Ross Kemp was named after Ross Poldark.
The ‘EastEnders’ actor has revealed his parents took inspiration from the fictional British army officer, who was created by writer Winston Graham in his ‘Poldark’ book series, when they were deciding on his moniker, because his mother was a big fan of the tomes.
He said: "Funnily enough, my mum was reading the ‘Poldark’ novels when she was pregnant.
"So I was named after Poldark, not many people know that."
Ross’ revelation has sparked speculation he could be in line to take on the role – played by Aidan Turner in the current ‘Poldark’ TV series since 2015 – in the next season, because the hunky character will in his 50s.
A source told the Daily Star newspaper: "Maybe Ross mentioned this little secret to let the BBC know he might be happy to slip on Poldark’s boots and cloak and head off to Cornwall."
Aidan is 35 so could be deemed to be too old to reprise the role, but Kemp – now known for his ‘Extreme World’ and ‘Gangs’ real-life TV documentary series – is 54.
Should Ross sign up to play Poldark then he could well easily adapt to playing out the trials and tribulations of the character’s life, having got some practice in by portraying Grant Mitchell in BBC One soap ‘EastEnders’ on and off since 1990.
His latest Albert Square appearance came in 2016 to coincide with the departure of Grant’s mother Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor), who was killed off.
Ross Kemp named after Poldark
