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Eddie Moon

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Eddie Moon
EastEnders character
A promotional image of Eddie Moon
Portrayed byDavid Essex
Duration2011—
First appearance3 June 2011
ClassificationPresent; regular
Introduced byBryan Kirkwood
In-universe information
OccupationAntiques dealer
Barman (since 2011)
SonsMichael Moon
Tyler Moon
Anthony Moon
DaughtersFrancesca Moon
GrandsonsTommy Moon
First cousinsAlfred Moon
Other relativesAlfie Moon
Danny Moon
Jake Moon

Edward "Eddie" Moon is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by David Essex. Eddie is the father of Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd), Tyler Moon (Tony Discipline) and Anthony Moon (Matt Lapinskas). Along with his children, Eddie was introduced to to bring a "new generation" of the Moon family to the programme. Essex began filming in April 2011 and first appeared on screen on 3 June 2011. His initial contract will end in August, and Essex hopes he will be able to return to the role. The character has been described as cheeky, likeable and charismatic, and has a dark past. Through the series' narrative, it is revealed that there is a rift between Michael and Eddie, because Michael blames his father for the death of his mother, who killed herself when Michael was left alone with her. Eddie is also a love interest for Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson).

Critics have responded mostly positively to the character, with Jaci Stephen from the Daily Mail calling the casting "inspired" and praising Essex's comic timing in the role. Tony Stewart from the Daily Mirror praised his "grand entrance" to the series, and a reporter from the Evening Chronicle said Eddie would bring a "breath of fresh air" to the soap. However, Jim Shelley from the Daily Mirror branded the character a "cliche".

Storylines

Eddie is first seen reading a newspaper mentioning his second cousin Alfie Moon (Shane Richie). He decides to visit Alfie as he has not seen him for fifteen years and wants to see Alfie's son Tommy, but is hit by Carol Jackson's (Lindsey Coulson) car outside The Queen Victoria public house. When he comes to, he argues with Carol, and Alfie's wife Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) asks who he is. At that point, Alfie enters and recognises Eddie. Kat does not want Eddie to stay around for long as she does not want him to know that Michael is Tommy's real father. Michael enters the pub and sees Eddie, who greets his son but Michael leaves immediately. Alfie later tells Eddie that Tommy is his grandson. The next day, Eddie and Carol talk but he defends his son when she says she thinks Michael has a mean streak. He gives Kat some money for Tommy before leaving, but does not go far and bonds with Carol's grandson Liam Butcher (James Forde). Kat finds Eddie and invites him to stay. They attend Michael's boxing club where he tells Michael he should have told him about having a grandson. Michael gives Eddie some money, telling him to take his family far away. Eddie asks Michael what it will take for him to get over what happened, and later tells Michael's girlfriend Roxy Mitchell (Rita Simons) that he does not remember why they fell out five years ago. Roxy and Eddie bond and Michael is annoyed. Michael repeatedly tells Eddie to leave Walford and stay away from him, Tommy and Roxy, but Kat tells him he can stay at for as long as he wants. Michael tells Roxy that Eddie murdered his mother. Eddie confirms this to Roxy, but says he was not there at the time, explaining that he left a six-year-old Michael with her, knowing he should not have done, and she took an overdose and died, and Michael still blames him. He later helps Carol fix a blocked sink at the café, and she invites him for tea after he bonds further with Liam. Liam skips school and Eddie helps him with a hobby. Carol is annoyed that Liam did not go to school but thanks Eddie for spending time with Liam by kissing him. Eddie's son Tyler arrives in Walford, meaning he misses a meeting with Michael to try to make amends. Michael refuses Eddie's apology.

Creation

On 24 January 2011, it was announced that Essex had been cast in the role of Eddie, the father of Michael Moon (Steve John Shepherd).[1] It was stated that Eddie's other children would arrive after him, and his "fractured" relationship with Michael would be explored.[1] Of his role, Essex said, "Being an East-Ender myself, I'm really excited to be joining the Square. Eddie Moon is a great character and I can't wait to get to grips with the role and work with such a fantastic cast. I'm really pleased that I've been able to make filming work around my tour dates this time."[1] Executive producer Bryan Kirkwood said that Essex would "bring warmth and charisma to the role of Eddie Moon"[1] and added that Eddie and the return of Michael will bring "a new generation of the Moon family to Walford."[1] Essex had been cast as Jack Edwards six years previously, but withdrew from the role due to a clash with his touring schedule.[2][3] He revealed "[T]he character [...] wasn't as interesting as this one. I think we would've made something out of it, but there's much more texture and weight to this."[2] On 27 February 2011, Essex told Elaine Paige on Sunday that he would start filming as Eddie in April and that the character and his storylines were being brainstormed.[4] He revealed that his initial contract would end in August 2011 and although he could stay on longer, he said there are other acting and touring projects "pulling me out of EastEnders, but emotionally, I'm here."[2] He hoped that he would return and become a regular returning character, joking that he would be an "occasional Mooner".[5] He said that joining the cast was "daunting" and a "great adventure" that was "taking over [his] life", and because he was writing a film score at the same time as filming for EastEnders, it was "tricky"[6] and he found it difficult to adjust.[7]

Eddie's sons, Tyler (Tony Discipline) and Anthony (Matt Lapinskas), were announced on 10 May 2011, and Kirwood said that the Moon family were "on their way to becoming an established family in the Square."[8] Writers were banned from getting Essex to sing in the programme, as producers wanted to concentrate on his acting rather than his singing.[9] Kirkwood later said, "[Essex] is a legend in his own right. I can't wait for the audience reaction when he hits the screens in a few weeks. I'm hoping viewers come to love him."[10] Essex said that he was determined to show off his acting skills and explained: "It's important to me that Eddie is a character and not David Essex. Because of my track record it might be difficult for some people to differentiate the two, and that's going to be a challenge. But my fans are thrilled I've joined EastEnders—it means that they get to see me on the telly rather than waiting for my next tour!"[11] However, Essex admitted, "Eddie Moon is not a million miles from David Essex", saying that he had tweaked the character's accent and had brought some of himself into the role.[5] Essex made his first on-screen appearance in the episode broadcast on 3 June 2011.[12]

Characterisation

Eddie is described as a "loveable rogue"[5] who is cheeky, likeable and charismatic.[13] The EastEnders website says he has a dark past that he is trying to escape, and calls him a polite gentleman who makes friends for life, and is popular with the ladies.[13] Essex said that when Eddie was younger, he would have been a "mirror image" of Michael, but has since become more philosophical, and is less hot headed than Michael.[14] Essex told Digital Spy that Eddie is "a strong character", who is an ex-boxer. Essex said Eddie's chequered past would unfold and opined that "He's not a bad guy".[15] He also explained that Eddie is separated from his wife, and that Tyler and Anthony are Michael's half brothers.[15] Eddie works as an antiques dealer and also has a daughter, Francesca,[13] referred to as Frankie in the series.[16]

Storyline development

Essex has said that there is a "massive rift" between Eddie and his estranged son, Michael. He explained: "When [Eddie] arrives, he has no idea that Michael is around! Eddie and Michael haven't really spoken for years, but as a father does, Eddie reaches out and reaches out, trying to mend that."[15] Essex opined that Eddie and Michael may be quite similar, but Eddie would not be as manipulative as "the ages are different—with age comes a certain attitude for Eddie that's a bit more philosophical and not so hot-headed."[15] It was revealed by Inside Soap that the rift between Michael and Eddie is because Michael's mother commited suicide and Michael found her body but he is convinced that Eddie killed her.[17] Essex confirmed that Michael blames Eddie for the death.[18]

It was reported by The Sun that Eddie would be a love interest for Carol Jackson (Lindsey Coulson).[19] Eddie and Carol meet in Eddie's second episode when he arrives in Walford and she hits him with her car. Essex explained: "Afterwards, Eddie and Carol have a bit of a discussion about that—she reckons that she just nudged him, but he reckons that she hit him! We see Eddie get thrown up into the air in that scene. I've done my own stunts for films in the past, but I didn't do that one!"[20] A source told The Sun that Eddie and Carol are attracted to each other but they are both too busy to start a relationship,[21] though Carol is flattered when Eddie makes a move on her and their relationship could develop at a later time.[22] Essex told Soaplife: "There's a spark between [Eddie] and Carol. He starts off pushing her away but they get closer when he helps out with Liam. Carol thanks Eddie and he kisses her."[23]

Reception

Jaci Stephen from the Daily Mail praised the casting of Essex in the role, saying, "There is always a frisson of excitement when a big star joins a soap. [...] None, however, has excited me as much as the arrival of David Essex in EastEnders. It is inspired casting, not only because the part of Eddie Moon fits Essex like a glove, but because he brings a gravitas to the show. And those eyes. Goodness, those beautiful eyes."[24] Stephen went on to positively review Eddie's arrival, saying, "It made for a great start to the week, with David Essex's exquisite comic timing bringing some light-hearted relief to the rather heavy Moon/Mitchell stuff of late."[24] Tony Stewart from the Daily Mirror also positively reviewed Eddie's arrival in Albert Square, saying, "Dressed in a smart, black three-piece whistle and flute [suit] and a white button-down collar shirt, the dapper grey-haired man looks like he could have been a guest at a Big, Fat Gypsy Wedding. But within four minutes of arriving in Albert Square on Monday, he's been knocked over by Carol's car as he snatches Roxy's toddler Amy from its path. Although there have been reports that this newcomer has been banned from singing in the Vic, within 15 minutes he's croaking out a line from the Leyton Orient supporters' song. This is the grand entrance of former 70s teen idol David Essex[.]"[25] Converseley, Jim Shelley, also from the Daily Mirror, criticised Eddie's arrival, saying, "on Monday they blessed us with the arrival of Whispering David Essex as Eddie Moon, the latest example of the Long-Lost Relative Who Has Never Been Mentioned Before that is routine in soaps nowadays. [...] Eddie had been in EastEnders three whole minutes before the writers unleashed the bi-annual cliche of The Mean & Moody New Guy Saving A Child Running Out In Front Of A Car. [...] Eddie spent the week ticking off the components of that great EastEnders cliche, the 'rough diamond'/silver-tongued 'ladies' man.' (See also Dennis Watts, Michael Moon, Johnny Allen, Max & Jack Branning, Steve Owen et al.)"[26] A reporter from the Metro called the character "mischievous",[27] and another from the Evening Chronicle called him "a pleasant, charming character", adding "It seems as if a little bit of Essex will brighten up the East End for a while. [...] [A]s far as I can tell, [he] will be a breath of fresh air in a soap that sometimes forgets to have a laugh."[28]

Inside Soap held a poll to see which of the new Moon family members, Eddie, Tyler or Anthony, its readers were most looking forward to seeing. Eddie came first in the poll with 74% of the votes.[29] Sarah Ellis from Inside Soap praised Eddie, saying, "If there's one thing EastEnders has been missing recently, it's a strong patriarch to go up agaisnt Walford's gobby ladies. Enter David Essex as charming Eddie Moon—whose presence has caused something of a stir among [viewers]."[30]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e Kilkelly, Daniel (24 January 2011). "David Essex lands 'EastEnders' role". Digital Spy. London: Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 24 January 2011.
  2. ^ a b c "David Essex: 'I was almost Honey's father!'". What's on TV. London: IPC Media. 31 May 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  3. ^ "Essex withdraws from EastEnders". BBC News. 2 December 2005. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  4. ^ Paige, Elaine; Essex, David (27 February 2011). "Elaine Paige on Sunday - 27/02/2011". Elaine Paige on Sunday. Event occurs at 1:10.16. BBC. BBC Radio 2. Retrieved 27 February 2011. And I don't start till April, so we're having a, I think they call it a brainstorm, of where the character's going and what he is. But I'm assured it's going to be an interesting part to play. {{cite episode}}: Unknown parameter |serieslink= ignored (|series-link= suggested) (help)
  5. ^ a b c Methven, Nicola (6 June 2011). "David Essex interview: My wife's the same age as my daughter - I'm proud they are great friends'". Daily Mirror. London: Trinity Mirror. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  6. ^ "David Essex: EastEnders is taking over my life". The List. Edinburgh: The List Ltd. 1 June 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  7. ^ Metro web reporter (1 June 2011). "David Essex: EastEnders is taking over my life". Metro. London: Associated Newspapers. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  8. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (10 May 2011). "'EastEnders' reveals new Moon arrivals". Digital Spy. Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 10 May 2011.
  9. ^ Holmwood, Leigh (24 May 2011). "We're not going to make you a star". The Sun. London: News Group Newspapers. Retrieved 24 May 2011.
  10. ^ Jefferies, Mark (24 May 2011). "David Essex banned from singing on EastEnders". Daily Mirror. London: Trinity Mirror. Retrieved 24 May 2011.
  11. ^ "EastEnders star insists Eddie is 'not David Essex'". What's on TV. London: IPC Media. 31 May 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  12. ^ Kelly, Kirsty (19 May 2011). "Alfie Moon's relatives join 'EastEnders'". Digital Spy. Hachette Filipacchi UK. Archived from the original on 19 May 2011. Retrieved 19 May 2011.
  13. ^ a b c "Eddie Moon played by David Essex". EastEnders. London: BBC Online. Retrieved 1 June 2011.
  14. ^ "David Essex: 'EastEnders has taken over my life'". What's on TV. IPC Media. 8 June 2011. Retrieved 19 June 2011.
  15. ^ a b c d Kilkelly, Daniel (31 May 2011). "David Essex (Eddie Moon, 'EastEnders')". Digital Spy. London: Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 31 May 2011.
  16. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (7 June 2011). "Michael tries to get Eddie out of Walford". Digital Spy. London: Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  17. ^ "In this week's issue". Inside Soap. Hachette Filipacchi UK. Archived from the original on 7 June 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  18. ^ Goldsmith, Johnny (4 June 2011). "EastEnders: David Essex interview, New Moon Rising". We Love Telly. London: Trinity Mirror. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  19. ^ Lee, Cara (30 May 2011). "Essex Girl Carol". The Sun. London: News Group Newspapers. Retrieved 30 May 2011.
  20. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (6 June 2011). "POTD: Eddie Moon arrives in Albert Square". Digital Spy. London: Hachette Filipacchi UK. Retrieved 20 June 2011.
  21. ^ "Is EastEnders' Eddie over the moon about Carol?". What's on TV. London: IPC Media. 1 June 2011. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  22. ^ Daily Mail reporter (13 June 2011). "David Essex gets tongue-tied with a kiss in Walford for EastEnders role". Daily Mail. London: Associated Newspapers. Retrieved 19 June 2011.
  23. ^ Brockway, Sally (11–24 June 2011). "Eddie's family secrets". Soaplife (252). IPC Media: 25. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  24. ^ a b Stephen, Jaci (10 June 2011). "SOAP WATCH: The ultimate insight into the week's soaps". Daily Mail. London: Associated Newspapers. Retrieved 19 June 2011.
  25. ^ Stewart, Tony (4 June 2011). "EastEnders: Ready for Eddie Moon". Daily Mirror. London: Trinity Mirror. Retrieved 7 June 2011.
  26. ^ Shelley, Jim (13 June 2011). "EastEnders: David Essex reveals dark side of the Moons as another tortured Albert Square hardman". Daily Mirror. London: Trinity Mirror. Retrieved 19 June 2011.
  27. ^ Metro TV reporter & Bang TV (13 June 2011). "EastEnders' Eddie Moon to begin romance with Carol Jackson". Metro. London: Associated Newspapers. Retrieved 16 June 2011.
  28. ^ "Farewells and hellos". Evening Chronicle. Newcastle upon Tyne: Trinity Mirror. 11 June 2011. Retrieved 19 June 2011.
  29. ^ "Your verdict". Inside Soap (24). Hachette Filipacchi UK: 97. 18–24 June 2011. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)CS1 maint: date format (link)
  30. ^ Ellis, Sarah (25 June–1 July 2011). "Soap Box". Inside Soap (25). Hachette Filipacchi UK: 96. ISSN 0966-8497. {{cite journal}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help); Check date values in: |date= (help)
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