I was an EastEnders star who played beloved Queen Vic bartender… but I gave it all up to be a football pundit
AN EastEnders star who played a beloved Queen Vic bartender gave it all up to be a football pundit.
Tom Watt, 67, starred as one of the show’s 26 characters when it launched in 1985, with his final appearances in 1988.
The actor played George ‘Lofty’ Holloway — the barman at The Queen Vic pub — who was hopelessly in love with Michelle Fowler.
But he walked away from Walford and took up a career as a sports journalist – presenting segments for the likes of BBC and Channel 4.
After three years on EastEnders Lofty decided to move on – heartbroken after Michelle’s abortion – and left to become a social worker.
The star returned to the BBC One soap years after their departure from the show, to attend Dr. Harold Legg’s funeral back in 2019.
To viewers’ shock, Tom returned to Albert Square alongside Mary the Punk, who was played by Linda Davidson.
In real life, aside from a few small roles, actor Tom moved into sports journalism and still regularly appears on radio.
He also ghostwrote David Beckham’s autobiography.
Last year he praised his time on the soap and his character, saying: “I had really good working relationships with people like Leslie Grantham (Den Watts), Anita Dobson (Angie Watts) and Sue Tully.
“Lofty was a really rewarding character to play — a beautiful mix of comedy and proper drama.”
A soap source previously told The Sun: “Lofty and Mary The Punk are two of the most memorable characters of the original set of stars.
“It’s staggering to think it’s been more than 30 years since they were last on the Square but soap fans will be delighted to hear of their comeback.
“Regular viewers will know Dr Legg’s health is bad and it’s thought his death will play out in February next year, and these two will be back around the time of his funeral.”
It came after Tom was dubbed unrecognisable 37 years on.
He then stepped foot onto the set of Steph’s Packed Lunch – with viewers having the same reaction.