Biography
Model-turned-actor Scott Maslen has been setting hearts a-flutter for over eight years in some of British TV's best-loved shows. He's currently the resident heart-throb in EastEnders, where his character Jack has been at the epicentre of some of the most exciting storylines in the soap's 25-year history.
Having come under fire for fluffing his lines in the EastEnders' live episode earlier this year, Scott is particularly nervous about performing live in front of millions of Strictly Come Dancing viewers. But he's embracing the opportunity as much as the risk involved. Just don't mention musical theatre - it leaves him cold!
Career
Scott joined the Marines at 16, but had to leave at 18 after damaging his ankle. On holiday in Miami he was spotted by photographer Bruce Weber, and he then embarked on a successful career as a model, travelling all over the world working for designers like Versace and Armani.
After five years' modelling he was advised by actor Bill Paxton to try his hand at acting. He studied for three years at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Eventually he landed a role in the Channel Four TV series Lock, Stock... in 2000. Just two years later Scott was offered the role of DS Hunter in The Bill.
Scott stayed at The Bill for five years, leaving in 2007 to join EastEnders as ex-copper turned club owner Jack Branning. Some of Jack's most memorable storylines have included affairs with sisters Ronnie and Roxy Mitchell, his brother's wife Tanya, Sam Mitchell and Chelsea Fox. Jack is currently in a wheelchair after being shot by his nephew's spurned girlfriend.
In 2009 Scott won the Sexiest Male award at the British Soap Awards. Earlier this year, he won Best Actor and Sexiest Male at the British Soap Awards.
Background
Scott was born in Woolwich, within the sound of Bow Bells.
He married his girlfriend Estelle in 2008 after nine years together - they met during the solar eclipse in 1999. They have a nine year-old son called Zac together.
Trivia
Scott is a keen fisherman and spends most of his spare time on the river.
He's a vegetarian, and in 2009 he was voted PETA's sexiest vegetarian - alongside Leona Lewis.
Samantha Womack (Ronnie Mitchell in EastEnders) is one of his best friends - they've known each other since they were teenagers. They often remark that doing love scenes together is very difficult because they're like brother and sister to each other. Scott is godfather to Samantha's children.
Scott is a fan of West Ham.
Are you a fan of Scott and Natalie?
Why not join in the discussion at Scott & Natalie's Blog page - the home of "Team Scottalie"!
Dancing partner
Scott Maslen will be dancing with Natalie Lowe.
