Benidorm’s Oliver Stokes, who portrayed Michael Garvey in the popular comedy series, looks unrecognisable from his on-screen character.
Now 26 and a father to a son named Archie, Oliver stepped away from the spotlight to concentrate on his paternal responsibilities but made a return to television last week after whispers of a potential show revival emerged.
Oliver was thrust into fame at barely ten years old, playing Michael alongside his well-known on-screen family; mum Janice played by Netflix star Siobhan Finneran, dad Mick (Steve Pemberton), grandma Madge (Sheila Reid) and sister Chantelle (Hannah Hobley).
Growing up was a unique experience for Oliver due to his demanding filming schedule with ITV. To ensure he kept up with his education during three-month trips to Spain, a private tutor was employed on set for five hours a day to assist with his studies.
Following recent speculation that Benidorm might be returning, Oliver and his former on-screen sister Hannah Hobley, appeared on Loose Women to address the rumours, reports OK!
The show is currently attracting a lot of attention, as it could surprisingly reboot after an eight-year break, and the Loose Women panel were eager to uncover the truth behind the rumours.
Charlene White led the show and was joined by co-stars Denise Welch, Janet Street Porter and Mariella Frostrup, all of whom were keen to hear what the actors had to say.
Hannah quashed the swirling rumours, dashing hopes of a new series as she informed the panel “they are just rumours at the moment” but expressed gratitude for their “love and support” as the audience sighed in disappointment.
Charlene then proceeded to raise spirits with a statement from ITV, announcing on-air: “ITV say, ‘We’ve spoken to one of our sources over here and there’s nothing commissioned yet, but we’ll keep our fingers crossed’.”
Meanwhile, on social media, it wasn’t merely the potential comeback that sparked conversation, with numerous fans remarking on Oliver’s “handsome” appearance, with the former child star looking all grown up and far removed from his role as Michael.
“OMG Michael Garvey from Benidorm has matured into an absolutely stunning young man,” one fan enthused.
“I’ve never felt so old watching Loose Women after seeing the Benidorm kids all grown up,” another echoed.