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From the East End to the West End, Joe Swash is making his way forward within the acting world, proving his worth with natural talent and a cheeky smile. As well as doing alright with his classic character Mickey Miller in EastEnders, Joe has been on our screens for a lot longer than we think. Ever since 1991, Joe has appeared in many soaps and dramas, from Soldier Soldier to The Bill to EastEnders, and was even in TV commercials as a baby.

With a decent acting history behind him from a very young age, this probably explains why he’s so comfortable in his latest ’Enders role – plus the fact he’s just playing himself. But it’s not often you get the luxury of doing that, so good luck to him. Maybe he should have his own TV show, Mickey, possibly the new BBC1 Friday night comedy slot? Like Tucker’s Luck was a natural progression for Todd Carty from Grange Hill, this could be just the ticket for Joe Swash. Now we’re just giving people ideas…

iN) Hello, Joe. What first got you interested in acting?

JS) I was modelling as a baby in an Andrex commercial all those years ago, but I got more seriously into acting in my teens – at the Anna Scher Young Actors Theatre in Islington – I was 15 before I’d thought about actual acting work. Since then I’ve had bit parts in Soldier Soldier and The Bill, a while ago I even did a comedy sketch show on Nickelodeon called L.O.L., so I’ve had a nice variation of performing ever since I was young.

iN) Who has inspired you in the acting world?

JS) There’s many people I’ve studied and admired over the years. For example, I love the Godfather films; but one of my all-time favourite actors is Ray Winstone, he’s been a huge inspiration to me. I really look up to him, and he’s accomplished a lot in his career.

iN) Are you comfortable with your role of Mickey Miller?

JS) I am, mainly because I’m playing myself so it’s not too demanding. The way I dress, the way I speak, I can turn up for work and just be me. There’s not many places you can do that. I’m lucky the producers were looking for someone like me.

iN) What would you like to see written into the storylines?

JS) Well, I know I’ll be in EastEnders for the next two years – then they might want to get rid of me (laughs). I would like Mickey to come to the fore and have more going on; sometimes characters can fall into a bit of a rut, but every now and again you get a fresh slant on a storyline so it’s like everyone gets a turn.

iN) What do you think of EastEnders at the moment, and what do you reckon on the new characters, i.e. Phil Daniels?

JS) At the moment it’s the best atmosphere; with new characters everything’s always on the up, everyone’s great fun to work with. Phil has really fitted in with the cast and he’s very much in the thick of the action at the moment. It’s all working well.

iN) Who is your favourite actor in the soap?

JS) John Bardon who plays Jim is the best. He’s just a great person to work with and you can learn a lot from him. The way he works is brilliant and he kind of looks after everyone. Also, Phil’s (Daniels) wicked, and I’ve known him for ages anyway – we play football together on Sundays. I think Phil’s heart is with films, though.

iN) What are your plans for the future? Would you like to move on to films?

JS) I would like to do films, really good British films. That would be the pinnacle of my career. I’m taking things in my stride, though – I think it can be dangerous leaving a soap, you can do really well or it can go against you. If you take yourself away from where people like to see you, sometimes it can backfire.

iN) Do you have any favourite places in the area?

JS) Yes, I’m quite a fan of it round here. I enjoy all the social occasions that go on throughout the year like the Repton Park Ball, and the polo event you guys do in the summer. Also, Emma and I always like to support the good causes in the area and be a part of what’s happening. If we’re eating out, we love going to Smiths in Ongar, The Ark in Wanstead, and the King William in Chigwell is great for a spot of lunch and a sociable drink.