Reality television stalwart Joey Essex has embarked on his most ambitious career move yet, securing his first major film role alongside established Hollywood actor Geoff Bell. The 35-year-old, who originally found fame on The Only Way Is Essex in 2011, was recently spotted filming scenes in a vintage naval uniform at The Walpole Bay Hotel in Maidstone, Kent.
From Reality Star to Serious Actor
This cinematic venture represents a significant departure from Essex's extensive reality television background. Before landing this acting role, Joey had openly admitted to having "run out of things to do" after appearing on a staggering 18 reality shows throughout his colourful career. His television credits include I'm A Celebrity, Dancing On Ice, Love Island, Celebrity MasterChef and SAS: Who Dares Wins.
The transition to serious acting appears to be supported by his co-star Geoff Bell, known for his roles in Kingsman, The Business and MobLand. Industry sources suggest Bell has taken on a mentoring role for the reality star turned actor.
Professional Challenges and Financial Troubles
This career high comes amid significant professional challenges for Essex. His company, Joey Essex Management Ltd, was forced into liquidation in September with substantial debts. According to documents filed with Companies House, the total debt reached an alarming £1,277,246, including £497,246 to creditors and an overdrawn director's loan account of £780,000.
The breakdown of creditor debts includes £30,449 in VAT, £9,552 in PAYE, a massive £402,302 in corporation tax, £15,000 to trade and expense creditors, and a £39,942 Covid bounce back loan. Liquidators have confirmed they will investigate the company director's conduct as required by the Company Directors Disqualification Act.
A New Chapter in Kent
Despite these financial pressures, Essex appears fully committed to his acting debut. Filming commenced last week in Maidstone, Kent, where onlookers observed the television personality performing in period costume. A source revealed to The Sun: "This gig would be a big deal for any actor, never mind for Joey, who has been grafting to step away from that reality space over the last year or so."
The insider added: "He feels like he proved his doubters wrong when he triumphed in his first boxing fight and now he's hoping to do the same in his first film role. It's a proper, gritty drama and Joey will play a lead role."
Essex had previously hinted at major career developments during the Pride Of Britain Awards 2025, telling the Daily Mail: "Watch out what Joey Essex does next, it's going to be wild." This film role appears to be the wild career move he promised, marking a determined transition from reality television personality to serious actor.
