bosses picked up the phone to Thugs Are Us, they couldn't have picked a better actor than Jamie Foreman to play the biggest, baddest Branning bruvver, Derek. Well, assuming Ray Winstone was washing his hair." In March 2012, Foreman's contract with EastEnders was extended until October 2012. In October 2012, it was announced that Foreman would be leaving EastEnders and will leave in December 2012 in a Christmas storyline. Characterisation Derek has been described as the "biggest, baddest Branning brother" by executive producer Bryan Kirkwood. Daniel Kilkelly of media entertainment website Digital Spy wrote that upon his introduction, viewers would be left wondering if he is still dangerous and destructive. He was called "villainous" by Inside Soap. Derek's profile on the BBC's EastEnders website says, "Derek's the eldest Branning brother—and he's proper East End. When he was young, he had his own gang and they terrorised anyone who crossed their path. He ended up in prison and almost didn't make it out alive. He realises he now has his work cut out to regain his status as top dog, but he's willing to wait – although not for too long! Is Walford the place he can make his mark?" The website went on to say Derek's wish was to become head of the Branning family and find a woman who would understand him. Derek can "out-alpha almost any man in Albert Square" and he does not fight fair. Discussing Derek's background and personality, Foreman told TV Choice "There's always this little undercurrent of, 'This guy isn't who we want around for long', if you see what I mean. Derek's just come back from a 10-year prison sentence for armed robbery. He's a very complicated character, who could either be perceived as a bully or as someone who cares for his family very much." The actor went on to say people do not quite know where they are with Derek. He became the head of the family when he was 14, because his father was always in the betting shop. Derek helped bring in money and made sure his siblings attended school. Foreman explained Derek sees himself as the father figure and said it is hard for him to shake that off, even though his siblings have grown up. Foreman said "There's a nice conflict there." In an interview with Daybreak, Foreman said he wanted viewers to like Derek. He also