Remember the fresh-faced youngster who once roamed Albert Square? James Forde, who captured hearts as teenage character Lenny Parker in EastEnders, has undergone a remarkable transformation that will leave fans doing a double-take.
From Walford to Wider Horizons
The former child star, now 28, has swapped the Queen Vic for something considerably darker and more dangerous. Gone is the youthful appearance that made him a familiar face in British living rooms during the mid-2000s.
James has matured into a rugged, tattooed actor bearing little resemblance to his EastEnders days, and he's making waves with his latest role in the gripping Channel 5 drama 'The Inheritance'.
A Dramatic Career Shift
In this tense new thriller, Forde portrays Jason, a character entangled in a dangerous web of crime and family secrets. The role marks a significant departure from his earlier work and showcases his evolution as a serious dramatic actor.
Speaking about his character, James revealed: "Jason's quite a dark character who gets caught up in some pretty heavy stuff. It's a world away from Lenny in EastEnders, which made it really exciting to tackle."
The Transformation Journey
Fans of the soap might struggle to connect the muscular, tattooed actor they see today with the teenager who appeared in over 50 episodes between 2006 and 2007. His physical transformation is matched by his career progression, taking on increasingly complex roles that demonstrate his range and dedication to his craft.
Since his EastEnders departure, James has steadily built his career with appearances in various television productions, but 'The Inheritance' represents his most prominent role since leaving Walford behind.
What's Next for the Former Soap Star?
With his compelling performance in Channel 5's latest drama, Forde is proving that former child stars can successfully transition to more mature, challenging roles. His journey serves as an inspiration for young actors looking to avoid being typecast after early success.
The Inheritance continues this week on Channel 5, giving audiences the chance to see James Forde's impressive transformation for themselves.
