3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
EastEnders actor looks unrecognisable 15 years after character's dramatic death
EastEnders actor looks unrecognisable 15 years after character's dramatic death
Charlie Clements shot to fame as Bradley Branning in EastEnders, but the actor has undergone a dramatic transformation since leaving the BBC One soap
Charlie Clements as Bradley Branning in EastEnders
(Image: BBC )
Charlie Clements, best known for his role as Bradley Branning in EastEnders, has surprised fans with a complete image overhaul, now donning glasses and a beard, which is a sharp departure from his clean-cut on-screen character.
The transformation of the actor who debuted in the BBC One soap back in 2006 and made his dramatic exit in February 2010 is remarkable. Charlie's character had an unforgettable send-off from the long-running soap during its first live instalment, which commemorated EastEnders' 25th anniversary.
In a gripping sequence, Bradley Branning met his end falling from the rooftop of the Queen Vic, while evading the police, after vowing to defend his wife Stacey who had killed her assailant Archie Mitchell. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter .
Tragically, their plan to escape together was thwarted, leading to Bradley's fatal plunge, turning his wife into a widow and sending shockwaves across Albert Square. This episode seized the attention of nearly 20 million viewers tuning in.
Now, over ten years since his memorable stint on EastEnders, Charlie Clements has taken a hiatus from the acting scene, acknowledging that he too needs to "pay his bills".
In May 2024, he took to Instagram to share with his followers: "Aware that some may be less interested in my golf related activities! But for those who are go follow me at @charlieclementsgolf."
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His specific golf page gives fans a glimpse into his life as a greenkeeper, featuring images of him perfecting his drive. The former soap star shared a bit of introspection in one of his latest updates: "In my career as an actor I've had some incredible opportunities and moments," reports the Mirror.
Charlie Clements, former EastEnders star, has traded in his acting shoes for a life on the green, and it seems he's taking to his new role as a greenkeeper like a pro.
In a recent social media post, he exclaimed: "But since starting out as a Greenkeeper a year ago, this is up there with the best of them... Touching the hallowed turf of Centre!"
As a greenkeeper, Charlie joins the ranks of the often-overlooked heroes of the golfing world, tasked with maintaining the immaculate greens and fairways that make the game so enjoyable.
From raking sand traps to tending to the course's flora, it's a vital role that requires dedication and attention to detail.
Charlie's journey to becoming a greenkeeper has been far from conventional. After leaving EastEnders, he continued to work in the entertainment industry, landing roles in Casualty and the documentary Elizabeth and Her Enemies.
Charlie Clements
He even picked up the Most Popular Newcomer award at the 2006 National Television Awards for his work on EastEnders.
Away from the screen, Charlie has built a life with his wife, Rebecca Clatworthy, whom he married in 2018, and their three children. He's also developed a passion for photography, often sharing stunning landscape and nature shots on his Instagram page.
However, the pandemic forced Charlie to take a break from acting and find new ways to support his family. He worked in a restaurant during the first lockdown and later at a garden centre during the second.
It was during this time that he discovered his love for greenkeeping, and he's never looked back. During a candid appearance on Loose Women, the actor confessed: "Acting is my first love and career choice, but at the end of the day, I'm a jobbing actor. I've got bills to pay and a family to support like everyone else."
Reflecting on his time with EastEnders, Charlie shared a nostalgic post on Instagram in February, stating: "Reminded today that 'I died' 15 years ago today which makes that little thing even older!!!
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"As EE turns 40 I remind myself how fortunate I was to work on such an institution at such a young age and will be forever thankful to those to who made it possible."
He ended his heartfelt message with: "Happy birthday EE, I am immensely proud to have been a small part of you."
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