Shaun Williamson has made a thrilling return as Barry Evans in EastEnders.
Loyal fans of the BBC soap will know that Nigel Bates (portrayed by Paul Bradley) has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia. On Monday (December 22), Walford's residents began to get into the Christmas spirit as Nigel's festive film was shown at the community centre.
However, after overhearing his wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) and good mate Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) squabbling over how best to handle his worsening condition, he sought solace in The Queen Vic.
Upon entering the pub, Nigel's mind transported him back to 1990, where he was reunited with Pat Butcher (Pam St Clement). During Tuesday's episode of the BBC soap (December 23), Nigel's disorientation persisted as Pam and her former step-son, Barry Evans, attempted to comfort their old friend.
When did Barry Evans exit EastEnders?
Barry first set foot in Walford in December 1994 as the son of Roy Evans (Tony Caunter) and quickly established himself as a hapless businessman, reports the Mirror.
The beloved character, originally intended for just four episodes of the popular BBC soap opera, quickly became a fan favourite and remained a regular on the show for a decade.
In 2004, Barry met a tragic end during a heated confrontation with his scheming wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks), who had been having an affair with Paul Trueman (Gary Beadle). Janine pushed Barry off a cliff, leading to his death after hitting his head on rocks.
The rise to stardom of Shaun Williamson
Born in Maidstone, Kent, in 1965, Shaun, now 60, embarked on a career as a postman after finishing school.
He reportedly battled a severe drinking problem in his late teens, consuming up to 12 pints of beer daily by the age of 18, which prompted him to seek change.
Shaun enlisted in the Royal Navy and completed his training at HMS Raleigh, aspiring to become a helicopter pilot, as reported by MyLondon. However, his dreams were dashed when it was discovered that he is colour blind.
Following his naval training, Shaun held various jobs until, at the age of 26, he decided to enrol at the London-based Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art.
His acting career took off from there, and in 1994, he began portraying his iconic character Barry in EastEnders, having previously appeared in the show in a different role.
Before landing the role of Barry in the beloved BBC soap, Shaun had a brief stint as a paramedic in an earlier 1994 episode of the show.
What's Shaun Williamson doing these days?
Since departing the BBC soap 21 years ago, Shaun has featured in a plethora of television shows, with his most recent roles including Mr Bigstuff, Murder, They Hope, Significant Other, and Mister Winner.
Shaun also shared the screen with Ricky Gervais in the film The Invention of Lying, following their collaboration on Extras.
The actor has also built a reputation for his impressive performances on television quiz shows. In 2022, Shaun secured £150,000 for charity on The Chase.
Beyond acting, Shaun is a vocalist who's been filling venues nationwide with his karaoke show Barrioke, where audiences join him in belting out classics like Sweet Caroline.
Rather than fretting about being forever linked to his soap character Barry, Shaun has capitalized on the association, reportedly amassing half a million pounds, according to The Sun.
Speaking to the publication, Shaun explained: "It started with being on Extras, then it got to a point where I thought, 'I'm never going to win an Oscar', and I came to terms with that.
"I'm proud of the fact I'm so well-known for it, even though I got pushed off a cliff over 20 years ago. I'm embracing it."
Shaun's secret son
Shaun has previously shared the personal story of his secret son, born from a brief relationship with a trapeze artist.
Just three months following their separation, the trapeze artist learnt she was expecting Shaun's secret son, who was named Gary.
In an unexpected turn of events, father and son reconnected years down the line. During a 2020 appearance on Loose Women, an emotional Shaun recalled: "We decided to reconnect. After a few phone calls, I had swabs done, no doubt whatsoever.
"Let's have this relationship. Make up for the lost time. We met in Ireland. Hired a couple of rooms. We were both nervous.
"Gary had a lovely envelope of photographs of him growing up over the years. A few more pints and a couple of games of pool.
"In the morning, we had a big cuddle. Next phase was introducing Sophie and Joe - they took to Gary straight away because he's a great guy."