Ex-EastEnders actor Charlie Clements portrayed Bradley Branning on the BBC soap before the character’s tragic death in 2010.
Former EastEnders star Charlie Clements looks very different these days, now sporting glasses and facial hair — a far cry from his appearance on the show. The actor, who played Bradley Branning, joined the BBC One soap in 2006 and exited in February 2010.
Charlie’s memorable departure took place during EastEnders’ first-ever live episode, broadcast to mark the soap’s 25th anniversary, when Bradley tragically fell from the roof of the Queen Vic while trying to evade the police.
Bradley had vowed to protect his wife Stacey after she killed her rapist, Archie Mitchell, and the couple planned to run away together. However, their escape went disastrously wrong when Bradley attempted to climb the pub to avoid arrest.
His desperate bid for freedom ended in tragedy, leaving Stacey widowed and sending shockwaves through Walford. The landmark episode drew in almost 20 million viewers.
More than ten years after leaving EastEnders, Charlie chose to step away from acting, admitting that, like everyone else, he still has to “pay the bills.”
He previously told his Instagram followers: “I know some of you might not be interested in my golf-related posts, but for those who are, go and follow me at @charlieclementsgolf.”
His dedicated golf account showcases his new career as a greenkeeper, with photos of him honing his golf skills. In another update, the former soap star shared:
“During my acting career, I’ve had some amazing opportunities and moments. But since starting out as a greenkeeper a year ago, this ranks right up there with the best of them… getting to step onto the hallowed turf of Centre Court.”
Charlie gained acclaim during his time on EastEnders, winning the Most Popular Newcomer award at the 2006 National Television Awards. Following his dramatic exit from the soap, he continued to build his career in the entertainment industry.
He went on to play Jake O’Reilly in Casualty and later appeared in the 2017 documentary Elizabeth and Her Enemies, portraying the Earl of Essex.
Away from the spotlight, Charlie married his long-term partner Rebecca Clatworthy in 2018, and the couple now share three children.
Alongside his acting career, Charlie has discovered a love for photography, frequently sharing striking images of wildlife and countryside scenes on his Instagram.
He also took a temporary break from acting to support his family, working in a restaurant during the first lockdown and later at a garden centre during the second.
Speaking candidly on Loose Women, the actor explained: “Acting is my first love and my chosen career, but ultimately I’m a jobbing actor. I have bills to pay and a family to look after, just like everyone else.”
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