Former EastEnders star Joshua Pascoe has revealed he was given a warning by soap bosses after his love of sunbathing caused a continuity problem during filming.
Pascoe, who played Ben Mitchell in the BBC soap from 2010 to 2012, admitted he was a self-confessed "sun worshipper" and regularly used his breaks on set to sit outside and enjoy the weather.
Tanning habit sparks warning
His tanning habit caught the attention of producers when his appearance changed between scenes. Speaking exclusively, Joshua said: "I love the sun, I'm a sun worshipper. I love to just sit in the sun and used to do this on my breaks on set."
The actor explained that his new tan caused issues with the show's continuity team, who were concerned his skin tone looked different from one scene to another. "They even gave me a sun chart, to keep tabs on me. But I got a warning, as they were fuming as I was more tanned during the next scenes and that affects their continuity," he revealed.
Warning system and change of habit
Joshua said he was told there was a limit to how many warnings cast members could receive before facing more serious consequences. "So, I got a proper warning, you're allowed three until you get in deep trouble," he explained.
Despite only receiving one warning, Joshua said he decided to change his habits and avoid causing any further problems while filming. "But I only got the one, and packed it in," he added.
The revelation comes as Joshua continues to reflect on his years working on Albert Square and the experiences he had behind the scenes.
Previous revelations about co-star
The actor previously opened up about another awkward moment during his time on EastEnders, claiming he fell out with a co-star after refusing to hand over cigarettes.
Joshua said he would not name the actor involved but claimed the person was a "multi-millionaire" who regularly asked younger cast members for cigarettes despite being able to buy their own. "I'm not going to say names, but there were a few at EastEnders. I used to smoke back then and there was one particular actor. He was a multi-millionaire," he said.
"He would only do it to the young ones. He'd come out and say, 'Yeah, course, have you got a fag?'" Joshua explained that after repeatedly giving cigarettes away, he eventually decided to stand his ground. "In the end, one morning he came up to me and said, 'Can I have a fag?' I said, 'I'm not giving you any more. You've got more money than me, mate.'"
The actor claimed the conversation ended their relationship, adding: "He never spoke to me ever again."
Positive memories despite challenges
Despite the occasional difficult moment, Joshua said most of his time on EastEnders was positive and praised many of the people he worked alongside. "I've been very grateful," he said. "Most people I've worked with have been nice."
