Paul Nicholls

Former child actor Paul Nicholls quickly became a heartthrob when he segued to adult roles in 1996 as the troubled young Joe Wicks on the popular British serial "EastEnders." The tall, brown-haired actor's portrayal of the schizophrenic teenager was appropriately powerful and sensitive. In some ways, though his acting skills were overshadowed by his status as a teen idol; just as his performances were becoming truly impressive, his likeness was featured on countless magazines and posters bought up by his many fans. Just over a year after joining the cast, Nicholls left "EastEnders" in 1997 and briefly considered giving up acting altogether for a career behind the camera. Instead, he joined the cast of the BBC police drama series "City Central" (1998-). Working on this show helped to boost his confidence as an actor and transcended his sex symbol image. His lead role in the 1998 London stage production of "Billy Liar" further established him as a serious actor and not just another pretty face. Nicholls finally segued to the big screen as the star of the WWI drama "The Trench" (1999).