Ian Beale is a fictional character from the British soap opera EastEnders, which first aired in 1985. He is portrayed by actor Adam Woodyatt and is known for being one of the longest-serving characters on the show. Ian is a businessman who has owned various establishments, including a café and a fish and chip shop, and he often finds himself in complicated personal and professional situations. Throughout the series, Ian has experienced numerous ups and downs, including family conflicts and romantic relationships. His character is often depicted as ambitious but sometimes morally ambiguous, leading to dramatic storylines that engage viewers. Ian's relationships with other characters, such as his family members and friends, are central to his story arc.