The pair certainly look alike…
EastEnders viewers are convinced they’ve spotted a connection between the actors playing newcomer Mark Fowler Jr and long-time character Zack Hudson.
After Stephen Aaron-Sipple made his debut as Mark in Friday’s episode (January 23), fans quickly noticed the character’s bruised and battered face. But once the initial shock settled, something else caught their eye. Many pointed out just how much Stephen resembles James Farrar, who plays Zack.
So, are the actors behind EastEnders’ Mark and Zack related in real life? Here’s what you need to know…
Fans start digging
Viewers took to social media to comment on just how similar the actors appear.
“The fact Zack and Mark look the same is throwing me off,” one fan wrote on X. Another added, “Zack has some serious competition now that Mark Fowler Jr is back!”
A third fan chimed in, “Oh, are Zack and Mark going to cross paths? Are they connected somehow?”
It seems only a matter of time before the characters meet — especially with Zack growing closer to Mark’s sister, Vicky!
Are EastEnders’ Mark and Zack related in real life?
Despite their striking resemblance, Stephen Aaron-Sipple and James Farrar are not related. While they share similar features and builds, there is no family connection between the two actors.
On screen, the story is a bit more intertwined. Mark and Zack aren’t directly related, but their families are connected. Mark’s half-sister Vicky is linked to Zack’s half-sister Sharon through adoption.
Little is known about Zack’s biological mother in EastEnders, but it’s clear that Mark and Zack have completely different parents.
Who is Stephen Aaron-Sipple?
Many viewers may recognise Stephen Aaron-Sipple from roles in The Witcher, Cuckoo, and The Outlaws. Born and raised in East London, he has taken over the role of Mark Fowler Jr from Ned Porteus.
After leaving EastEnders, Ned joined Emmerdale, playing Joe Tate between 2017 and 2018. He later returned to the soap at Christmas 2024 and has remained a part of the Dales ever since.
What secrets is Mark hiding?
When Mark arrived at Phil Mitchell’s doorstep, it was clear he was in serious trouble. In Monday’s episode (January 26, available now on iPlayer), the truth behind his return begins to come to light.
Although Mark tells his sister Vicky he’s back to support her as she faces Joel in court, that’s not the full story. In reality, he’s been caught up with dangerous figures in the drug world — and things have turned violent.
Believed to be a police informant, Mark was attacked as a warning. But as viewers know, he isn’t the informant — Ravi is. How long will it take before Mark discovers Ravi’s role?
- Emmerdale: Fans predict Laurel’s dangerous move could have serious consequences for her and Arthur
- Emmerdale fans believe they’ve figured out how Charity’s baby secret will come crashing out
- EastEnders iPlayer Early Release Hints at Mark Jr’s Connection to Surprising Walford Villain
- Sharp-eyed EastEnders fans uncover surprising connection between Mark Jr and Zack
- Coronation Street commentary: Villains dominating is throwing the soap off balance
