View Full Version : "Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd)"
Former This Life star Steve John Shepherd has joined the cast of EastEnders in the role of Alfie Moon's younger cousin Michael.
The actor - best known for his part as law clerk Jo in the '90s drama - is to make his Albert Square debut later this year, hot on the heels of Alfie's return to the soap in the autumn.
Described as a risk-taker who loves to live dangerously, Michael is more competitive than Alfie and viewers are expected to soon see his manipulative streak as he settles in to life in Walford.
Michael is also a charmer with an eye for the ladies, but he won't think twice before stabbing someone in the back - even those who are closest to him.
Speaking of his casting, Shepherd explained: "I can vividly remember watching the first ever episode of EastEnders and I'm very excited to be joining such a fantastic and iconic programme. Michael Moon will be an exciting character to play - on the surface he's a loveable, cheeky chappy, but underneath he has hidden depths which will be exciting to explore."
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "I've been a fan of Steve John Shepherd's work for years. He's a fantastic signing for EastEnders, an exciting addition to the Moon family, and is set to cause a big splash in Albert Square from the moment he arrives."
Along with This Life, Shepherd has previously appeared in 2004 thriller movie Layer Cake, drama series Waking The Dead and BBC Three sitcom Lunch Monkeys.
JustJodi
28-07-2010, 01:13
Had to look this guy up,, wonder who will get tangled up with him first, since there are very few SINGLE ladies left on the square..I presume Chelsa will be long gone when he turns up,, or will be be going from Roxy to Ronnie LOL
EASTENDER Alfie Moon is getting a cheeky COUSIN.
Steve John Shepherd will play Michael Moon, described as just like Alfie but with "a more manipulative streak and competitive nature".
Steve, who played Jo in BBC drama This Life, said of Michael: "On the surface he is a loveable, cheeky chappy but he has hidden depths, which will be exciting to explore."
Shane Richie returns as Alfie in the Autumn - along with lover Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace).
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/soaps/3071562/EastEnder-Alfie-Moon-to-get-cheeky-cousin-Michael-aka-Steve-Shepherd.html#ixzz0uwsjN0O8
tammyy2j
28-07-2010, 12:03
Is he Jake and Danny's brother also?
not sure, guess we will find out some time. I am sure we will also see Spencer back in the not so distant future.
http://i2.cdnds.net/10/30/soaps_eastenders_steve_john_shepherd.jpg
Just for the ladies
Sure there are some gentlemen who enjoy the look of him :p
I'm looking forward to Steve John Shepherd joining the cast. I've liked him since This Life.
moonstorm
28-07-2010, 20:19
Loved him in This Life, mind you loved This Life! Bit of eye candy at last!
If they're making a thing out of him not having a problem with stabbing those closest to him in the back, I can see him taking a liking to Kat. I guess if he has a reputation for that sort of thing it would explain why we haven't seen or heard from him sooner. Maxwell was at the wedding and since Jake and Danny are meant to have landed Alfie in prison, that explains why they weren't invited. Michael not being invited would make sense if Alfie thought he'd be after Kat.
I wonder if Michael is a half brother of Jake and Danny - I think I remember at least one of the parents leaving and Danny mentioning them relying on Alfie's mum.
I think Chelsea will be gone by the time he arrives; I was under the impression she leaves within the next few weeks.
tammyy2j
10-12-2010, 13:36
Is he coming back?
I was thinking he might be back for the baby's funeral
Yeah, Michael will return in the new year, I'm guessing for the baby's funeral.
JustJodi
15-12-2010, 15:42
whose funeral ??????????
whose funeral ??????????
His and Kat's baby oh sorry actuall Ronnie and Jack's baby over the switch
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has suggested that his character Michael Moon could have a future with Roxy Mitchell.
Next week's episodes of the BBC soap see Michael and Roxy (Rita Simons) enjoy a date together at The Vic, leaving fans to wonder whether a more serious relationship could develop between the pair.
In an interview with Inside Soap, Shepherd explained: "They spend a nice evening together and then share a kiss. Roxy and Michael just enjoy each other's company.
"He likes her no-nonsense, feisty nature - and she's wild, so I think he enjoys that too."
He continued: "Roxy and Michael make a good couple and although this first date isn't a major deal, there's every chance it could lead to something more in the future."
Michael returned to screens earlier this week when he arrived at The Vic unexpectedly - providing a shock for Kat and Alfie.
DS
Steve John Shepherd has revealed that EastEnders bosses are planning to explore the background and history of his character Michael Moon in the months ahead.
The actor, who first joined Albert Square last autumn, confirmed that the forthcoming arrival of Michael's father Eddie (David Essex) will provide an opportunity to explain the reasons behind his alter ego's behaviour.
Michael has caused a stir since arriving back in Walford at the beginning of the year, sparking problems in his cousin Alfie's relationship with Kat, sparring with new love interest Roxy Mitchell and making an enemy of her troubled sister Ronnie.
However, in an interview with We Love Telly, Shepherd confirmed: "When Michael's father arrives shortly in the shape of David Essex, we will learn a lot more about what makes Michael tick and why he is the way he is. You'll have to watch this space."
Asked about Michael and Ronnie's clashes, he added: "He takes pride in the way he dresses and he's always been quite successful with the ladies. He can't work out why Ronnie doesn't like him, so he assumes she must fancy him."
Michael is currently unaware that Ronnie has stolen the child that he fathered with Kat in the soap's baby swap storyline. However, Ronnie's secret is due to be revealed next month as the plot reaches its climax.
DS
EastEnders exec Bryan Kirkwood is among the soap producers who answer reader questions in this week's edition of Inside Soap magazine, talking about Max and Tanya's future, what's next for Janine and more.
Another interesting nugget of information from the soap's boss seems to hint that things between Roxy Mitchell and Michael Moon could get darker as they embark on a proper relationship in the months ahead.
Kirkwood told the magazine: "Michael bears a startling resemblance to Roxy's late dad Archie in the way he approaches life and treats people.
"Roxy's a little girl lost and Michael could be the worst possible man for her. But how long will it take her to realise that?"
Could Roxy be heading for trouble?
DS
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has predicted that his character Michael Moon will bide his time before getting revenge in his war with Phil Mitchell.
Fans of the BBC soap will see Michael and Phil (Steve McFadden) clash over the next two days, a situation which reaches a climax when Phil traps the Albert Square newcomer in a delivery van and leaves him in an abandoned location.
Phil decides to take on Michael on the same day that the businessman's boxing club opens, leaving it unclear whether he will make it back to Walford in time for the grand re-opening.
However, speaking on This Morning today, Shepherd explained that Michael will decide not to punish Phil straight away.
Asked whether the charmer could get some revenge, the actor replied: "Yeah, but I think Michael will take his time over that. It's best served cold."
Shepherd added that he recently met his new screen father David Essex, who will soon start filming in the role of Eddie Moon.
He said: "We did some stuff together - we did a workshop together. He was so cool and nice."
Shepherd joined the cast of EastEnders last summer.
DS
I’m A Celebrity winner Matt Willis is being lined up for a role in EastEnders – playing one of Alfie Moon’s lot.
The former Busted star had a second audition at the show’s Elstree HQ this week after impressing show bosses with an initial screen test. And my impeccable sources tell me he’s set to play the son of Seventies icon David *Essex.
EastEnders announced in January that Essex will turn up in Albert Square as Michael Moon’s dad Eddie – Alfie’s uncle.
And although show sources are being coy about Matt’s exact role, it sounds like the role of Alfie’s cousin is virtually his.
My insider says Matt – who has just *finished a national theatre tour in the musical Flashdance – has made an *impression on *everybody at the show.
The on-set source adds: *“EastEnders has a few new faces coming to Walford over the next few months, which they are currently casting for.
“Matt’s first screen test went really well and he has been called back for a second. It would be great for him to land this gig – many of his fans would say it’s what he went to school for.
“Matt’s got a great aura about him and has been working hard on his acting skills. Bagging a job on the soap would be a dream come true for him, and he’s been a huge fan for years.
“It’s definitely the next *chapter in his life and he’s just hoping it all works out.”
An EastEnders spokesman says: “We are seeing a number of people, including Matt, about future roles, however no *decisions have been made yet.”
I couldn’t think of a better person to have in Albert Square. Since winning I’m A Celebrity in 2006 Matt has had huge *success in both his professional and *personal life.
After conquering all his drug and drink issues – he’s now very much clean and sober – he married the divine Emma in July 2008 and their daughter *Isabelle was born in June 2009.
Matt, 27, has been enjoying every minute of performing on stage in Flashdance but he’s exactly what EastEnders needs to breathe some new life into the show.
Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2011/04/17/matt-willis-is-being-lined-up-for-eastenders-115875-23066212/#ixzz1Jkkyq4MK
Michael Moon's behaviour is to become more sinister as he develops an obsession with Ronnie Branning in a forthcoming EastEnders storyline, a report has claimed.
According to the Daily Star, Michael will become fixated on Ronnie (Samantha Womack) in scenes which air this summer, sneaking into her bedroom to watch her sleep and rooting through her underwear drawer.
The newspaper claims that the mysterious businessman will also ask girlfriend Roxy (Rita Simons) to start wearing the same perfume as her troubled sister, as well as spreading lies about Ronnie in conversations with Kat and Alfie Moon, whose baby she snatched on New Year's Eve.
A Walford source commented: "Everyone knows Michael has a mean streak but he is set to get a whole lot worse. He's trying to meddle in as many people's lives as possible. It seems he wants Ronnie all to himself. But what exactly is he up to?"
Michael has been an enigmatic figure since his first appearance on the Square last year, but fans have already seen him scare Ronnie with his nasty side.
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood has also compared Michael to the late Archie Mitchell, one of Albert Square's most memorable villains.
Michael's new storyline is reportedly being filmed at the moment and will air before Ronnie's departure from the soap later this year.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has confirmed that there is a "dark" reason behind his character's animosity towards dad Eddie.
Michael Moon will be reunited with Eddie next week when the ex-boxer arrives on Albert Square unexpectedly, keen to catch up with his nephew Alfie and meet baby Tommy for the first time.
Eddie (David Essex) is unaware that Michael is also in Walford and as the pair come face-to-face again, viewers will see that father and son are not on speaking terms.
"It's something dark and it's still very raw for Michael," Shepherd told Soaplife as he discussed the reason for the mysterious grudge. "It's made him the person he is today. It's why he is so damaged. And dangerous."
The actor added that the Moon family reunion could have a "damaging effect on Michael's relationships with the people around him" as Eddie's return has stirred up bad memories.
Asked whether Michael lets girlfriend Roxy know why he hates his father, Shepherd replied: "At first, no, but he does eventually and she shoulders some of the burden. But that won't be enough for Michael. He'll want to exact some sort of revenge on his dad. It will have ramifications for everybody involved."
EastEnders bosses are currently keeping the reasons behind the family feud under wraps.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has confirmed that his character Michael Moon will want to get even with Ronnie Branning when she rejects him in a forthcoming storyline.
Fans of the BBC soap are about to see Michael become increasingly obsessed with Ronnie, believing that they share a bond as they both have turbulent family histories.
However, in an EastEnders episode airing next month, Michael tries to kiss Ronnie (Samantha Womack) and is left furious when she makes it clear that she's not interested.
"She says she's with Jack and that if he comes near her again, she will kill him," Shepherd told Soaplife. "It's not the reaction he was expecting and that feeling of rejection takes him back to his childhood. Michael's a person who wants to win in every situation and he's angry Ronnie has turned him down."
As previously reported, Michael is expected to start telling lies about Ronnie to Kat and Alfie Moon, whose baby she snatched on New Year's Eve. As part of the vengeful plan, he even tries to convince the pair that Ronnie wants to steal Tommy again.
"He's not making rational decisions," Shepherd continued. "He just wants revenge and isn't thinking of the consequences."
The actor added that Michael may come to regret his behaviour further down the line.
"Remorse is something that comes later," he said. "Michael will be working out what he feels over the coming weeks. It goes on for a while."
EastEnders continues tomorrow night at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Already posted http://www.soapboards.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?122047-EastEnders-Spoilers-Week-25-%28-20-24-June-2011%29&p=750667#post750667
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has insisted that Michael Moon has a "complex cauldron of emotions".
Defending his character's continuing strange behaviour, Shepherd told Inside Soap that Michael's actions come "from the dark recesses of his soul".
"Michael is a person who wants to win in every situation and he's angry that Ronnie has turned him down," he explained. "He can't turn to his family; he feels threatened by his dad and threatened by Tyler, his half-brother who shows up.
"His thoughts and feelings are not cut and dried. He has a complex cauldron of emotions."
> 'EastEnders' actor teases Michael revenge plot
When he is turned down by Ronnie - played by Samantha Womack - after admitting his feelings, Michael sets out to cause her more problems.
Shepherd said: "He offers to look after Tommy for Kat and Alfie. Then he texts Ronnie from Roxy's phone, asking to meet her in the park. When she gets there, she sees Tommy alone in his pram and picks him up. Michael has alerted Kat and Alfie, who then turn up and think Ronnie's stolen him again."
However, he admitted that remorse is "something that comes later" for the eldest Moon brother.
"Michael will be working out what he feels over the coming weeks. It goes on for a while. There's a lot more to come and some of it's from his relationship with his father," he teased.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has admitted that he believes his character Michael Moon is capable of murder.
The actor's alter ego has caused a stir in Walford with his erratic and twisted behaviour in recent months, and this looks set to continue in the coming weeks as his resentment towards dad Eddie (David Essex) intensifies.
When Eddie shows his darker side by telling lies about Michael to Jack Branning in next week's episodes, the businessman decides that it's time to get even with his father.
In an interview with All About Soap, Shepherd confirmed that he would not rule out the possibility of Michael killing an enemy in the future.
Asked whether Michael would be capable of murder, he replied: "We all are, aren't we? He's not a physical fighter so he'd get somebody else to do the dirty work, but he is capable of killing.
"He'll go to some very dark places in his quest for revenge."
Shepherd also predicted that Michael could use his half-brothers Tyler (Tony Discipline) and Anthony (Matt Lapinskas) as part of his scheming in the future.
Pondering the possibility, he said: "Of course [he would] - Michael doesn't care about collateral damage. Anthony idolises Michael, which Michael is aware of, but he's totally immune to that at the moment. There are a lot of layers he needs to get through before he starts playing happy families with his two brothers."
Anthony's first EastEnders episode airs on Monday.
tammyy2j
17-08-2011, 14:49
Michael is suppose to start a new romance with Janine
(The thread is about him)
JustJodi
17-08-2011, 15:24
He is suppose to start a new romance with Janine
Who ??? Eddie?? Michael??Tyler or Anthony ??? heck lets throw caution in the wind Alfie ??? LOL
Who ??? Eddie?? Michael??Tyler or Anthony ??? heck lets throw caution in the wind Alfie ??? LOL
Michael is
JustJodi
17-08-2011, 15:38
Michael is
ah the black widow and the snake in the grass perfect combo LOL
Michael is suppose to start a new romance with Janine
(The thread is about him)
Janine Moon sounds good
EASTENDERS superbitch Janine Malloy and scheming Michael Moon make a fearsome match when they get together next month.
The pair lock lips after initially trading insults in nightclub R&R.
Grin and frolic .... Janine Malloy hooks up with Michael Moon in EastEnders after too many gins
The unlikely union happens when Michael, played by Steve John Shepherd, is drowning his sorrows after falling out with his family.
Meanwhile Janine (Charlie Brooks) is knocking back the gins after realising she can't enjoy her new-found inheritance on her own.
They start bickering, but the row - to air on September 1 - awakens her passion and she throws herself at Michael.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has teased the shocking climax of his character's ongoing revenge plot, which sees Tyler Moon left seriously injured.
In scenes which air next month, things begin to fall into place for Shepherd's alter ego Michael Moon as he plans to cause mayhem for his family on September 13 - the anniversary of his mother's death.
Still blaming dad Eddie (David Essex) for his mother's passing, Michael arranges a mismatched boxing fight for half-brother Tyler (Tony Discipline) on the big day - knowing that he'll be in serious danger against a fearsome opponent.
"He's come up with this elaborate plan where he's orchestrated a fight for Tyler," Shepherd told Soaplife. "He's made Tyler think he'll win, but his opponent is a superior fighter. Eddie dotes on Tyler, so Michael thinks it will teach his dad a lesson if Tyler gets hurt."
To make matters worse, Michael also manipulates Anthony into betting £8,000 on Tyler's rival to win the fight.
Shepherd continued: "Tyler's clearly mismatched and he gets pummelled to the ground. But he gets up and fights back and wins - then collapses. He's in a bad way. And so's Anthony. He loses £8,000 because he bet on Tyler's opponent to win."
Asked whether Michael is worried that Tyler could die, the actor replied: "His mind works in a laser beam kind of way - he puts a beam on his project and doesn't worry about any collateral damage that might be caused."
EastEnders launches the build-up to the storyline later this week as Michael begins arranging the fight for Tyler.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has hinted that his twisted character Michael Moon could eventually start to sort through his issues with dad Eddie.
Michael's current storyline sees him plotting for revenge against Eddie (David Essex), wanting to punish him in spectacular fashion on September 13, which is the anniversary of his mother's suicide.
Part of the businessman's evil plan involves arranging a mismatched boxing fight for his half-brother Tyler (Tony Discipline), knowing that he is likely to be seriously injured against a fearsome opponent.
Michael has also recruited fragile Vanessa Gold to seduce Eddie with the aim of Carol Jackson discovering their fling on September 13.
"He wants justice, whatever that may mean in Michael's own mind," Shepherd told All About Soap. "He wants recognition from Eddie. He wants him to say sorry, and he wants closure. He also wants Eddie to admit he's to blame."
However, asked whether Michael secretly wants a better relationship with his dad, the actor replied: "Yes, absolutely. There's some stuff coming up, which I can't really reveal too much about, but there are some scenes between Michael and Eddie where they finally begin to work through the storm."
Shepherd added that Michael is jealous of the bond that Eddie shares with Tyler and Anthony.
"He hates all the banter that they have, and the memories they can draw on but Michael can't," he said. "It's perverse, but the fact that Eddie, Tyler and Anthony are a unit is what fuels Michael's desire to destroy them all."
Viewers learned that Michael blames his father for his mum's death shortly after Eddie arrived on Albert Square in June.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has promised that his character Michael Moon will continue to oppose bad boy Derek Branning.
Michael shares a turbulent history with Derek and was not pleased when the villain arrived on Albert Square back in November.
Speaking of the animosity, Shepherd told Inside Soap: "It's already been alluded to that Derek and Michael didn't get along in the past. The true extent of Derek's emotional and physical bullying of Michael still hasn't been revealed, but Michael's well aware of how unpleasant he is. Derek's a nasty piece of work."
Asked whether Michael could try to settle the score in the future, the actor replied: "Absolutely! Michael holds grudges and doesn't forget anything.
"He has a bad feeling that the Brannings will become too powerful in Walford if Derek continues to ride roughshod over everyone, so he's definitely in Michael's sights. We can expect these two to clash, that's for sure."
EastEnders fans will see Derek target the Moons next week as Tyler (Tony Discipline) and Anthony (Matt Lapinskas) owe him money and cannot pay it back.
With his brothers in trouble, Michael faces a dilemma over whether to help them despite his recent problems with the pair.
EastEnders continues tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has revealed that Michael Moon's romance with Janine Butcher will get rockier in the coming weeks.
The couple have recently appeared to be on steady ground following the revelation that Janine (Charlie Brooks) is pregnant with Michael's child.
However, speaking to Inside Soap, Shepherd warned that viewers have not yet seen the last of trouble between the pair.
"The relationship is going to get very fraught and rocky - mountainous, actually," the actor explained. "I gather that Janine has made a habit of killing off her husbands, so Michael will have to keep one eye open where she's concerned!"
Discussing the connection between the duo, he continued: "They both have this 'black dog' that follows them around - it's a darkness. They share similar histories with family dysfunction, so he knows why Janine is so unpredictable and uneven. He sees himself in Janine."
Shepherd also joked about how Michael and Janine's child might cope with having such twisted parents.
He said: "I pity Michael and Janine's baby! How would I rate his skills as a father? Quite low. Imagine Michael changing a nappy! But he sees this as a chance to redeem himself."
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has explained why his character Michael Moon is starting to turn against Jack Branning.
Fans of the soap have seen a rocky friendship for the pair over the past few months, which continues next week when Michael starts to interfere in Jack's custody battle with Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simons).
As first reported a few days ago, Michael will soon discover that Jack (Scott Maslen) has forged Roxy's signature on a passport application for the pair's daughter Amy. He then shares the evidence with Roxy to help her case.
Shepherd, asked whether Michael is worried about betraying Jack, told All About Soap: "No, as Michael doesn't like Jack's attitude towards Derek. Derek has come in and assumed the role as head of the Branning family. He's bossing everyone around and he's committing all sorts of low-level crime.
"Michael is galled by this. He also doesn't want the Brannings to be too powerful on the Square."
Discussing Michael's twisted personality, he continued: "I like his complexity and I do enjoy playing him. I feel very fortunate to be able to explore his darkness.
"There's a lot more territory to cover too, so I'm looking forward to that. People have taken to him as well - but one woman I met once did scream at me!"
EastEnders continues tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has expressed excitement over the future of Michael Moon's current storyline with Jean Slater.
Michael continues to manipulate Jean (Gillian Wright) for his own financial gain next week, convincing her to invest some of Alfie's savings into the boxing club. In reality, he plans to use the cash to impress fiancée Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) by helping to fund their wedding.
Shepherd has now predicted that there will be fireworks on Albert Square as the story intensifies.
He told All About Soap: "We are building up to something, but I don't know what the pay-off is.
"It'll be a real crescendo and the thing with Jean becomes extremely intense. It's a bubbling cauldron."
Shepherd confessed that Michael isn't worried about the possibility of Janine finding out where his money is coming from.
"He balances the risk he might be thrown out of the relationship against the benefits and decides it's worth the gamble," the actor explained.
Asked whether Michael really loves Janine, he replied: "That's up to the viewers to decide. You never quite know what Michael is doing or why."
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has hinted that his character Michael Moon may be interested in reigniting his old spark with Roxy Mitchell.
Next week's episodes see Roxy (Rita Simons) offer support to Michael following the sudden departure of his wife Janine. Although Roxy is only doing so as a friend, Michael's point of view on the situation is less clear.
Shepherd told Inside Soap: "Michael's feeling completely out of his depth looking after baby Scarlett alone at this point. He hasn't had any prior experience with caring for young children, and has no natural instincts whatsoever. Roxy can see he's in trouble, and she steps in to help him out."
He continued: "Michael's very relieved to have found support from Roxy. It's nice for him to see a friendly face, given that he's been quite isolated since Janine left. Michael's been stuck in the house with Scarlett, and hasn't had any help at all.
"Michael certainly thinks there's something between him and Roxy. Who knows where those feelings are coming from, given the state of his marriage to Janine? I'm always struggling to work him out myself!"
Viewers will see Roxy offer parenting tips and advice to a lonely Michael in next week's episodes. However, the time they are spending together soon sparks gossip on Albert Square
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has hinted that his character Michael Moon may be interested in reigniting his old spark with Roxy Mitchell.
Next week's episodes see Roxy (Rita Simons) offer support to Michael following the sudden departure of his wife Janine. Although Roxy is only doing so as a friend, Michael's point of view on the situation is less clear.
Shepherd told Inside Soap: "Michael's feeling completely out of his depth looking after baby Scarlett alone at this point. He hasn't had any prior experience with caring for young children, and has no natural instincts whatsoever. Roxy can see he's in trouble, and she steps in to help him out."
He continued: "Michael's very relieved to have found support from Roxy. It's nice for him to see a friendly face, given that he's been quite isolated since Janine left. Michael's been stuck in the house with Scarlett, and hasn't had any help at all.
"Michael certainly thinks there's something between him and Roxy. Who knows where those feelings are coming from, given the state of his marriage to Janine? I'm always struggling to work him out myself!"
Viewers will see Roxy offer parenting tips and advice to a lonely Michael in next week's episodes. However, the time they are spending together soon sparks gossip on Albert Square
tammyy2j
20-01-2013, 23:15
EastEnders' Kat Moon is set to set up home with Michael Moon in an upcoming storyline.
Kat, played by Jessie Wallace, will deal husband Alfie an emotional blow when she becomes close to his cousin, The Daily Star reports.
Viewers have witnessed the breakdown of Kat and Alfie's marriage after Kat's affair with Derek Branning was uncovered late last year.
In scenes to air on the BBC soap next month, Kat will be seen getting closer to Michael, the biological father of her son Tommy. Michael is also a single parent following the departure of his wife Janine.
An EastEnders source revealed that Alfie will be left devastated by Kat's choice of man.
They said: "Kat and Michael are both struggling single parents. He's had to take care of his little girl Scarlett ever since Janine fled Walford and has remained close to Kat these last few months.
"It was Michael who Kat first told she'd been cheating on Alfie. Although she didn't tell him who with but he's been keeping an eye on her. And with them both now single they kind of end up together. It makes sense. They're both lonely and there's always going to be something between them because of little Tommy.
"Michael has never really been a part of little Tommy's life, Alfie has brought him up and Alfie is his dad. But when Kat moves in with Michael it does hurt Alfie. He tries to put a brave face on it all as he's with Roxy now but Kat will always be the love of his life. It's going to be an interesting time for both couples."
Charlie Brooks, who plays Janine, is set to return to the soap soon following her stint on the last series of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!.
The source added: "Janine will return to find Kat living in her house with her baby and her husband. You can just imagine what her reaction is going to be. Kat is never one to shy away from any sort of confrontation but whether her relationship with Michael will survive remains to be seen. Janine coming back will certainly put it to the test."
An official EastEnders spokesperson said that they "could not comment on future storylines as we don't want to spoil it for our viewers".
tammyy2j
20-01-2013, 23:15
.
EastEnders has announced that Michael Moon star Steve John Shepherd is to leave the show.
Shepherd has played the cousin of Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) on the Walford soap for three years, and will bow out in a "nailbiting plot twist", according to The Mirror.
"I feel now is the time to move on," the actor explained. "I have relished every minute of exploring his character - the good and the bad.
"I feel extremely privileged to have had this amazing experience and want to thank everybody - most importantly the fans of the show - for taking Michael and his numerous flaws into their hearts."
EastEnders producer Lorraine Newman added: "The audience will enjoy the dramatic end. With the return of Janine (Charlie Brooks) this month, expect plenty of fireworks."
Former This Life star Shepherd made his debut in the BBC soap in October 2010 under previous executive producer Bryan Kirkwood.
A source told the paper: "It's the end for Michael. He has been an immensely popular character and everyone will be sad to see him go."
Janine Butcher actress Brooks returned to filming in February after six months away from the show.
EastEnders continues tonight (March 13) at 8pm on BBC One.
kayuqtuq
13-03-2013, 10:53
Can't believe he's been on EE for three years. I never liked him as a character so won't be sorry to see him go.
LostVoodoo
13-03-2013, 15:44
I'm sad to see him go, but in a way, someone like Michael never sticks around anywhere for too long. I find him fascinating, he's definitely got some sort of traumatic history that no-one knows about, and probably a personality disorder to boot!
parkerman
13-03-2013, 16:18
I'm sorry to see him go as well. I think Michael is a fascinating character with some real depth to him unlike most in Eastenders. He is also extremely well played by Steve John Shepherd. A great character and a great actor. An unusual combination in Eastenders!
he grew on me as a character that i really like now and worked well with janine shame to see him leave as well
tammyy2j
13-03-2013, 19:37
I agree I will miss him also
steve is doing very well playing him lately excellent job by him
EE star Steve John Shepherd has teased that his character Michael Moon's exit will be "gruesome and gothic".
The actor announced his upcoming departure from the show in March, explaining that it was time for him to "move on".
Michael is currently at war with estranged wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) as she is trying to block him from having access to their baby daughter Scarlett.
Asked where the story is heading, Shepherd told Soaplife: "It's leading to a gruesome and gothic finale. As you know, I'm leaving EastEnders later this year and I'm really pleased that things between Janine and Michael are going to be ghastly.
"I'm looking forward to it as I enjoy working with Charlie Brooks."
He added: "It's going to be a real battle of wits, and Michael doesn't contemplate the idea of losing for a minute."
Michael's situation improves slightly next week when his loyal ally Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks) is employed by Janine as Scarlett's nanny.
Shepherd said: "Alice can let him know what Janine is up to. And, of course, he has more chance of getting access to Scarlett if she is in Alice's care."
EastEnders continues tonight (May 7) at 7.30pm on BBC One.
EastEnders character Michael Moon's exit storyline has been detailed.
The businessman, played by Steve John Shepherd, will be killed off later this year after a plan to gain custody of his daughter from ex-wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) backfires. :crying:
Michael enlists Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks) to help him get his child back, but she turns on him when she finally sees his true colours, sparking "major consequences", the Daily Star Sunday reports.
Shepherd, who announced his departure from the BBC One soap back in March, previously teased that Michael's exit will be "gruesome and gothic".
"It's leading to a gruesome and gothic finale. As you know, I'm leaving EastEnders later this year and I'm really pleased that things between Janine and Michael are going to be ghastly," he said.
"I'm looking forward to it as I enjoy working with Charlie Brooks. It's going to be a real battle of wits, and Michael doesn't contemplate the idea of losing for a minute."
LostVoodoo
28-08-2013, 18:02
oooh interesting, the stakes just get higher and higher with those two. Sad to see Michael go, but all for a dramatic exit!
EastEnders has released behind-the-scenes pictures of Michael Moon's funeral.
The scenes, which were shot yesterday (September 14), show a visibly distraught Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) being comforted by her ex-husband Alfie (Shane Richie) during the ceremony.
Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) is also seen at Michael's graveside, paying her respects to her estranged husband.
Steve John Shepherd, who plays Michael Moon, announced that he would be leaving the Walford soap in March, and details of his exit story were revealed late last month.
The businessman will be killed after a plot to gain custody of his daughter Scarlett goes awry.
Shepherd previously promised that the storyline will be "gruesome and gothic", adding: "I'm really pleased that things between Janine and Michael are going to be ghastly."
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LostVoodoo
15-09-2013, 16:43
Just realised Janine will have been widowed three times!
tammyy2j
15-09-2013, 19:16
So Eddie or his other sons don't return for Michael's funeral
Very few relatives ever come to attend a funeral in any soap if they have not been in it for a while :(
tammyy2j
15-09-2013, 22:23
Very few relatives ever come to attend a funeral in any soap if they have not been in it for a while :(
I hate that in soaps
Best then to have his funeral off screen and have Alfie mention Eddie, Tyler and Anthony were there and he was buried with his mother
tammyy2j
15-09-2013, 22:23
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EastEnders fans can expect a huge fortnight for departing character Michael Moon as his dark plan to get rid of his estranged wife Janine ends with a shocking outcome.
Here, Steve John Shepherd - who plays Michael - previews the drama ahead and reveals why he decided to leave EastEnders.
A lot of viewers have said that it's a shame Michael is going…
"He has to go. I don't think you can sustain someone like that."
Tell us about his plan to kill Janine.
"He hates her, because she is a ghastly human being. I think he is much maligned and misunderstood - beneath the façade lies essentially a good man."
Did Michael ever love Janine?
"There was the germ of something remotely approaching love once, but any warm feelings were extinguished when he realised what a corrosive woman she is."
How does he feel about Alice?
"Michael truly believes that Alice is the only one who can save his tortured soul from the abyss. He is overwhelmed by this desire to save his own skin and get his daughter back, but he is haunted by his mother's suicide and his bullying father. There is a weird revenge thing going on, very curious and dark."
Why choose pills as a murder weapon against Janine?
"It is non gruesome and he is tying into the fact that Janine is quite isolated - he can create some scenario where she is depressed on that night and tries to kill herself. If he goes in and strangles her, you have got forensics."
Alice is part of the plan, but she's always seemed so innocent…
"She is, but over the weeks you will see she is perhaps not as innocent and compliant as everyone believes. She is wonderfully gifted - her performance in that end game stuff is astonishing. She is a real talent."
Have you enjoyed these final weeks?
"I have always enjoyed playing him, but I guess he's been at his best when he was at the very edges of his behaviour. The undiscovered country - that is the exciting stuff to play, that is the stuff you want to go and visit. In real life you don't explore that dark, murky stuff."
So were pleased with your exit story?
"I was. I feel very fortunate that they think him important enough to give him this kind of exit. I am really lucky, as not everybody gets that. I feel very blessed."
Have you enjoyed being on a soap?
"Yes, but it was harder than I imagined. The volume is so enormous that it is really hard. I have never worked so hard in my life and I have nothing but respect for the actors who can pull this stuff out of the bag every week. You have to nail a cliffhanger in one take, it may be that your mother has killed your father and you have won the lottery, or something really hard…"
Why are you leaving?
"I have got other things in me. I want to write, I want to keep acting and do other stuff. I don't want to just be Michael. As brilliant and fun and interesting as he is, I felt if I stayed there much longer, he would become diluted. To retain the potency, you have to withdraw.
"I want to work, I love the theatre and I want to do some plays again. I did quite a lot of stuff in the theatre before I went into EastEnders, so I want to see what else is out there. I have a few ideas bubbling in the pot which will hopefully come to fruition."
Can you tell us a bit about your final week?
"It was really intense and fraught with emotion and risk - and it had to be, I guess. I felt a sense of unbelievable excitement at leaving, and there was a sadness there, as I spent three years of my life working with them. It is such a long time. It is a large chunk of my life. I learned so much - working in soap is extraordinary.
"It is now the end of the line and I am happy with that. I worked very hard and pretty much built Michael from scratch. I was very lucky that John Yorke gave me someone and said, 'Make him what you want to make him'. I didn't want him to be a wide boy. He was at first, but I wanted him to be much more curious than that and that is what I built."
What have been your high points?
"Playing with the best people like Jessie [Wallace], Jasmyn [Banks] and Charlie [Brooks] - they're so good that it didn't feel like going into work. I love Sam [Womack] too, she is brilliant fun. I have had such a great time with her and Rita [Simons]. Michael doesn't seem to play much with many men. Pretty much all of them found him odious."
Are you auditioning now?
"I am currently back to being a jobbing actor, which is a nice place to be. It is exciting. I lived my life, 17 years as a jobbing actor, only three where I was employed every day. I was lucky to have somewhere to go in the morning."
Do people recognise you much for your role as Michael?
"Even my close friends call me Michael now! Lots of people remember This Life, but I rarely get that now, it is all Michael stuff. They are always incredibly complimentary. I have never had a person be abusive, they have only ever been really nice."
How would you describe your exit?
"Viewers are going to really enjoy themselves. It is suitably epic, ghastly and gruesome, tinged with gothic diabolical loathsome flavour. It is dark and corrosive and tenebrous and it will be shocking and hideous. I hope that viewers will have as much fun watching it as I had playing it."
EastEnders star Steve John Shepherd has revealed that playing his dark character Michael Moon was an easy transition for him.
Viewers will know that Michael is currently scheming to murder his estranged wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) with the help of Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks).
However, tonight's episode will see the plan go wrong and a sequence of dramatic events soon follow.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast this morning (October 31), Shepherd said: "Michael is a functioning psychopath and he has a clinical lack of empathy. He doesn't really care what you think or feel.
"It is great to do because you get to purge all that dark stuff yourself. Maybe that is why he is quite popular with people because they vicariously dispel their dark yearnings. It has always come quite easily to me, curiously, that thing of finding the inner dark stuff."
With his final scenes due to be aired as Michael and Janine's feud reaches a conclusion, Shepherd also reflected on his three years on the show.
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Michael explodes with anger after his plans go wrong
© BBC
Michael explodes with anger after things go wrong
He said: "It is brilliant fun but unbelievably hard work. It is the hardest job in show business because of the sheer volume, the amount of stuff you have to do, the amount of changes in emotion and the huge jumps - you might murder somebody in the morning and then win the lottery in the afternoon.
"You have to do this huge technical leap. It is brilliant training but very difficult."
When asked if he will always be remembered as Michael, Shepherd added: "It is always a risk but to not have played him would have been a mistake because I have really enjoyed it and I think and hope lots of people have enjoyed watching him.
"The fact that he may stick in the mind is possibly a good thing."
EastEnders airs tonight (October 31) at 7.30pm on BBC One.
Steve John Shepherd has said that it was "difficult" to leave EastEnders but it was the "right" decision.
The actor played the villainous Michael Moon on the BBC One soap from 2010 to 2013. The character was killed off in November after he was murdered by wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks).
"I loved working there," he told Digital Spy. "It was difficult, they work you hard there, but they have to because of the format and demand.
"I really enjoyed working with the people there, and learnt a lot about that particular craft of working with a multi-camera system. It's extremely challenging and taxing, you don't get much time at all."
He continued: "I really enjoyed playing Michael in a perverse way, he was great fun. The writers always gave me really nice storylines, and so I had a good time, but it was time to go.
"I left because I didn't want to run him down into nothing, but I wanted to retain his potency by ducking out."
Shepherd said that he wanted to make sure the character could not return in the future.
"I understand that if you really like a character then it's difficult [to leave for good]," he conceded. "It was difficult to say goodbye to him and have him killed, but it was right for me to do.
"I'm not saying anything about anyone else's characters or how they want to do stuff. I really enjoyed playing him so I could see why others would want to go back or leave the door open.
"They asked me if I wanted to come back and I said, 'No, I wouldn't' and that it had to be final, so they said, 'Right, then we'll kill you'. Which apparently is a compliment - it didn't feel like it at the time!"
Shepherd currently stars in Chris Thompson's play Albion, which follows the rise of the new far right in modern Britain. He plays Paul, the leader of the English Protection Army, who holds a karaoke night at The Albion, a local East End pub.
Speaking about the role, he said: "It's very different, it involved singing - or an attempt at singing in my part. It was interesting to inhabit someone whose views are so skewed. It's always nice to do theatre.
"When you're an actor you don't have the luxury of choosing things. Lots of us are jobbing actors and we go up for things and we either get them or don't get them.
"This was a very nice thing to get and to be offered. He is very different to Michael Moon, and that is quite nice because after three years of playing Michael it weighed heavy on the soul!"
Natalie Casey, Delroy Atkinson, Tony Clay, Paul Ham, Nicola Harrison and Dharmesh Patel also star in Albion, which runs at London's Bush Theatre until October 25.
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