Steven Beale

Name: Steven Beale
First Appeared: 28th December 1989
Last Appeared: 8th September 2018
Played by: Aaron Sidwell

Steven Beale, the lad who could never quite catch a break, has had one of the most tumultuous journeys in Albert Square. Born to Cindy Beale and Simon Wicks, but raised by Ian Beale, Steven’s life was a rollercoaster from the start. His early years were marked by the classic EastEnders drama – secret parentage, family feuds, and a fair share of teenage angst. Steven’s attempts to carve out his own identity often led him into trouble, but his heart was always in the right place, even if his head wasn’t.

Steven’s return to Walford in 2007 was nothing short of explosive. With a new look and a chip on his shoulder, he kidnapped Ian and held him hostage in a derelict building. Talk about making an entrance! His vendetta against Ian was driven by years of feeling unloved and unwanted, but in true soap fashion, it all ended in tears and a stint in therapy. But lives were changed forever: he had shot Jane, leaving her unable to ever have children. This nearly tore Ian and Jane apart, and Steven’s complex relationship with Ian was a constant source of drama, with the two oscillating between bitter enemies and reluctant allies.

Romance was another area where Steven’s life was anything but straightforward. His relationship with Abi Branning was a whirlwind of passion and betrayal. Just when things seemed to be settling down, Steven’s insecurities got the better of him, leading to a fake brain tumour lie that spiralled out of control. Only in Walford could a love story involve so much deception and still leave viewers rooting for a happy ending.

Steven’s final days in Albert Square were marked by tragedy and redemption. His involvement in Max Branning’s revenge plot against the Beales saw him caught in a web of lies and deceit. In a desperate bid to prove his loyalty, Steven set fire to the restaurant, only to be trapped inside. He died shortly afterwards in hospital.