The Rise and Evolution of Nigel Harman: From EastEnders to Olivier-Winning Star

Nigel Harman’s Journey, From EastEnders Bad Boy to Olivier-Winning Thespian and Strictly 2023

Nigel Harman, the Olivier award-winning actor known for his role in the BBC soap EastEnders, is set to join the roster of celebrities in the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Harman, born in Surrey in 1973, developed an interest in performing at a young age due to his parents’ involvement with amateur productions. He started his career as a child star, appearing in the drama Tenko at the age of 11. Harman also gained experience in theater and was part of the original cast of the hit musical Mamma Mia!

Struggling for Regular Work

As an adult, Harman initially faced challenges in finding regular acting jobs. He even worked as a driver for Sainsbury’s supermarket while awaiting his big break. That break came when he was cast in the role of Dennis Rickman in EastEnders, starting in 2003. Dennis, the “bad boy” son of “Dirty Den” Watts, became a prominent character on the show until he was dramatically killed off in December 2005. Reflecting on this pivotal scene, Harman explained in an interview with Inside Soap, “I had a very strong instinct that I wanted to draw a line underneath the character. I think that’s why he’s resonated for so long.”

Since leaving EastEnders, Harman has found success in theater once again. He has appeared in productions of shows like Guys and Dolls and Harold Pinter’s The Caretaker. In 2012, he won the Olivier Award for Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical for his portrayal of Lord Farquaad in the West End transfer of Shrek the Musical. Harman has also taken on directing roles, including the touring version of Shrek The Musical in 2014.

On Screen Success

Harman’s talent extends beyond the stage, as he has also made a name for himself on television. He has had main roles in TV series such as Plus One and Hotel Babylon. In 2013, he appeared in the role of Green in Downton Abbey and starred as Bradley in the comedy series Mount Pleasant from 2013 to 2017. This year, he returned to the world of soap operas with a role in the popular medical drama Casualty.

Strictly Come Dancing and Dance Credentials

Nigel Harman will now take on the challenge of Strictly Come Dancing. In an interview with Radio Times, he revealed his dance credentials, saying, “I did a diploma in musical theatre when I was 16. So we used to dance. I wasn’t in the top stream. There was A, B, and C, and I started in C and ended up in B.” He also shared a personal anecdote about working as a dancer on a cruise ship for six months after college. Although he initially hesitated to share this experience due to the stigma associated with it, he now embraces and takes pride in his journey.

In a statement ahead of the premiere of Strictly, Harman expressed his excitement and nervousness about joining the show, acknowledging that he has been an armchair fan of the show and has watched in awe as contestants danced across the screen.

Conclusion

Nigel Harman’s journey from EastEnders bad boy to Olivier-winning thespian and now Strictly Come Dancing contestant is a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor. From his early beginnings as a child star to his success on stage and screen, Harman has continuously evolved and taken on diverse roles. His commitment to his craft is evident in the awards he has won and the impact his characters have had on audiences.

Now, as he steps onto the Strictly dance floor, Harman faces a new challenge that will further showcase his skills and broaden his horizons. His dance experience, combined with his dedication and willingness to take risks, will undoubtedly make him an intriguing contestant to watch. Whether he twirls, gyrates, or surprises us with unexpected moves, one thing is certain: Nigel Harman’s journey in the entertainment industry shows no signs of slowing down.