‘Eastenders’ Absentee (Press, 4 January 1989)
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Summary: ‘Eastenders’ Absentee (Press, 4 January 1989)
Gary Hailes, the actor known for his role as Barry in the popular television series "EastEnders," expressed uncertainty regarding his future with the show while he enjoys a world cruise. Hailes stated that there are no definite plans for his return and indicated that it depends on what feels right for him in his career. He mentioned a desire to avoid being typecast and to explore other opportunities, particularly in music, as he has been focusing on songwriting. A self-identified fan of 1950s music, Hailes has an extensive collection of nearly 300 Elvis Presley LPs, which he has accumulated since he was 11 years old. His appreciation for Elvis began with the record "Can’t Help Falling in Love," bought out of necessity when he couldn't find another of the singer’s hits. His home includes a vintage juke box stocked with 50s records, with a dedicated section for Elvis albums. Hailes began his television career in the children's soap "Grange Hill," where he played a bully. He acknowledged that while the show serves to entertain children, it also addresses important social issues. The actor revealed that, despite playing a tough character, he is quite different from his on-screen persona. He faced some challenges in public owing to his role in "EastEnders," which included a confrontation, although he remarked that he perhaps does his job well by evoking such strong reactions. Playing a homosexual character presented both challenges and valuable insights into societal attitudes. Hailes pointed out how homosexual individuals are treated differently compared to heterosexuals, making open displays of affection difficult for them. He reflected on the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community, indicating that while some hostility still exists, it is diminishing, potentially due to the representation seen in shows like "EastEnders." Overall, Hailes is exploring personal and professional growth, hoping to balance his acting career with his passion for music.
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