Tariq Laroussi

Name: Tariq Laroussi
First Appeared: 5th June 2003
Last Appeared: 22nd March 2005
Played by: Nabil Elouahabi

Tariq Laroussi definitely spiced things up when he appeared in Albert Square in 2003 alongside the Ferreira family. While Kareena and Adi Ferreira took charge of a clothes stall and Ash started work at the local community centre, Ronny spun records as a DJ under the watchful eye of Tariq, who doubled as his manager. Dan Ferreira wasn’t a fan of Tariq, and their relationship took a nosedive when it emerged that Tariq had been secretly dating Kareena. The fallout from their breakup only deepened the animosity between Tariq and Dan.

In 2004, things took a dire turn when Ronny was stabbed while trying to protect Tariq. The injury led to the removal of Ronny’s kidney, and it was discovered that he had been living with only one kidney. Desperate for a transplant, none of his siblings were a match, and their mother couldn’t help either. It was then that Tariq dropped a bombshell: he was actually Dan’s son from an affair. Tariq selflessly donated his kidney to Ronny, explaining that his attempt to get close to Kareena was an effort to feel more connected to his newfound family. Initially, Adi wasn’t thrilled about having Tariq as a half-brother but eventually warmed up to him.

The Ferreiras’ luck didn’t last, and they faced eviction from their home. In a dramatic bid to stay, they boarded themselves into their living room but ultimately had to move into a flat with Sasha, where they started a minicab firm called Toucan Cars. Despite the setbacks, the family adapted and tried to make the best of their situation.

When Johnny Allen eventually forced the Ferreiras out of Walford, Tariq chose to leave with them, having finally found his place within the family.