'Enders Connor reveals role impact

EastEnders star Arinze Kene has revealed how his life has changed since he took on the role of Connor Stanley in the soap.

The actor made his first appearance in Walford last April but became more prominent on screen in late 2010 after Connor's friend Billie Jackson passed away.

Connor's current storyline has seen him start a relationship with Billie's mum Carol (Lindsey Coulson), while also attracting attention from Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty).

Speaking to BBC News about the impact of his soap role, Kene explained: "Every single day someone recognises you. It's changed the way I walk down the street.

"You have to be a bit cautious. And I find it easier to approach people in the industry, because they already know who you are."

Alongside his acting career, Kene is a playwright and his work has secured him two nominations in the shortlist for this year's Off West End Theatre Awards.

Kene's latest play Suffocation opens at London's Oval House theatre this week.