Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Alex Ferns

Alex Ferns (born 13 October 1968) is a Scottish actor best known for his role as the abusive husband Trevor Morgan in the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 2000 to 2002. Born in Lennoxtown, Scotland, Ferns began his career in theatre before gaining prominence on television with EastEnders, where his portrayal of the violent character earned him the Best Newcomer awards at both the 2002 British Soap Awards and TV Quick Awards. His performance contributed to a high-profile domestic abuse storyline that drew significant attention. Ferns transitioned to film with the lead role of a reformed convict in the Scottish drama Man Dancin' (2003) and a supporting part in the multinational war film Joyeux Noël (2005), which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. He continued appearing in television series such as Making Waves (2004). In recent years, Ferns has earned acclaim for diverse roles, including mining crew leader Andrei Glukhov in the HBO miniseries Chernobyl (2019), a performance that won him a BAFTA Scotland Award for Television Performance. He portrayed Commissioner Pete Savage in the superhero film The Batman (2022), Sergeant Linus Mosk in the Disney+ series Andor (2022), part of the Star Wars franchise, Mikael in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024), and Arran Moy in the BBC thriller Nightsleeper (2024).

Early life and education

Childhood in Scotland and South Africa

Alex Ferns was born on 13 October 1968 in Lennoxtown, East Dunbartonshire, , as the eldest of three children. At the age of 11, Ferns' family relocated to Secunda, a company town in , where his father worked as an electrician during the construction of a power plant associated with the oil-from-coal facility. This move immersed the young Ferns in the apartheid-era environment, characterized by strict and an insular, predominantly white community. He attended an all-white school, where he was largely sheltered from the broader realities of , though he became aware of its social injustices, once scrawling "Free !" on his school bag shortly after the move, which led to him being caned by the headmaster; his mother subsequently confronted the school. During his time in South Africa, Ferns developed an early interest in , sparked by his participation in school plays.

Drama training at university

In his late teens and early twenties, Ferns attended the , where he earned a degree in . Prior to enrolling at university, Ferns completed two years of compulsory in the (1987–1989). He lived in South Africa for a total of 17 years, during which his studies provided immersion in the local environment. After completing his degree, Ferns decided to return to the in 1997, drawn by the wider professional opportunities available in British theatre and . This move marked the transition from his formal training to pursuing a career as a professional .

Acting career

Early theatre and television roles

Upon completing his drama degree at the University of Cape Town, Alex Ferns launched his professional acting career in South Africa during the early 1990s, performing in several notable theatre productions. He took on the lead role of in a staging of directed by David Hunt at the Alexander Theatre. Additionally, Ferns portrayed the Chevalier in , under the direction of Dee Evans for the Stray Theatre Company, and appeared as Boner in Burning Blue at Johannesburg's Alexander Theatre, directed by Mark Graham. He also played the in at the Baxter Theatre Co. (directed by Mark Graham), Laertes in at the Playhouse Company (directed by Mark Graham), and Malcolm in at the Market Theatre (directed by Craig Freimond). These roles allowed him to explore classical and contemporary works while addressing themes of love, seduction, and in the post-apartheid . Ferns' early television work bridged his time in South Africa and his return to the UK. In 1996, he appeared in a supporting capacity as in the British mini-series , a historical drama about produced by Yorkshire Television. This role marked one of his initial forays into screen acting, contributing to ensemble casts that depicted colonial-era figures and events. Following his relocation to the in 1997 to pursue opportunities professionally, Ferns continued building his resume with minor television parts, including the role of Conan the Policeman in the 1999 psychological thriller mini-series Psychos. As a newcomer navigating the competitive UK acting scene, Ferns faced the typical hurdles of securing consistent work, relying on regional engagements and small-screen appearances to develop his portfolio. He has reflected that meaningful opportunities remained limited until later breakthroughs, highlighting the persistence required to transition from overseas experience to established British productions. These foundational efforts in and helped him avoid early by showcasing versatility in both lead and supporting capacities across diverse genres.

Breakthrough with EastEnders

Alex Ferns was cast as Trevor Morgan, the abusive husband of Little Mo Slater (played by ), in the soap opera , debuting on 21 December 2000 and appearing in 112 episodes until his character's exit on 1 November 2002. Ferns portrayed Trevor as a violent, manipulative, and aggressive antagonist, earning the role widespread notoriety as one of television's most despised villains due to the character's unrelenting brutality. The storyline centered on Trevor's escalating against Little Mo, including repeated physical beatings, psychological humiliation, and attempts to isolate her from her family, which highlighted the soap's exploration of dynamics. Key episodes featured Little Mo striking Trevor with an iron in during a severe on Day 2001, leading to her high-profile trial for in early 2002, which drew significant viewer attention to themes of victim-blaming and survival. The arc culminated in Trevor's death on 2002, after Little Mo poisoned him in desperation, only for him to survive initially and perish later in a dramatic crash that also killed firefighter Tom Banks. Ferns' immersive performance as sparked intense public backlash, with the receiving death threats from viewers who blurred the line between and performer, to the extent that security once prevented him from leaving the set for his safety. The media frenzy surrounding the role amplified its cultural impact, positioning as a symbol of domestic terror and underscoring Ferns' commitment, which even strained his as his wife grew uncomfortable with the 's pervasive presence. The role propelled Ferns to broader recognition, resulting in a surge of theatre opportunities that allowed him to diversify beyond television and evade as a soap villain. Post-EastEnders, he starred in acclaimed stage productions such as The Hard Man, marking a deliberate pivot toward more varied dramatic work in the .

International film and television work

Following his high-profile stint on the soap opera , which elevated his visibility, Alex Ferns transitioned into international film and television projects that highlighted his range in dramatic and antagonistic roles. A pivotal breakthrough came with his role as Lieutenant Gordon, a Scottish officer, in the 2005 multilingual war drama , directed by . The film, a Franco-German-Belgian-UK co-production depicting the 1914 during , earned a Palme d'Or nomination at the and an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Ferns' portrayal contributed to the ensemble's acclaimed depiction of cross-cultural camaraderie amid conflict, showcasing his ability to convey stoic authority in a historical context. Ferns continued building his international presence with supporting roles in thrillers. In the 2006 British TV film Low Winter Sun, he played Liam Carnegie, a ruthless criminal entangled in a web of and revenge, adding intensity to the noir-inspired narrative. Later, in the 2009 French espionage thriller Farewell (L'Affaire Farewell), directed by Carion, Ferns portrayed a Scottish agent involved in intrigue, collaborating with a KGB defector to avert global crisis; the film starred and , underscoring Ferns' fit in multinational casts. His television work extended to American audiences with a guest appearance in the series 24: Live Another Day (2014), where he embodied Radko, a cunning aiding terrorist operations during the high-stakes plot. This role in the acclaimed action thriller exemplified Ferns' versatility in portraying complex villains, bridging UK-based training with Hollywood-style intensity. Through these projects spanning historical dramas and suspenseful genres, Ferns balanced domestic opportunities with global exposure, establishing a profile beyond confines up to the late .

Recent projects (2019–present)

Ferns portrayed Andrei Glukhov, the leader of a mining crew tasked with digging a tunnel beneath the Chernobyl reactor in the immediate aftermath of the 1986 disaster, in the HBO miniseries Chernobyl (2019). His performance drew critical acclaim for its authenticity, informed by his personal family connections to the event, and earned him a BAFTA Scotland Award for Best Actor, which he dedicated to the disaster's victims. In 2022, Ferns appeared as the corrupt Police Commissioner Pete Savage in ' The Batman, contributing to the ensemble exploring themes of institutional . That same year, he played Sergeant Linus Mosk, a dedicated Imperial Security Bureau officer and ally to Syril Karn, in the first season of the Disney+ series , set in the Star Wars universe. Ferns continued his television work in the 2020s with roles such as Detective Sergeant Nick Holness in the series (2022–2024), where he investigated time-loop mysteries alongside and . In 2024, he portrayed Arran Moy in the thriller , a high-stakes drama involving a hacked rail network crisis. On the big screen, Ferns took on the role of Mikael, a Monarch pilot and expedition member, in the film . Returning to the stage amid the , Ferns joined the West End production of The Girl on the Train at the in 2019, playing Detective Inspector Gaskill in a run that extended into early 2020 before closures; the production resumed limited performances later that year under strict protocols. Ferns appears in the drama series Waiting for the Out, a six-part of Andy West's exploring life and .

Personal life

Marriage and family

Alex Ferns married South African-born actress Woodburne in 1996, after meeting her while studying drama at the , where she was a year ahead of him in the program. The couple welcomed their first son, Cameron, in August 2002, shortly after Ferns' high-profile role on concluded. Their second son, Mackenzie, was born in late 2006. Ferns and Woodburne have navigated family life alongside their acting commitments. Woodburne, who has appeared in productions such as Tarzan: The Epic Adventures,

Residence and interests

Ferns has made his primary residence since returning from in his late twenties, with earlier reports placing him in . He retains a deep connection to his Scottish roots, having been born in and frequently citing his childhood there as formative; in a 2018 interview, he expressed enthusiasm for developing a thriller project set in the town, underscoring his ongoing affinity for the area. A practicing Buddhist since a challenging phase in his professional life, Ferns has incorporated the faith's principles into his personal outlook.

References

  1. [1]
    Alex Ferns - IMDb
    Alex Ferns was born on 13 October 1968 in Lennoxtown, Scotland, UK. He is an actor and producer, known for Joyeux Noel (2005), The Batman (2022) and EastEnders ...Biography · Actor | Producer · 1 of 26
  2. [2]
    https://www.themoviedb.org/person/60416-alex-ferns
  3. [3]
    Alex Ferns - APM | Artistes Personal Management
    1 st Lang: English (fluent) Eyes: Blue Hair: Brown Height: 1.75 AWARDS Winner 2002 Best Newcomer - British Soap Awards Winner 2002 Best Newcomer - TV Quick ...
  4. [4]
    Alex Ferns: How Trevor Morgan went from EastEnders to Star Wars
    Aug 31, 2023 · Alex Ferns may be best remembered as Trevor Morgan, but his roles in shows such as Six Four, Chernobyl and Andor deserve recognition too.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  5. [5]
    Chernobyl star Alex Ferns dedicates Best Actor award to victims of ...
    Nov 3, 2019 · In the acclaimed series, Alex Ferns played miner leader Andrei Glukhov who led his men to prevent further disaster at the nuclear plant.
  6. [6]
    The Batman (2022) - Alex Ferns as Commissioner Pete Savage - IMDb
    The Batman (2022) - Alex Ferns as Commissioner Pete Savage.
  7. [7]
    Alex Ferns - Biography - IMDb
    Insufficient relevant content. The provided URL content (https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0273159/bio) contains only an image source, a contribution link, and an edit suggestion prompt, with no biography section or factual information about birth date, place, early life, career highlights, notable roles, or awards.
  8. [8]
    EastEnders' Alex Ferns on leaving River City and his Lennoxtown ...
    Jan 12, 2018 · The eldest of three children, Ferns swapped Scotland for South Africa when he was 11. "We moved to a place called Secunda in the middle of ...
  9. [9]
    'PSYCHO' IS DAME FOR A LAUGH! | Glasgow Times
    Alex Ferns does a great psycho, but he can also convince in light comedy or straight drama, such as his ship commander role in the BBC drama, Making Waves.
  10. [10]
    Telly talk: Now Alex is all at sea - Manchester Evening News
    Jan 21, 2013 · Alex and his family emigrated to South Africa when he was 12 and he spent two years as a conscript in the army. "I couldn't wait to get out ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  11. [11]
    Alex Ferns - ESAT
    Oct 16, 2017 · Studied at the University of Cape Town Drama Department. Career. Contribution to SA theatre, film, media and/or performance. Stage appearances ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
  12. [12]
    Alex Ferns - The Artists Partnership
    Alex Ferns ; And Then There Were None, Lombard, Joe Harmston ; Strangers on a Train, Bruno, Rob McGilivray ; Guys and Dolls, Nathan Detroit, Michael Grandage ...
  13. [13]
    Rhodes (TV Mini Series 1996) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    Alex Ferns · Alex Ferns · John Grimmer. 6 episodes • 1996. Guy de Lancey · Guy de Lancey · Dr. Rutherfoord Harris. /Dr. Rutherford Harris. 6 ...
  14. [14]
    Alex Ferns - The Hard Man - Coffee-Table Notes
    Apr 5, 2011 · Alex Ferns doesn't look like much of a tough guy anymore. One minute the actor best known for his stint in East Enders playing psychopathic
  15. [15]
    Trevor Morgan | EastEnders Wiki - Fandom
    He made his first appearance 21 December 2000 and last on 1 November 2002. He was portrayed by Alex Ferns.
  16. [16]
    Trevor Morgan - EastEnders - BBC
    Trevor Morgan was the epitome of pure evil. A violent, aggressive, manipulative character, he made Little Mo's life hell.
  17. [17]
    BBC NEWS | Entertainment | EastEnders villain Trevor dropped
    Aug 7, 2002 · Ferns' role saw him become one of the most hated men on TV after months of abusing his screen wife, Little Mo Morgan, played by actress Kacey ...Missing: public backlash
  18. [18]
    Remembering Trevor Morgan's abuse of Little Mo on EastEnders
    Oct 13, 2025 · Okie is feared dead after Harry stabs him in a violent brawl. 3 days ago. Trevor's abuse also included his attempts to isolate her from her ...
  19. [19]
    Trevor Morgan and Little Mo Slater - Domestic Violence Plot
    Jul 27, 2016 · Eastenders - Trevor Morgan and Little Mo Slater - Domestic Violence Plot ... Eastenders best ever storyline in my opinion. Trevor was ...
  20. [20]
    EastEnders kidnap upsets viewers | Television industry - The Guardian
    Nov 1, 2002 · While the episode didn't feature graphic violence, some viewers felt the emotionally charged atmosphere and adult themes weren't suitable for ...Missing: Little | Show results with:Little
  21. [21]
    Ex-EastEnders actor Alex Ferns on playing evil Trevor Morgan - ITVX
    Aug 1, 2017 · Ex-EastEnders actor Alex Ferns on playing evil Trevor Morgan: 'I had death threats. And my wife didn't like him!' Tuesday 1 August at 5:11pm ...Missing: public backlash
  22. [22]
    Alex Ferns hints at return for evil abuser Trevor in Eastenders
    Aug 1, 2017 · During his time playing Trevor from 2000 until 2002, he received a number of death threats and was even stopped by BBC security from leaving ...
  23. [23]
    Ex-EastEnders villain Alex Ferns takes time out to play a good guy in ...
    Jun 16, 2013 · Alex is currently preparing for his role as a bomb disposal expert in Afghanistan in Park Theatre play Casualties. He will begin rehearsals ...
  24. [24]
    Ex-'Enders star Ferns feels typecast - Digital Spy
    Jun 14, 2008 · He explained: "In theatre and film, I'm definitely not seen as a soap actor. I get auditions and I'm seen for everything, really good stuff. " ...Missing: boost avoid
  25. [25]
    https://www.officiallondontheatre.com/news/alex-ferns-marc-elliott-philip-mcginley-the-girl-on-the-train/
  26. [26]
    Chernobyl star has real-life connection to the catastrophic tragedy
    Jun 17, 2019 · Chernobyl actor Alex Ferns has a close personal connection to the real-life disaster that took place in 1986. The star, who plays Andrei Glukhov ...
  27. [27]
    https://www.thetimes.com/travel/destinations/uk-travel/scotland-travel/believe-me-when-i-do-angry-its-for-real-2hfckv5qpcj
  28. [28]
    Linus Mosk | Wookieepedia - Fandom
    Alex Ferns portrayed Linus Mosk in the television series Star Wars: Andor, with the character first appearing in the second episode, which aired on ...Biography · The privilege of duty · Keeping the blade sharp · Ruin on Rix Road
  29. [29]
    https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/entertainment/celebrity/alex-ferns-id-love-to-take-980278
  30. [30]
    BBC announces cast for "genuinely heartbreaking" Liverpool-set ...
    May 6, 2025 · The BBC has announced the cast of its "heartbreaking" new drama Waiting For The Out. The upcoming six-part series, which is based on Andy ...
  31. [31]
    Believe me, when I do angry it's for real - The Times
    Feb 8, 2004 · Ferns's family moved to South Africa when he was 12 because his electrician father, Robert, wanted a better life for his children. Robert ...Missing: siblings childhood
  32. [32]
    Terrible Trevor was once a hairdresser - Irish Examiner
    May 16, 2002 · It's become increasingly hard to believe that Alex Ferns, terrible Trevor in EastEnders, ever played a gay hairdresser in another TV soap.Missing: career timeline early
  33. [33]
    Alex Ferns: I'd love to take Taggart back to the 60s - Daily Record
    Jun 12, 2008 · Alex is married to South African-born Jennifer and has two sons, Cameron, five and Mackenzie, 18 months. He said: "A tour like this one is ...
  34. [34]
    Jennifer Woodburne - ESAT
    Feb 1, 2017 · She has been married to the British actor Alex Ferns since 1996. They currently live in London (2014). Youth. Training. She studied at the ...
  35. [35]
    Alex Ferns on leaving River City and his plans for a thriller set in ...
    Jan 12, 2018 · The eldest of three children, Alex swapped Scotland for South Africa when he was 11. "We moved to a place called Secunda in the middle of ...Missing: siblings | Show results with:siblings
  36. [36]
    Alex Ferns' love for Glasgow and why River City will always be special
    Jan 13, 2018 · Growing up in Lennoxtown during the 70s and 80s, Alex believes his childhood experiences gave him a good grounding for his future career.<|separator|>
  37. [37]
    Remember EastEnders' evil Trevor Morgan? Actor Alex Ferns looks ...
    The 53-year-old is a Buddhist and lives in London with his actress wife Jessica Woodburne and their two sons, Cameron and Mackenzie. Actor Alex Ferns went ...
  38. [38]
    Celebrity watch | Third Sector
    ... Alex Ferns, appeared on Five News last month to talk about ADI's latest animal rescue. The charity had just secured a new life for two former circus lions ...