Former EastEnders actor Jonny Labey looks worlds away from his soap character Paul Coker seven years after his tragic exit.
The 30-year-old joined the BBC soap as Paul, the grandson of Les and Pam Coker, in 2015 and immediately caught the eye of Ben Mitchell, who at that point, was hiding his sexuality following a stint in prison.
Despite numerous factors keeping them apart, Ben finally confessed his love for Paul and their relationship became a central storyline during Jonny’s 15 month stint in Albert Square.
READ MORE: Inside EastEnders Nasty Nick star’s life – music career, BBC soap snub and sexuality
But as the loved-up pair were making plans for the future, Paul was tragically killed in a homophobic attack while on a night out with Ben.
His death took place off-screen, but it was later revealed Paul died from his injuries after he and Ben were targeted by a man named Simon and his gang.
Seven years after his sad exit, the actor looks extremely different as he’s chopped his signature curly locks and now rocks facial hair.
Since departing the soap, Jonny appeared in Doctors and an episode of drama mystery series Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators, both in 2022.
He also showcased his impressive vocal talents with a stint on The X Factor: Celebrity in 2019
The former soap star has also had roles in several West End productions including The Heights, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical and Jersey Boys.
It was recently announced that Molly Rainford has bagged a role on EastEnders after catching the eye of soap bosses on Strictly Come Dancing.
The 22-year-old is set to play the daughter of a new family moving to the Queen Vic after the last landlord Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer, seemingly drowned.
A source told The Sun: “Molly joins a long line of former finalists who’ve gone on to bigger things than the competitors who’ve ultimately triumphed.
“But anyone who saw her on Strictly could see the entertainment world was her oyster.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
