EastEnders stalwart Adam Woodyatt has reportedly signed up to appear on the new series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!
The 53-year-old has played Ian Beale on the soap since its very first episode in February 1985 but is currently on an extended sabbatical as he takes part in a UK tour of the play Looking Good Dead.
The tour is due to end its first leg this weekend, before resuming in January, leaving Woodyatt the opportunity to take part in the Wales-set edition of I'm A Celebrity, which begins in mid-November.
"Adam was a big target for the casting team - he is a soap legend and is certain to be a huge hit with fans," a source told The Sun.
"But they knew they might have their work cut out because he has been quite reticent to do interviews or reality TV shows in recent years.
"When you consider how long he has been a household name, he has only agreed to a handful of TV appearances outside of Albert Square.
"And he isn't known for being a red carpet regular either. So it's a huge coup to have reached this point, and everyone is very excited about having him on the show. He's a brilliant addition."
Other names in the frame for the show include Richard Madeley, Arlene Phillips and former EE actor Jake Wood.
Follow us on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole Black Friday Offer: Get Sky Entertainment, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £19 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends December 3, 2024