – who will make their grand arrival in Walford next week, causing quite a stir as they prepare to take over the Queen Vic
Drama: Colin, who plays George Knight, moves to The Square as Elaine Peacock’s handsome new man, joined by his two daughters Anna and Gina
The beauty is sure to ruffle feathers when she arrives in Walford, described as “feisty, determined and demanding.”
2.0 Lucy actress Francesca Henry has taken on the role of Gina in the soap and of her casting she said: “I wish I could tell myself that one day I’d join the show I religiously watch every night with my grandmother.’
“It’s very surreal and a real privilege to be trusted to bring Gina to the square, and to be part of such an exciting, close-knit new family.”
Following her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, CBBC star Molly Rainford will also join the cast of EastEnders.
Viewers have been told that like her sister, she shouldn’t be underestimated, adding Molly, “I’m SUPER excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders.”
“It’s such an iconic show that myself and my family love, so it’s an honor to bring to life the character of Anna Knight, who will create drama on her arrival.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.