In a gangster suit and slicked back hair, former EastEnders actor Nigel Harman is barely recognisable in his new role as playboy crook Sky Masterson. After bidding farewell to Walford, the TV star has returned to his former passion - song and dance - taking a role in the classic musical Guys And Dolls.
The 32-year-old filmed his final scenes for the soap in November, and headed 'up West' ten days ago. Since taking over the lead from Star Wars actor Ewan McGregor, Nigel's been performing nightly alongside ex-Coronation Street actress Sarah Lancashire.
A skilled dancer and juggler, the soap star, who'd already showcased his talents on stage in Mamma Mia and My One And Only, brushes off suggestions he should be overawed by filling Ewan's starry shoes.
"I think people are more daunted on my behalf," he declares. "Ewan's a big star, and Marlon Brando played the part in the film version, but I don't spend my time thinking: "I wonder how Ewan did this bit?". I'm not copying him and I'm not getting my knickers in a twist."
Nevertheless, he admits there have been some challenges - such as the first rehearsal when he spent the entire day dancing. "I could hardly walk afterwards," he groans. "And now instead of mumbling into the camera in Dennis' cockney, I'm having to speak like a New Yorker."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
