S Poddar
Ben Hardy recently opened up about his time on the iconic British soap opera EastEnders, where he played the character Peter Beale. Joining the show in 2013, Hardy quickly became a familiar face to viewers. However, the actor revealed that his experience on the show was not without its struggles.
In a candid interview with The Independent’s Ellie Muir, Hardy shared that he felt like he was losing his sense of self while working on EastEnders. “I had been struggling for a year to make things work,” he confessed. Despite his admiration for his colleagues, he found himself growing increasingly dissatisfied. “I have so much respect for everyone who works on that show. But I felt myself getting lazy as an actor. I found myself constantly thinking, ‘This scene doesn’t work.’ It was like trying to make a diamond out of something that can’t be a diamond. That laziness scared me. I realized, ‘I have to get out of here,'” Hardy explained.
After his departure from EastEnders in 2015, Hardy sought out diverse roles to challenge himself and expand his acting repertoire. One of his first major roles post-EastEnders was playing the villainous Angel in the superhero sequel X-Men: Apocalypse. This role allowed Hardy to showcase a different side of his acting abilities, and it marked a significant shift in his career.
Hardy didn’t stop there. He went on to portray Queen drummer Roger Taylor in the critically acclaimed biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. The film, which won several Oscars, gave Hardy the opportunity to delve into the world of music and bring to life the story of one of the most iconic rock bands in history. His performance was well-received, further establishing him as a versatile and talented actor.
Reflecting on his journey, Hardy acknowledges the importance of taking risks and stepping out of his comfort zone. Leaving EastEnders was a pivotal decision that allowed him to grow as an actor and explore new opportunities. As he continues to take on challenging roles, Hardy remains committed to his craft and dedicated to delivering performances that resonate with audiences.
