BBC EASTENDERS STAR LABELLED 'LEGEND' IN NEW UNCHARACTERISTIC ROLE

EastEnders fans have hailed the acting skills of one of the soap's biggest stars after witnessing him perform in a much different role. Steve McFadden joined the BBC show in 1990 and has been almost ever-present on our television screens ever since.

Playing the role of hard-man and businessman, Phil Mitchell, the character's hard-hitting storylines over the past three decades have tackled numerous grim topics including alcoholism, addiction, criminal dealings and marital affairs. In light of that, viewers described the star as a "genius" as he took to the stage earlier this week and showcased his diversity. Indeed, Steve has been cast as the villainous 'boo-able baddie', Abanezer the Geezer in the pantomime, Aladdin - and he's been receiving rave reviews since his first performance on December 5.

The 66-year old is the star of the show, which runs until the New Year at St Albans' The Alban Arena.

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Starring alongside the Steve, meanwhile is local star Bob Golding (as Dame Dolly), seasoned panto star, Damian Patton (PC World), Iversun Yabut (Aladdin) and Emily Tang (Princess Jasmine).

One person in attendance at the Hertfordshire venue shared brief footage of Steve on stage, smiling uncharacteristically as he sung and danced his way through a rendition of Kaiser Chiefs' 'I Predict A Riot' - sporting a Mohican haircut.

"LEGEND!" TikTok user, Deckers declared. "British icon, Steve McFadden in Aladdin."

Writing in response, one person praised: "This man is a phenomenal actor. Respected and revered by the entire industry. He does panto, purely because he loves to do panto."

A second added in disbelief: "Is that really Phil? He looks different." A third individual commented: "This is so niche, I absolutely bloody love Steve."

While a fourth TikTok user recalled: "I saw Steve McFadden when he was in Dick Whittington, he was fantastic."

Elsewhere, in the comments, comedian Dave Bibby, who is also starring in the panto as Charlie, couldn't help but joke: "I have a line toward the end about allowing phones for the finale knowing full well you’ve been snapping Phil all show!"

To which the clip's owner replied: "Sorry Charlie. I do recall you saying that actually, thanks for putting on a good show!"

It comes after Steve finally received the recognition he deserved in September, scooping the National Television Award for Serial Drama Performance.

Promoting the panto online, The Albans Arena states: "It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular family pantomime yet, with lavish sets, hilarious jokes, and fun for the whole family!

Once again, the show will be written by Paul Hendy, and produced by Evolution Productions, the same award-winning team behind last year’s smash hit Cinderella!"

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2025-12-11T10:43:35Z