New EastEnders actor Stephen Aaron-Sipple has opened up about his remarkable physical transformation, shedding nearly seven stone following a serious health scare that served as a wake-up call. The performer, who is taking on the role of Mark Fowler Jr in the long-running BBC soap, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at just 29 years old, prompting a complete lifestyle overhaul.
A Serious Health Warning
Stephen described the diagnosis as a "serious punch in the face," revealing to Men's Health magazine that he had "abused my body so much that a part of it stopped working properly." The actor confessed to becoming accustomed to excessive drinking and frequent takeaway meals during his twenties, habits that contributed to significant weight gain and ultimately led to his diabetic condition.
"An early death was the lightbulb moment I really needed to take back control of my health," Stephen explained, highlighting how the diagnosis became the catalyst for change. He embarked on a fitness journey that saw him lose an impressive 93 pounds, crediting his decision to hire an online coach with producing brilliant and sustainable results.
Joining Albert Square
Stephen's professional life is now undergoing its own transformation as he steps into the iconic Walford setting. He replaces Ned Porteous in the role of Mark Fowler Jr, the son of EastEnders legends Grant Mitchell (originally played by Ross Kemp) and Michelle Fowler (Sue Tully). The character returns to Albert Square after a decade away, with his comeback storyline set to unfold throughout the year.
"Having grown up in East London, EastEnders has been in my life since childhood and I'm excited to be joining not one, but two iconic Albert Square families!" Stephen shared about his new role. "I'm looking forward to viewers seeing why Mark is back, and what Walford has in store for him."
Executive Producer's Welcome
EastEnders Executive Producer Ben Wadey expressed enthusiasm about Stephen joining the cast, stating: "We are thrilled to welcome Stephen Aaron-Sipple to EastEnders and bring Mark back to Albert Square. Viewers had a glimpse of Mark in the New Year's Day flashforward episode, with the circumstances around his upcoming involvement with the Brannings set to unfold throughout the year."
Dramatic Returns to Walford
Mark Fowler Jr isn't the only familiar face making a comeback to the square. The show is set for dramatic courtroom scenes as Joel Marshall returns to screens months after his arrest for attacking Vicki Fowler. The character must now face up to his crimes in court, with Vicki coming face-to-face with her attacker.
This creates a particularly tense week for the Fowler family, as Vicki is surprised to discover her brother Mark has returned after ten years away. The character originally learned in 2016 that he was the son of Grant Mitchell, and viewers will see him in scenes with his uncle Phil Mitchell upon his return to Walford.
While Mark initially lies to Vicki about being there to support her during Joel's trial, he soon reveals his true motivations to Phil Mitchell. The storyline sees Mark requesting help from his uncle, who initially refuses as he's preoccupied with assisting his friend Nigel Bates. Nevertheless, Mark does provide support to Vicki in court as she prepares to face her attacker.
Joel Marshall's return comes months after he brutally attacked Vicki and left her for dead. Following his exposure, he was arrested and charged, and now awaits the court's verdict in what promises to be gripping episodes for EastEnders fans.
EastEnders continues to air Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Stephen Aaron-Sipple's debut as Mark Fowler Jr bringing both a fresh face and an inspiring personal story to the iconic soap.
