Bobby Brazier has made his acting debut on EastEnders in an exciting new role - but it's caused a bit of confusion for the family. The 19-year-old, who is the son of the late Jade Goody and TV presenter Jeff Brazier, was praised by excited viewers during his opening episode on Tuesday night.
Bobby is playing Freddie Slater, who is the son of Little Mo and was last seen on our screens way back in May 2006. But there is confusion as to who Freddie's dad is, as EastEnders fans with good memories will remember that his father is rapist Graham Foster, although the teenager seems to think it's actually his mum's ex, Billy Mitchell.
Get the news you want straight to your inbox. Sign up for a Mirror newsletter here .
The truth looks set to emerge in the coming episodes, as Billy is faced with the tough decision of whether to explain to Freddie who his real dad is.
Things are a little easier for Bobby in real life, as he has the support of his famous dad Jeff, who got not be more proud of his son for getting the role.
Ahead of Bobby's debut, he wrote on Instagram : "So proud. A wonderful moment for the whole family and anyone that has had this kid's back through it all. Thank you for supporting my children."
Although he previously admitted that his son's new character had led to a bit of confusion - as his younger lad and Bobby's brother is called Freddie.
Jeff explained: "He has been gifted an opportunity and he is grabbing it with both hands with a great attitude and respect. Little confusing for us that his name is Freddie but we’ll get used to it!
"From what I’ve heard over the past month or so it sounds like he is a part of a great team. I’m so excited to watch him develop."
Bobby has no previous acting experience but has been a model for the likes of Dolce and Gabbana - and was offered an audition after show bosses saw his social media presence.
Speaking about the casting decision, EastEnders boss Chris Clenshaw explained: "We're always looking for new talent. I saw Bobby's social media and we were already conceiving Freddie and building his character, and there was some of what I saw in Bobby that I thought would be perfect for Freddie - his energy, his twinkle, his spiritual side.
"So then we brought Bobby in to audition, along with some others, and he just blew us away with his performance. He is Freddie Slater."
Bobby actually already has a connection to EastEnders - as his mum developed a close bond with Pauline Fowler actress Wendy Richard.
They both found out that were dying of cancer - and Wendy's warm words of support gave great comfort to Jade.
Wendy was too ill to attend Jade's emotional wedding day to Jack Tweed, but called the Big Brother star to wish her luck despite being in the midst of her own battle with cancer.
Paying tribute to the actress, Jade told The Sun: "I met Wendy in hospital and she was brilliant to me.
"She told me to keep fighting and make the most of my life. She was a lovely lady."
During an interview on Good Morning Britain this week, Bobby spoke to presenter Richard Arnold about his late mum.
Of what his late mum Jade would think of his new endeavour, he replied: "She'd be proud. Why wouldn't she be? Anyone who loves and cares about me, all my friends and family, they're all proud and all supportive, so I'm sure - well I know - she’d be the same."
When asked of his dad had given him any tips, he added: ""No! But he's happy I'm working consistently and earning and paying rent."
Bobby is playing the role of Little Mo's son Freddie, who was a baby when he was last seen in Walford in May 2006 but is now back as an an 18-year-old "on a mission that could end in heartbreak".
The young actor explained: "This is completely different to anything I've done before. I've never acted before. I've been thrown in the deep end a bit but I’d like to say I'm swimming.
"There were nerves but everyone made me so comfortable straight away literally from the first scene."
On being a Slater and how it differs from his own family, Bobby added: "It's not too different! It feels like home. I feel like a Slater."
Bosses have teased that the character has a heart of gold but can't help getting himself into mischief, bringing "a bundle of energy and a truckload of trouble".
Freddie is said to be sweet like his mum, who appeared on the soap between 2000 and 2006, but he's not shy and causes a stir wherever he goes.
Chris Clenshaw, Executive Producer, said: "Freddie Slater is a chaotic 18-year-old with a sensitive soul. A modern-day lad who's in touch with his spiritual side. He's philosophical, accepting, but full of mischief and makes mistakes.
"Bobby is an amazing young addition to the EastEnders cast who brings heart and humility to the role of Freddie Slater and I can’t wait for audiences to get to know him."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at yourmirror@trinitymirror.com.
