Alan Jackson

Name: Alan Jackson
First Appeared: 16th November 1993
Last Appeared: 26th October 2010
Played by: Howard Antony

Alan Jackson was the man who brought some much-needed stability to the Branning household. At 20 years old, single and working as a plumber, Alan met Carol Branning when he was called to unblock her sink. Unlike the fathers of Carol’s previous children — Bianca, Robbie, and Sonia — Alan stuck around, adding his own son, Billie, to the mix in 1988. Though they weren’t initially married, the whole family took on Alan’s surname, making him a true father figure in their lives.

Alan and his family arrived in Walford in November 1993, but it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Unemployed and relying on odd jobs, Alan’s inability to provide a steady income led to frequent clashes with Carol. Despite his generally kind-hearted nature, Alan had his moments of temper, especially when it came to protecting his family, like when he threatened Robbie’s friend for getting underage Sonia drunk. After a stint working on Mark Fowler’s fruit and veg stall, Alan found himself in trouble for benefit fraud, sparking a feud with market inspector Richard Cole.

In 1996, Alan and Carol’s relationship faced major hurdles. Attending Carol’s sister April’s wedding, Alan dealt with the prejudice of Carol’s father Jim and brother Derek, who disapproved of their interracial relationship. The couple took April’s slot at the church after she was jilted, but their happiness was short-lived. Alan’s fling with singer Frankie Pierre nearly destroyed his marriage. Frankie’s relentless attempts to sabotage Alan and Carol’s relationship eventually led to their separation, during which Carol rekindled a romance with David Wicks — adding fuel to Alan’s jealousy.

Their rocky path saw a brief reconciliation after Carol’s son Robbie was beaten up, showcasing Alan’s protective side once again. However, in 1997, their lives were turned upside down when Billie witnessed an armed robbery and was kidnapped to stop him from testifying. The Jackson family, except for Bianca and Robbie, entered a witness protection program, but the stress led to Alan having a nervous breakdown, resulting in another split from Carol. Despite this, they eventually reunited and lived in Balham with Billie and Blossom.

Alan’s return to Walford in 2010 was marked by tragedy. He arrived to see Billie, unaware of his death. After being informed by Bianca, Alan stayed for Billie’s funeral, where Carol attempted to kiss him, only for Alan to remind her he was married. Attending the wake with Blossom and his other son, Kai, Alan left afterwards, marking the end of his turbulent journey in Walford.