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Meet the Actors: Enda Oates

Pete is a kind man with a good heart and likes to be part of the community. He's has had a turbulent time with his own family, with his wife having left him to look after their two young sons.


Although he was upset that his son Doug chose to emigrate and join his other son in London, Pete has found some stability in his relationship with Dolores.

Pete has joined forces with Damien to try to beat the recession with their builders' business, The Go 2 Guys and they have already completed the major renovation of Phelan's shop.

Dolores and Pete have just got over a bump in their relationship so most of Pete's current struggles involve having to endure living with the terrible twosome, Orla and Keith. Will he survive living with them much longer and what's next for Pete Ferguson?


Enda answered your questions:


You've done a lot of theatre, film and TV? Which is your favourite out of the three?
I don't really have a favourite. Each of them have different disciplines and they are equally rewarding. Theatre is immediate, while TV and film are more technical when it comes to performance.

We all remember Glenroe quite fondly. What was it like to be part of an Irish institution?
Glenroe was of its time and it is always nice to be remembered as being part of it. People still talk about it. I do think that Ireland has changed so much in terms of urban and rural demograph that Fair City has managed to take on the audience that Glenroe had (as I find when I travel down the country).

What has been your proudest moment so far as an actor?
I always feel proud when the public are complimentary towards me because those are the important people. Whether its for Fair City or anything else I've done, I can't remember having any negative feedback. That's always nice!

Have you ever been star struck by any of the actors you've worked with?
I worked with Judi Dench many years ago and she was a delight to work with. Down to earth and part of the team.

Who have you enjoyed working with most - in and out of Fair City?
I enjoy working with all the actors on Fair City. That's the great thing about the show, there are so many different actors to play off. Outside the show I am friendly with Tony Tormey who plays Paul. I was his best man at his wedding.

What actor in Fair City would you like to work with more?
I suppose I don't get to play opposite as many of the female characters, although that's changing now. I do like the comedy between myself and Wayne and also Keith and Orla. I like Orla's character a lot and I think Sorcha does a great job.

Is marriage on the cards for Pete and Dolores?
I kind of like the way we're going. It's a reflection of real life where people who have raised there family find a second chance at happiness as a couple but are reluctant to jump into marriage.

If you could write any storyline for Pete, what would it be?
I think Pete needs a little more jizz. His character has become safe. There is more flexibility to him given his history and indeed his first appearance. As an actor I like to be challenged. I think Pete is a character that can take some challenge as well.

What would your dream role be?
The next one!

If you weren't an actor, what would you be?
A traffic cop.

What were the best and worst non-acting jobs you've ever had?
Ah here!!

Do you have any funny/juicy behind the scenes stories you can tell us?
I've never been behind the scenes to find out!