EastEnders Johnny Carter star unrecognisable six years after exit as character returns
EastEnders' Johnny Carter has now been portrayed by three different actors and the second star to take on the role, Ted Reilly, looks completely different six years after his exit
EastEnders star Ted Reilly looks almost unrecognisable six years after departing the BBC soap.
The actor, 32, was the second person to portray the role of Johnny Carter, taking over from Sam Strike who played the character from 2013 until 2014. Ted made his first appearance as the son of Mick (Danny Dyer) and Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) in 2016, remaining in the square for two years.
When he first appeared on the show, Ted sported short hair and was clean shaven, with his chiselled jawline on display. Six years later, Ted looks completely different.
The star now rocks longer locks, with the mop of curly hair falling to his chin. He has also grown out his facial hair with a moustache and a slight beard.
Back in 2018 the former soap star confessed it was his decision to quit the role of Johnny. Ay the time, he explained the decision was “really tough” but felt it was the right move for his career.
“Thank you for all your lovely messages regarding EE!” he wrote in a social media post. “It was a really tough decision to leave, but at this stage in my career it’s very important to keep being challenged & experience new things!”
He added: “I’ll miss the amazing people on the square especially my Carter clan!” Johnny was last seen swapping Walford for Manchester as he left the Square in a taxi.
In December, it was announced that Charlie Suff would be the third actor taking on the role. He made his debut on Thursday’s (February 8) episode, which dropped on BBC iPlayer earlier today.
Of landing the role, Charlie said: “I’m so delighted to be joining such an iconic programme – EastEnders was always on at my house when I was growing up. Johnny is a complex character who has been through so much, which I can’t wait to explore.
He continued: “I’ve found EastEnders to be the most kind and loving space to work in, and I already feel like one of the family.” EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw added: “I’m delighted to welcome Charlie Suff to the role of Johnny Carter.
“Although we haven’t seen Johnny on the Square in almost five years, his character remains linked to the show and its most iconic venue, The Queen Vic. Since his short time away, the Carter family dynamics have changed significantly, and it’s safe to say that Johnny will be returning to a very different Walford than the one he left.”
