Hollyoaks star Darren Jefferies looks completely different from his beloved soap character after his final exit in 2017.
The 43-year-old performer joined the Channel 4 drama as Sam "O.B." O'Brien in 1997, swiftly winning over viewers with his on-screen chemistry with Max Cunningham, portrayed by Matt Littler.
The Hollyoaks duo experienced plenty of highs and lows throughout the series, including a major falling-out over Clare Devine, portrayed by Gemma Bissix, before mending their relationship.
- Victoria Beckham's 'true feelings' after Brooklyn feud as 'her mask slips'
- 90s pop idol unrecognisable after drinking aftershave in addiction battle
Yet when besotted Max discovered romance with Steph Dean (Carley Stenson), their joy was short-lived following a devastating mishap that left O. B devastated, reports the Manchester Evening News.
During July 2008, Max and Steph's big day finally came, but catastrophe struck when the bridegroom shoved his younger sibling, Tom Cunningham (Ellis Hollins), away from an oncoming vehicle.
Max was struck by the motor driven by intoxicated rival Niall Rafferty (Barry Sloane), and despite Tom, Steph, and O.B's desperate attempts to rescue him, he died.
O.B was shattered when his closest mate passed away in his embrace, prompting him to abandon the village permanently and seek a fresh start in London.
During 2016, Darren made a comeback as the cherished O.B to the programme, but departed once more in 2017.
Discussing his character's temporary return at the time, Darren remarked: "Being back without Max will be strange for O.B."
He continued: "But his death gave O.B a new perspective on life. I think he's got more of a seize the day kind of attitude now."
Since his departure from the soap, Darren has maintained his acting career, making a cameo in the BBC series Doctors in 2017 and returning six years later to portray a different character.
In 2022, the former soap star made a comeback on the telly in the comedy series Brassic. Darren also featured in the short films Lone Wolves (2024) and I Know A Place (2023).
Off the small screen, Darren is also a shining star on stage, having appeared in several productions such as: The Borrowers in Lancaster, Abigail's Party at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, and For the Grace of You Go I at Theatr Clwyd in Wales.
But Darren's talents extend beyond acting, as he also works behind the scenes. He recently showcased his skills during a project for Everton Football Club.
Darren is also happily married to Stephanie, owner of a Fashion House Agency, with the pair tying the knot in Manchester in 2016. The couple are proud parents to two children.
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am
You may also like
'Not Everything Goes On Air': Salman Khan Reacts To Accusations Of Being Biased Towards Amaal Mallik On Bigg Boss 19
The cost-cutting gadget coming to Lidl next week as Martin Lewis slams 'demon appliance'
Liam Gallagher becomes a grandad as Oasis rocker's daughter Molly gives birth
Lostprophets paedo Ian Watkins 'stabbed to death' in prison attack
Shocking Scenes! Namibia Stuns South Africa With Historic Four-Wicket Win In A Last-Over Thriller At Windhoek