Actor Christopher Colquhoun will join the cast of EastEnders later this summer, taking on the role of Darnell Larson Jr, Denise Fox’s half-brother.
The 56-year-old Royal Academy of Dramatic Art trained actor is well known for his appearances in television shows including Casualty, Holby City, Coronation Street, Vera, Absentia and Fleabag.
Teasing the upcoming arrival, the BBC revealed that the Fox-Truemans are “left reeling when Kim makes a shocking discovery”, bringing to light a relative Denise never knew existed.
After reaching out and coming face to face with Darnell, the family are introduced to his daughter Grace, portrayed by Krysstina Frempong.
open image in galleryHowever their introduction is far from straightforward, and for Darnell, “what begins as an unexpected family reunion soon takes on a different significance when he learns of Denise’s cancer diagnosis and her ongoing treatment”.
Colquhoun said: “I am thrilled to be finally moving to Walford after all these years, and the welcome I’ve received has been phenomenal.
“Hearing I’d got the role was an absolute doof doof moment for me… hopefully there’ll be plenty more of those to come!”
Frempong, who previously appeared in Too Much and Essex Girls, added: “I am extremely excited to be joining EastEnders! I have watched the show for as long as I can remember and have such vivid memories of gathering around the TV with my family, especially at Christmas, to watch all the drama unfolding on the Square, so it feels pretty surreal to now be a part of the action!
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“I’m really looking forward to working with, and learning from my new colleagues, whom I’ve long admired, and hope audiences enjoy getting to know Grace and all the complexities she’ll bring to their screens!”
The show’s executive producer Ben Wadey said that Kim’s discovery uncovered a new branch of the family and the cast and crew were “excited to introduce viewers to new members of their extended family”.
He added: “It’s been great to delve into this wider family network, and we’re delighted to welcome Christopher and Krysstina to the cast as we bring two new faces to Walford.”
EastEnders’ Denise is currently exploring a health storyline on the show, after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Diane Parish, who portrays the salon manager, has seen her character embark on a challenging journey after experiencing unexplained tiredness, which lead to a series of tests and the eventual diagnosis.
The BBC soap opera has delved into the profound impact of the blood cancer on Denise and her loved ones, with the storyline set to unfold across the remainder of the year.
Meanwhile, a new family will also join the square this summer.
Jamie Bamber, Marian McLoughlin, and Patricia Potter are among the notable additions to the cast, alongside Felix Uff and Anna Constable.
They will join as The Hawkins family – the estranged relatives of Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington).