EX-EASTENDERS star Aaron Sidwell looks unrecognisable in his new movie role.
The actor, 34, plays the villainous Priest in Fyre Rises, a dark drama that sees Aaron’s character lure a debt-ridden former mercenary back into his former life in an exchange for a fresh start, should he complete his mission.
Aaron Sidwell as Priest in Fyre Rises
Aaron shared a picture of Priest on his Instagram account and the baddie looks unhinged in a similar way to Batman’s rival The Joker.
With a severe undercut and a face of white makeup, he grimaces in the close-up snap.
His flamboyant look his completed by black nail polish, a dangly silver earring and a leopard print jacket.
The film also stars Benidorm’s Jake Canuso and After Life’s Harry Grover.
It is a welcome return to TV for Aaron, who has only had a minor role in Doctors since leaving the Square in 2017.
He has however starred in West End and theatre productions, such as Macbeth and Henry V.
The Steven Beale actor has had upheaval in his personal life since leaving the soap, splitting from fiancée Tricia Turner in 2020 and struggling financially amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The former couple confirmed their engagement in April 2019, two years after Stephen divorced ex-wife Grace Isted.
He had two children with Grace – Matilda, 11, and Isla, eight – before they separated in 2009.
Stephen has struggled during lockdown, telling fans last month he was finding it difficult getting out of bed in the morning.
Alongside pics of places he had travelled the previous year, he wrote: “I don’t consider myself someone who really struggles with my mental health. I have my s**t but don’t we all. However this week has floored me.
“Getting out of bed has been hard. Motivation to train hasn’t been there. Creativity? Forget about it. GONE! I am terrified to open social media.
“I just don’t know what awful thing I’m going to see next. Yes I know we NEED to see it and that’s the point but it doesn’t change the fact that it’s hurting every fibre of my being. And so, please if anyone is struggle don’t suffer in silence. Talk to someone!”
Prior to his post he spoke of his fears of earning no money this year due to the coronavirus wreaking havoc with the self-employed and theatre industry.
Aaron played Steven Beale in EastEnders from 2007 to 2017.
The character was killed off after torching the Beale restaurant to try and kill dad Ian’s wife Jane.
He was being manipulated by Max Branning into doing it, but Max had a change of heart and went in to save her.
Max then violently pushed him into a counter, where he suffered abdominal injuries.
Aaron with ex-fiancée Tricia Turner
Aaron quit EastEnders in 2017
