Popular film actor Danny Dyer has signed up to star in EastEnders – as the new landlord of the iconic Queen Vic pub. BBC bosses made the shock announcement today, adding that Kellie Bright will join him.
The pair will play Shirley Carter’s brother Mick and sister-in-law Linda, who will arrive in Walford at the end of the year to take over the property after it goes on sale.
Speaking in a statement, Dyer said:
“I’m so excited about starting a new chapter in my career and I cannot wait to become part of the East End family.”
While Dyer’s Mick is billed as a “bloke’s bloke”, Bright’s Linda is said to be a tough woman who will fight for her family, despite appearing soft on the outside.
Look who’s on EastEnders! (BBC)
She said:
“I’m very excited about joining the show. Not only am I looking forward to working with Danny, but becoming landlady of The Vic is a real honour.”
The show’s relatively new executive producer, who’s landed quite a coup with Dyer, said:
“I’m so excited to have actors of Danny and Kellie’s calibre joining what is an already strong and talented company of actors. Having been together over 20 years, Mick and Linda have a good marriage and an easy shorthand with each other – but can also still fight like teenagers.
“They will laugh, cry, argue and make up – much to the embarrassment of their children and the delight of Albert Square’s residents. Mick and Linda still love each other, no matter what life throws at them. And moving from Watford to Walford, life’s about to throw them a few curve balls…”
