BBC EastEnders’ Michael Higgs is almost unrecognisable two decades after he bid farewell to the soap.

He first made his mark on Albert Square as Andy Hunter in 1993, initially working for The Firm and serving as the main muscle for boss Jack Dalton. However, when Jack was taken out by Dennis Rickman in 2003, Andy stepped up to fill the gap.

He eventually claimed Walford as his own and took over The Firm. During his time on Albert Square, Andy had many clashes, including with Den Watts, Billy Mitchell and Minty Peterson. Andy also had romantic liaisons with the likes of Kat Slater and Sam Mitchell.

After arranging a hitman to eliminate Paul Truman, Andy met his demise at the hands of fellow gangster Johnny Allen. Since exiting the show, he has led a completely different life, reports the Daily Star. The 61-year-old has had a highly successful career and appeared in Casualty twice, playing different characters in 2010 and 2016, and has had roles in New Tricks and Midsomer Murders, according to Birmingham Live.

The actor looked completely different with a new silver fox look

He also left a huge impact on the big screen, featuring in films such as Assassination Games, Prisoners of the Sun and The Marine 6: Close Quarters. Michael is also well known for his role in The Bill. Despite his remarkable career, Michael looks vastly different from his Walford days. More recent roles saw him transform into a scholarly-looking silver fox – a stark contrast from the dark-haired, suave young man who caused havoc in the long-running soap Eastenders.

In real life, the actor is married to Doc Martin actress Caroline Catz. The 52 year old met her husband on the set of the ITV police drama The Bill where she played the character of Rosie Fox. The couple are parents to two children – Sonny Higgs, born in 2001, and Honour Higgs, born in 2006. Speaking to The Daily Mail, in the past the actress opened up about her personal life.