BBC EastEnders Dorian star’s life – Hollywood roles, crazy exit and fighter past
Dorian Gates is one of EastEnders newcomers and he’s certainly caused a stir as he swoons Sharon and tempts her away from Walford. Here's more about the man behind the role...
EastEnders boxing promoter Dorian Gates, portrayed by actor Luke JI Smith, has already left a significant impression on the residents of Albert Square after his arrival at The Boxing Den to promote his fighters.
While Phil Mitchell, played by Steve McFadden, hasn’t been thrilled by what he sees as Dorian’s meddling, there’s one beloved EastEnders figure who seems to have taken a liking to him. In an effort to maintain harmony, co-owner of The Boxing Den, Sharon Watts, portrayed by Letitia Dean, invited Dorian for a drink, and before long, the two hit it off.
However, some viewers became concerned when the charming Dorian made a tempting proposition to the recently heartbroken Sharon. But eagle-eyed fans may recognize this hunky actor from his various other roles, including appearances in major Hollywood films and his previous life as a cage fighter. Let’s delve into the actor’s life beyond Walford.
Hollywood Roles
Beyond his acting endeavors, Luke is a multi-talented star in other fields, delving into film writing, producing, directing, and even stunt performing. He appeared as an actor and director in A Beautiful Debt, and his website also boasts other unknown skills, with the star being a pro in the fields of snowboarding, skydiving, and horseriding.
Shock Exit
Dorian has been seen tempting long-standing character Sharon Watts to make a move to Abu Dhabi to run her “own multi-gym empire”. In response to this exciting suggestion, Sharon considered battled the idea of leaving, given that she has a son and his father, Keanu, would be opposed to the idea.
But things are set to take a serious turn after Sharon accepts the offer to move and Keanu plots to kidnap Albie. Speaking with the Radio Times and other publications, actor Letitia reflected on Sharon’s current mindset following her painful break-up with Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters), which could well prompt her to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Letitia said: “Dorian offers Sharon the chance to move to Abu Dhabi to set up shop in a new gym. It would obviously be a huge change for Sharon as Walford is her home, but with her relationship in tatters, I don’t think she feels like there’s much left to keep her there. It would be a great business move for her, and would offer security for Albie’s future so it’s very tempting.” She added: “It would also make the breakup a lot easier if there were thousands of miles between them instead of living just across the Square from each other. Plus I think she’d be pleased to see the back of Karen for a while!”
Cage Fighter Past
He’s certainly left the ladies swooning with his chiseled good looks and hunky physique as he joins The Boxing Den in EastEnders. But while the star may be playing an expert in the world of fighting, he’s actually a former cage-fighting champion in real life, boasting a series of impressive wins throughout his career.
Luke “cool hands” Smith was an amateur MMA Fighter and was ranked an impressive 461st in the amateur Mens Welterweight category for the UK & Ireland. Whilst he appears to have retired from professional competitions in the sport, the star clearly hasn’t shied away from the gym. His topless snaps show off his bulging biceps as he often posts videos training in the gym.
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Fans swooned over the star on Instagram, writing: “Check you out Big Daddy.” A second penned: “Amazed by this….wow!” followed by love heart emojis.
