Paul Nicholls leaves Waterloo Road

Paul Nicholls has reportedly left the cast of Waterloo Road after just three days filming on the BBC One drama.

The Mirror reports the actor has left the series following the death of his grandfather. The actor’s casting in Waterloo Road was announced last month – he was due to play PE teacher Jez Diamond. His casting was announced at the same time as Cold Feet actor John Thomson’s addition to the cast and Holby City actress Jaye Jacobs.

Paul Nicholls has left Waterloo Road. The show producers Shed Productions said the actor’s decision was for personal reasons, following a recent family bereavement.” – BBC spokesperson quoted in The Mirror

The role is being recast with The Bill actor Alex Walkinshaw who played the popular character of Inspector Dale Smith in the ITV police drama. The actor will, it is understood, re-film scenes already shot with Paul Nicholls in the role.

Paul Nicholls is probably still best known for his role of Joe Wicks in BBC One soap EastEnders but his other notable roles include cop-drama City Central, children’s drama The Biz, ITV2 drama Secret Diary of a Call Girl and medical drama Harley Street.