Guido Smith

Name: Guido Smith
First Appeared:6th October 1988
Last Appeared: 7th March 1989
Played by: Nicholas Donovan

Guido Smith made his entrance in Albert Square in October 1988 as a business contact of graphic designer Colin Russell. Initially, their meetings were all about business, but it soon became apparent that there was a spark between them. When Colin finally plucked up the courage to make a move, he was crushed to learn that Guido was already involved with another man named Des.

Seeking advice from his Walford friends, Colin decided to play it cool and not chase Guido actively. This strategy paid off as Guido soon invited himself over to spend the night. Not long after, Guido split with his boyfriend and moved in with Colin. However, past heartbreaks made Colin wary, and he demanded more commitment from Guido, who preferred to take things slow. Their relationship was plagued by petty arguments, often sparked by Colin’s fluctuating moods. Eventually, Colin revealed his poor health and diagnosed early symptoms of multiple sclerosis, which explained his behaviour.

Despite the challenges, Guido stood by Colin, helping him come to terms with his illness. However, their differing political views began to create friction. Colin’s liberal opinions clashed with Guido’s conservative stance, especially when Guido reported Junior Roberts to the police for theft—a move Colin disagreed with, believing it would only worsen the behaviour. Additionally, Guido grew frustrated with Colin’s tendency to worry more about others, particularly Donna Ludlow, a heroin addict Colin was trying to help.

As their differences became more apparent, Colin started to feel that Guido was only staying out of pity. In February 1989, Colin decided to leave Walford to stay with his brother in Bristol. A surprise visit from Colin’s ex, Barry Clark, stalled his departure, leading to a confrontation when Guido arrived home to find Colin ready to leave. Furious and hurt, Guido was left to ponder where it all went wrong as Colin walked away, never to return despite his promise.