EastEnders legend unrecognisable 22 years after leaving the BBC soap
It’s been over two decades since Jamie Mitchell, played by actor Jack Ryder, left EastEnders – but where is he now?
Following the arrival of Billy’s (Perry Fenwick) father Stevie (Alan Ford) earlier this year, Jamie’s ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ was brought up when Stevie asked after him.
Jamie’s life was cut short when vengeful Martin Fowler (then James Alexandrou) hit him with his car, jealous of his relationship with Sonia Jackson (Natalie Cassidy).
His death has been referenced by Martin in recent years, calling it ‘the biggest mistake of his life’.
It’s been a while since Jack Ryder has been on our screens, so we’ve decided to take a look at what he’s up to now, over 20 years on from his final scenes as Jamie.
Where is Jamie Mitchell actor Jack Ryder now?
As well continuing his career as an actor, Jack, 43, now works as an acting coach and author. His Instagram page, called Jack Ryder Sessions, focuses on reviews from other stars in the industry who have collaborated with him.
Last year, Jack helped a sight-impaired boy’s dream come true by helping him write his first novel. Youngster Shane Plange, who uses a cane and reads text in braille, was introduced to Jack through the Greater Manchester-based sight loss charity, Henshaws.
Speaking about his project, Jack enthused at the time: ‘I am delighted to be helping Shane with his book.
‘His enthusiasm, dedication and attitude has been amazing, and I am sure he’s going to produce a great novel. Look out for his name in book retailers in the future.’
Jack’s life as an author has seen him publish multiple children’s books. His latest book, titled Voyage to Mermaid Mountain, was released in July.
It follows the character of Pixie, who has live with her grandma ever since her parents were lost at sea. When she learns of a mermaid who can grant wishes, she sets sail with her Nanny, friend Wyld and talking frog Pebbles, on a mission to wish her parents back.
Jack’s most recent acting credits saw him feature in Silent Witness and Doctors.
In the now-axed BBC daytime medical drama, Jack played the character of Grant Hill for two episodes in 2019.
Also in the same year, he portrayed Evan Crowhurst in Holby City.
Evan was the obsessive, abusive and controlling partner of doctor Chloe Goddard (Amy Lennox).
He was ᴋɪʟʟᴇᴅ in October 2019 by Cameron Dunn (Nic Jackman), who silenced his heart monitor and allowed him to die.
This spiralled into a long-term storyline that saw Cam become the next villain at Holby City Hospital. He died in 2021 after a bomb exploded in the hospital.
Crime drama Silent Witness saw Jack star alongside Emilia Fox and David Caves in an episode last year. He played Frank Turner, a man who ran a youth probation hostel.
On stage he has appeared in the West End production of Calendar Girls, also serving as assistant director on the show – and was also involved with the stage productions of The Full Monty as well as Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s musical The Band.