Singer and actor David Essex has joined the cast of EastEnders, taking on the role of Alfie's charismatic uncle Eddie Moon.
Eddie will arrive on Albert Square later this year with his children in tow, marking the beginning of a new era for the Moon clan.
Fans of the BBC soap are already familiar with Eddie's son Michael (Steve John Shepherd), who had a brief stint on the programme last year and returns to Walford later this month.
Eddie's fractured relationship with Michael will be one of the plot points explored after he makes his debut on the Square. Although Eddie is now a happy family man, his difficulties with Michael hint at a past he'd rather forget.
As the latest Walford drama plays out, fans will be left to wonder whether Michael could stand in the way of Eddie's chance of happiness, or if father and son could grow closer.
Essex previously landed the part of Honey Mitchell's father Jack Edwards on EastEnders in 2005. However, a last-minute recast later took place when show bosses expanded the role of the character - causing a clash with Essex's music commitments.
Speaking of his new role as Eddie, Essex commented: "Being an East-Ender myself, I'm really excited to be joining the Square. Eddie Moon is a great character and I can't wait to get to grips with the role and work with such a fantastic cast. I'm really pleased that I've been able to make filming work around my tour dates this time."
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "David Essex is a brilliant signing for EastEnders. He is a unique talent with a legion of fans, and he will bring warmth and charisma to the role of Eddie Moon. His arrival, alongside the return of son Michael, brings a new generation of the Moon family to Walford."
Essex has an extensive career in music, film, television and theatre, having performed on stage and screen and achieved 23 top 30 singles in the UK alone.
It is understood that casting is still taking place for the roles of Eddie's other children.
Eddie will arrive on Albert Square later this year with his children in tow, marking the beginning of a new era for the Moon clan.
Fans of the BBC soap are already familiar with Eddie's son Michael (Steve John Shepherd), who had a brief stint on the programme last year and returns to Walford later this month.
Eddie's fractured relationship with Michael will be one of the plot points explored after he makes his debut on the Square. Although Eddie is now a happy family man, his difficulties with Michael hint at a past he'd rather forget.
As the latest Walford drama plays out, fans will be left to wonder whether Michael could stand in the way of Eddie's chance of happiness, or if father and son could grow closer.
Essex previously landed the part of Honey Mitchell's father Jack Edwards on EastEnders in 2005. However, a last-minute recast later took place when show bosses expanded the role of the character - causing a clash with Essex's music commitments.
Speaking of his new role as Eddie, Essex commented: "Being an East-Ender myself, I'm really excited to be joining the Square. Eddie Moon is a great character and I can't wait to get to grips with the role and work with such a fantastic cast. I'm really pleased that I've been able to make filming work around my tour dates this time."
EastEnders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood added: "David Essex is a brilliant signing for EastEnders. He is a unique talent with a legion of fans, and he will bring warmth and charisma to the role of Eddie Moon. His arrival, alongside the return of son Michael, brings a new generation of the Moon family to Walford."
Essex has an extensive career in music, film, television and theatre, having performed on stage and screen and achieved 23 top 30 singles in the UK alone.
It is understood that casting is still taking place for the roles of Eddie's other children.
He's old enough to be mah dad, but mega yum! What gorgeous eyes I agree. And I love it also, that he hasnt succumbed to dying his hair or having plastic surgery. Men - and women IMO look significantly better (usually) without having plastic surgery. You get the odd one that looks better (Sharon Osborne/Sherrie Hewson) but even Sharon is starting to look a bit ropey now, as I think she has had more procedures.
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