A former EastEnders star looks completely unrecognisable in a new ITV drama.
Stephen Shepherd played the role of Michael Moon in the BBC One soap from 2010-2013. He was the cousin of Alfie Moon (Shane Richie), and also the biological father of Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall).
Michael Moon was a dark and manipulative character. He began a relationship with Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) and married her in 2012. Janine gave birth to their daughter Scarlett, but left Michael not long after once she realised he had no intention of committing properly to their relationship and being a dad.
Michael was killed in 2013 following a showdown between him, Janine and Alice Branning.
Alice found Michael attempting to strangle Janine and stabbed him. This didn’t kill Michael, as he then got up and tried to attack Janine again. It was in this moment that Janine stabbed him, which ultimately led to his death.
Stephen, who is 51, can now be seen in the second series of Karen Pirie on ITV.
The star plays Karen’s superior DCS Lees, who often finds it difficult to trust his colleague.
The actor looks worlds away from his role as Michael Moon in this, as he is often seen wearing glasses and also doesn’t have any hair!
‘Michael Moon back on the telly! #KarenPirie’, one user of X said recently, expressing their surprise.
Echoing the shock this person said: ‘Another great series. Great cast, love Pirie’s character….and finally worked out why her boss sounded familiar. Michael Moon!! More please!’.
Another added: ‘I’ve finally sat down to watch #KarenPirie from the beginning as I didn’t see it the first time, and imagine my surprise when I see Michael Moon from Eastenders pop up!’.
Crime drama Karen Pirie is based on Val McDermid’s Inspector Karen Pirie novels.
