British actor Alan Ford (85) has joined the cast of popular television drama series EastEnders in the role of Stevie Mitchell, the estranged father of Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick). Ford, best known for his roles in Guy Ritchie films such as Snatch and Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, expressed his excitement about joining the show, stating that he is delighted to be playing a character close to his own age.
In the storyline, Stevie will arrive in Walford as the Mitchell family prepares to bid farewell to their beloved Aunt Sal. However, it quickly becomes apparent that his presence is not welcome. Stevie took sole custody of his brother Charlie, leaving Billy to grow up in care from the age of 10. The father and son have not seen each other for a staggering 25 years.
EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw commented on Ford’s addition to the cast, saying, It’s an honor to welcome the immensely talented Alan Ford to the cast of EastEnders as he takes on the role of Stevie Mitchell. Whilst Billy has been a stalwart in the show for over 25 years, viewers know very little about his complicated childhood and the events that led him to grow up in care.
The BBC confirmed that filming with Alan Ford has already begun, with his first scenes set to appear on screen in the New Year. With Ford’s rich acting history and the intriguing dynamics his character brings to the show, viewers can expect an engaging storyline and an exploration of the Mitchell family’s past.
As an 85-year-old actor, Ford’s inclusion in EastEnders represents a move towards greater diversity and representation of characters of all ages in television dramas. With his extensive experience in the industry, Ford is a valuable addition to the talented cast of EastEnders.
The news of Alan Ford’s casting has generated excitement among both fans of EastEnders and those familiar with his previous work. With his arrival set to unfold in the upcoming episodes, audiences will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the unfolding drama within the Mitchell family.
In conclusion, the addition of British actor Alan Ford to EastEnders as Stevie Mitchell, the estranged father of Billy Mitchell, brings an exciting new dynamic to the popular television drama series. Ford’s portrayal of a character close to his own age adds depth and authenticity to the show while exploring the complexities of the Mitchell family’s past. Viewers can look forward to seeing Alan Ford’s first scenes in early 2024 as the drama unfolds in Walford.
