View Full Version : Paul (Jonny Labey)
EastEnders bosses have announced that Les and Pam Coker's grandson Paul will be joining the show this summer.
TV newcomer Jonny Labey has been cast in the role of Paul, who will make his first appearance on the Walford soap in June.
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Jonny Labey as Paul Coker in EastEnders
© BBC
Jonny Labey as Paul Coker
Billed as fun, honest and always the centre of attention, Paul heads to Albert Square to join his family after spending two years abroad as a club rep.
The new arrival's natural confidence comes from knowing and being comfortable with exactly who he is, and viewers can expect him to quickly receive romantic attention from one resident in particular.
Speaking of his casting, Labey commented: "I am overjoyed to have been given the role of Paul Coker and am thrilled to be joining the show at such a prevalent time as it marks its 30th anniversary.
"I know I've got a lot of work to do to live up to the talent I shall be working with, but I have never felt more welcome and cannot wait to get started."
EastEnders' executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins added: "Jonny's a sensitive, clever and intuitive actor and has fitted in to his new Walford family with ease. We're all looking forward to seeing the trouble that Paul will cause for his grandparents as he uncovers some secrets from the past and sets one heart in particular racing."
Funeral director Les (Roger Sloman) and flower seller Pam (Lin Blakley) became EastEnders regulars last April.
tammyy2j
16-04-2015, 22:53
So is it his father who is dead?
a new love for ben and abi if twitter buzz is true
EastEnders newcomer Paul Coker is to become a new love interest for Ben Mitchell.
Show bosses have teased a relationship between the pair in a new summer trailer for the BBC soap, which sees them sharing a kiss.
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Ben Mitchell and Paul Coker kiss
© BBC
Ben and Paul kiss
Paul is the grandson of established regulars Les and Pam Coker. Jonny Labey will be playing the character, who arrives on screen for the first time early next month.
Viewers will see Paul head to Albert Square to join his family after spending two years abroad as a club rep. Naturally confident and comfortable with exactly who he is, will Paul be prepared to keep his romance with secretive Ben (Harry Reid) under wraps?
The promo also offers a first look at the drama ahead for the Masood family, who will soon be rocked by the revelation of Shabnam's secret child.
In another twist, Shabnam will get engaged to Kush Kazemi later this month, but does she have something to worry about when her friend Stacey Branning starts holding a torch for him?
Bonnie Langford's arrival as Kush's mother Carmel also features in the trailer, along with Kat and Alfie Moon's temporary exit scenes.
LostVoodoo
20-05-2015, 21:27
I don't get why anyone would fancy Ben - he's not a bad boy, he's just odd!
he's a bit pale for someone who has been a holiday rep for two years?
unless it was in Iceland?
He might burn easily so had keep covered up :p
he also looks as if he's slept in those clothes??!!
Kissinger
23-05-2015, 19:36
he's a bit pale for someone who has been a holiday rep for two years?
unless it was in Iceland?
ah but they are sooooooo busy they don't have time to get tanned!
Kissinger
23-05-2015, 19:36
he's a bit pale for someone who has been a holiday rep for two years?
unless it was in Iceland?
ah but they are sooooooo busy they don't have time to get tanned!
EastEnders will introduce another new character next month as Les and Pam Coker's grandson Paul arrives in Walford.
As Les and Pam plan to attend a centenary party for their funeral business, Paul's absence is playing on their mind more than ever.
However, after Les subsequently turns to Claudette Hubbard for support, he doesn't realise that Paul (Jonny Labey) has already arrived in Albert Square and has spotted them together.
It doesn't take long for Paul to make an impression on Lola (Danielle Harold) after accidentally knocking her over in the street, prompting Ben Mitchell to come to her defence.
As Paul plays down the incident and introduces himself to the group, Lola starts to warm to him and invites him for a coffee at Blades. However, with the recent news that Paul will be a new love interest for Ben (Harry Reid), does he already have his eyes on someone else?
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Paul knocks Lola over
© BBC
Paul knocks Lola over
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Ben jumps to Lola's defence
© BBC
Ben jumps to Lola's defence
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Ben threatens Paul
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Ben threatens Paul
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Paul defends himself
© BBC
Paul defends himself
EastEnders airs these scenes on Monday, June 1 at 8pm on BBC One.
New EastEnders regular Paul Coker arrives in Walford with a bang next week, surprising his grandparents Les and Pam by turning up on Albert Square unexpectedly.
Paul's early scenes on the Square see him catch the eye of Ben Mitchell, as well as uncovering a family secret when he realises that something is going on between Les and Claudette Hubbard.
Here, Jonny Labey - who plays Paul - reveals what EastEnders fans can expect from his character.
How's it going so far?
"It's good! I've been filming for two months now. It's crazy - it's gone so quickly it's unbelievable. I started filming on the 17th of March, so it's all gone very quick."
How would you describe Paul?
"He's a bit of a troublemaker. He's come back from his travels as he's been in Turkey, so in the first episodes I'm ridiculously tanned! Paul also stirs up a few touchy subjects. He causes a bit of mischief.
"Paul is loveable and he loves his nan - they have a beautiful relationship. It's great to work with Lin Blakley and Roger Sloman as they're like my surrogate grandparents. They're beautiful and lovely people to work with. On screen, Paul is a bit of nana's boy and he will have a good cry to his nan, but to everyone else he puts on this 21st century persona. Every 20-year-old does these days!
"Now that Paul is back from his travels, he's all about partying, having a drink and flirting quite a bit. I think he's probably had quite a good time in Turkey, so he's confident coming back and ready to meet new people. He's not been in Walford, so this is his first time meeting people. Anyone he sees or takes a fancy to, they catch his eye."
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Pam is delighted to see her Paul
© BBC
Pam is delighted to see her Paul
How would Paul describe his sexuality?
"Paul likes boys. He's openly gay. He's had this amazing relationship with Pam from such a young age that he never really had to come out. It's not like he's camp or anything, he's just that way inclined. He comes back and he takes a fancy to Ben."
Is Ben his type?
"I thought that Paul fancies the harder, bigger, muscly tattooed guys, but Ben's got this Mitchell persona with the stuff he does, the things he gets up to and the arguments he gets involved in. That all excites Paul. He's drawn to that, as well as the tease of trying to get Ben to come out because obviously he's still involved with Abi. He enjoys that, it's playful."
Does Paul know that Ben is hiding his sexuality?
"Yeah, but I'm not sure how long or short that's going to be. It's funny, actually - when I got the scripts and read the scenes, I thought, 'Oh he's a happy-go-lucky, bit of mischief type of character'. Then as soon as I started filming some of the scenes, I'd finish the scene and people would go, 'I'm not sure about you, you're trouble!' I was like, 'Oh really?'
"It's interesting getting that reaction from other people of what Paul's about. I think Ben really excites him."
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Ben Mitchell and Paul Coker kiss
© BBC
Ben and Paul
This story might mean Paul clashes with Phil Mitchell at some point!
"That script will be interesting when it comes. The best thing for me is that the families which Paul is involved in are so one scale or the other. He's got the Cokers, who are this quietly gossiping, quite sneaky pair, but everyone loves them. I think the audience quite love them too - Pam has a flower stall and everyone loves her. There's a mystery about them, but as a whole, and towards Pam moreso I suppose, there's a real love. The audience have taken to her.
"On the other hand, you have the Mitchells who I've got involved in and there are completely different connotations with them."
What can you tell us about Paul's involvement in the story with Les and Claudette?
"Paul susses it. He has such a love for Pam, so he picks up on it quickly. I think in Paul's head he favours his nan and wants to protect her. In any situation, no matter what it is, ultimately he wants to protect her."
Is Paul as close to Les?
"It's odd because of the whole Coker and Son business, which is not something that Paul has ever been interested in. He's grown up with the funeral directors and he's alright to be around coffins and dead people. That doesn't faze him, but it's never been a business he's been willing to follow up on.
"He had a lovely relationship with Les but sectioned himself from him - 'You do your thing and I'll do mine, we'll both appreciate whatever the other one gets up to'. Les has that sort of mysteriousness about him, whether he agrees with what Paul does or not."
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Paul see Les with Claudette
© BBC
Paul see Les with Claudette
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Les and Claudette are watched by Paul.
© BBC
Les and Claudette are watched by Paul
Is Paul not involved with the business then?
"When he comes back to the Square, it's the immediate thing to do, but I don't know whether the storyline carries on. There are various things that Paul gets involved in, but he's trying to find his feet on the Square as he's just arrived.
"One of Paul's assets is that he takes up things, thinking of the future potential of them, and then gives up three quarters of the way through! Because of that, he will pick up on different things as and when it interests him. He gets involved with Blades thinking he's going to be this next generation hairdresser. It's a job working the floor and he wouldn't have had any experience in it, he just sees it as a job and wants to cut hair to see where it gets him."
Who will Paul become friends with?
"He bumps into Lola originally. They take well to each other, but because of Blades and being in the same position, there becomes a bit of competition. Ultimately they like having a gossip together and they both have the same characteristics. They both like reading magazines and having a chat. As a friend to confide in, Lola will be his go-to."
Does Paul have much to do with Jay?
"Not really. I've only had scenes with Ben at the moment. I've not really interacted with the other Mitchells because Ben is trying to fight between what he loves - is it men, or is it women? He's not willingly open to introduce Paul to any of his other family."
So is there lots of kissing in dark alleys with Ben?
"Yes, it's all very under wraps!"
EastEnders airs Paul's first episode on Monday, June 1 at 8pm on BBC One.
tammyy2j
28-06-2015, 21:36
Jonny Labey has said that there could be some unexpected storylines for Paul Coker as we learn more about his character.
Les and Pam's grandson Paul arrived in Walford earlier this month and immediately caught the eye of Ben Mitchell (Harry Reid).
Paul and Ben's secret fling will heat up over the summer, but Labey has promised that there is lots more to come from Paul.
Labey said: "Paul has a lot of layers that are going to be discovered. There are going to be a lot of other storylines and unexpected ones as well.
"The first week I did a crying scene, an argument scene, a kissing scene and a topless scene - it was like an entire contract in one week."
Viewers know that Ben is currently in a relationship with Abi Branning, despite having feelings for Paul. However, Paul will be patient and supportive of Ben's decision to keep his sexuality a secret at the moment.
Speaking to Digital Spy, Labey said: "Paul is attracted to the fact that Ben is a bit of a geezer but it is a very personal area - the whole 'coming out' situation.
"He knows Ben has a girlfriend and he understands that it is difficult for him as they have spoken about it before. He respects that it isn't straightforward and Paul is going to be there for him.
"But there is the question of when will this become a problem for them. It's a very strong area to explore and it is very sensitive."
Speaking about the public's response to Paul and Ben's storyline, Labey added: "I've had a few people come up and thank me for the work I've done.
"I am not saying I am representing the gay community but it has been a really positive response and it's been amazing.
"I think from the public's response to the characters, is that they are willing for Ben to take this route with Paul which is what was intended."
EastEnders star Jonny Labey has revealed that viewers have already been given hints about what Les Coker is hiding.
Labey's character Paul recently confronted his grandfather Les about having an affair with Claudette Hubbard, but show boss Dominic Treadwell-Collins recently hinted that the storyline may not be as it seems.
When asked whether Les and Claudette are having an affair, Labey said: "The EastEnders team are so brilliant at what they do. You have actually been fed the information for months without realising it. It's brilliant.
"I am excited about what the future holds. The Cokers are still quite a new family in Albert Square, but from the turn of events I know is happening and the various direction these stories could take, I think they are going to be a lot more prominent in the coming months."
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Les finishes things with Claudette
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Les finishes things with Claudette
Labey recently revealed that there would be some unexpected plots coming up for Paul over the summer.
In addition to his involvement with Les and Claudette's secret, there will also be romance on the cards for Paul as his secret fling with Ben Mitchell steps up a gear over the next few weeks.
tammyy2j
16-07-2015, 12:49
I have seen some suggest that Les likes to wear women's clothes and dress as a lady
maidmarian
16-07-2015, 13:19
I have seen some suggest that Les likes to wear women's clothes and dress as a lady
If thats correct- hope he doesnt forget the
wig.!
maidmarian
16-07-2015, 13:19
Dupl
I have seen some suggest that Les likes to wear women's clothes and dress as a lady
I've read that speculation too but I don't think it fits with what we've seen of the pair so far.
EastEnders star Jonny Labey is leaving the show as part of a dramatic storyline, Digital Spy can exclusively reveal.
The actor has been written out from his role as Paul Coker after a one-year stint in the part, but fans can expect him to go out with a bang.
Digital Spy understands that the decision to write out Paul was made a while ago now - and Labey already has his next acting project lined up.
An EastEnders spokesperson told us: "We can confirm Jonny will be leaving the show later this year. We wish him all the best for the future."
A show insider also told Digital Spy: "Jonny is leaving in a couple of months as part of an explosive storyline. Bosses are keeping tight lipped about what's in store but there's plenty of drama in store for Paul before he leaves."
Labey has already landed the lead part in upcoming play Verge of Strife, which will be staged at the Assembly George Square Studios during the Edinburgh Festival 2016 this August.
He'll be taking on the role of World War One poet Rupert Brooke, who was known for his patriotic sonnets from the early days of the war.
Labey joined the cast of EastEnders in April 2015 and made his first appearance in June.
As well as family dramas involving his grandparents Les and Pam at home, Paul's main storylines have revolved around his secret relationship with Ben Mitchell.
Viewers will see Paul and Ben go public with their romance at the Queen Vic next week - but it seems their happiness won't last for long.
So Paul has just been used to keep Ben warm until Johnny Carter returned. There was obviously never any intention of developing him as a character, which I think is a crying shame because Jonny Labey is a good actor (probably better than the new Johnny Carter, though only time will tell that). These soap producers make some strange and shortsighted decisions... :wall:
tammyy2j
19-04-2016, 15:18
I hope he is not killed off, as in could Ben kill again
I hope he is not killed off, as in could Ben kill again
Or he could be killed off to facilitate turning Ben into a tragic character in the hope of gaining the viewers' sympathy (yeah right)...
ben to kill him for his liver for phil :p
ben to kill him for his liver for phil :p
:eek:
EastEnders star Jonny Labey has spoken about his exit from the show for the first time, promising that the best is yet to come for Paul Coker.
Digital Spy exclusively revealed today (April 19) that Paul will be bowing out from the BBC One soap after a one-year stint in Walford.
With EastEnders insiders tipping Paul for an explosive exit storyline, Labey has now urged the character's fans to stay tuned.
"WOW Thank you for your support but there's still SO MUCH to happen for Paul so don't lose hope, this is JUST THE START!" he wrote on Twitter.
EastEnders bosses made the decision to write out Paul quite a while ago, so Labey already has his next acting project lined up - bagging the lead part in upcoming play Verge of Strife.
Labey will be taking on the role of World War One poet Rupert Brooke in the production, which will be staged at the Assembly George Square Studios during the Edinburgh Festival 2016 this August.
An EastEnders spokesperson told Digital Spy today: "We can confirm Jonny will be leaving the show later this year. We wish him all the best for the future."
A show insider added: "Jonny is leaving in a couple of months as part of an explosive storyline. Bosses are keeping tight lipped about what's in store but there's plenty of drama in store for Paul before he leaves."
Fans will see Paul and his boyfriend Ben Mitchell finally go public with their romance at the Queen Vic next week, but it seems that a happy ending for the pair is now off the cards.
EastEnders star Jonny Labey has spoken to Digital Spy about his upcoming exit from the show, revealing that he isn't ruling out a love triangle for Paul Coker, Ben Mitchell and Johnny Carter.
Paul will be leaving our screens in the summer after a one-year stay on Albert Square. Producers have promised a big exit story for his character, but the details have remained under wraps.
Hit play on our video above to see what Jonny had to say to us about his departure on the red carpet at the British Soap Awards 2016 last night (May 29).
The actor was full of praise for his "exciting" final scenes - and also spoke about that big fan theory that Johnny Carter could come between Paul and Ben now that he's returned to Albert Square.
Ben had an attraction to Johnny when they first met in late 2014, and although Johnny clearly didn't feel the same way, he has appeared slightly jealous recently while watching Ben and Paul from afar.
Could there be trouble brewing? Only time will tell...
Digital Spy
EastEnders star Lin Blakley reckons that viewers could be left gasping at Paul Coker's dramatic exit from the show.
It was announced earlier this year that Jonny Labey's character Paul was being written out of the soap as part of an explosive storyline, but further details are being kept firmly under wraps.
Either way, his departure is sure to devastate grandparents Les and Pam, who have had their fair share of problems over the last year anyway.
"It's going to be awful," Blakley told Inside Soap. "Les and Pam will miss their grandson, but I will miss Jonny as he is such a dear boy.
"I would imagine it's going to be hell for Paul's boyfriend Ben, whatever happens, and I am sure there will be a few gasps from the audience who'll think, 'My gosh, I didn't see that coming!'"
Labey - who joined the show last year - was full of praise for his "exciting" exit storyline when Digital Spy caught up with him recently.
Digital Spy
parkerman
07-07-2016, 18:04
It was announced earlier this year that Jonny Labey's character Paul was being written out of the soap as part of an explosive storyline.
An explosive storyline! :cheer:
An explosive storyline! :cheer:
Which will rock the cobbles of the Square and lives will never be the same again. Will you tune in for that one? :p
parkerman
07-07-2016, 18:57
Which will rock the cobbles of the Square and lives will never be the same again. Will you tune in for that one? :p
Probably not unless it also includes Jane and Ian being sent down for at least 10 years.
Probably not unless it also includes Jane and Ian being sent down for at least 10 years.
Can´t see that happening :(
Can´t see that happening :(
Parkerman has more chance of getting his box of maltesers, unopened off his grand daughter. :D
So.. he's definitely gonna get killed off then?
So.. he's definitely gonna get killed off then?
There's been no confirmation but it's looking that way, especially since he and Ben are so loved up. Tragedy always befalls the happy in soaps...
Rice Christie
11-07-2016, 18:39
His death is going to be heartbreaking. :(
I wondered if it's not ben at the hospital next week, but really paul. A mix up in identity.
So.. he's definitely gonna get killed off then?
phil to get his liver
So.. he's definitely gonna get killed off then?
phil to get his liver
was it a fight that cause his death, a homophobic attack?
Rear window
19-07-2016, 23:08
phil to get his liver
No mention of organ donation that I spotted... if it's a crime scene and they're not allowed to touch the body then I imagine no organ donation possible.
Rear window
19-07-2016, 23:08
phil to get his liver
No mention of organ donation that I spotted... if it's a crime scene and they're not allowed to touch the body then I imagine no organ donation possible.
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