John Altman English actor and singer Date of Birth: 02.03.1952 Country: Great Britain

1. Biography of John Altman
2. Early Life and Career
3. Role in 'EastEnders' and Other Projects
4. Personal Life and Contributions

Biography of John Altman

John Altman is an English actor and singer, best known for his role as Nick Cotton, the main villain in the BBC soap opera 'EastEnders'. Nick Cotton, a liar, thief, drug addict, and murderer, first appeared in the series in the premiere episode on February 19, 1985, and lived on screen until disappearing on June 4, 2009. In 2010, Altman became the new frontman of the band 'Heavy Metal Kids' after the departure of Danny Peyronel, the founder of the band who was a friend of his and who had died in 1985.

Early Life and Career

John Altman was born on March 2, 1952, in Reading, Berkshire. His acting debut came in 1979 in the film 'The First Great Train Robbery', where he played a minor role. Later that same year, he portrayed musician George Harrison in the television biopic 'Birth of The Beatles'. Over the next couple of years, Altman had several small roles in films, including the drama 'Quadrophenia' (1979) and the horror film 'An American Werewolf in London' (1981). In 1982, Altman appeared in the short film 'Stupid Git', commissioned by the British government as part of a campaign against drunk driving. The following year, he had a fleeting appearance in the cult film 'Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi' as a rebel pilot.

Role in 'EastEnders' and Other Projects

In 1985, Altman landed his most famous role as Nick Cotton, who embodied almost all the vices and criminal tendencies that the characters in the soap opera 'EastEnders' had. Fortunately, his character only appeared sporadically in 196 episodes out of more than 4,000, but it was enough for John Altman to become associated with the most notorious villain on BBC television screens.

In addition to his role in 'EastEnders', Altman appeared in the adult comedy pantomime 'Pussy in Boots' in 1994, alongside his fellow 'EastEnders' cast members Mike Reid and Barbara Windsor. In 2001, he received the 'Rear of the Year Award' along with actress Claire Sweeney. That same year, Altman performed at a concert honoring Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, singing their song 'Trouble', which was originally performed by Elvis.

Since then, Altman has been increasingly involved in stage performances and has had small roles in films and on television. In 2002, he toured the UK with the role of Billy Flynn in the musical 'Chicago'. In 2004, he appeared in the comedy sketch show 'Bo' Selecta!' as his 'EastEnders' character, and in 2005, he played the lead role in the musical comedy 'It Could Be You'. In 2009, Altman starred in the thriller 'Photo Shoot'.

Personal Life and Contributions

In 1986, John Altman married Brigitte Altman, and they had a daughter named Rosanna Ivy Altman that same year. However, the couple divorced in 1997. Altman is actively involved in supporting the Rose Theatre in Kingston, and he has a close friendship with June Brown, who plays his on-screen mother in 'EastEnders'. Altman has credited Brown with helping him in the 90s when he was battling alcoholism.

In addition to his acting career, Altman has returned to his alma mater, the Whitstable Community College, as a special guest for the annual school awards ceremony, where he delivered a speech.