Linda Carter will be shortly joined by a new family in The Queen Vic after agreeing to go into business with her mother Elaine Peacock.
Elaine, who was previously played by Maria Friedman but has now been recast with new star Harriet Thorpe, invites her partner George Knight (Colin Salmon) and his two daughters Gina, played by Francesca Henry, and Anna, played by Strictly Come Dancing's Molly Rainford.
On Tuesday, Colin responded to a fan on Twitter confirming that his debut in Walford will air on June 1.
When the news of Colin joining the BBC soap was announced, EastEnders fans shared their excitement as one tweeted: "Colin Salmon in EastEnders feels like a dream."
"Colin Salmon joining #Eastenders is literally the best news," another wrote and a third added: "Colin Salmon is joining #EastEnders, is all I need to hear. I’m a huge fan of his. @colinsalmon24."
Speaking about the new family taking up residence in The Vic, executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: "The arrival of the Knights brings a new dawn to Albert Square.
"George Knight is a charming rogue and an old-school gent who dotes on his two daughters, Gina and Anna. George will take up residence in The Queen Vic when he joins his beloved Elaine, a powerhouse of a land-lady who knows just how to have fun."
He added: "We're thrilled to welcome this hugely talented group of actors: Colin Salmon, Harriet Thorpe, Francesca Henry and Molly Rainford, who will be immediately thrown into the heart of the Square, and we can't wait for everyone to meet them."
Strictly Come Dancing star Molly received support from her boyfriend Tyler West during an interview on Lorraine after the news was announced.
When asked about Molly's venture into Walford, he said: "I tell you what, it's the hardest secret I've ever had to keep in my life. It was, genuinely!
"I'm a very proud boyfriend today, Lorraine, very proud boyfriend."
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