Former EastEnders star looks worlds away from his on-screen character with grey hair and glasses in a rare update
A former EastEnders star is barely recognisable in a recent snap, 14 years after he bid farewell to the BBC soap.
The British actor sported a distinguished look, complete with grey hair, glasses, and a moustache, as he shared an Instagram selfie with his wife.
He played a pivotal role as one of the suspects in the gripping ‘Who Killed Archie Mitchell?’ episode, which aired on Christmas 2009. He joined the beloved soap in 2008 and stayed until 2011, but made several comeback appearances over the years.
His character had a romantic liaison with Ronnie Mitchell, was married to Janine Butcher, and was also the stepfather to a Slater sister’s child. The actor in question was the estranged half-brother of Whitney Dean, reports OK!.
Neil McDermott, 45, brought the character of Ryan Malloy to life in the BBC series, making guest appearances in 2014 and 2016, with his last appearance being in February 2023. Ryan was also the father of Stacey Slater’s baby daughter, Lily, whose paternity reveal kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
The actor was one of the prime suspects in the murder of Archie, portrayed by Larry Lamb, who met his end via a blow to the head. Ryan’s relationship with Archie’s fiancée, Janine, put him in the spotlight as a potential murderer.
However, it was eventually revealed that the real killer was Stacey in an episode broadcast in February 2010, following Archie’s assault on her.
When Ryan uncovered the truth about Stacey, he tried to shield her and planned to flee with her.
Just a year later, Ryan’s character was witnessed murdering Rob Grayson, the individual who had been sexually exploiting Whitney. In 2011, he departed Walford but made occasional comebacks over the years, with his character ultimately surrendering himself to authorities.
Following his exit from the soap, Neil, a dedicated father of three, launched a thriving theatrical career, featuring in shows like Shrek the Musical and Pretty Woman, and is presently portraying Mr Wormwood in Matilda.
He also went on tour with productions of Wind in the Willows and The Sound of Music. Nevertheless, Neil didn’t entirely step away from television work, making appearances in programmes including Doctors, Casualty, and Inspector George Gently throughout the years.
During his downtime, he loves posting charming snapshots from family getaways. He and actress Michelle Edwards share three children: a daughter, Arrabella, a son, Roddy, and a baby, Maria.
In August 2023, Neil revealed the birth of their third child. Posting a collection of pictures of their newborn daughter on Instagram, he penned: “Welcome to the world. Maria Jolene McDermott. Born Tuesday at 4.18pm. 8 pound 3.”
He continued by praising his wife, Michelle Edwards, writing, “Thank you, Michelle, for carrying our beautiful daughter and going through another pregnancy and all that entails.
“I don’t know how you do it. Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear DVT socks. I love you. Thanks for all the messages. We are home, happy and safe. And Baby number 3 is thriving. And their first two children absolutely dote on their baby sister.”
Neil and the Inbetweeners star, Michelle, 44, happily tied the knot back in 2007.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am
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