Rose Ayling-Ellis has been supported by her Strictly Come Dancing partner Giovanni Pernice after confirming she's set to star in a new ITV drama.
After winning Strictly with Giovanni, Rose subsequently quit her role as Frankie Carter in EastEnders and it's now been revealed she will take the lead in the six-part thriller Code of Silence.
Rose stars as deaf catering worker Alison Wood who is struggling to make ends meet, juggling two jobs, in a police canteen and a local bar, while also doing her best to support her deaf mum, Julie before being pulled into a dark world when she's asked to lip read the conversations of some dangerous criminals.
The BBC soap star shared the news on Instagram and wrote: ""I CANNOT wait to bring this to life with @itv! However I cannot say much about it because…. It is the Code Of Silence."
Giovanni shared his support for his former dance partner's new role and reacted with a flame, heart eyed and applause emojis.
Strictly professional Luba Mushtuk also commented with a serious of celebratory emojis while John Whaite wrote: "Exciting times," and Rhys Stephenson added: "Yesssss!"
Fans of the actress were thrilled with the news as one remarked: "Just brilliant news, Rose. You needed a drama under your belt to broaden your portfolio and a different TV network. You've chosen with care. You're a smart young woman. I have no doubt you'll shine and ensure authenticity, and the right deaf adjustments are made. You are a trailblazer, and you'll shine."
Another added: "This is going to be incredible. Thank you @rose.a.e for all your hard work and determination."
On the new role, Rose said: "I am so thrilled to be coming on board for Code of Silence and to get to work with the incredible team at Mammoth Screen. When I first read Catherine Moulton’s script it was obvious that her first-hand experiences and understanding has enabled her to write a truly authentic character and I knew I had to be a part of this project.
"I am so delighted ITV are as excited as we are to bring this to life and I can’t wait to get to started!”
ITV’s Head of Drama Polly Hill, who commissioned the crime drama, added: “In a world where there’s a lot of crime drama Code of Silence really stands out. It’s a brilliantly original story and a great role for Rose Ayling-Ellis. Catherine Moulton has written a thrilling drama that audiences will be gripped and surprised by, but she also puts you in the shoes of Alison, a young Deaf woman. I am incredibly proud to make this show with Rose, Catherine and Mammoth Screen. It’s a mainstream crime show, but one that can make a real difference to the audience’s understanding of the Deaf community.”
