Fans of EastEnders may have a hard time recognizing Stephen Shepherd in his latest role on ITV’s Karen Pirie. The actor, who is best known for his portrayal of the dark and manipulative Michael Moon, is now appearing as the morally complex DCS Lees in this gripping crime drama. It’s a complete departure from his EastEnders days, and fans are already buzzing about his transformation.

Michael Moon: A Legacy of Betrayal and Violence

For EastEnders fans, Shepherd’s portrayal of Michael Moon was unforgettable. Michael was the cousin of Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) and the biological father of Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall). His storyline was filled with deception, violence, and betrayal, as he tangled with characters like Janine Butcher and Alice Branning. Michael’s dark journey reached its tragic conclusion in 2013 when he was killed in a dramatic showdown with Janine and Alice.

The character’s death, after a violent altercation in which Alice stabbed Michael after he attempted to strangle Janine, became one of the most memorable moments in the soap’s history. Michael’s death marked the end of his controversial arc, leaving fans stunned and emotional. But now, years later, Shepherd has reinvented himself in a whole new way.

Stephen Shepherd as DCS Lees in Karen Pirie

Shepherd’s new role in Karen Pirie couldn’t be further from Michael Moon. He plays DCS Lees, the superior of Karen Pirie (played by Laurel Lyle). In contrast to Michael’s villainous nature, DCS Lees is a more measured and authoritative figure, often struggling to trust his colleagues. He brings a sense of gravitas to the role, making it clear that Shepherd’s acting range goes far beyond his past roles.

Fans were quick to comment on how different Shepherd looks in Karen Pirie. Gone are the dark suits and brooding demeanor of Michael Moon—DCS Lees is often seen wearing glasses and sporting a clean-shaven look, a far cry from the character who once wreaked havoc in Walford.

Fans React to the Transformation

EastEnders fans took to social media in surprise after spotting Shepherd in Karen Pirie. One fan wrote, “Michael Moon back on the telly! #KarenPirie,” expressing their shock at seeing the actor in a totally different role. Another added, “I’ve finally sat down to watch Karen Pirie from the beginning… imagine my surprise when I see Michael Moon from EastEnders pop up!”

Shepherd’s transformation has clearly left a lasting impression on viewers. Many are praising his performance in Karen Pirie, noting that his portrayal of DCS Lees adds an extra layer of intrigue to the show. His chemistry with the rest of the cast, including Lyle, has also been highlighted as a major strength of the series.

About Karen Pirie: A Crime Drama with a Fresh Perspective

Karen Pirie is based on Val McDermid’s Inspector Karen Pirie novels, and it follows the titular detective as she investigates a cold case. The second series sees Karen promoted to Detective Inspector and tasked with solving a complex mystery. DCS Lees plays an important role in Karen’s investigation, offering both support and occasional friction as they work together.

With an excellent cast and a compelling storyline, Karen Pirie is quickly becoming a fan favorite in the crime drama genre. Shepherd’s role adds depth and intrigue to the show, and his transformation from EastEnders’ Michael Moon to DCS Lees has shown his versatility as an actor.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Shepherd and Karen Pirie?

Stephen Shepherd’s role in Karen Pirie signals the start of a new chapter in his acting career. As the series continues, fans can expect to see more of his work as DCS Lees, and it’s likely that his character will evolve further as the investigation progresses.

This role marks a significant shift for Shepherd, who has long been associated with his EastEnders character. However, Karen Pirie shows that he is more than capable of taking on new and diverse roles. With a fresh perspective and a new look, Shepherd is proving that he has much more to offer in the world of television.

What do you think of Shepherd’s transformation from EastEnders’ Michael Moon to Karen Pirie‘s DCS Lees? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!