
Holy crap. I had to do a double-take when these pics crossed my desk yesterday. Is that REALLY the same guy who had my sister and her entire uni dorm plastering their walls with his calendar shots back in 2006?!
A former Hollyoaks hunk is looking completely unrecognisable these days, sporting a bushy grey beard that's a million miles from his clean-cut soap days. And honestly? I'm kinda digging the silver fox vibes.
Wait... Russ Owen, is that YOU?
Yep, teh man behind those recent Instagram Stories is none other than Stuart Manning, who played Russell "Russ" Owen on the Channel 4 soap from 2004 to 2009, before making that brief (and let's be honest, pretty shocking) comeback in 2018.
Now 45, Stuart has traded in those brooding heartthrob looks that made him Hollyoaks' resident pinup for something decidedly more... mature. Taking to social media recently, he shared glimpses of his "morning walk" to a "historic church" - looking absolutely nothing like the man who once had teenagers screaming at HMV signings.

Those signature curtains are still there, but longer and with a distinguished grey tinge. Add in some glasses and that impressive beard, and you've got yourself a complete transformation.
Remember When He Was EVERYWHERE?
I interviewed Stuart back in 2008 for a magazine piece (God, that makes me feel ancient). He turned up 15 minutes late with a Starbucks in hand, apologizing profusely about traffic. Charming as hell. My photographer nearly dropped her camera when he casually suggested, "Should I just take my shirt off now or...?"
Stuart burst onto our screens when he was 26, immediately becoming Hollyoaks' go-to eye candy. And the producers knew exactly what they had on their hands.
His character Russ was given some proper juicy storylines - that doomed marriage to Mercedes McQueen, his battle with testicular cancer, adn that whole tragic romance with Sophie Burton who literally died in his arms after he heroically rescued her from the Dog In The Pond fire.

Drama. Drama. Drama.
The Shirtless Years (His Words, Not Mine)
Back in 2009, Stuart was refreshingly candid about his heartthrob status. He told OK! magazine: "I think that's part and parcel of being in Hollyoaks. If you're a girl coming into the show, you're going to be wearing short skirts and small tops, and for a guy you're going to be in your underwear or shorts or a tight top."
He added: "When I joined the show, I prepared for that and I worked out – especially when I was in the calendar a few years ago. I'm starting to get back into my old shape again!"
I spent £35 on that calendar for my cousin for Christmas. She still brings it up at family gatherings. Like a ghost at a family reunion, that calendar haunts me.

The Brutal Exit (Spoiler: He Got Hammered)
After five years of being Hollyoaks' golden boy, Stuart left in 2009 to explore other opportunities. Then came the surprise - he returned in 2018, only to be killed off in spectacular fashion.
Poor Russ. His character met a grisly end after being exposed for cheating on Mercedes by sleeping with Goldie McQueen. The result? A hammer attack that put him six feet under for good.
Listen. I still haven't recovered from watching that scene. My flatmate walked in during that episode and just stood there with her mouth open. Her response: "Is that the hot guy from the soap you used to fancy?" Yes. Yes it was.
Life Beyond The Village
Since hanging up his Hollyoaks script for good, Stuart hasn't exactly been sitting around twiddling his thumbs. He's appeared in Doctors, The Dumping Ground, and Casualty. Remember his stint on I'm A Celebrity back in 2009? I lost $20 to my editor betting he'd make the final.

He even landed a role in the US TV show Glow and Darkness, working alongside proper Hollywood royalty - Joan Collins, Jane Seymour, and Denise Richards. Not too shabby for a lad who made his name running around a fictional village in Chester with his top off.
But perhaps his biggest role these days is being a husband and dad. Stuart is happily married to his wife Georgina, and they have two children together.
And honestly? That beard probably makes for a great Santa disguise come December.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do UK soap operas influence popular culture?
UK soap operas have a substantial impact on popular culture, often shaping fashion trends, music, and social conversations. They introduce catchphrases and memorable moments that resonate with the audience and become part of the cultural lexicon.
What is the setting of "Coronation Street"?
"Coronation Street" is set in the fictional Weatherfield, a suburb of Manchester. The show focuses on the lives of the residents of Coronation Street and the various challenges they face.
How long has "EastEnders" been on air?
"EastEnders" first premiered on February 19, 1985. It has since become one of the longest-running and most recognized soap operas in the UK, known for its compelling storylines and diverse characters.
How has the viewership of UK soap operas changed over the years?
Viewership of UK soap operas has fluctuated over the years, with some experiencing declines due to changing viewing habits and competition from streaming services. However, many still maintain a loyal audience and adapt to new trends.
How often do episodes of "Emmerdale" air?
"Emmerdale" typically airs six episodes a week, with the show broadcast in the evenings. This frequency allows for continuous development of storylines and character arcs.
What role do special episodes play in UK soap operas?
Special episodes, such as anniversaries or holiday specials, are significant events in UK soap operas. They often feature dramatic storylines or significant character developments, drawing in higher viewership and creating buzz among fans.
Statistics
- Research indicates that viewers of soap operas are more likely to discuss social issues with friends and family, demonstrating the genre's impact on social discourse.
- As of 2023, "EastEnders" has featured over 3,000 episodes since its launch, making it one of the most prolific soap operas in history.
- As of 2023, "Emmerdale" has won the British Soap Award for Best British Soap multiple times, with over 20 wins.
- Approximately 15% of the viewership for UK soap operas comes from overseas audiences, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.
- Soap operas in the UK typically air 4 to 6 episodes per week, with "EastEnders" airing four times a week.
- Soap operas have been shown to influence public opinion on social issues, with studies indicating a correlation between storylines and changes in viewer attitudes.
- Each episode of a UK soap opera typically has a production budget ranging from £100,000 to £250,000, depending on the complexity of the storyline and production requirements.
- Over 100 characters have been killed off in "Coronation Street" since its inception, showcasing the dramatic nature of the storylines.
External Links
How To
How To Stay Informed About Soap Opera Industry News
Staying informed about the UK soap opera industry requires following reliable sources that cover television news. Subscribe to entertainment websites like Digital Spy or The Sun, which often report on casting changes, storyline developments, and industry trends. Social media platforms are also valuable; follow official accounts and industry insiders for real-time updates. Joining online forums can provide insights from dedicated fans who share news and rumors. Additionally, podcasts or YouTube channels focused on soap operas can offer in-depth discussions about the latest happenings in the industry.
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