Ananova:

EastEnders star James Alexandrou, who plays Martin Fowler, is reportedly studying film production in New York.

The 19-year-old has spent £20,000 for the six-week course at the New York Film School.

It numbers Martin Scorsese among its former pupils.

A source close to the actor told the Daily Mirror: "He's taking this course very seriously. Directing and producing is James' big passion and when he leaves the soap it's something he'd like to do.

"This also gives him the chance to do some networking in the US.

James has been in EastEnders since he was 11. The source added: "He is young and ambitious and doesn't want to stay in EastEnders for the rest of his life."