EastEnders legend Adam Woodyatt is best known for playing Ian Beale on the BBC soap since the show launched in February 1985, when he was just 16. Now 58, he holds the record for the most married man in Walford with six marriages to five women, though his character is currently single – kind of. Ian is now enjoying the company of Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe) after they bonded during a local council campaign.
Marriage to Beverley Sharp
Adam, from Walthamstow, was married to Beverley Sharp for 22 years. The couple wed at Disney World in Florida in 1998 and have two children, Jessica and Samuel. They announced their shock split in August 2020, though they had separated a year earlier. A BBC spokesperson said at the time: "Beverley and Adam separated in August 2019, and we ask that the family's privacy is respected." Both confirmed no third party was involved. In 2022, the pair reportedly reached a divorce settlement and were served a decree absolute. Adam has not gone public with another relationship.
Life in a motorhome
After the split, Adam left the family home and moved into a £93,000 motorhome. Initially purchased for a theatre tour while on a break from EastEnders, he decided to make it his permanent home. In a 2022 interview with Dublin FM's Big Breakfast, he said: "I've not just purchased it, I live in it." When asked about motorhome life, he cheekily replied: "It's usually where I left it parked." He added: "I love it, it wouldn't suit everyone, but where I am in my life at the moment, it's perfect for me. I've got all my stuff for cooking, I've got my house on wheels."
Son Sam's EastEnders appearance
In 2020, Adam's real-life son Samuel appeared on EastEnders as a police officer who arrested Ian Beale and led him to a police car outside The Queen Vic. Due to COVID filming restrictions, this allowed a physical-contact scene without actors needing to socially distance. In 2016, Sam was hit by a car and suffered a serious injury. Months later, he defied the odds and ran the London marathon with Adam, raising £6,500 for the London Air Ambulance service. In 2025, Samuel returned to acting, playing James in the film Sriracha.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer.
