Colin Salmon, who recently joined the cast of BBC One's EastEnders as George Knight, has quickly become known for his powerful performance. The character's complex storyline, which involves reuniting with his supposedly deceased wife, Cindy Beale, played by Michelle Collins, has captivated audiences since his debut.
Salmon's portrayal of George Knight is particularly poignant as the character navigates family drama. After Cindy faked her death 25 years ago and has been living under witness protection, their reunion is understandably fraught with tension but also ripe with opportunities for redemption. The estranged couple is now neighbors, and as they attempt to rebuild their relationship, the story promises twists, including the shocking news for George on Christmas Day when he discovers his son Junior has been having an affair with Cindy.
While his on-screen life is full of drama, it's Salmon’s real-life experiences driving his performance. After joining EastEnders in June 2023, he revealed how his personal circumstances—specifically, his wife's health challenges—influenced his decision to take on this role. Salmon's wife, Fiona Hawthorne, who is an accomplished artist, has been battling interstitial lung disease, relying on an oxygen tank for support since her diagnosis two years ago. This reality shapes Colin’s day-to-day life, impacting his work choices.
Speaking to OK!, Salmon shared, "My wife's not well so I can't be far from home... the universe has brought something quite extraordinary and my agent said, I think you should talk to Chris," referring to the show’s executive producer Chris Clenshaw. He praised Clenshaw's passion for the show and its audience, stating, "I just like to work with people who are passionate because we give 100%. When we jump, we jump. That's the rule." This commitment is evident as he channels his personal experiences and emotions through George's character.
A recognized talent, Salmon's impressive acting resume includes roles in three James Bond films: Tomorrow Never Dies, The World is Not Enough, and Die Another Day, where he played Charles Robinson. His career began back in the early 1990s with smaller roles, but he steadily carved out his place on both screens large and small, appearing in series like Midsomer Murders, Silent Witness, and even Doctor Who.
Colin has ventured beyond acting, showcasing his dance skills on the tenth series of Strictly Come Dancing where he partnered with professional dancer Kristina Rihanoff. Although he was eliminated during the fifth week, his participation highlighted his versatility as an entertainer.
Salmon’s marriage to Fiona Hawthorne since 1988 is another significant aspect of his life. Together, they have four children: Sasha, Rudi, Eden, and Ben. Fiona has gained recognition for her delicate artistry, with her works displayed at prestigious places like the Library of Congress, where her portrait of Barack Obama resides.
Though George Knight's life on EastEnders is taking its dramatic turns, Salmon’s real-life challenges provide depth to his character, evoking empathy and connection among viewers. His role reflects themes of love, betrayal, and family ties, intertwining with the fabric of the iconic show’s narratives.
Fans are eager to witness how the plot will progress, particularly against the backdrop of the festive season where revelations often come to light. EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The show continues to deliver impactful stories filled with rich character developments, and with Salmon at the forefront, it is likely to engage viewers on multiple levels, making for thrilling viewing this winter.
