BBC One soap EastEnders may have just waved goodbye to the beloved Lola Pearce-Brown but more change is afoot with the arrival of the Knight family on Albert Square.
Leading the pack is George Knight, portrayed by veteran British actor Colin Salmon.
Being an East End native himself, Salmon admits feeling a profound connection to the show and eagerly anticipates delving into his new role
READ MORE: EastEnders star says Lola’s death is ‘hardest thing he’s done’ after real-life tragedy
“I have a great affinity and love for the show and I look forward to being part of the great legacy.”
George Knight serves as the patriarch of the Knight family, with his partner Elaine Peacock becoming the new co-landlady of the renowned Queen Vic pub alongside Linda Carter.
Before embarking on a career running bars in Marbella, Spain, George was a celebrated professional boxer, known by the moniker “Nightmare,” and achieved a national championship title during his prime in the ring.
Colin Salmon, famous for his portrayal of Charles Robinson in the James Bond film series, boasts an impressive repertoire in both theater and screen.
Now, he is set to make a significant impact as he takes on this prominent role in the BBC One soap.
As we roll out the red carpet for Walford’s newest arrival, let’s take a closer look at the actor behinf the role…
James Bond Role
(Image: Getty Images)
Colin Salmon is best known for his recurring role as Deputy Chief of Staff at MI6, Charles Robinson, in three of the James Bond films starring Pierce Brosnan from 1997 to 2002.
Bond himself was so impressed by Salmon’s talent, he enthusiastically endorsed him as a potential successor to the iconic role.
Even before the announcement of Casino Royale as the next Bond film, Salmon’s name had already emerged as a contender for the coveted position.
(Image: Getty Images)
Colin denied any official discussions about assuming the role, but told Spyhards podcast: “I met young people all over the place, black kids and stuff, who’d just go ‘Hey, you could be James Bond.’
“I’m saying, ‘Man, you could be James Bond.’ It was important, and it is, because if you can see it, you can be it.
“Psychologically, for me, I think I struggled a bit, because it just wasn’t going to happen.”
Salmon has also starred as James “One” Shade in the Resident Evil film series, Punisher: War Zone, Mortal Engines and Nobody.
Health Battle
(Image: PA)
The 58-year-old dad of two disclosed that he was hospitalized due to contracting COVID-19 back in 2021.
In a tweet, the actor opened up about his hidden health battle, while also urging his followers to prioritize their safety and receive the COVID-19 vaccination.
Colin revealed that he tested positive for COVID-19 after participating in a video alongside several BAME celebrities, emphasizing the importance of the coronavirus vaccine within their community.
(Image: Getty Images)
Sharing the original video, which was initially posted by Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray, Colin wrote: “Recorded this last week, 9 days after my Covid hospitalization. I’m making progress, but this is a genuine issue that affects everyone. #covid19 #vaccine. Take a moment for self-care and please watch this.”
Colin’s post quickly garnered an outpouring of support, with Irish actor Emmett J. Scanlan sending him a heartfelt message: “Brother!!!! Sending huge f***** love your way.”
(Image: BBC)
In response to the overwhelming messages from fans, Colin once again took to social media to express his gratitude.
He wrote: “Thank you for your kind words. Please take a moment for yourselves, check in, and acknowledge how you’re feeling.
“We are resilient individuals, but we must place greater value on our lives. We don’t always have to take on extra burdens, neglect ourselves, or be constantly brave. #SelfCareIsNotSelfish.”
In the video, Colin appeared alongside notable figures such as actress Shobna Gulati and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, specifically reassuring members of the BAME community that the vaccine is safe.
Samuel L Jackson Friendship
(Image: Chris Jackson Collection)
Colin Salmon and Samuel L. Jackson appeared together in the 2002 James Bond film Die Another Day.
In the movie, Colin played the character of Charles Robinson, a high-ranking MI6 officer, while Samuel L.
Meanwhile Hollywood superstar Jackson portrayed the character of NSA Agent Damian Falco.
Their characters have several scenes together and the pair formed a friendship in real life.
Jackson involved Salmon in shooting is Stars Benefit Golf Tournament in Switzerland in 2010, raising funds for his foundation and the Red Cross in a bid to build a new hospital in one of Cambodia’s poorest provinces.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
