For many people, it might be too early to start talking about Christmas, but stars of stage and screen are already busy preparing for this year’s pantomimes.

Grange Hill and EastEnders actor Todd Carty is starring as the villainous Captain Hook in Peter Pan at Watersmeet Theatre in Rickmansworth, from Thursday, December 12, to Sunday, January 5.

Although he can expect more than a few panto boos when he steps out onto the stage as the story’s villain, Todd is thoroughly enjoying dressing up - and has even said that this is his favourite role to date.

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As a child, Todd loved going to the cinema with his mum every Saturday to see the sixpence films. Inspired by the child actors on the silver screen, he began attending drama classes.

He started his career at the age of four, starring in television commercials. He appeared in hundreds of advertisements and still remembers the line from the Woolworth’s one: “Here’s your change mummy.”

His breakout role was playing the unforgettable Tucker Jenkins in the long-running BBC drama Grange Hill. His character became so popular that he went on to star in his own spin-off series, Tucker’s Luck.

He then went on to star as Mark Fowler in EastEnders for 12 years, and as PC Gabriel Kent in police drama The Bill.

In his spare time, he enjoys playing with his two sons. He never allows himself to forget how lucky he has been both in his professional and personal life. Watching his sons grow up is the icing on the cake.

“The worst bit about being an actor is that your life changes forever,” said Todd. “However, as I get older, life becomes nicer and easier thanks to wise financial decisions made by my mum when I was young. She never spoilt me and taught me the value of life and money.”

Todd has been married to actress and writer Dina Clarkin, his childhood sweetheart, since 1990. They own a film production company, Swordfish Productions, and Carty has also directed his first feature film, The Perfect Burger, made with the Co-operative British Youth Film Academy.

Now he comes to Watersmeet to star in their 2019 pantomime, Peter Pan. From the team behind last year’s smash hit, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, expect live music, colourful sets, amazing costumes, spectacular special effects and plenty of comedy, fun and laughter.

Watersmeet Theatre, High Street, Rickmansworth, Thursday, December 12, to Sunday, January 5. Details: 01923 711063 watersmeet.co.uk