Adam Croasdell reveals more about joining EastEnders as dishy Dr Al Jenkins

Was it nerve-wracking joining such a big show?
EastEnders is such a great old British phenomenon, but in a way I was immune to it. I was brought up in South Africa and Zimbabwe so I was never part of that wonderful feverish fanbase. When I walked onto the set and met people, it was all very calm and cool, except when I met the likes of June Brown and Barbara Windsor — then I was thinking, ‘You’re legends, and it’s probably showing in my face right now!’

Did you know any of the cast before?
I knew Charlie Brooks, who plays Janine, because we did a play called Office Games together in 2003. Adam Rickitt, who was in Corrie, was also in it. Being telly stars they’d get accosted by the paps and the rest of us would stand around saying, ‘Wow, that’s a whole other side of things.’

How do you feel about having a higher profile?
These days it seems hard to get roles unless you have a profile, so I’m grateful that this has happened. It seems very unfair that there are plenty of talented actors out there who don’t get a stab at decent parts because they’re not well known. I understand what’s it’s like to be passed over for someone who’s more of a name! I’m really grateful to get my face out there, and I feel privileged to be part of the institution that is EastEnders.

Did you have any anxious moments before joining?
Not initially, but after my first day, I realised how quick the whole process is on a soap! I suddenly understood how much pressure there can be for soap actors. I’m used to films or telly dramas, where you have the luxury of a few more takes.

How does Dr Al feel about being in Albert Square?
I think he feels like a bit of an outsider, because although he was born in Walford, he moved away and I think some people eye him with suspicion, because of the way he’s been educated or the way he talks. But he doesn’t let it get to him.

He seems to get plenty of female interest…
I slipped the writers some money and they’ve come through! In fact, I have a clause in my contract that within my first four months I have to have relations with at least three women.

Dr Al was very taken with Roxy. How would you feel about going out with a mum in real life?
I actually did for a brief time, and we parted for geographical reasons, not because of the kids, who were absolutely adorable! I couldn’t say with any degree of honesty how it might have turned out, though. I think it’s very difficult when you’re dealing with another man’s genes. It takes a very enlightened guy to cope with that!

By Marie-Anne Hamilton